THE NEW 450NK
THE ENTRY-LEVEL ADDITION TO CFMOTO'S NK SERIES
For 2024, the NK series has undergone a complete overhaul, and with it comes the brand-new CFMOTO 450NK. Complete with a powerful 449cc parallel-twin engine platform, updated exterior design, and enhanced functionality, it brings new riding experiences to all who climb aboard. This provides the ideal stepping-stone for everyone enjoying a sports focused yet comfortable naked bike, with easy handling, comfort and playful engine performance.
Ergonomics and Handling
Tipping the scales at only 165 kg, the CFMOTO 450NK boasts one the best curb weights in its class. This makes for extremely nimble handling, while the 795 mm seat height offers accessibility to riders looking for a lower, more comfortable riding position.
The wide front, narrow rear seat cushion design enhances rider comfort, aided by the positioning of the foot pegs and handlebars to create a comfortable and neutral position that encourages riders to increase saddle time.
Engine
With a 449 cc parallel twin-cylinder engine – developed and built by CFMOTO – and producing 34,5 kW/10000 rpm and 39,3 Nm/7750 rpm, the CFMOTO 450NK delivers ample performance along a linear power curve. This power output also ensures a very respectable acceleration of 0 to 100km/h (circa 62 mph) in 4.9 seconds, and a top speed of 178 km/h (circa 110 mph).
A new 270° crankshaft delivers output characteristics similar to that found in V-twin engines, producing a throaty engine note and impressive throttle response, while a double-balance shaft arrangement reduces engine vibration for a more comfortable ride. A 14 litre fuel tank allows for longer ride time between refills and makes the CFMOTO 450NK an ideal choice for commuters and recreational riders alike.
Chassis, Brakes, and Suspension
In terms of handling, the CFMOTO 450NK draws on a selection of premium components designed to ensure optimum handling and ease of use. Upfront, a 37 mm upside-down fork provides sure-footed stability and control with a sporty feel, with the rear centre-aligned shock absorber ensuring maximum traction under acceleration and comfort when things get a little rough.
The front 110/70 R17 and rear 150/60 R17 wheel and tyre combination further enhance the 450NK’s handling prowess, with optimised CST AS5 high-performance tyres as standard fitment to provide exceptional grip in all road riding scenarios. Braking is taken care of by a J.JUAN 320 mm disc up front and a 220 mm HANGTE disc on the rear, supported by a ABS, to provide optimum and controlled braking performance at all times.
Rider Aids
Beneath its sleek yet aggressive aesthetics, the CFMOTO 450NK features an advanced traction control system for improved safety. This works by limiting rear-wheel slip in low traction situations. A slipper clutch is standard equipment and allows riders to use the gearbox more effectively when slowing down, eliminating any concern of the rear wheel locking up.
Connectivity and Riding Experience
Up front, an intuitive 5-inch TFT curved display supports simple navigation projection and a built-in shift light to show riders the optimum time to change gear. An optional T-box also allows for easy smartphone connectivity, providing over-the-air updates, anti-theft and tracking capability, as well as real-time viewing of the vehicle information through the CFMOTO RIDE app. A Reserve Type C/Type-A charging port can also be added to conveniently service any smartphone charging needs.
Pricing and Availability
The CFMOTO 450NK will be available in Nebula White and Zephyr Blue for £4,999 OTR. Availability to be confirmed.
INTRODUCING THE 800MT EXPLORE – THE ULTIMATE EXPRESSION OF CFMOTO'S MULTIFUNCTIONAL TOURING RANGE
Set your sights to the horizon with the CFMOTO 800MT EXPLORE
Ergonomics
As the flagship model in the CFMOTO MT range, the CFMOTO 800MT EXPLORE exudes a commanding, yet purposeful presence. With a seat height of 825 mm, it offers an elevated position that inspires confidence on and off the road.
Engine
Experience the heart and soul of the CFMOTO 800MT EXPLORE, where the exceptional 799cc parallel-twin engine delivers optimised torque for impressive performance. Effortless gear changes are facilitated by the Power Assisted Slipper Clutch (PASC) and Bi-directional Quickshifter, enhancing the speed and overall riding experience. Renowned from other 800MT models, this engine with its 799cc capacity generates 67 kW at 9250 rpm and 75 Nm of torque at 8000 rpm.
