Tag: news

NEW MOTO GUZZI V7

                                          

More than fifty years after the launch of its first unit, Moto Guzzi is proud to present a new and important evolution of the V7.  As well as a total revamp, this model will for the first time since 2007 be known as simply V7 and will drop the previously used Roman numerals from its name.  The adhering character and authenticity of this bike will remain intact, as these features are classic, will not date and are part of Moto Guzzi’s make up.

After years of great success, a new V7 is born.
The new, high-performance, 850cc, 65HP engine makes its début

The new V7 is faster, more comfortable and better equipped, whilst maintaining all the character and authenticity that every Moto Guzzi boasts

V7 will also be available in a reduced-power version, in line with  A2 license restrictions and is ideal for new Guzzisti. It will also come with adjustable MGCT traction control as standard (which can also be disabled).

Two versions are available, V7 Stone with its strong minimalistic style, is joined by the V7 Special, with its classic and elegant lines.

V7 Stone is available in four satin-finish colour schemes: Nero Ruvido, Azzurro Ghiaccio and Arancione Rame to which is added the special Centenary graphic, commemorating the first hundred years of life of the Larian brand, born in 1921.

V7 CENTENARIO

Half a century of incredible emotions

The V7 is never afraid to rewrite history, even after more than 50 years since it roared onto the scene.  The world-revered Italian motorcycle icon maybe getting a celebratory makeover, but fear not the character and personality that’s made it such a timeless masterpiece will remain untouched.


A new Moto Guzzi engine makes its debut on the new V7, a close derivative of the one that powers the V85 TT.  This is the most recent and modern drive built in Mandello, which guarantees better performance and overall greater efficiency in order to provide maximum riding pleasure, fun and reliability.

Compared to the previous version, the new addition from Mandello is generally more complete in terms of equipment and demonstrates superior maturity, also evident in the aesthetic impact of the larger engine, which stands out for its generously sized exhaust pipes in a different layout; the view  from the rear highlights the larger cardan final drive, the wider rear wheel and the robust Kayaba shock absorbers.

The frame has been enhanced with the addition of steel elements in the headstock area.  The new shock absorbers have greater travel and the new two-tier saddle / rider foot pegs ensure greater comfort.

Vespa Racing Sixties

Vespa Racing Sixties

DESIGNED WITH THE RACING SPIRIT OF VESPA IN MIND. A VINTAGE STYLED SCOOTER THAT COMBINES THE CLASSIC LOOK OF VESPA WITH A SIXTIES RETRO AESTHETIC.

The Sixties was a legendary decade for racing and motoring history. This mix of sportiness, the love of speed and racing success from this era was the inspiration behind the GTS Super Racing Sixties. Original new graphics which make a stylish statement and a choice of racing green body work with contrasting yellow decals or a bright white with bold striking red stripes.

A brand new saddle, gold coloured wheel rims and matt black trims are the perfect accents to highlight the sporty style of this model. Choose from either a 125 or 300cc engine.

The inspiration behind the Vespa Racing Sixties series is the “gentlemen riders” who raced in the sixties, a decade when freedom of expression extended to how you personalised your vehicle. Riders were filled with a spirit for independence, going to great lengths to recruit the perfect teams, select the right races and choose the perfect look for their scooters.

Colours and graphics often had a connection to the riders country of origin or the brand that had supported them. When it comes to the Vespa Racing Sixties special series the style choices echo the exploits of those legendary sporting personalities and the events that made them become so iconic, such as the Monaco and Monza Grand Prix or the historic Targa Florio endurance race.

Which is why the Racing Sixties Special Series, with its striking new liveries are a combination of sporting colours with bold graphics and exclusive details.

V85 TT MY21

                                                  

A dream on two wheels

There’s simply no other way to describe the V85 TT and the V8 TT Travel. The Euro 5-compliant engine with greater torque in low and medium speeds delivers a performance that is more powerful and thrilling than ever. Five riding modes mean even the most accomplished riders will find something to set their pulse racing. On the aesthetics front, there are stunning tubeless wheels and striking new graphics that show off every curve of the bike, to say nothing of the effect they’ll have on passers-by as you swoop round the curves of the road. Admit it, you’re already itching to don your helmet!

A bike for living, not simply riding

Sleek, practical and sporting the famous Moto Guzzi style, the V85 TT is the perfect companion, whether we’re talking about every day commuting or intrepid adventures. There’s no compromising on comfort and performance, and this is something not to be sneezed at in a market that is becoming increasingly cookie-cutter. The V85 TT has certainly delivered on its ambition to combine iconic design with all the bells and whistles of a modern enduro touring bike, and definitely earns the title of First and Only in Class when it comes to a classic enduro.  

Distance poses no problem

The V85 TT Travel includes all the tech updates of its V85 TT sibling. It comes with all the features that you’ll need on a long trip, such as the Touring windshield, Urban series side panniers with increased capacity and reduced bulk, LED auxiliary lights, adjustable heated handgrips and last, but not least, the Moto Guzzi MIA multimedia platform available as an extra.

Looks that pack a punch

The V85 TT comes in three brand-new graphic options, developed to show off every curve of its stylish frame. Choose from Nero Etna black, Giallo Mojave yellow and the striking red Rosso Uluru version.

Embrace the luxury of freedom

There is no doubt that the V85 TT has inherited the Moto Guzzi love of travel. It’s all about adventuring and exploring, and no bike more than this evokes vivid memories of the famous desert competitions of years gone by, such as the Paris-Dakar rally of the 1980s. And, even if the V85 TT is not quite a time machine, it comes close, recreating the freedom and thrills that have made the Mandello eagle so revered over the decades.

