The Aprilia Tuareg 660 is a striking addition to the adventure motorcycle segment in India, embodying the Italian manufacturer’s legacy of blending performance with cutting-edge technology. Launched in April 2024 by Aprilia India, a subsidiary of the Piaggio Group, this middleweight adventure tourer marks the brand’s bold entry into a highly competitive market dominated by names like Suzuki, Honda, and Triumph. Designed to cater to riders who crave both on-road refinement and off-road capability, the Tuareg 660 draws inspiration from Aprilia’s rally heritage, particularly the iconic Tuareg models that competed in the grueling Paris-Dakar rallies of the late 1980s. With its sleek, purposeful design and a robust 659cc parallel-twin engine, this motorcycle promises an exhilarating ride across diverse terrains, from urban highways to rugged trails.
Aprilia, a brand synonymous with racing excellence and innovative engineering, has tailored the Tuareg 660 to meet the demands of Indian adventure enthusiasts. Priced as a premium offering, it competes directly with middleweight adventure bikes while offering a unique combination of lightweight construction, advanced electronics, and rally-inspired aesthetics. Available in three distinct color schemes—Atreides Black, Canyon Sand, and Evocative Dakar Podium—the bike appeals to riders who value individuality and performance. In this detailed product overview, we’ll explore the technical specifications, variants, pricing across metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of what sets the Aprilia Tuareg 660 apart from its close competitors.
Technical Specifications
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 is engineered to deliver a balance of power, agility, and durability. Below is a comprehensive table of its technical specifications, sourced from reputable platforms like BikeDekho and BikeWale, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 659cc, Liquid-Cooled, Parallel-Twin, DOHC, 4-Stroke, Euro 5+ Compliant |
| Displacement | 659 cc |
| Power Output | 80 bhp (79.12 bhp) @ 9,250 rpm |
| Torque | 70 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
| Mileage | 20 kmpl (claimed, as tested by experts) |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual with Slipper Clutch |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection |
| Cooling System | Liquid-Cooled |
| Bore x Stroke | 81 mm x 63.93 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 13.5:1 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 18 Liters |
| Mileage Range | Approximately 450 km (based on tank capacity and mileage) |
| Length | 2,220 mm |
| Width | 965 mm |
| Height | 1,470 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,520 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 240 mm |
| Seat Height | 860 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 204 kg |
| Frame | Tubular Steel Frame with Engine as Stressed Member |
| Front Suspension | 43 mm Kayaba USD Forks, Fully Adjustable, 240 mm Travel |
| Rear Suspension | Kayaba Monoshock, Fully Adjustable, 240 mm Travel |
| Front Brake | Dual 300 mm Discs, Brembo 4-Piston Calipers, Switchable ABS |
| Rear Brake | 260 mm Disc, Brembo Single-Piston Caliper, Switchable ABS |
| Tyre Size (Front) | 90/90-21 (Tubeless) |
| Tyre Size (Rear) | 150/70-18 (Tubeless) |
| Wheels | Spoked Wheels (21-inch Front, 18-inch Rear) |
| Emission Standard | BS6 Phase 2 |
Variants
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 is offered in two variants in India, each distinguished by its color scheme and minor aesthetic differences. Below is a table detailing the variants:
| Variant | Color Options | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Tuareg 660 Standard | Atreides Black, Canyon Sand | Base model with standard features |
| Tuareg 660 Evocative Dakar Podium | Evocative Dakar Podium | Premium paint scheme inspired by rally bikes |
Both variants share identical mechanical and electronic specifications, with the primary difference being the Evocative Dakar Podium variant’s rally-inspired livery, which commands a slightly higher price.
Price in Metro Cities
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 is a Completely Built-Up (CBU) import, which contributes to its premium pricing in India due to high import duties. Prices vary slightly across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges and insurance costs. Below is a table of ex-showroom and approximate on-road prices (as of April 2025, sourced from BikeWale and BikeDekho):
| City | Variant | Ex-Showroom Price (INR) | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | Tuareg 660 Standard | 18,85,000 | 21,03,372 |
| Tuareg 660 Evocative Dakar Podium | 19,16,000 | 21,37,599 | |
| Mumbai | Tuareg 660 Standard | 18,85,000 | 21,25,932 |
| Tuareg 660 Evocative Dakar Podium | 19,16,000 | 21,60,693 | |
| Bangalore | Tuareg 660 Standard | 18,85,000 | 21,47,832 |
| Tuareg 660 Evocative Dakar Podium | 19,16,000 | 21,83,193 | |
| Chennai | Tuareg 660 Standard | 18,85,000 | 21,36,532 |
| Tuareg 660 Evocative Dakar Podium | 19,16,000 | 21,71,493 | |
| Kolkata | Tuareg 660 Standard | 18,85,000 | 21,18,032 |
| Tuareg 660 Evocative Dakar Podium | 19,16,000 | 21,52,593 |
Note: On-road prices include RTO, insurance, and other charges, which may vary slightly based on dealership offers and local taxes.