Chassis, Brakes and Suspension
On the handling front, the CFMOTO 800MT EXPLORE doesn't disappoint either, thanks to a high-strength, lightweight chromium-molybdenum alloy steel frame, and a subframe that weighs only 16 kg. Combined with an aluminum swingarm for optimised rigidity and stability, fully-adjustable 43mm KYB upside-down front forks, and KYB rear shock, the motorcycle provides a compliant and controlled ride on all road conditions.
Equipped with Michelin Anakee tyres, specifically the Michelin Functional Vacuum tyres with sizes 110/80 R19 up front and 150/70 R17 at the rear, the CFMOTO 800MT EXPLORE ensures exceptional grip and traction to inspire confidence on any terrain.
Weighing in at 225 kg, the CFMOTO 800MT EXPLORE strikes a balance between robustness and manoeuvrability. When it comes to slowing down, the ABS-assisted J.Juan 4-piston radial-mount calipers are paired with dual 320mm floating discs up front, while a twin-piston J.Juan caliper is paired with a single 260mm disc on the rear, providing extreme stopping power and ensuring confident braking performance.
Rider Aids
Beneath its powerful exterior, the CFMOTO 800MT EXPLORE sets itself apart with a range of class-leading technological advancements. This high specification motorcycle is equipped with C-ABS (Combined Anti-lock Braking System) that enhances braking performance and safety on various road surfaces. Additionally, it features advanced traction control and electronic stability control systems that provide riders with optimal control and stability, even in challenging riding conditions.
Notably, the EXPLORE also boasts innovative rearward-facing radar technology known as the Behind Radar System (BRS). This cutting-edge feature, combined with Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Lane Change Assist (LCA), and Rear Collision Warning (RCW), ensures enhanced situational awareness and rider confidence, particularly during long-distance journeys. With these advanced safety features, the CFMOTO 800MT EXPLORE offers riders added peace of mind resulting in a truly elevated adventure experience.
Connectivity and Riding Experience
In the cockpit, a new 8-inch Multi-Media Interface (MMI) display greets the rider, featuring Apple CarPlay, which provides smartphone and Bluetooth connectivity, voice control, navigation, and music library functionality.
Here, riders can access six different Ride Modes, each offering a unique combination of torque output and traction control intervention to suit varying road conditions, abilities, and preferred riding styles.
SPORT mode provides the sharpest throttle response and maximum torque output with a low level of traction control intervention for street riding, while OFF-ROAD mode provides a softer throttle response and maximum rear wheel slip with the lowest level of traction control for maximum offroad control.
Further to this, the 800MT EXPLORE also features an ALL TERRAIN mode, which provides a softer throttle response than OFF-ROAD mode, with no TC intervention and no ABS, while the RAIN mode provides the softest throttle response of all and the gentlest power delivery, combined with the highest level of traction control for wet conditions.
Intuitive switchgear offers riders the ability to easily toggle between heated seat and heated grip settings on the fly, each offering three levels of warmth. Cruise control is also easily accessible, with a convenient USB port cluster and a 12 V socket are conveniently placed for device charging.
Pricing and Availability
The CFMOTO 800MT EXPLORE will be available in Starry White and Gem Black colourways at authorised CFMOTO dealers in the UK from mid-July 2023, retailing at £11,990 OTR.
INTRODUCING THE 700MT – THE LATEST ADDITION TO CFMOTO’S MULTIFUNCTIONAL TOURING FAMILY
A perfect blend of versatility and all-terrain capability – the all-new CFMOTO 700MT
Ergonomics
Designed with long-distance comfort in mind, the CFMOTO 700MT boasts an upright riding position and a seat height of 820 mm, providing riders with a commanding position, enhanced manoeuvrability, and confident navigation, through both twisty backroads and urban traffic. For riders needing a taller perch, the 700MT offers an optional 840mm seat height, allowing for a personalised riding experience.
Engine
At the core of the 700MT resides a meticulously engineered 693 cc parallel-twin engine, producing a robust 49 kW (67 HP) of power and 60 Nm of torque at 7,250 rpm. This compact and potent engine combines agility and power to create a perfect harmony, igniting a thrilling sense of adventure with every ride. With a multi-plate, wet clutch, the 693cc twin cylinder powerplant ensures seamless and responsive power delivery, granting riders an exceptional level of control and confidence.