V9 MY 21

                                             

RIDING IS EASY, BUT DISMOUNTING IS ANYTHING BUT

Packed with new technology and engineering excellence, this is not a bike for anyone trying to keep a low profile.

With the completely overhauled twin-cylinder 850cc, 65 hp, 73 Nm engine and advanced frame, riding thrills are taken to a whole new level, while on the looks side, new finishes, foot pegs and saddle deliver all the style you’d expect from a bike sporting the Mandello eagle.
After all, it’s not by chance that Moto Guzzi custom bikes have been among the world’s most popular and beloved for over 100 years. Generations have revered their unique design and of course, at the heart of each is the legendary twin-cylinder 90° V-engine engine.
A century of tenaciousness, passion and testing come together in the V9 Roamer andV9 Bobber, to deliver an unbeatable combination of outstanding riding pleasure and showstopping style.

MODELS

Both models are available in a reduced-power variant to meet the criteria of a learner’s or beginner’s licence, meaning even young riders can enjoy the thrill of a V9. However, be warned, it may be hard to prise them off the saddle!

V9 ROAMER

An intuitive and universal custom, the V9 Roamer is a dream to ride, packed with unique features and stunning finishes.

V9 BOBBER

The dark soul of Moto Guzzi, the V9 Bobber sports oversize tyres and alluring, sleek lines.

A remarkable engine

The most evident change is the new 850cc, 65 hp and 73 Nm engine. Sharing the same pedigree as the V85 TT, it delivers lively performance and is ably abetted by an improved frame that has been strengthened in the headstock area to increase stability and riding precision.

Sheer sophistication

Vibrations are a distant memory, with comfort taken to the nth degree. There is all you could ask of and more, with functions such as ABS and MGCT adjustable traction control, which you can also choose to disable. On top of this, the V9 Bobber boasts new a new digital instrument panel and a full-LED lighting system that highlights the silhouette of the Mandello eagle

All you need for great adventures

And of course, there are plenty of accessories to add that extra wow touch to both models, starting with the Moto Guzzi MIA multimedia system that connects your phone and bike to create a multi-functional onboard computer.

Colours

Style in abundance

The V9 Roamer comes in Grigio Lunare, an elegant shade of grey with glossy mudguards, fuel tank and side panels. Whether parked or in full flight on the road, it’s sure to attract admiring glances.

The V9 Bobber is available in Nero Essenziale, in keeping with its dark, nocturnal spirit, a characteristic that is further emphasised through the absence of any milling on the cylinder fins which are also totally black.

Vespa Elettrica is recognised at the Compasso d’Oro awards

                                      

ICONIC VESPA STYLE, IN ITS MOST INNOVATIVE VERSION, RECEIVES AN HONORABLE MENTION AT THE 26TH EDITION OF THE WORLD’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS DESIGN AWARDS

With the implementation of electric technology, Vespa confirms its status as a timeless icon and a symbol of the future.  The 26th ADI Compasso d’Oro Awards saw the Vespa Elettrica receive an honourable mention and a prestigious acknowledgment to recognise excellence in global design.  The international judging panel described the scooter with high regard “Vespa Elettica confirms the innovative, pioneering spirt of Vespa, a unique and unmistakeable brand in the global mobility market”.

The unrivalled modern icon of Italian style and technology, the Vespa Elettrica is synonymous with advanced connectivity, noiselessness, unique design, customisation, affordability and last but not least, respect for the environment.  These values are not new to the Vespa brand, but have never been more comprehensively expressed than with the Elettrica which confirms the brand’s stand as a step ahead of its time.

Founded in 1954, the ADI Compasso d’Oro (Golden Compass) awards are the oldest and most widely respected in the design world. The brain child of Gio Ponti, they were introduced as a way to recognise outstanding Italian design. Since 1964, ADI (Association of Industrial Design) has managed the awards, ensuring integrity and impartiality. In over half a century, almost 300 winning items and 2000 products / designs that have received an Honourable Mention have been gathered and kept in the ADI Compasso d’Oro Award Historical Collection.

Recipients of the Compasso d’Oro award are chosen based on pre-selections made by the ADI Permanent Design Observatory.  This consists of a committee of experts, designers, critics, historians, specialist journalists, members and non-members of the ADI, all of whom gather year after year to evaluate and select the best products which are then published in the annual ADI Design Index.

This is not the first time that Piaggio Group has been recognised by ADI and the Compasso d’Oro, they where also awarded in the nineties and also received an Honourable mention for the Vespa 946 in 2016.

This year’s award ceremony took place in the new ADI Design Museum in Milan, where the Vespa Elettrica will be on display until 16th September, together with all of the other products that were part of the 2020 competition.

For further information or details about visiting the “26th Compasso d’Oro – Putting down roots” exhibition visit www.adi-design.org.

The design of the Vespa Elettrica is in keeping with the iconic style that has won the hearts of generations of people throughout its 75 year history. Like other Vespas the Elettrica has the same high quality steel body which is finished in an exclusive grey. Available in either 45 km/h or 70 km/h versions and categorised as a moped this stunning scooter is perfect for urban travel or for those wanting to go further afield.

LET’S VESPA

                                      

It’s time to get back on the move! In a time when rules are changing and distance are more important than ever, there really is no better travel companion than Vespa.

The world’s most beloved scooter is resurrecting the iconic “Lets Vespa” slogan exactly 70 years after it was first launched.  At the time Europe was embarking on a post-war reconstruction and was in the initial stages of the economic boom.  Vespa represented the return not only of mobility, but more fundamentally freedom.