About the Aprilia Tuareg 660
Design and Exteriors
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 is a visual testament to its rally-inspired roots. Its design philosophy prioritizes function over form, resulting in a minimalist yet purposeful aesthetic. The bike features a twin-pod LED headlight setup, positioned high to enhance visibility during off-road excursions, complemented by a tall windscreen that offers decent wind protection on long highway rides. The 18-liter fuel tank, with its slim profile and integrated shrouds, not only contributes to the bike’s aggressive stance but also ensures a range of approximately 450 km, making it ideal for extended adventures.
The Tuareg’s bodywork is deliberately sparse, with exposed subframes and a near-absent tail section—save for the LED taillight and number plate holder—reducing weight and minimizing damage risk during off-road falls. The 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoked wheels, wrapped in tubeless knobby tires, underscore its off-road pedigree, while the 240 mm ground clearance ensures it can tackle rough terrain with ease. The bike’s rally-inspired ergonomics, including a flat seat and upright riding posture, cater to both comfort and control, whether navigating city streets or desert trails.
Available in three color options, the Tuareg 660 caters to diverse tastes. Atreides Black offers a stealthy, monochromatic look with red chassis accents, while Canyon Sand introduces a golden-beige hue to the side panels, paired with black bodywork. The Evocative Dakar Podium variant stands out with its white, blue, and red livery, echoing Aprilia’s victorious rally bikes, including the one that triumphed in the 2024 Africa Eco Race.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Aprilia Tuareg 660 lies a 659cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine, a derivative of the powerplant found in the RS 660 and Tuono 660. Tuned specifically for adventure riding, it delivers 80 bhp at 9,250 rpm and 70 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm, offering a strong mid-range punch ideal for both on-road cruising and off-road challenges. The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox featuring a slipper clutch, ensuring smooth shifts and enhanced control during aggressive riding.
The parallel-twin configuration is compact and lightweight, contributing to the bike’s agile handling. Aprilia has optimized the engine mapping for a broad torque spread, making it versatile across varied conditions. While the claimed mileage of 20 kmpl may seem modest for a middleweight ADV, it aligns with the bike’s performance-oriented nature and the demands of its 204 kg kerb weight. The BS6 Phase 2 compliance ensures reduced emissions, aligning with India’s stringent environmental norms.
Interiors and Ergonomics
While motorcycles don’t have “interiors” in the traditional sense, the Aprilia Tuareg 660 offers a rider-centric cockpit designed for practicality and comfort. The 5-inch color TFT display serves as the command center, providing clear readouts of speed, fuel level, tachometer, and trip data, with Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone integration. The upright handlebars and adjustable seat (set at 860 mm) cater to riders of varying heights, though taller riders may find it more accommodating given the bike’s adventure focus.
The flat seat design facilitates easy movement during off-road riding, a nod to its rally DNA, while the tall windscreen and ergonomic layout reduce fatigue on long journeys. Footpegs are positioned to support both seated and standing postures, enhancing control on uneven terrain. The overall ergonomics strike a balance between sporty aggression and touring comfort, making the Tuareg 660 a versatile companion.
Advanced Features
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 stands out in its segment thanks to its comprehensive suite of advanced electronics, a hallmark of Aprilia’s engineering prowess. The Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) package includes four ride modes—two fixed (Urban and Off-Road) and two customizable—allowing riders to tailor the bike’s behavior to specific conditions. The system integrates traction control, engine brake control, and cruise control, enhancing safety and convenience.
The switchable ABS can be disabled at the rear wheel or both wheels, a critical feature for off-road precision, while the Ride-by-Wire throttle ensures smooth power delivery across all modes. The 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) monitors the bike’s lean angle, optimizing traction and stability. Additional features like LED lighting (headlights, taillights, and indicators) and a robust skid plate further elevate its adventure credentials.