Chassis, Brakes, and Suspension
The CFMOTO 700MT's confidence inspiring chromoly-steel-tube chassis ensures durability and stability in all conditions. Its 43mm upside-down front fork offers a plush front end feel, providing a smooth and controlled ride, while the innovative aluminum swingarm enhances stability during high-speed manoeuvres. The side-mounted monoshock rear suspension efficiently soaks up challenging surfaces, enhancing rider comfort and control at every opportunity. With 140mm and 45mm of suspension travel for the front and rear, respectively, the CFMOTO 700MT effortlessly handles various road conditions, offering a smooth and enjoyable ride.
To ensure exceptional stopping power and control, the CFMOTO 700MT features a 300 mm J.Juan twin disc front braking system, while the J.Juan rear anchor, equipped with a 240 mm single disc and piston caliper, adds to the overall braking performance.
Weighing in at just 218kg, the CFMOTO 700MT is a lightweight motorcycle that enhances manoeuvrability, allowing riders to effortlessly conquer any road or terrain. Its high-performance Pirelli tyres, 120/70 ZR17 M/C at the front and 160/60 ZR17 M/C at the rear, provide exceptional traction to ensure optimimum performance and control in various riding conditions.
Riding Experience
The CFMOTO 700MT elevates the riding experience with modern features, such as its 5-inch TFT display that provides clear information on speed, RPM, fuel level, and more informative information. With Type A and Type B USB plugs, riders can conveniently charge and connect their devices on the go.
Design
The CFMOTO 700MT features upgraded design elements that not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also offer improved wind protection and efficient engine heat dissipation. The redesigned screen improves aerodynamics, ensuring a comfortable and dynamic riding experience. Riders benefit from brighter multi-line LED lights to ensure superior visibility, illuminating the road ahead with confidence. Combining style and functionality, the 700MT is the ultimate choice for riders seeking both visual appeal and outstanding performance.
Pricing, Logistics, and Availability
The CFMOTO 700MT will be available in Nebula White and Nebula Black colour schemes at authorised CFMOTO dealers in the UK from mid-July 2023, both colours options retailing at £6,199.00 on the road.
ALL NEW CFMOTO NK800 HITS THE UK
Straight as an Arrow – The CFMOTO 800NK Line-up is Hitting the Street
Boasting a sleek design, powerful two-cylinder engine performance, pin-sharp handling, and cutting-edge technology, the all-new 800NK lineup has entered the European markets, offering a “standard” and soon a high-spec 800NK ADVANCED version. Please read the following press release to learn more about the technical specifications, product highlights, and outstanding features of CFMOTO’s latest addition to the NK series.
Introducing the new 800NK line-up
Having first appeared late last year as the NK-C22 concept bike, the production model CFMOTO 800NK has arrived, flanking the small and mid-displacement NK series, with a large displacement product offering to satisfy the needs of riders looking for maximum thrills.
Sporting aggressive naked-bike styling and an impressive list of standard equipment, the CFMOTO 800NK cuts an imposing shape into the highly competitive naked motorcycle market with its striking, arrow-shaped headlight, short tail, and sharp lines.
Ergonomics
Designed to be both imposing to look at and comfortable to ride, the CFMOTO 800NK provides riders with an upright riding position, setting the ideal balance between sportiness and aggression, with a 795 mm seat height to create sure-footed confidence for all riding levels.
Note: CFMOTO offers an optional 820 mm seat for riders needing a higher riding position.
Engine
Providing the punch comes courtesy of a 70 kW (95 hp), 799 cc parallel-twin DOHC engine, delivering 79 Nm at 8,000 rpm of linear thrust throughout the rev range. However, due to its weighing in at only 186 kg, the CFMOTO 800NK SPORT (and a 189 kg ADVANCED version) is no one-round-only heavyweight brawler.