Seven decades on, what does “Lets Vespa” mean today? Its the call to reclaim freedom and the ability to move around independently in total safety.  It means each of us taking control of the distance we maintain, opting to avoid queues, traffic and crowds. With Vespa this can be accomplished in style.

The new campaign by BBH London highlights Vespa’s link with the world of art, with contributions from four renowned artists from the international graphic design scene. English artist Paul Thurlby, Quentine Monge of France, Sebastian Curi from Argentina and Italian Agostino Lacurci have created their own take on themes that celebrate the reconnection between human beings and some acts or rituals that had to be foregone during lockdown.

The first version of Lets Vespa was launched in 1950 and featured the artwork of Nino Ferenzi (also know as Ferencich), with later versions coming from high profile names in the advertising world including Bernard Villemot of France and the Italian Zambelli.  The message was clear; Vespa was the new way to get around, faster, easier and more affordable than a car.

“Let’s Vespa” signified a linguistic revolution, creating a verb from the name of a brand and going on to be used in legendary campaigns such as “Chi Vespa mangia le mele” [Who Vespa eats the apples] and a decade later “Giovane chi Vespa” [The young who Vespa].

Over the years Vespa’s advertising messages continued to break the mould, with posters often becoming keepsakes and souvenirs of personal adventures and important moments. Since 1946, when the first scooter was produced, over 18 million Vespas have followed, creating an extraordinary passion and community all over the world.    Vespa has seamlessly navigated across all social classes, lead revolutions in clothing and music. Through the good times and the bad, Vespa has become the world’s leading brand when it comes to getting around and a symbol of global freedom.

WE’VE GOT THE DELIVERY SCOOTER FOR YOU

Piaggio’s range of scooters is ideal for delivery work. One of our most effective options for professional use is the agile and comfortable Liberty 125, which has a range of dedicated accessories designed to meet the needs of riders like you – whether you’re transporting hot food, packages or important documents.

While you’re delivering for your customers, our practical, functional scooters will delivery extraordinary efficiency and performance for you.

Vespamania: Our Love for Josh Rogers

Vespa has been winning the hearts of fans for 75 years. We recently spent some time chatting with Josh Rogers, a US-based collector.

As an icon of design, Vespa has become a universal symbol of Italian style. With a storied past and an eye on the future, Vespa speaks to people regardless of age or location. Choosing to ride a Vespa is not a decision rooted in purely practical needs as Vespa transcends function and exudes a type of stylish, lighthearted, joyful lifestyle.


That’s why Vespa riders are not just fans of the brand, but often become enthusiasts of all things Vespa, as we saw in Josh Rogers.

Earlier this summer, Josh invited us to visit his collection of Vespas in San Jose, California. His garage is filled with Vespas. He owns a specialized collection of Vespas including some of the rarest models produced, and he is always searching for the next find. For Josh, collecting Vespas is akin to owning a piece of history. His collection encompasses models spanning decades, engines and colors, and he also has a vast treasure trove of memorabilia, including posters, gadgets, pins, games and other novelty items.

Josh’s passion began when he bought his first Vespa at age 18, after noticing one after a ska concert and falling in love with its visual design and the sound of its engine.  “I think I went from being a driver to a collector the moment when I bought my second model,” he notes.

His love for Vespa has spilled over into other aspects of his life, including a community of other Vespa enthusiasts .
“I like driving them, I like collecting them, and thanks to them I’ve made some wonderful friendships. Passion is my driving force,” he notes.

Whenever Josh has found a rare, old Vespa, he works with a specialized mechanic to restore them to near perfect original condition. Once the restoration is done, the hunt for the next scooter begins because, as he says, you can never have too many Vespas.”

His personal “holy grail” is the 1946 Vespa 98 model, inscribed on the Historical Register: the third Vespa model made in the history of the brand. It’s rarity and museum-quality allows him to refer to the model as “the Bugatti of scooters.”

One model that stands out and makes him feel the sexiest is the Vespa GS Cushman, a model he has used when riding round trip from San Jose to Morro Bay in California.

For several years now Josh has been the president of VCOF, the Vespa Club of America, whose members share a passion for scooters and for spending time together at various conventions and events. “My collection is a reflection of the relationships I’ve built over time and the people I’ve met,” he says.

Thanks, Josh! We hope you will continue to find more treasures to restore.

VESPA AND SEAN WOTHERSPOON

VESPA AND SEAN WOTHERSPOON ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN ONE OF THE MOST CREATIVE AND INFLUENTIAL YOUNG DESIGNERS AND THE ICONIC BRAND FOR STYLE ON TWO WHEELS

A CAPSULE COLLECTION AND A LIMITED VESPA EDITION FOR SPRING/SUMMER 2020, TO BE PRESENTED AT THE EICMA SHOW IN NOVEMBER 2019 MICHELE COLANINNO: “THE FIRST IN A SERIES OF COLLABORATIONS TO CREATE CLOSER TIES FOR OUR BRANDS WITH THE WORLD OF DESIGN AND FASHION”

Los Angeles (USA), 6 September 2019 – Sean Wotherspoon and Vespa have announced a partnership to create a new style: bold, irreverent and fun, for those who express a unique and youthful spirit in and beyond the urban environment.

The Piaggio Group has always had a keen eye for the ever-changing trends and experiences that motivate and inspire today’s generations. Sean Wotherspoon seemed like the perfect partner to share and implement innovative ideas.

Sean Wotherspoon is one of the rising stars of youth fashion in the USA. Pure energy, unstoppable and curious; a forerunner, an experimenter, a fanatic of street culture and of everything it can encompass.

 

Instagram is the world through which he communicates and shares his passion, and his almost one million followers adore him. As the Nike Air Max 97 sneakers that made him famous testify,Wotherspoon plays with colors, mixing them together and adding innovative and sometimes unlikely materials together with the most disparate fabrics.

