When Aprilia decided to re-enter the adventure bike scene with the Tuareg 660, it didn’t just bring back a name—it reignited a legacy. The 2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 is more than a nostalgic nod to the brand’s rally heritage. It’s a fresh, bold, and incredibly capable middleweight ADV machine that’s been designed from the ground up for riders who want serious off-road prowess without sacrificing road comfort.
Whether you’re planning to carve through dirt trails, tackle mountain passes, or eat up endless highway miles, the Tuareg 660 brings a thrilling blend of performance and practicality that’s quickly made it a favorite among dual-sport enthusiasts.
Aprilia Tuareg 660 (2022) | Adventure-Ready Parts & Gear
Design and Aesthetics
Aprilia nailed the visual balance between rugged utility and Italian design flair. The Tuareg 660 is unmistakably purposeful—tall, lean, and ready to take on the wild. The exposed frame, slim bodywork, and minimalist fairings all scream off-road intent, while the signature LED headlight setup and sharp tank lines add a distinctly modern appeal.
Available in color options like Indaco Tagelmust (a tribute to the original Tuareg), Martian Red, and Acid Gold, this bike has no trouble standing out at campgrounds or café stops alike. Aprilia’s designers clearly had adventure in mind but didn’t forget the importance of turning heads while doing it.
Technology and Features
For a middleweight ADV, the Tuareg 660 packs in a ton of premium tech. Aprilia’s APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) suite gives riders traction control, engine braking adjustment, and multiple riding modes—Urban, Explore, Off-Road, and Individual—making it easy to tailor performance on the fly.
It features a vivid 5-inch TFT display that’s easy to read in direct sunlight and offers smartphone connectivity through Aprilia’s MIA system. While it doesn’t go overboard with tech, everything included feels genuinely useful for adventure riders.
Extras like a quick shifter (available as an accessory), cruise control, and cornering ABS round out the package, providing both performance and peace of mind.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Aprilia designed the Tuareg 660 with long-distance comfort and control at the core. The 33.8-inch seat height may sound intimidating, but the narrow saddle and slim waist make it accessible to many riders.
The upright riding position, wide bars, and generous legroom make it comfortable for all-day treks, whether standing on the pegs or cruising seated. The windscreen provides decent protection, and while it's not as tall as some ADV bikes, it does a good job at high speeds.
Suspension is fully adjustable at both ends, with 240mm of travel, making the ride supple over ruts and rocks without being overly soft on pavement.
Braking and Safety
Stopping duties are handled by dual 300mm discs with Brembo two-piston calipers up front and a single 260mm disc at the rear. The braking system is sharp and predictable, whether you're navigating urban traffic or descending gravel switchbacks.
The inclusion of cornering ABS ensures added control during emergency stops on all surfaces. It’s also switchable at the rear—a must-have for serious off-road riders.
Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance
Despite its performance chops, the Tuareg 660 remains impressively efficient. Riders can expect around 55–60 mpg (4.2–4.5 L/100km) depending on conditions, making it one of the more fuel-sipping options in its class.
Maintenance is also manageable. The bike's design allows for relatively easy access to key service points, and the 6,000-mile oil change intervals help keep ownership costs down. For added performance and longevity, riders often upgrade with aftermarket air filters, skid plates, radiator guards, and chain guides, many of which are available in our online store.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Tuareg 660 is a re-tuned version of Aprilia’s 659cc parallel-twin engine, the same platform powering the RS 660 and Tuono 660—but this time, it’s built for torque and versatility rather than outright speed.
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Displacement: 659cc parallel-twin
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Power Output: 80 horsepower at 9,250 rpm
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Torque: 70 Nm at 6,500 rpm
Aprilia has optimized the power delivery for lower-end grunt, making it ideal for technical trails and steep climbs. The bike feels alive at low revs and is surprisingly smooth at highway speeds, offering a refined ride no matter the terrain.
Handling is another highlight. Thanks to a lightweight chassis and long-travel suspension, the Tuareg 660 feels nimble and confidence-inspiring both on dirt and tarmac. Its off-road capability is no gimmick—this machine can genuinely handle sand, mud, and rocky climbs with ease.
Comparison and Competitors
The Tuareg 660 slots right between lightweight dual-sports and larger adventure bikes like the Yamaha Ténéré 700 and KTM 890 Adventure. Compared to the Ténéré, the Tuareg offers more refined electronics and a slightly more polished road experience. Versus the KTM, it's less aggressive but more approachable for intermediate riders.
Its combination of light weight, usable power, and sophisticated electronics makes it a compelling choice for those seeking the perfect balance between off-road grit and road-going civility.
Ideal Riders and Target Audience
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 is best suited for riders who want serious off-road capability without giving up on-road comfort and tech. It’s ideal for:
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Intermediate to experienced ADV riders
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Weekend explorers and backcountry tourers
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Riders stepping up from dual-sports or downsizing from larger ADVs
It’s also a fantastic platform for customization, with a growing range of performance parts and accessories that can dial it in for specific needs—whether that’s longer tours or tougher trails.
Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory (2021) | Premium Racing Components
Conclusion and Final Verdict
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 (2022) is a confident return to the adventure segment—and it hits the mark beautifully. It’s light, capable, and packed with smart tech, yet it maintains a raw and rugged spirit that true adventurers will appreciate. Whether you're new to ADV riding or a seasoned explorer, the Tuareg 660 offers exceptional value and versatility.
Looking to personalize your Tuareg 660? Explore our handpicked selection of performance upgrades, engine protection, off-road gear, and adventure touring accessories to make your ride truly yours. Get ready to take on the world—one trail at a time.