Aprilia presents new Tuono V4 1100
Aprilia has released more information on the Tuono V4 1100 for 2019. The new Tuono V4 1100 will be offered in two versions: the ‘RR’ that had just arrived in Australia as this issue went to press; and the ‘Factory’ that’s due here in a few months’ time.
A 129kW / 121Nm 1077cc V4 engine is unchanged, but there are some new features and new-look graphics for both variants, while the Factory version adds advanced suspension technology developed from Aprilia’s RSV4 RF Superbike.
With its partial fairing, the Tuono V4 1100 blurs the lines between sportsbikes and nakeds, but what’s crystal clear is that the upcoming 2019 version is the most advanced to be offered by Aprilia.
Those tech advancements include the things you’d expect, like cruise control, traction control and cornering ABS, but with track days in mind, there’s also a pit lane speed limiter, launch control, wheelie control, and an up-and-down quick shifter as part of the ‘Aprilia Performance Ride Control’ (APRC) package that’s common to both the RR and Factory versions.
Now in its fourth generation, APRC works with the V4 1100’s ride-by-wire throttle and an inertia platform that detects the dynamic conditions of the bike to judge the ideal level of intervention of the various control systems.
As advanced as APRC is, it’s neither the newest nor the most interesting bit of tech on the 2019 V4 1100; that honour goes to the newly-introduced electronic suspension system.
Super Suspension
Developed in collaboration with suspension specialists Ohlins, the electronic suspension management system is a Tuono first and described as the most advanced and efficient system currently available.
Exclusive to the Factory version of the MY19 Tuono V4 1100 (for now), the ‘Smart EC 2.0’ suspension system calibrates the fork and rear shock setting, with riders able to choose a ‘manual’ or ‘semi-active’ mode via a handlebar button, with each option varying to suit the three different riding modes - Track, Sport and Road.
With the semi-active mode selected, the Smart EC 2.0 actively manages the suspension’s performance, intervening via an algorithm that processes data transmitted from the bike – throttle, braking, gearing and lean angle - to the dedicated ECU in real time. In this mode, the suspension’s hydraulic calibration is constantly adjusted, to best suit the type of route and riding style used.
In the manual mode, the semi-active assistance is essentially deactivated, leaving the suspension to work in the same way that mechanical systems operate, without the constant adjustment.
In both modes, the rider can fine tune and customise the suspension calibration based on personal taste and riding style - experienced riders will be able to take advantage of this to suit various circuit layouts and conditions at track days.
The Smart EC 2.0 system also manages the Tuono V4 1100 Factory’s standard Ohlins steering damper, which is also fully customisable.
According to Aprilia, the OBTi (Objective Based Tuning Interface) on the 4.3-inch colour TFT dash display makes selecting and customizing the suspension settings intuitive. Described as being simple and quick to adjust, the system can be customised to suit every situation in which the suspension system is stressed, like under extreme acceleration and braking, for example.
While the Smart EC 2.0 suspension system is best exploited on the track, Aprilia claims it will also have benefits for general road riding and touring.
On the less technical side, the Factory’s front suspension travel has been increased from 117mm to 125mm for the 2019 model, while the rear shock is lighter and features easier preload adjustability.
Improved Reliability
The Tuono V4 1100 engine is largely unchanged for 2019, with maximums of 129kW at 11,000rpm and 121Nm at 9,000rpm, but Aprilia says changes made to this 65-degree, 1070cc V4 have improved overall reliability and performance, “without sacrificing any of the [engine’s] great character”.
These changes include DLC treatment on the surface of the piston pins, honed conrods and exhaust system changes to reduce emissions.
Finally, aiding smoother transmission operation is a linear sensor on the 6-speed gearbox.
New Colours, More Accessories
For the 2019 Tuono V4 1100, there are new colour schemes for both models. The RR is available in a choice of Sachsenring Red or Magny-Cours Grey over black, while the Factory features a new-look version of the red and black Superpole graphic. The Factory also gets a different tail fairing treatment that’s derived from the RSV4 but described as still being suitable for two-up touring.
Pirelli Diablo Rosso III tyres are standard on the RR, while the Factory gets stickier Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa hoops with a wider 200/55 rear.
Available options include a silencer and full exhaust system from Akrapovic, Ohlins suspension upgrade for the RR, carbon fibre trim parts and an inverted gear lever for track use, as well as a tank bag, LED indicators, and forged alloy rims.
Also optional is the ‘Aprilia MIA’ kit (Bluetooth control unit and wiring hardware) that allows you to connect your smartphone to the bike and download ride data. The system also adds an infotainment function that allows voice commands and management of incoming/outgoing phone calls.
RR Now, Factory in June
The new Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 RR is in stock now, priced from $24,690, while the V4 1100 Factory is due for an Australian arrival in late June, with pricing on that model to be confirmed closer to local release. For more details, see your Aprilia dealer.