Promoting this culture of color Sean Wotherspoon’s mission and the endeavor with Vespa came naturally. The idea that immediately fascinated the designer starts from a “vintage” soul perfectly revisited in a contemporary key, as the DNA of the Vespa brand demands. The partnership aims to create a community of individuals around the brand who want to have fun not only with personal fashion tastes, but also, and above all, by making style and carefree enjoyment their primary colors on the streets. No brand outside of Vespa could interpret this challenge better and more consistently.

So Wotherspoon will define the aesthetic standards of a special and limited-edition Vespa Primavera further complimented with a dedicated helmet and an exclusive streetwear capsule collection. The first results of this creative process will be presented in November 2019 at EICMA in Milan, with the collection, that is already exciting Vespa enthusiasts and fans of Sean Wotherspoon, being released globally in Spring 2020.

 Sean Wotherspoon did not hide his enthusiasm about the partnership“Based on their immense history and heritage I’m beyond excited to start work with Vespa/Piaggio. I’m going to dig as deep as possible to help re-create these memories and re-imagine them through my lens to share with everyone! This is going to be insane! Stay tuned!”

“We are delighted to begin working with Sean,” said Michele Colaninno. “He is one of the most gifted and creative designers in the USA. We immediately struck up a great rapport and there is no question that something spectacular will come out of this….This is only the beginning of a series of collaborations starting soon that will bring Vespa and our other fantastic brands like Moto Guzzi and Aprilia into even greater contact with the world of design and fashion, where they naturally belong.”

 

About Sean Wotherspoon

In 2013, Sean along with two friends opened Round Two in Richmond, Virginia, a store destined to become legendary in a matter of months. Today, there are Round Two stores in all the leading US cities. The passion for sneakers and sportswear of the past decades, the love for creativity and color that characterized the 80s and 90s and then a revolutionary and irrepressible creative verve are the basis of a global success that led Sean to collaborate first with Nike and then with giants like Disney, Prince, Lacoste and Galleries Lafayette.

 

About Vespa

It was 1946 when Vespa made its debut on the roads of a Europe devastated by the recent conflict but, equally, full of creativity and a desire for renewal. After seventy-three years of history and over eighteen million scooters, Vespa is a global reference for style, elegance and technology. A brand known and loved all over the world that, with more than one and a half million vehicles produced in the last decade, is experiencing one of the most fortunate and dynamic periods in its story.

NEWEST MEMBER OF GTS FAMILY SCOOPS AWARD IN 2019 AUTO TRADER BEST BIKE AWARDS

Auto Trader has named the Vespa GTS 300 hpe SuperTech as the Best Scooter in its annual Best Bike Awards.

As the judges’ favourite in the hotly contested Scooter category, the GTS 300 hpe SuperTech beat competition from BMW and Honda to win the award. When asked about the winning bike, Guest Judge Jon Quirk said, “Vespa is the only scooter company that manages to elevate a seemingly ordinary device into a functional art form. The GTS 300 remains the definitive scooter with its unique style and, in HPE form, improved performance. It remains a class act.”

Simon Greenacre, Marketing Communications Coordinator at Vespa/Piaggio Group in the UK said, “It’s great to see the newest member of the Vespa GTS family getting this kind of recognition. The GTS 300 hpe SuperTech is the most powerful Vespa we’ve ever made and is also packed with technology to make it a joy to use own and use, so we're pleased that it carries the GTS name forwards with this award.”

New for 2019, the SuperTech is the flagship GTS 300 hpe and the latest addition to the Vespa GTS 300 range. Featuring a colour TFT display with smartphone connectivity and a new high-performance engine (hpe), the most powerful seen on a Vespa with over 23 hp, the new SuperTech is the flagship Vespa, a model that carries Vespa’s style, heritage and hostroy of riding pleasure in to the future with while being packed with technology and innovation.

Tuono V4 1100 Factory voted Best Super Naked in 2019 MCN Awards

Tuono V4 1100 Factory recognised as class-leader in annual Motorcycle News Awards

 

Aprilia is proud to announce that the Tuono V4 1100 Factory has won the award for Best Super Naked in the 2019 MCN Awards.

The Tuono V4 1100 Factory beat competition from rival manufacturers including BMW, KTM and Yamaha to take the prize for Best Super Naked in the 2019 MCN Awards, the results of which were announced today.

For 2019 the top-spec Factory model benefits from the addition of Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active suspension and steering damper. After riding the bike at its launch in Italy Michael Neeves, MCN’s Chief Road Tester said, “Aprilia have somehow managed to improve the unimprovable.” Read his full review here and watch the review here.

Simon Greenacre, Marketing Communications Coordinator at Aprilia/Piaggio Group in the UK said, “The Tuono V4 1100 Factory is a sensational package. It’s all there on paper – an astounding V4 engine complimented by a suite of cutting-edge electronics and high-spec parts from the likes of Brembo and Öhlins, all built around the frame from the RSV4 superbike. The result when riding is a perfect blend of power, poise, precision and pleasure. The Tuono V4 1100 Factory is often hailed as the perfect sports road bike and Aprilia is delighted that MCN has recognised its excellence with this accolade.”

Representing state-of-the-art in technology, the Tuono V4 1100 Factory is equipped with sophisticated electronic management that includes an advanced dynamic controls package with APRC, cornering ABS, quick shift active even in downshifting, pit limiter and cruise control. The unique 175 hp 65° V4 engine and racing frame provide unparalleled performance. Simply unrivalled, the Aprilia Tuono V4 has consistently been voted as one of the most exciting and exquisite motorcycles ever built.