Chassis, Brakes, and Suspension
Thanks to a 43 mm fully adjustable KYB (Kayaba) upside-down fork and rear shock absorber paired with a lightweight chromoly-steel-tube frame, aluminum-alloy wheels, and MAXXIS high-performance tires, the CFMOTO 800NK provides fleet-footed handling and agility when the gloves come off. ABS-assisted J.Juan radial-mount, four-piston front brake calipers with 320 mm discs are at hand to provide ample stopping power.
Rider Aids
Both 800NK versions come with a slipper clutch, cruise control, and three riding modes – Sport, Street, and Rain – all features as standard. Additionally, the ADVANCED version comes with a Quickshifter and a larger dashboard with more connectivity features.
How does the 800NK SPORT differ from the 800NK ADVANCED?
The 800NK ADVANCED offers advanced connectivity due to its 8-inch TFT display with Apple CarPlay functionality. Due to its larger dashboard, the 800NK ADVANCED is equipped with a different handlebar. Additionally, it comes standard with a Quickshifter and a steering damper. The overall weight difference is 3 kg.
Accessories
The new 800NK lineup comes with a range of high quality accessories to further enhance the ride and sporty aesthetics of the bikes. Accessories that will soon be available include a Rear Seat Cover, Ergo Rider's Seat, Handlebar End Mirrors, Adjustable Brake and Clutch Levers, Drop Bar, Axles, Crash Bung Kit, Adjustable Footpeg System, and Front Spoiler. These accessories will provide riders with the option to personalise their 800NK, both in terms of style and functionality, to suit their preferences and enhance their overall riding experience.
Pricing, Logistics, and Availability
The CFMOTO 800NK (SPORT) will be available at authorized CFMOTO dealers in the UK in July 2023 priced at £6,999 with 3.9% PP/4.9% PCP finance deals currently available for customers. Availability and pricing details for the ADVANCED version will soon be announced through a separate press release.
For more information about the CFMOTO 800NK and for details of the UK CFMOTO dealer network visit https://cfmoto-motorcycle.eu/
CFMOTO RIDE – the ultimate digital garage
This app makes riding more fun and you a better, safer rider. There’s tons of info available: from navigation details to riding records to diagnostics. Self Check is a system scan of your entire motorcycle anytime, anywhere. My Ride shows details of every ride: total mileage, top speed, acceleration, cornering stats, even braking data. This is the information professional riders use to sharpen their skills. Now you’ll use it to have more fun. There’s even Vehicle Seek, the anti-theft feature that locates your vehicle in the event it’s stolen. Download CFMOTO RIDE for free from the App Store.
APRILIA TUAREG DEMO TOUR 2023 | [UK]
Get ready to test ride and experience racing design, performance and thrills. Ready to get the fun out?
Choose a date to discover events, explore breathtaking landscapes and escape the daily routine to continue your adventure.
THE TOUR
Many days of fun
Discover an exciting tour that brings riders and enthusiasts together for several days of pure thrills. Meet other Aprilia fans, discover the latest news and dive into your passion like never before.
TUAREG 660
GET THE FUN OUT
Agile, light and performance-oriented, with a formidable instinct for adventure, on and off-road. Top-class technology and features and the dynamic qualities of a true enduro that will respond to your desire of exploration.
Also available at 35 kW, A2 driver license.
The Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello is not afraid of comparison!
The firstborn of Moto Guzzi's new generation, the V100 Mandello, achieves outstanding results in the Sport Tourer category at Motociclismo magazine's Tester Day 2023 event.
APRILIA ALL STARS 2023
SATURDAY 27 MAY APRILIA ALL STARS IS BACK: MISANO WORLD CIRCUIT TO HOST APRILIA'S BIG PARTY OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
THE ENTIRE APRILIA RACING WORLD WILL ATTEND: THE MOTOGP AND OFF ROAD RIDERS, THE GREAT CHAMPIONS OF THE PAST AND FUTURE, PERFORMING ON THEIR BIKES AND MEETING WITH THE PUBLIC
A CELEBRATION OF MOTORCYCLING AND MORE. PURE FUN FOR A UNIQUE SHOW WITH FREE ENTRY: TRACK SHOWS, RIDING COURSES, TEST RIDES, NEW AND HISTORIC BIKES, AND GAMES WITH THE MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT OF RADIO DEEJAY AND M2O
FOR APRILIA OWNERS THERE WILL BE A FINAL PROCESSION WHICH HOLDS A GREAT SURPRISE THIS YEAR
Milan, 13 April 2023 – Saturday 27 May is the date to mark on your calendar so you don't make any other plans. The event is set to take place at the Misano circuit which will host the 2023 edition of Aprilia's huge party with their bikes and greatest champions. It will be a day of festivities and love for bikes and for Italian motorcycling with entry free of charge at the Misano World Circuit, as per tradition. The offer of fun suitable for all this year will be richer than ever before. In fact, the schedule is jam packed with events, not only on the track, but also off track, thanks to the area dedicated entirely to off road and the Tuareg 660. Expert Enduro Republic instructors will be on hand to share the secrets of off-road riding on the Tuareg 660, just as they do during the Tuareg Experience days, held by Enduro Republic in some of the most beautiful locations for enduro bikes, including North Africa.
