Adventure motorcycling is booming, and the middleweight ADV segment is heating up. Amid giants like the Yamaha Tenere 700, KTM 790 Adventure, and Honda Transalp 750, the Aprilia Tuareg 660 emerges as a strong contender that blends Italian flair, off-road capability, and daily usability. Let’s explore if this machine truly lives up to the hype.
1. Introduction: Revival of a Legendary Name
The “Tuareg” badge is not new — Aprilia used it back in the ’80s on its rally-style adventure bikes. The all-new Tuareg 660, however, is a modern interpretation, borrowing its heart from Aprilia’s acclaimed 660 platform (also found in the RS 660 and Tuono 660). But this isn’t just a rebadged street bike. Aprilia has redesigned the Tuareg from the ground up to be a true off-road capable adventure motorcycle.
2. Engine & Performance: Power Meets Balance
At the core lies the 659cc parallel-twin engine producing around 80 hp at 9,250 rpm and 70 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. It’s tuned differently than the RS 660, favoring torque and linear power delivery — which is perfect for off-road and long-distance rides.
This engine is:
- Liquid-cooled and Euro 5 compliant
- Has a 270° firing order for a throaty, V-twin-like character
- Lightweight and compact — keeping the bike’s weight down
The power delivery is smooth, progressive, and confidence-inspiring. Whether you’re riding on winding tarmac or climbing rocky trails, the Tuareg 660’s engine doesn’t overwhelm — yet it’s got plenty of punch when needed.
3. Chassis and Suspension: Built for Adventure
This is where Aprilia truly shines. Unlike its sporty siblings, the Tuareg 660 features a completely different frame — a steel tube frame with an aluminum swingarm. The chassis is:
- Lightweight but rugged
- Offers excellent rigidity for off-road riding
- Mated to high-quality long-travel KYB suspension (240 mm front and rear)
This gives the Tuareg incredible ground clearance (240 mm), allowing it to handle rough terrain without bottoming out. The 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear (both spoked and tubeless-ready) make it adventure-ready out of the box.
4. Electronics and Riding Aids: Class-Leading Tech
In typical Italian fashion, Aprilia has loaded the Tuareg 660 with tech that is often missing in this segment. Key highlights include:
- Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) suite
- Traction control (adjustable)
- Engine braking control
- Ride-by-wire throttle
- Cruise control
- Four riding modes: Urban, Explore, Off-Road, and Individual
- Switchable ABS — including rear ABS-off for trail use
- Full-color 5-inch TFT display
You can fine-tune every aspect of the ride to your preference, and the off-road mode makes the Tuareg one of the most competent adventure bikes off the beaten path.
5. Ergonomics and Comfort: Ready for the Long Haul
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 has been designed to be comfortable for both short commutes and long-distance adventures.
- Seat height is 860 mm — manageable for most riders in this segment
- The standing position is natural for off-roading
- Well-padded seat and wide handlebars offer comfort and control
- Windscreen offers decent wind protection at highway speeds
- Narrow waist makes it easier to handle off-road or in traffic
It’s not just a bike for tall, hardcore off-roaders. The Tuareg 660 caters to a wider audience without compromising adventure capability.
6. Styling and Design: Italian Elegance Meets Utility
True to Aprilia’s DNA, the Tuareg 660 is a stunning motorcycle. It stands out with:
- Minimalist yet rugged bodywork
- Functional windscreen and LED lighting
- Compact and sleek tail section
- Signature triple-LED headlight design
Available in unique colors like Indaco Tagelmust (inspired by the original Tuareg) and Acid Gold, it easily outshines competitors in visual appeal. It looks purposeful yet premium — something very few adventure bikes pull off.
7. Fuel Economy and Range
The 18-liter fuel tank may seem modest on paper, but combined with the efficient engine tuning, the Tuareg 660 offers:
- Fuel economy around 22–24 km/l under mixed riding conditions
- Real-world range: over 350 km per tank — perfect for weekend touring or off-grid exploration
8. Weight and Handling: Surprisingly Nimble
Despite its adventure-ready build, the Aprilia Tuareg 660 weighs only 204 kg (wet). This makes it one of the lightest middleweight adventure bikes in the market. The weight distribution is well-balanced, making it surprisingly nimble both on and off-road.
On tarmac, it handles like a sport-tourer. On trails, it inspires confidence even for newer ADV riders.
9. Pricing and Rivals
Indian Price (as of 2025):
₹18.85 lakh (ex-showroom) – imported as a CBU (completely built unit)
Key Rivals:
| Model | Power | Weight | Price (approx) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yamaha Tenere 700 | 72 hp | 204 kg | ₹12-13 lakh (if launched) |
| KTM 790 Adventure | 94 hp | 210 kg | ₹11-13 lakh |
| Honda Transalp 750 | 90.5 hp | 208 kg | ₹12-13 lakh |
| Triumph Tiger 900 Rally | 94 hp | 219 kg | ₹15+ lakh |
Verdict on price: It’s on the premium side due to import duties, but in Europe and the U.S., it’s priced competitively. If Aprilia begins local assembly in India, it could become a game-changer.
10. Pros and Cons
✅ Pros:
- Excellent off-road capability
- Lightweight and manageable
- Class-leading electronics
- Strong, torquey engine
- Stylish and unique design
❌ Cons:
- Expensive in India due to CBU
- Limited dealership/service network
- Seat height could challenge shorter riders
- No quickshifter (optional add-on)
11. Is the Aprilia Tuareg 660 Worth Buying?
If you’re looking for a middleweight ADV that blends real off-road ability with road comfort and premium design, the Tuareg 660 is one of the best options available. It’s not just a street bike in an ADV costume — it’s the real deal.
For those who want something unique, capable, and tech-loaded, and don’t mind spending a bit more — the Aprilia Tuareg 660 is a worthy companion for every kind of adventure.
Final Thoughts
Aprilia has created something special with the Tuareg 660. It’s not just competing — it’s setting new standards for what a middleweight adventure bike can be. While pricing in India is a hurdle, enthusiasts who value performance, design, and real-world capability will find the Tuareg 660 an exciting and rewarding motorcycle. Whether you’re navigating city streets, carving through mountain passes, or exploring remote trails, the Tuareg 660 is equipped to take you there with confidence and style.
If you’re planning to take the road less traveled — or no road at all — the Tuareg 660 might just be your perfect ride.