The award for Best Super Naked from MCN is the second to be bestowed on the Tuono V4 1100 Factory in 2019, with the first coming from Auto Trader, which decreed the top-of-the-range Tuono to be its Best Naked in its 2019 Best Bike Awards.

Find out more about the Tuono V4 1100 Factory here.

APRILIA TUONO 660 FACTORY

23 November 2021, Milan, Italy – Descending directly from the Tuono V4 Factory, and inheriting its key values, the new Tuono 660 Factory boasts considerable equipment and performance. At 181kg and 100 HP, the Tuono 660 Factory is lighter, more powerful and sophisticated, and flaunts first-rate equipment.

 

The Factory versions of Aprilia sports bikes have always been flagship products, dedicated to the most demanding and skilled riders, who can appreciate the quality of the most sophisticated outfitting. Now, the Factory trim is also available for the Tuono 660, which makes for a Tuono with unparalleled dynamic qualities, the most efficient and fun to use on the road and a true generator of emotions, accessible to everyone. All this, while respecting the Aprilia 660 project that promises bikes with a sensational weight/power ratio that are lightweight, high-performance, and built around the brand-new latest generation Aprilia parallel twin.

 

With respect to Tuono 660, already widely recognised and appreciated by the public and critics for its outstanding chassis qualities, Tuono 660 Factory boasts a more sophisticated suspension, better suited to sports riding. The Kayaba fork with 41 mm stanchions is fully adjustable in its compression and rebound damping and spring pre-load, while the Sachs shock with a separate reservoir is also adjustable in its compression and rebound damping and spring pre-load.

There is an even better weight/power ratio, one of the main goals for all new Aprilia 660 models and already outstanding on the Tuono 660, thanks to the adoption of a light lithium battery that contributes to reducing the overall weight by roughly 2 kg (the kerb weight is now 181 kg) and also better engine performance.

A compact and lightweight latest-generation engine, the 660 cc forward-facing twin with DOHC timing and four valves per cylinder is the result of experience gained with the very powerful engine that equips RSV4, from which the construction philosophy and basic concepts derive. The engine has a load-bearing function and houses the aluminium swingarm in its rear section. Combustion is asymmetric and offset by 270° to obtain irregular combustion which translates into performance and sound similar to that of a V-twin. The maximum power is upped from 95 HP with the Tuono 660 to 100 HP with the Tuono 660 Factory. The engine boasts even more drive in acceleration, thanks to the use of a shorter final drive, with a 16-tooth pinion gear, one less than Tuono 660. The maximum torque remains unchanged, with 67 Nm at 8500 rpm, 80% of which is available from 4000 rpm, or 90% on reaching 6250 rpm.

 

Tuono 660 Factory offers a full suite of APRC electronic controls with a Ride-by-Wire electronic accelerator and six-axis inertial platform as standard. The latter, thanks to the accelerometers and gyroscopes it contains, is able to recognise the bike’s condition with respect to the road, recording and processing the inputs that result from riding and sending the data to a control unit that intervenes to optimise the control parameters. The Tuono 660 Factory APRC includes ATC (Aprilia Traction Control), adjustable traction control characterised by high-performance intervention strategies; AWC (Aprilia Wheelie Control), the adjustable wheelie control system; ACC (Aprilia Cruise Control) to maintain a steady speed without using the throttle; AQS (Aprilia Quick Shift), the electronic gearbox that allows for very rapid shifting without closing the throttle or using the clutch. It is also equipped with the downshift function, to allow for clutchless downshifting; AEB (Aprilia Engine Brake), the adjustable system to control engine braking when closing the throttle; AEM (Aprilia Engine Map), with different mappings via which to alter the engine’s character and delivery.

 

Tuono 660 Factory also benefits from multi-map Cornering ABS. With its extremely contained weight and dimensions, the system is able to optimise braking and ABS intervention through the corners, thanks to a specific algorithm that constantly monitors various parameters such as lateral acceleration, the pressure applied to the front brake lever, and the lean, pitch and yaw angle, modulating the braking action in order to optimise the ratio between deceleration and stability.

As with the Tuono 660, there are five customisable Riding Modes (three for road use and two for track use) to simplify life on-board. The rider needs only to choose the Riding Mode that best interprets his or her riding needs in order to automatically obtain the best settings in terms of traction control, wheelie control, engine brake, ABS and the other managed parameters. Adoption of the inertial platform has also allowed for activation of the “bending lights” function, incorporated into the front LED light cluster complete with perimeter DRL (this pair of additional lights illuminate the entire corner, increasing visibility when leaning).

 

With its reduced surfaces effectively highlighting a dynamic, sports character, the bike’s design stands out for the innovative double fairing that serves as an aerodynamic appendage. The pressure of the air channelled between the two walls contributes to optimising stability at high speeds and, at the same time, increases rider comfort by protecting against direct air flow, also deflecting the hot air extracted from the engine. The Tuono 660 Factory version is further enhanced with the aggressive and sporty Factory Dark graphics and the presence of the single-seat tail fairing , painted in black and red and supplied as standard together with the passenger seat and footpegs. These pegs, like those of the rider, are the same as those of the Aprilia RS 660 but lighter.

Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory – Technical Data

Engine type

Aprilia forward-facing parallel twin-cylinder, four stroke, liquid-cooled with radiator and water-oil heat exchanger, DOHC with silent chain on the right side, four valves per cylinder.

