Aprilia’s winning entry into the super-naked / streetfighter sweepstakes was the 2003 RSV Tuono, and many updates and editions later, the 2008 Tuono ( thunder to some ) 1000R Factory was more than an unfaired sportbike with raised handlebars. With its own frame design and bodywork, the Tuono makes excellent use of the Rotax 60-degree V-twin and provides a flexible platform for around town, cafe circuits, and track days.
2008 Aprilia Tuono 1000R Factory
Capitalizing on larger intakes, exhaust valves and exhaust tubes developed for the RSV Mille, the 997 cc engine boasts 139 hp, and has a countershaft vibration damping system. The big twin is equipped with Aprilia’s Pneumatic Power Clutch, a system to relieve clutch plate pressure on overrun, with resulting stability similar to a slipper clutch. Two-into-two exhaust has upswept mufflers and stays away from the rider. The gorgeous gold-anodized aluminum frame matches well with the forks, 43mm fully adjustable Ohlins. Aprilia’s Progressive System rear suspension also uses a 3-way adjustable Ohlins monoshock. Brakes are Brembo Gold Line, 320mm front and 220mm rear, with braided stainless lines.
The Tuono bikini, tank and seat complement each other well, though they stay busy. Super-naked design can be a bit of a head scratcher for sportbike fans. Little fairings and guards help the air into the radiator and protect the rider from hot stuff, and the bikini fairing has sculpted ram-air inlets, but things like hoses and fillers are out in the breeze. There’s quite a bit of carbon in the belly pan, fenders, and side panels, each with graphics in the clearcoat. The contrasting blue on the forged alloy wheels is anodizing instead of paint, careful when cleaning.
Offered by an Austin, Texas dealer, this Tuono has a little over 13,000 miles and looks very good. Showing just a Leo Vince exhaust and Puig windshield as modifications, it’s also pretty stock. From the eBay auction:
YOU ARE LOOKING AT A 2008 APRILIA TUONO 1000 R FACTORY WITH 13,348 MILES ON IT. IT IS LION RED IN COLOR AND POWERED BY A 997cc FUEL INJECTED ENGINE AND 6 SPEED TRANSMISSION.
THIS BIKE COMES WITH 2 KEYS AND LEO VINCE EXHAUST SYSTEM ($949.95).
THERE ARE NO DENTS OR DINGS THAT I CAN FIND, HOWEVER THERE ARE MINOR BLEMISHES ON THE FUEL TANK AND REAR FENDER. THE CHROME AND ALUMINUM ARE IN GOOD CONDITION. THE TIRES HAVE GOOD TREAD LEFT ON THEM.
Maybe the second big twin in your garage, a change up bike when your shoulders get tired, this Tuono looks like a handful of fun. Early models reviewed as wheelie monsters, geared a little bit higher since then. It has a plastic tank so you’ll need a strap-on or filler-mount tankbag, maybe a small tailbag, a backpack if you’re out overnight. Don’t forget a can of chain lube, maybe every third tank, and hey, let’s be careful out there…
-donn
As a comparison to the DUCATI S4RS this bike is way easier to ride for longer periods. Just as Fun and handles amazing. The maintenance is Alot less intrusive which equals more riding time. They do sound great with the after market exhaust. Just no clanky E clank sound like a Duc which is some people’s taste. Only issue ever was waiting for parts from Italy. There worse then Ducati. So if there is something special you want for it? Planning on waiting a few months or a riding season before getting it . Otherwise a great bike at a good value. Good luck to the sellers and future buyers.
I like it … don’t think I’ve ever seen one in person.
Have had a few of these and they are one of the best bikes around for the money (used) I have a new RSV4 Tuono and also bought it used.and it puts a big smile on my face every time. The V-twins like the one for sale here are absolutely a blast and hellish reliable with great components and loads of “usable horsepower”. The gold frame is tough to take for me but some people like em. Make the man an offer and get a deal…You won’t be sorry.
In the words of James May that front end is “Gopping.” Which Aprilia hasn’t adaquately fixed to my taste yet even with the current crop of tuno’s. Very cool bikes just not pretty.
That’s OK…they sure are pretty when your’e riding em 🙂 Kind of like dancing with an ugly girl who can dance like crazy.