As supernaked class is gaining traction, so we track test the Aprilia Tuono V4 R APRC ABS in the wet, wet and wet conditions in Sepang International Circuit (SiC) courtesy of Jockey Event Private Trackday.
The Italian brand raised the stakes with the debut of its RSV4-based super standard two years ago. This is the year of the naked, complete with all-new superbike standards leading the way.
As we took the APRC Tuono in wet SiC, bear in mind the Tuono was a media test bike and currently used for the Aprilia Test Ride Roadshow conducted by Naza Primera throughout its nationwide dealers. So this Tuono has been fitted on rear Michelins Pilot Road 3 Sport Touring Tyre and Front Dunlop SportMax, we had ATC (Aprilia Traction Control) “off” and tried Track mode, in the wet. Looks like a suicide mission in SiC! After a few power throttle wobbles at turn 2 and turn 9, change the mode to Rain, after 5 laps also reduce the tyre pressure we got going again. The Tuono performed nicely as we ride supermoto style in SiC.
The Tuono’s 1,000cc V4 engine with 167 horsepower in Track Mode standard equipped with slick quick shift action make the two wheel roar like a Lamborghini even on standard exhaust. Back straight I was doing around 210kmh toward turn 15, but in the dry should be able to unleash it full potential of 265 km/h.
I have yet to try out the three-level wheelie control but I guess mother nature wont let me, until I get my hands on the RSV4 Factory for a Track Test…… maybe in 2015!
Tuono rocks even in the wet. Two thumbs up for the 2014 WSBK Rider Champion & Manufacturer. For more information on Aprilia Tuono or other Aprilia models or drop by for a test ride, please contact 147, Jln Raja Muda Abdul Aziz,Kampung Baru, 50300 Kuala Lumpur Tel: 03-2692 5523 or Encik Amir 012 7983053
Photo Credits: Abdul Hakim Afendi https://www.facebook.com/hakimafendi?fref=ts
