Introduction
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 made a bold entrance into the competitive middleweight adventure segment in 2022, delivering a potent mix of off-road capability and on-road comfort. Born from Aprilia’s racing DNA and infused with real-world dual-sport practicality, the Tuareg 660 revives a legendary nameplate that once defined Italian ADV spirit in the 1980s. In this modern iteration, it’s not just a nod to the past—it's a fully-loaded, trail-ready weapon built for the modern explorer.
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Whether you're carving twisty mountain passes or navigating rugged terrain deep into the wilderness, the Tuareg 660 is engineered to do it all—and look good doing it.
Design and Aesthetics
From first glance, the Aprilia Tuareg 660 exudes rugged refinement. It carries a purposeful design that blends rally-inspired minimalism with sharp Italian styling. The tubular steel frame is compact yet visually strong, wrapped in aggressive bodywork that screams adventure without being bloated.
With slim body panels, a narrow seat, and an upright stance, it’s clear this bike was made to conquer the trail while staying agile. The distinctive LED headlamp setup, tall windscreen, and aluminum bash plate give it a functional yet premium vibe. Available in bold schemes like Acid Gold and Indaco Tagelmust, the Tuareg visually separates itself from the typical earth-toned adventure crowd.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Tuareg 660 lies Aprilia’s 659cc parallel-twin engine, derived from the RS 660 sportbike. Tuned for low-end torque and controllable power delivery, the Tuareg’s version pushes out around 80 horsepower and 70 Nm of torque, making it perfect for both spirited riding and technical off-road sections.
What sets it apart is how the power is delivered—smooth, linear, and confidence-inspiring. On highways, it holds speed effortlessly; off-road, the powerband allows for precise throttle control in tricky terrain. It tops out north of 120 mph, but more importantly, it feels eager and alive in the rev range you use most on the trails and B-roads.
The Tuareg 660 shines in versatility. It's equally at home on city streets, long-distance tours, and gravel paths—an ideal all-rounder for riders who don’t want to compromise.
Technology and Features
Aprilia didn't cut corners with tech. The Tuareg 660 features a full suite of electronic rider aids managed through the APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) system. This includes traction control, engine braking control, four customizable riding modes, and switchable ABS—particularly useful when heading off-road.
The 5-inch TFT display is crisp and user-friendly, showing everything from trip data to engine parameters in a clear layout. Riders can also enjoy smartphone connectivity via the Aprilia MIA system (optional), adding navigation and multimedia control for long-distance convenience.
It even features a quick shifter as an optional upgrade—a rare treat in the mid-range ADV class.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Adventure bikes are meant to be comfortable across various conditions, and the Tuareg nails this balance. The seat height sits at 33.8 inches (860 mm), tall enough for ground clearance but narrow enough at the waist to make it approachable. The riding triangle feels natural—wide handlebars, upright posture, and a plush saddle designed for long hauls.
Long-travel suspension (240 mm front and rear) from KYB offers adjustable preload and damping, soaking up everything from potholes to rocky trails. The windscreen, while not massive, does a decent job deflecting air at highway speeds without buffeting. Overall, the ride quality is surprisingly plush for a bike so capable off the tarmac.
Braking and Safety
Stopping power is handled by Brembo calipers with dual 300 mm discs up front and a single 260 mm disc at the rear. ABS is standard and can be turned off for off-road riding. While not the most aggressive setup, the brakes offer progressive feedback and reliable performance under load, even with luggage or a pillion on board.
Combined with rider aids like cornering ABS and traction control, the Tuareg feels planted and safe whether you're dodging traffic or descending loose terrain.
Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance
The Tuareg 660 is efficient without sacrificing fun. Riders report average fuel consumption around 55–60 mpg, with the 18-liter (4.75-gallon) tank providing ample range for long adventures—up to 300 miles in real-world conditions.
Maintenance is relatively straightforward, especially for a performance-oriented ADV. The engine is known for its durability, and service intervals are generous. Whether you're riding daily or planning an overland trip, upkeep won’t be a budget killer.
Comparison and Competitors
In a sea of middleweight adventure bikes, the Aprilia Tuareg 660 goes head-to-head with bikes like the Yamaha Ténéré 700, KTM 890 Adventure, and Triumph Tiger 900. While the Ténéré offers rugged simplicity and the KTM brings more aggressive edge, the Tuareg strikes a perfect middle ground.
It’s lighter and more agile than the Tiger, more refined and tech-packed than the Ténéré, and more user-friendly than the KTM. If you're looking for a bike that’s both exhilarating and accessible, the Tuareg makes a strong case for itself.
Ideal Riders and Target Audience
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 is best suited for experienced riders or confident intermediates looking to expand their horizon. Whether you’re stepping up from a dual-sport or downsizing from a full-sized ADV, the Tuareg offers a refreshing blend of performance, tech, and usability.
It appeals to weekend adventurers, long-distance tourers, and even daily commuters who want something that can do it all—without being intimidating.
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Conclusion and Final Verdict
Aprilia’s Tuareg 660 is a serious contender in the adventure bike world. It combines the soul of a sportbike, the heart of a trail machine, and the brains of a tech-savvy tourer. Its balanced performance, sharp design, and premium electronics make it a compelling option for riders who want true versatility.
If you're ready to outfit your Tuareg 660 for the journey ahead, explore our collection of Aprilia-compatible accessories—from crash bars and luggage systems to windshields and engine guards. Our store offers premium parts to elevate both performance and comfort, helping you personalize your ride for wherever the road—or trail—takes you.