2026 Aprilia® Tuareg 660

APRILIA TUAREG 660 — ENGINEERED FOR THE REAL WORLD ADVENTURER

The Aprilia Tuareg 660 represents a masterclass in modern dual-sport engineering — a purpose-built middleweight adventure motorcycle that blends high-performance DNA from Aprilia’s acclaimed RS and Tuono 660 platforms with the rugged durability required for serious off-road and overland riding. Designed from the ground up as a genuine adventure machine, not merely a street bike on stilts, the Tuareg 660 delivers an ideal balance of power, weight, and capability for riders who demand both precision and freedom.

At its heart lies Aprilia’s 659cc parallel-twin engine, a liquid-cooled DOHC four-stroke that produces approximately 80 horsepower and 70 Nm of torque. Derived directly from the RS 660 sport platform, this engine is tuned specifically for low- and mid-range torque delivery, ensuring tractable power on technical trails and smooth acceleration during highway touring. Its 270° crankshaft configuration mimics the firing order of a V-twin, offering both a distinctive exhaust note and exceptional traction characteristics in loose terrain.

The 2026 iteration refines this platform further, with optimized fuel mapping, improved cooling efficiency, and a Euro 5+ compliant exhaust system that enhances durability while maintaining class-leading performance. A six-speed gearbox with Aprilia’s quick-shifter system (available as an accessory in some markets) ensures crisp, clutchless gear transitions — ideal when standing on the pegs or powering out of corners in gravel or mud.

CHASSIS AND SUSPENSION

Aprilia’s engineering prowess shines in the Tuareg’s chassis. A tubular steel frame reinforced with aluminum brackets provides both torsional rigidity and flex in the right places. The subframe is integrated but engineered to withstand luggage and passenger loads typical of long-distance travel. Suspension travel is a generous 240 mm front and rear — courtesy of fully adjustable Kayaba 43 mm inverted forks and a matching monoshock with remote preload adjuster. This configuration allows for fine-tuning based on rider weight, terrain, and load, delivering control on asphalt and compliance off-road.

The 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoked wheels confirm the Tuareg’s adventure intent, wrapped in tubeless Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires that balance on-road stability with excellent off-road bite. With a ground clearance of 240 mm and a dry weight of just 187 kg (204 kg wet), the Tuareg stands as one of the lightest and most agile ADV machines in its displacement category — lighter than the Yamaha Ténéré 700 and significantly nimbler than the KTM 890 Adventure.

ELECTRONICS AND RIDER AIDS

One of the defining strengths of the Tuareg 660 is its electronics package — developed from Aprilia’s superbike heritage and refined for the adventure environment. The Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) system includes adjustable traction control, engine braking, cruise control, and engine map selection, all accessible through the 5-inch TFT color display. The intuitive interface is glove-friendly, allowing riders to tailor settings on the fly.

Four selectable ride modes — Urban, Explore, Off-Road, and Individual — adjust throttle response, traction, and ABS intervention. The Off-Road mode allows full rear ABS deactivation and reduced front intervention, while the Individual mode lets riders create their own configuration. Ride-by-wire technology ensures precise throttle modulation, especially useful on steep climbs or descents. Optional Bluetooth connectivity via the Aprilia MIA system enables turn-by-turn navigation, call management, and data logging through a connected smartphone.

ERGONOMICS AND DESIGN

Aprilia’s design team in Noale and Scorzè placed a premium on rider comfort and control. The Tuareg’s ergonomics are optimized for both seated and standing riding,