Which motorcycle will rule the streets? aprilia tuono 660 vs. triumph street triple r

In the realm of middleweight naked motorcycles, two formidable contenders stand tall: the Aprilia Tuono 660 and the Triumph Street Triple R. Both machines boast an exhilarating combination of power, agility, and style, making them the epitome of street-legal adrenaline machines. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of each motorcycle, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and the key differences that set them apart.

Engine Specifications

Aprilia Tuono 660:

• Parallel-twin engine
• 659 cc displacement
• 95 horsepower at 10,500 rpm
• 67 Nm of torque at 8,500 rpm

Triumph Street Triple R:

• Inline three-cylinder engine
• 660 cc displacement
• 118 horsepower at 12,000 rpm
• 77 Nm of torque at 9,400 rpm

Performance

The Triumph Street Triple R holds a clear advantage in terms of power, with its triple-cylinder engine producing 23 more horsepower than the Aprilia’s parallel-twin. This translates to a noticeable difference in acceleration and top speed. However, the Aprilia Tuono 660 delivers a smoother power delivery and more linear torque curve, making it more forgiving for novice riders.

Handling

Both motorcycles excel in handling, offering razor-sharp precision and agility. The Aprilia Tuono 660 features a lightweight aluminum frame and a compact wheelbase, resulting in nimble and responsive maneuvers. The Triumph Street Triple R, on the other hand, boasts a slightly longer wheelbase and a more upright riding position, providing a more stable and comfortable ride on longer journeys.

Suspension

Aprilia Tuono 660:

• Fully adjustable 41mm Kayaba inverted forks
• Fully adjustable Sachs monoshock

Triumph Street Triple R:

• Showa 41mm inverted forks (adjustable for preload and rebound)
• Öhlins STX40R monoshock (adjustable for preload, rebound, and compression)

The Triumph Street Triple R gains an edge in suspension, with its Öhlins monoshock providing superior damping and adjustability compared to the Sachs unit on the Aprilia Tuono 660. However, the Aprilia’s fully adjustable forks offer greater fine-tuning options for riders who demand ultimate precision.

Braking

Aprilia Tuono 660:

• Brembo radial-mount four-piston calipers
• 320mm dual front discs
• 220mm rear disc

Triumph Street Triple R:

• Brembo radial-mount four-piston calipers
• 310mm dual front discs
• 220mm rear disc

Both motorcycles are equipped with high-performance Brembo braking systems, ensuring exceptional stopping power and control. The Aprilia Tuono 660 has slightly larger front discs, but the Triumph Street Triple R’s more advanced suspension allows for better weight transfer under hard braking.

Electronics

Aprilia Tuono 660:

• Ride-by-wire throttle
• Five riding modes
• Traction control
• Wheelie control
• Cruise control

Triumph Street Triple R:

• Ride-by-wire throttle
• Two riding modes
• Traction control
• ABS
• Shift assist

The Aprilia Tuono 660 offers a more comprehensive electronics package, including five riding modes, wheelie control, and cruise control. The Triumph Street Triple R’s electronics are more basic, but it does feature a quick-shifter for smooth and seamless gear changes.

Styling

The Aprilia Tuono 660 exudes a sleek and aggressive design, with sharp lines and a compact silhouette. The Triumph Street Triple R, on the other hand, has a more classic and muscular look, featuring a rounded headlight and a more upright riding position. Both motorcycles come in a variety of color options, allowing riders to personalize their machines.

The Bottom Line: The Final Verdict

Choosing between the Aprilia Tuono 660 and the Triumph Street Triple R ultimately depends on the individual rider’s preferences and riding style. The Aprilia is the more agile and forgiving machine, making it an ideal choice for novice riders or those who prioritize handling over outright power. The Triumph, with its more powerful engine and advanced suspension, is better suited for experienced riders who demand the ultimate in performance and versatility.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Which motorcycle is faster in a straight line?
A: The Triumph Street Triple R is faster, with a top speed of 150 mph compared to the Aprilia Tuono 660’s 145 mph.

Q: Which motorcycle has better fuel economy?
A: The Aprilia Tuono 660 has slightly better fuel economy, averaging 55 mpg compared to the Triumph Street Triple R’s 50 mpg.

Q: Which motorcycle is more comfortable for long rides?
A: The Triumph Street Triple R is more comfortable for long rides due to its more upright riding position and slightly longer wheelbase.