Aprilia Teases Revamped 2021 RSV4 and Tuono V4

[Admin]

The 2021 Aprilia RSV4 Factory and Tuono V4 Factory. (Aprilia/)

Aprilia’s RSV4 and Tuono have received enough evolutionary changes since their introductions that they’ve remained mostly at the pointy end of performance. But for sportbike fans, enough is never enough, and some were left pining after a redesign of Noale’s iconic V-4s. So for sportbike lovers there’s a sense of occasion (break out the sangiovese!) that accompanies the news that there will be a new RSV4 superbike and Tuono V4 supernaked for 2021.

While the updates are significant on a number of fronts—just look at the styling—they may not exactly be the clean-sheet redesign some were hoping for. Still, since the RSV4 and Tuono have never stopped being competitive, we can’t help but be excited.

Here’s what we know: The 2021 Aprilia RSV4 will be available in the US starting at the end of March and retailing for $18,999 for the base model and $25,999 for the RSV4 Factory. The Tuono will be available at the same time and will carry an MSRP of $15,999 for the base model and $19,499 for the Factory edition.

Perhaps the folks at Noale are bemoaning the loss of EICMA and the inability to tease the public by taking the literal wraps off their latest flagships because the press release offers little more than a glimpse at the new models. Aprilia only provided a single photo of both the Tuono V4 and RSV4 and scant details, but it did reveal enough to seriously whet our appetites.

The RSV4 is available in the Dark Losail color scheme, and the RSV4 Factory is available in Aprilia Black or Lava Red. (Aprilia/)

Let’s start with the RSV4. The big headliner is a larger, Euro 5-approved 1,099cc engine that produces a claimed 217 hp. Mic drop. Other than the displacement boost (up from 1,077cc) and a new exhaust system, Aprilia hasn’t revealed if there are other changes. The press release does call it a “narrow V-4,” implying that Aprilia is expectedly carrying on with its signature 65-degree V configuration. MotoGP fans will know that Aprilia adopted a 90-degree V-angle on the RS-GP 20 this past season, so it will be interesting to see if it eventually goes down that development path in its production models.

For the here and now, Aprilia has updated the RSV4′s electronics package. Some reviewers found the RSV4′s rider aids lagging behind the latest batch of superbikes, so it’s no surprise that Aprilia has updated the zeros and ones of its APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) system, utilizing a new Marelli ECU and a six-axis IMU. The RSV4 includes three track modes (two of which are customizable) and three street modes (one of which is customizable). The RSV4 is also equipped with a new, larger TFT dash and cornering lights.

On the chassis side, there’s a brand-new, lighter swingarm that’s inspired by that of the RS-GP MotoGP bike. Aprilia completely revised the bike’s ergonomics, utilizing a new fuel tank and seat that Aprilia says affords a more natural and relaxed riding position.

While Miguel Galluzzi’s original design has worn well, Aprilia’s flagship superbike deserved a thorough going-over to bring it up to date. It now shares a strong resemblance with the RS 660, ditching the old-style wings in favor of integrated aero designed to create downforce and to manage heat/air flow.

The Factory version includes forged wheels, semi-active Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension, and Brembo Stylema brakes.

The Tuono V4 is available in Tarmac Grey or Glacier White, and the Tuono V4 Factory is available in Aprilia Black. (Aprilia/)

In taking a look at the 2021 Tuono V4, it’s clear Aprilia’s RS 660-forged design language carries over, featuring the integrated aero package. Like the ’21 RSV4, the Tuono V4 has a redesigned saddle and tank for improved ergonomics. Passenger ergonomics have also been redesigned with lower pegs and a thicker saddle for a happier pillion. The Tuono V4 Factory version features Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active suspension.

Interestingly, the Tuono V4 does not use the 1,099cc engine from the ’21 RSV4, but sticks with the 1,077cc unit of the Tuono 1100, now approved for Euro 5 homologation. With a claimed 175 hp and 89 pound-feet of torque, the Tuono has always lived up to its name and is widely revered for its performance and character.

The press release indicates the Tuono’s electronics package has undergone the same procedure as the new RSV4, which includes the adoption of the larger TFT dash, cornering lights, and ride modes. The Tuono V4 also receives the new racing-derived swingarm.

Even if you don’t want a touring motorcycle, you still may want to take the occasional long trip. With that in mind, Aprilia is offering accessory asymmetrical panniers (no word on if they are hard or soft) for the Tuono V4. Until we test them, we won’t know if the luggage is a ho-hum universal fit item with an Aprilia logo slapped on, or if they’ve been designed for a bespoke fit, but we do appreciate the nod to versatility.

In all, we’re excited to test out both bikes on the street, on the track, and against the competition. Is there a better way to start a new year than with the introduction of flagship sportbikes and the promise of performance?

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[Tiggie]

Whoever has been hired to do the paint schemes for all the most recent Aprillias needs an eye test or sacking 

 

This looks like its been involved in a crash and had replacement parts bought from ebay 

[Stu]

Just now, Tiggie said:

Whoever has been hired to do the paint schemes for all the most recent Aprillias needs an eye test or sacking 

 

This looks like its been involved in a crash and had replacement parts bought from ebay 

 

I like that one though! 

 

Not like that other dreadful colour that we won't mention....

[Tiggie]

I just don't like the three tone scheme. Just in that blue I'd like and an all black always would look good.  

 

But never that other colour 

 

 

[Stu]

I still like it  

 

Reminds me of the shell suit fireblade colours!