It will be a day of unforgettable fun where the public will be the true protagonist in celebrating one of the most victorious brands of motorcycling, its heritage, and its champions. All the Aprilia Racing riders who race in MotoGP and off road will be attending: Aleix Espargaró, Maverick Viñales, Lorenzo Savadori, and this year Miguel Oliveira and Raúl Fernandez as well, Aprilia Racing team RNF riders. Riders Jacopo Cerutti and Francesco Montanari will also be on hand, from the fledgling Aprilia Racing team which won at its début astride a Tuareg 660 tuned by GCorse and Aprilia Racing in the Italian Motorally Championship. In addition, of course, to the champions who have made Aprilia the Italian and European brand with the most wins in World Championship Grand Prix racing with their victories, such as Max Biaggi, Loris Capirossi, and many others, all happy and willing to meet the fans. The jewels of Aprilia will be on display – the racing bikes that have earned 54 championship titles for the manufacturer from Veneto, as well as the current range, of course, available for test rides on the local roads.
The schedule promises to be extremely full, conceived to involve the public in the paddock in an exceptional series of activities, all to the soundtrack of Radio Deejay and M2O, present in Misano. All the riders who arrive astride their Aprilia bikes will be the absolute stars of the most thrilling moment, the great procession with the champions which will also continue off track this year, to make the grand finale even more spectacular.
APRILIA RACING IS READY FOR THE 2023 MOTOGP WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
AS PLANNED, THE PROJECT CONTINUES ITS DEVELOPMENT: FOR THE FIRST TIME FOUR RS-GP BIKES AND FOUR TOP RIDERS WILL BE ON TRACK
AFTER THE EXCELLENT 2022 SEASON, THE EVOLUTION OF THE PROJECT DOES NOT STOP, WITH THE AIM OF BEING EVEN MORE COMPETITIVE BUT ABOVE ALL TO ENTERTAIN AND MAKE THOUSANDS OF APRILIA FANS AROUND THE WORLD DREAM
From surprise to confirmation: this will be the goal of the MotoGP 2023 season for Aprilia Racing, which presents itself through a fun and engaging video, with team and riders immersed in the atmosphere of one of the most famous TV series. Last season, Aprilia experienced impressive growth in terms of results (their first MotoGP win, another eight podium finishes, and two pole positions) which placed the Italian team among the championship protagonists, in the battle all the way to the end of the season for the most prestigious objectives in every category.
Results which had already been foreshadowed at the start of 2021 when, along with a series of outstanding placings, the first MotoGP podium arrived and results rooted in years of taking steps in the right direction. Now Aprilia Racing faces a dual challenge – confirming their potential in the championship battle and continuing to grow, with a few more weapons in their arsenal, beginning with the satellite team and its riders Miguel Oliveira and Raul Fernandez, as well as an additional flow of information that will come in handy in developing the RS-GP.
But the spotlight will certainly be on the number 41 garage where Aleix Espargaró will once again be fighting for the championship after his fourth place last season – with more than one regret. Team veteran by statistics and “Captain” by unanimous acclamation, Aleix will be able to count on both the perfect symbiosis with a team that has been following him since 2017 and on the experience and maturity that he has built up over more than 200 Motorcycle World Championship Grand Prix races.