Ride and Handling
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 excels in delivering a dynamic riding experience, thanks to its lightweight chassis and premium suspension setup. The tubular steel frame, with the engine as a stressed member, provides rigidity without compromising agility. The 43 mm Kayaba USD forks and Kayaba monoshock, both fully adjustable with 240 mm of travel, absorb bumps effortlessly, making the bike equally adept on highways and trails.
Braking is handled by dual 300 mm front discs with Brembo 4-piston calipers and a 260 mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper, offering precise stopping power. The 21/18-inch wheel combination, paired with dual-sport tires, ensures excellent grip and maneuverability. At 204 kg, the Tuareg 660 is lighter than many competitors, enhancing its off-road nimbleness and on-road responsiveness.
Close Competitors
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 enters a fiercely contested middleweight ADV segment in India, where it faces formidable rivals. Here’s an in-depth comparison with its closest competitors:
Suzuki V-Strom 800DE
Priced at approximately ₹10.30 lakh (ex-showroom), the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE offers a larger 776cc parallel-twin engine producing 83 bhp and 78 Nm. It’s more affordable and boasts a broader torque curve, but its 223 kg kerb weight and less advanced electronics (basic ABS and traction control) make it less agile and tech-laden than the Tuareg 660. The V-Strom excels in touring comfort but lacks the rally-focused design and lightweight appeal of the Aprilia.
Honda XL750 Transalp
The Honda XL750 Transalp, priced at around ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom), features a 755cc parallel-twin engine delivering 91 bhp and 75 Nm. It’s a strong contender with superior power output and a lighter 208 kg frame, but its electronics suite is less comprehensive, lacking features like cruise control and customizable ride modes. The Transalp prioritizes reliability and versatility, though it doesn’t match the Tuareg’s off-road pedigree or premium aesthetics.
BMW F 850 GS
At ₹12.95 lakh (ex-showroom), the BMW F 850 GS brings an 853cc parallel-twin engine with 95 bhp and 92 Nm, outpacing the Tuareg in raw power. Weighing 229 kg, it’s heavier and more touring-oriented, with a robust electronics package including dynamic traction control and riding modes. However, its higher price and less agile handling make it less competitive against the Tuareg’s lightweight, rally-inspired dynamics.
Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Priced closer to the Tuareg at ₹15.60 lakh (ex-showroom), the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro features an 888cc inline-three engine producing 95 bhp and 87 Nm. Its three-cylinder setup offers smoother power delivery, and its electronics rival the Tuareg’s with cornering ABS and IMU-supported traction control. At 201 kg, it’s slightly lighter, but its higher cost and touring focus position it as a premium alternative rather than a direct off-road competitor.
Why the Aprilia Tuareg 660 Stands Out
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 distinguishes itself through its rally heritage, lightweight design, and advanced technology. Unlike the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE and Honda Transalp, which prioritize affordability and touring, the Tuareg offers a purer off-road experience with its 240 mm suspension travel and minimalist construction. Compared to the BMW F 850 GS and Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro, it delivers comparable performance at a lower weight and price point, appealing to riders seeking agility over brute power.
Its APRC electronics suite is a game-changer, offering customization and safety features that outshine many rivals. The bike’s 80 bhp may seem modest next to the BMW or Triumph, but its torque delivery and nimble handling make it a joy to ride on technical trails. The premium pricing—starting at ₹18.85 lakh—reflects its CBU status and imported components, positioning it as a niche offering for enthusiasts willing to invest in a unique ADV experience.
Market Positioning and Target Audience
In India, the Aprilia Tuareg 660 targets a niche but growing segment of adventure riders who value performance, exclusivity, and off-road capability. Its pricing places it above mass-market ADVs like the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 or KTM 390 Adventure, appealing instead to seasoned riders upgrading from entry-level models or those transitioning from sportbikes. The bike’s availability through Piaggio’s Motoplex showrooms in metro cities ensures a premium buying experience, though its high cost may limit its mass appeal in a price-sensitive market.
Final Thoughts!
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 is a bold statement from Aprilia, blending Italian craftsmanship with adventure-ready engineering. Its 659cc parallel-twin engine, lightweight chassis, and cutting-edge electronics make it a standout in the middleweight ADV category. While its premium pricing and modest mileage may deter budget-conscious buyers, its rally-inspired design, agile handling, and tech prowess cater to enthusiasts seeking a distinctive ride. Against competitors like the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE, Honda Transalp, BMW F 850 GS, and Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro, the Tuareg 660 carves a unique niche, offering a compelling mix of style, substance, and off-road spirit. For Indian riders dreaming of epic adventures, this Italian stallion is a worthy contender.