 

Bore and stroke

 

81 x 63.93 mm

 

Engine capacity

 

659 cc

 

Compression ratio

 

13.5:1

 

Maximum power at crankshaft

 

100 HP (73.5 kW) at 10,500 rpm

 

Maximum torque at crankshaft

 

67 Nm (6.83 kgm) at 8500 rpm

 

Fuel system

 

Airbox with front air vent. Two Ø48 mm throttle bodies, Ride-by-wire management

 

Ignition

 

Electrical

 

Lubrication

 

Wet sump

 

Transmission

 

Six gears with Aprilia Quick Shift (AQS) up and down system

 

Clutch

 

Multiplate wet clutch with slipper system

 

Secondary drive

 

Chain, drive ratio 16/43

 

Electronic management

 

6-axis IMU, APRC suite that includes ATC (traction control), AWC (wheelie control), AEB (engine brake) AEM (engine mapping), ACC (cruise control)

5 riding modes (Road and Track, 3 pre-set and 2 customisable)

 

Chassis

 

 

Aluminium dual beam chassis with removable seat-supporting subframe

Front suspension

 

 

KayabaØ 41 mm upside down fork with top out spring, aluminium pins to fasten radial callipers. Both stanchions allow for rebound, compression and spring pre-load adjustment. Wheel travel: 110 mm

Rear suspension

 

 

Asymmetric aluminium swingarm. Single shock with top out spring and separate reservoir, adjustable in rebound, compression and spring pre-load. Wheel travel: 130 mm

Front brake

 

 

 

Rear brake

 

 

ABS

320 mm double disc

Brembo radial callipers with fourØ horizontally opposed 32 mm pistons. Radial pump and metal braided brake hose

220 mm diameter disc; Brembo calliper with twoØ 34 mm separate pistons. Master cylinder with separate reservoir and metal braided hose

 

 

Multi-map Cornering ABS

 

 

Wheels

 

 

Aluminium alloy, front: 3.5” x 17” rear: 5.5” x 17”

Tyres

Radial tubeless, front: 120/70 ZR 17 rear: 180/55 ZR 17 (alternatively 180/60 ZR17)

 

Dimensions

 

 

Wheelbase: 1370 mm

Length: 1995 mm

Width: 805 mm

Saddle height: 820 mm

Headstock angle: 24.1°

Trail: 104.7 mm

 

Weight

181 kg kerb weight (169 kg dry weight)

Emissions compliance

 

Consumption

Euro 5

 

4.9 litres/100 km

 

CO2 emissions

 

116 g/km

 

Fuel tank capacity

 

Colour range

 

15 litres (including 4-litre reserve)

 

Factory Dark

 

Winter Care 

Ride through the winter with ease on your Aprilia bike!

Equip your bike with winter essentials and take advantage of an extra 20% off on us! Available on a range of official Aprilia spares from 11th December 2017 until 28th February 2018 through your official Aprilia retailers.

CLICK HERE TO DISCOVER WHICH PARTS ARE AVAILABLE WITH THIS ADDITIONAL DISCOUNT


Terms & Conditions
Available on the parts indicated in the attached PDF only.  Available through official Aprilia retailers in the UK and Northern Ireland.Offer is valid from 11th December 2017 until 28th February 2018 Prices quoted are including VAT and excluding labour.Labour charges do NOT qualify for the 20% discount.  Subject to availability.  Prices are subject to change.

APRILIA TUONO FACTORY 1100 AWARDS

Aprilia Tuono 1100 Factory is MCN Best Super Naked 2017 and Auto Traders Best Naked 2017 Winner!

If you haven't tried one, what are you waiting for?

APRILIA DORSODURO 900 REVIEWED | WHAT THE MEDIA SAYS

Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 Reviews

For 2017, we revised the Aprilia Shiver 900 and its brother, the Dorsoduro 900. Both bikes were unleashed to the press earlier this month in and around Ventura, Calif.

We already provided some review highlights in our “2017 Aprilia Shiver 900 Reviewed | What the Media Says,” but now it’s time for its supermoto counterpart, the Dorsoduro.

The Dorsoduro was launched in 2008 as a 750 model, but grows to 900cc for 2017. The 90-degree v-twin now produces 95 horsepower @ 8750 rpm, and 60 ft/lbs of torque @4 4500 rpm.

The new Dorsoduro arrives with three riding modes (Sport, Touring, Rain), traction control, ABS and a new color TFT digital gauge. The supermotard arrives with a 41mm Kayaba fork, three-spoke wheels and dual 320mm discs up front.

The styling speaks for itself, but how about the ride? Here’s what the world’s top journalist had to say about the 2017 Aprilia Dorsoduro 900.

Cycle World’s Sean MacDonald gets right to the versatility point of this Dorsoduro: “If you want something light and fun for around town, get the Husky. If you want something that you can take to a proper race track or tour with, get the Ducati. If you want a nice all-rounder, get the Yamaha. Or, if you have to have something Italian that does all three, get the Dorso.”

Ryan Adams of Motorcycle.com touches on styling “I have always appreciated the styling of these big supermoto-style bikes. The 2018 Dorsoduro, like the Shiver released concurrently, showcases great attention to detail which, in my opinion, elevates the appeal of the new 900s. The red valve cover, red trellis frame, wheel decals, loud graphics, and gold fork look fantastic and won’t allow you to mistake the bike for anything other than an Aprilia.”

Billy Bartels of Motorcycle Daily says “So despite the price premium over the Shiver, it turns out the Dorsoduro 900 is a fabulous deal … at least, when you consider the competing “supermoto” models. If you like the street-tracker style, you could possibly just get it for that and have a hell of a motorcycle. While I may sound damning with faint praise, make no mistake: If this is what you’re looking for, it’ll wow you with a sweet exhaust note, easy handling, fantastic braking, and gobs of torque.”

