Aprilia Tuareg 660

The heart of the Tuareg 660 is the 659cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine, a derivative of the unit found in the RS 660 and Tuono 660 sportbikes. For adventure duty, it has been significantly retuned, prioritising torque delivery across the rev range. The engine produces 80 HP at 9,250 rpm and 70 Nm of torque at a very accessible 6,500 rpm. This focus on low- and mid-range grunt is immediately apparent on the move. In city traffic, the throttle response, managed by a ride-by-wire system, is precise and non-intimidating, allowing for easy navigation through tight spaces. 

The 270-degree crankshaft firing order gives it a V-twin-like character and an engaging exhaust note, avoiding the uninspiring drone of some parallel-twins. On the highway, the engine feels unstressed, capable of maintaining triple-digit speeds with ample power in reserve for overtakes. The six-speed gearbox is slick, though the absence of a standard quickshifter at this price point is a notable omission. In terms of efficiency, real-world figures hover around 20-22 km/l, which, combined with the 18-litre fuel tank, translates to a practical touring range of over 350 kilometres.

The Tuareg 660's ergonomics are tailored for active, stand-up riding, which is ideal for off-road conditions. The riding posture is upright and commanding, with a wide handlebar that provides excellent leverage. However, this focus comes with a significant compromise: a seat height of 860mm. For the average Indian rider, this can be intimidating and challenging to manage in stop-and-go city traffic, requiring careful planning at stops. The seat itself is relatively narrow to aid reach to the ground, but it is firm and may become uncomfortable over long highway stints. 

Pillion comfort is basic; the rear seat is small, and the grab handles are functional but not designed for long-haul two-up touring. Heat management from the parallel-twin engine is reasonably well-contained, and while some warmth is felt in dense traffic, it is not excessive. For touring, the bike comes with integrated luggage mounting points, which is a thoughtful, practical touch that simplifies the process of adding panniers without bulky external racks, preserving the bike's clean lines.

The Tuareg 660’s chassis and suspension package is arguably its most compelling feature. It is built around a tubular steel trellis frame with an aluminium subframe, a combination engineered for both rigidity and lightness. The standout components are the fully adjustable 43mm Kayaba USD front forks and the progressive-linkage Kayaba rear monoshock, both offering a substantial 240mm of travel. This level of suspension travel and adjustability (preload, compression, and rebound damping) allows the rider to fine-tune the setup for varying terrains, from plush absorption on broken tarmac to firm support during aggressive off-roading. 

With a kerb weight of just 204 kg, the Tuareg feels remarkably agile and easy to manage, a characteristic that inspires confidence on technical trails. On paved roads, this lightness translates into sharp, responsive handling, allowing it to carve corners with a precision that belies its long-travel suspension and 21-inch front wheel. Braking is handled by a premium Brembo setup, featuring dual 300mm discs at the front. The bite is strong yet progressive, providing excellent feedback and stopping power without feeling overly sharp for loose surfaces.

Aesthetically, the Tuareg 660 adopts a lean, purposeful design language inspired by desert racers. There is no excess bodywork; the form is dictated by function, resulting in a slim profile, a high-mounted exhaust, and a protective bash plate. The rider interface is a modern 5-inch colour TFT display that offers excellent clarity and is easy to navigate via the switchgear. This screen provides access to the comprehensive Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) electronics suite. This includes four customisable riding modes (Urban, Explore, Off-road, and Individual), which modulate throttle response, traction control, and engine braking. Cruise control is standard, a crucial feature for long-distance touring. 

The multi-level traction control (ATC) can be adjusted on the fly or turned off completely for experienced off-road riding. The entire lighting system is full-LED, ensuring excellent visibility. However, a significant miss is that smartphone connectivity via the Aprilia MIA platform remains an optional extra, a feature that many competitors now offer as standard fitment in this category.

Aprilia has equipped the Tuareg 660 with a robust safety package anchored by its advanced electronics. The motorcycle features a multi-mode ABS system developed in collaboration with Continental. This system allows the rider to not only switch ABS off entirely for off-road use but also to select a mode that deactivates ABS only on the rear wheel. This is a critical feature for experienced off-road riders, as it enables them to lock the rear wheel to steer the bike on loose surfaces. The multi-level traction control system is equally sophisticated, providing a safety net on slippery tarmac while allowing for controlled wheelspin on dirt, depending on the selected level. 

The physical braking hardware, comprising powerful Brembo callipers and large discs, inspires immense confidence, delivering consistent performance in both dry and wet conditions. Furthermore, the all-LED headlamp and taillamp provide superior illumination and visibility, a crucial aspect of safety during night rides or in low-light conditions, ensuring the rider can see and be seen effectively.

The Tuareg 660 enters a fiercely contested segment in India, facing off against several capable rivals.

Suzuki V-Strom 800DE:

The V-Strom 800DE is arguably the Tuareg's most direct competitor. Its key differentiator is its larger 776cc parallel-twin engine, which produces more torque (78 Nm vs. 70 Nm) lower in the rev range. This makes it feel more muscular and relaxed during touring. It also benefits from Suzuki’s wider service network and potentially more competitive pricing, making it a pragmatic and value-oriented choice for many buyers.

Honda XL750 Transalp:

The Honda Transalp’s main advantage is its exceptional power-to-weight ratio. Its 755cc engine generates a class-leading 90 bhp while tipping the scales at just 208 kg (4 kg more than the Tuareg). This results in noticeably quicker on-road acceleration. Combined with a slightly more accessible 850mm seat height, the Transalp presents a more approachable and road-biased package for a wider audience.

Triumph Tiger 850 Sport:

The Tiger 850 Sport differentiates itself by being an adventure tourer with a clear road bias. Its signature 888cc inline-triple engine offers a smoother, more linear power delivery that excels on highways. With a 19-inch front wheel, lower suspension travel, and a much lower adjustable seat height (810-830mm), it is the superior choice for riders who prioritise long-distance tarmac comfort over genuine off-road capability.

Who should buy it?

The ideal Tuareg 660 owner is an experienced rider who prioritises lightweight agility and high-spec, adjustable suspension for serious off-road exploration. They value a motorcycle as a precise tool and are willing to accept its premium positioning and tall seat height for unparalleled capability on the rough stuff.

Who should skip it?

Riders with a shorter inseam (below 5'8") will find the 860mm seat height challenging. Additionally, buyers who primarily tour on tarmac or are concerned about the limited and premium-priced Aprilia service network in India might be better served by one of its more accessible Japanese or British rivals.