TJ Hinton of TopSpeed says: All in all, it’s a bike that was built using the best characteristics of two worlds with an emphasis on urban performance and agility, and really fairly versatile since it can be set up to race, tour, commute or do stunts.

Lance Oliver of Revzilla reports that “The added power and new features make the Dorsoduro a stronger competitor to the Hypermotard and a stylish alternative to a standard bike, for those who love the supermoto look. If that's you, then the Dorsoduro is definitely worth a look.”

Ultimate Motorcycling’s Nic de Sena wraps up the 2017 Aprilia Dorsoduro perfectly: “The bottom line is that the 2018 Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 is an absolute blast. With a nice refresh to the platform, the Dorsoduro offers an aggressive yet light-hearted experience. This bike should be paired with friends and a good set of canyon roads or a track, but don’t let that stop you from getting the front-end light on the way to the office.”

Aprilia Caponord 1200 Rally: What The Media Says

Aprilia Caponord 1200 Rally

Aprilia rolled out the first Caponord in 2001, and we’ve improved the breed every year since. Today’s Caponord 1200 Rally has an unprecedented array of features for toughness, technology and versatility. This testament is shared by many moto journalists, as you’ll see in a bit.
 
But first let’s review just why our Caponord is an optimal machine for any type of riding. The 2017 Caponord 1200 Rally is specifically designed to bring the kind of power and comfort necessary for high-speed, long range touring in the Interstate, the easy handling and low-cost to operate for daily commuting and the brute strength and ruggedness for off-the-pavement adventure riding.
 
The heart of the Caponord 1200 Rally is Aprilia’s race-bred 90° four-stroke, double overhead cam 1196cc V-twin with four valves per cylinder. The engine delivers 125 hp @ 8,000 rpm and 84.8 ft/lbs of torque at 6,800 rpm at the crankshaft. All that power is brought under precise control with Aprilia’s ride-by-wire system with three engine maps. In addition, cruise control is included for those long, lonely stretches of stable-speed cruising.
 
Of course, all that punch needs to be matched up with a rigid chassis and terrain-eating suspension. In that, even the suspension and brakes are ultra-high tech. To do that, the Aprilia Dynamic Damping (ADD) suspension system was developed.
 
The ADD system optimizes control and comfort by measuring the energy transmitted from the road surface to the bike and adjusts the hydraulic fork calibration and shock absorber in real time to minimize acceleration force on the frame.
 
To achieve maximum performance at any fork and shock absorber operating frequency, ADD uses a patented “MIX comfort oriented” algorithm that combines the principles of the well-known skyhook and acceleration driven damping algorithms.
 
ADD utilizes an integral piggy-back shock absorber which provides electrically adjustable spring preload to four-predefined settings, indicated by specific icons on the digital instrument panel: rider only, rider with passenger, rider only with panniers and rider and passenger with panniers. 
 
This exclusive Aprilia system is patented as is the automatic preload control mode for the rear spring. Once this option has been selected, the system can detect the bike's load by itself (weight of fuel, rider, passenger, luggage, etc.) and automatically adjust preload to the optimum value to balance the bike properly. This frees the rider to focus on riding; the most vital safety feature of all. Aprilia is the first motorcycle manufacturer in the world to have introduced active suspension. 
 
The Caponord receives the most advanced electronic control and rider enhancement systems through the Aprilia Performance Ride Control System (APRC). The system includes Traction Control and ABS.
 
The Caponord’s astonishing power and handling must also be matched with powerful, predictable brakes. That stopping power is managed by a two-channel Continental Anti-lock brake system (ABS). Front braking is handled by double 320mm floating stainless steel discs with an aluminum carrier clamped by four piston radially mounted Brembo calipers with steel braided brake lines. Rear has a 240mm wavy stainless steel disc clamped by a single piston Brembo caliper with braided steel brake lines.
 
The chassis mates a steel tubing upper trellis connected to aluminum lateral plates forming an extremely rigid, lightweight frame that allows the use of the power of the engine to maximum advantage on pavement or trail. 
 
Rear suspension is a double-sided aluminum alloy swingarm with single lateral positioned Sachs shock absorber adjustable in hydraulic rebound damping and spring preload, with the ADD system. Rear wheel travel is 150 mm (5.9 in.). Front suspension is by a completely adjustable Sachs 43 mm inverted fork with hydraulic rebound and compression damping electronically controlled by the ADD system. Fork travel is up to 170mm (6.7 in.).
 
Striving for the versatility necessary to perform well in such diverse environments can lead to so many compromises that the old “jack of all trades, master of none” syndrome can set in. Does the Caponord 1200 Rally achieve the right balance? Here’s what some of the experts have said.
 
Allyn Hinton, writing for Top Speed Motorcycles said: “Aprilia serves as the large-displacement sportbike/race branch for Piaggio, and as such, put out a lot in the way of supermoto and stoplight-burner bikes. The subject for today is not one of those, but rather an on-/off-road bike that carries that unmistakable Italian style with a veritable alphabet soup of fancy electronic subsystems. Aptly named the Caponord 1200 Rally, this ride straddles the line between race-tastic ability and real-world practicality with an eye to long-distance comfort. A 1200 cc mill pushes the thing with ride-by-wire throttle control, variable rider modes and cruise control, plus dynamic suspension and traction control to boot. As one of the few non-crotchrocket bikes made by the company, the Rally stands out as something of an anomaly, but I see no sign that Aprilia is in over its head with this design.”
 
Jonathan Handler, writing for Ultimate Motorcycling said, “As an all-around bike I found the Capo to be friendly, capable and willing. Like a good dog, there was nothing the bike would not do for me. It was mild around town offering the ability to, almost, mindlessly go about my business. In the twisties it simply flung itself from corner to corner with precision control and no excuses.”

 

Jamie Robinson, in a video review for Moto Geo, said, “Overall, from the Caponord 1200 Rally you’ll get a bike that has bags of power, is agile, you can go on-road or off-road, you can definitely click by some miles and you’re going to really enjoy riding this bike.”
 

2017 OCTO BRITISH GRAND PRIX MOTOGP

25 AUG 2017 – 27 AUG 2017

Also don't forget to like and follows Sam Lowes facebook page here: https://en-gb.facebook.com/SamLowes22/

As well as his official page here: http://www.samlowes.com/2017/06/08/experience-motogp-silverstone-fellow-sl22-fans/

Finally don't forget to buy your tickets here: http://www.silverstone.co.uk/events/2017-octo-british-grand-prix-motogp/

The OCTO British Grand Prix for Moto GP will be a four day festival of racing plus other supporting event and entertainment for the families that come. * Please note that Thursday 24th is the “Day of Champions” event which requires the purchase of a separate ticket (available at www.silverstone.co.uk) and all OCTO British Grand Prix MotoGP™ tickets are for Friday, Saturday or Sunday (or the full race weekend)

Vespa Celebrates the Year of the Dragon in Hong Kong

Vespa, the timeless icon of Italian lifestyle and a free spirit, ushers in a new era with the exclusive limited-edition Vespa 946 Dragon and matching varsity jacket in honour of the Year of the Dragon.

The iconic brand brings its distinctive Italian edge on the road, harnessing the power of the dragon, a mythological creature that holds unparalleled force and is regarded as a symbol of prosperity, with a dedicated Lunar New Year celebration event in Hong Kong last night, January 24. Hosted at mixed-use arts and design hub PMQ, guests included friends of the brand Thai actor Bright, actress and model Kanyawee Songmuang, nicknamed Thanaerng, and Hong Kong native singer MC Cheung among others.

SET UP

Greeted by an immersive neon light tunnel, guests stepped into the world of Vespa where they had an exclusive opportunity to preview the Vespa 946 Dragon on display in a customised neon green cargo container. Live DJ performance by DJ Xiaolin added to the excitement and vibrancy of the evening.

VIP GUESTS
Key fashion and lifestyle influencers, socialites, and VIPs were in attendance including Thai superstar Bright, Hong Kong pop singer and idol MC Cheung, along with Thai model, actress and style icon Thanaerng. Vespa’s inaugural fashion item, an exclusive Dragon Varsity Jacket, made its debut on superstar Bright. Drawing from the Vespa 946 Dragon’s design, the ribbed wool and Nappa leather-sleeved varsity jacket features a dragon motif in emerald green alongside prints and embroideries on the left pocket and back panel.

 

Losail (Qatar), 2 November
2014
– It
is a triumph, a double world championship win that was unimaginable just a few
races ago. On the Losail track in Qatar Sylvain Guintoli completed a comeback
that will go down in Superbike history and with two brilliant and undisputable
wins in the two night races on the desert circuit he overtook Tom Sykes,
earning the World Champion crown for the first time in his career.

Aprilia
doubles the celebration by becoming the Manufacturer World Champion for the
third consecutive year, reaffirming the undisputed technical superiority of the
RSV4, the Italian bike that has rooted the best competition in the world since
its rookie year in World SBK (2009), winning 7 World titles (three Rider and
four Manufacturer). This world championship combination (Rider and
Manufacturer) is the third one for the Aprilia RSV4 after sweeping the
competition in 2010 and 2012 with Max Biaggi.

 

 

 

The
manufacturer from Noale now totals 7
World Superbike championships in the last five years
and takes its
extraordinary collection to 54 world
championship titles
won in just over twenty years.

For
the Manufacturer World Championship Aprilia racked up 11 wins (5 for Guintoli,
6 for Melandri) and another 16 podiums for a total of 468 points against
Kawasaki´s 431, Honda´s 350, Ducati´s 291, Suzuki´s 234, BMW´s 81 and MV
Agusta´s 34.

The
new Aprilia Racing adventure in World Superbike began in 2009 with the
development of the innovative RSV4. With its exclusive 65 degree V engine and a
chassis derived from years of racing experience, the Aprilia Superbike marked a
turning point in the super sport bike world. Already capable of winning in its
rookie year, the RSV4 broke the WSBK bank in 2010, its second season in the
championship, taking both the World titles up for grabs: Manufacturer and Rider
with Max Biaggi.
This
was the start of a long series of wins. Biaggi – the first Italian to win the
World Superbike championship – doubled the Rider title in 2012 and the RSV4
once again took the World Championship for manufacturers in 2012, 2013 and
again this year in 2014.

 

Seven
World Championship Titles (3 Rider and 4 Manufacturer), 41 wins, another 89
podiums and 10 pole positions make up the extraordinary World SBK spoils of a
unique bike, created to dominate both on the track and on the road.

 

In
all Aprilia boasts 54 World Titles (38 in MotoGP, 7 in Superbike and 9 in
off-road disciplines
) which make it one of the most victorious brands ever on a
global level in motorcycle racing. The Piaggio Group´s extraordinary trophy
case, thanks to Aprilia as well as its other historic brands, Moto Guzzi,
Gilera and Derbi, now contains 104 World Titles to make it the most decorated
European motorcycle manufacturing group.

 

 

Tuono V4 has beaten all Super Naked machines including the new BMW, KTM and Ducati on a fully comprehensive test on road and track. The Tuono impressed with smooth and refined electronics and delivered the highest top speed (165mph).

 

Tests, ratings and verdicts can be seen here http://goo.gl/liHhZY