For Maverick Viñales, the positive pressure is just as clear. The talent of the rider from Roses will now be able to rely on complete harmony with the structure of the team and the characteristics of the RS-GP. If 2022 was a year of growth with some spectacular high points, 2023 promises to be the year when he will achieve high level consistency.
Tester Lorenzo Savadori is more than confirmed. His work has been one of the pillars on which Aprilia's huge growth has been built over recent season and he will also be participating in three wild cards, still to be decided.
On the technical front, the evolution of the Aprilia RS-GP involved every single aspect. The V4 engine, which cannot evolve during the season after losing concessions, has increased in power and maximum RPM whilst maintaining its outstanding rideability. The chassis architecture relies on a frame that has been revisited based on the riders’ requests, striving for traction and stability. The aerodynamics maintain the concepts introduced in 2022 such as the curved side panel or the characteristic configuration of the front winglet and evolves them, confirming Aprilia Racing’s technological leadership in the sector. The electronics benefit from the introduction of a new Magneti Marelli ECU and refined strategy management, the object of constant work which will continue race after race.
Aprilia Racing’s growth from a structural point of view also continues. New arrivals on the factory team and new organisation to follow the team clients are the most evident results of this. The racing department from Noale thereby perseveres in its commitment to improve from an organisational point of view, as well as in the technology the RS-GP brings to the race.
Massimo Rivola – Aprilia Racing CEO
“Our growth is undeniable, as is how rapidly we improved. It is a path that did not come about by chance. We are a better company from every point of view, so I expect this trend to continue. Our challenge will now increase with the further responsibility of a satellite team which, while on one hand will allow us to have much more information available, will also be an important test bench for our organisational and analytical ability. The winter break, which was actually one of the most labour intensive periods, was positive, as were the first tests, but only in the race will we be able to assess our level with respect to our rivals. We’ll be under more pressure and we are faced with a new format which implies new challenges for teams and riders, but we have prepared well and I believe that we’ll start the championship season with extremely high motivation. Goals? To do better than last year.”
Romano Albesiano, Aprilia Racing Technical Director
“We are rather convinced that we worked well during the winter break and the first tests have already provided some confirmation of this. The technical situation will be new for us, also having a second team to support and from which to be able to draw important information. The race weekends will also bring some changes, with the introduction of the Sprint Race which will demand a specific approach. Every detail of the new RS-GP is an evolution of the 2022 concept, with a numerical improvement of all the main aspects and the development programme anticipates further refinements throughout the season.”
Aleix Espargaró
“Being with Aprilia for such a long time puts a certain amount of pressure on me because I know how important results are for this company. At the same time, maturity and the fact that I know the people I work with well give me peace of mind. The 2023 championship season will begin with plenty of unknowns. The new format with the Sprint Race on Saturday will demand even more preparation of us riders but no one can truly assess the actual impact of this change yet. I have prepared to my best ability and I am confident that we will have fun again this year.”
Maverick Viñales
“I learned a lot in 2022 about Aprilia and my team, but also about myself. In this new season, we’ll be able to put everything learned during this apprenticeship into practice. I liked the new RS-GP straight away. It has improved in aspects, such as early throttle opening management, which are fundamental for my riding style. I like the new weekend format. It will be interesting both for the fans and for the teams which will have a chance to prepare for the Sunday race using the Sprint Race. I can't wait to get started. The break was refreshing, but now I just want to get back out on the track!”
Lorenzo Savadori
“The new 2023 RS-GP 2023 has clearly grown, but I think there is still margin for improvement. Our goal is to continue testing new solutions. We have some interesting ideas to implement. Physically, I am at 100% after recovering from various injuries so, as always, I will be ready to go. The biggest improvement of the new Aprilia? I’d say the engine. We made more than one step forward and I think that this will help us during the course of the season.”
TUAREG 660 DOMINATES IN THE ITALIAN MOTORALLY AND RAID TT CHAMPIONSHIP
ASTRIDE THE TWIN-CYLINDER FROM NOALE, JACOPO CERUTTI IS UNCATCHABLE AND TAKES HOME A FANTASTIC HAT TRICK
APRILIA TUAREG 660 WINS STRAIGHT AWAY IN THE FLEDGLING ITALIAN GPX CHAMPIONSHIP AS WELL
Riotorto (Livorno), 3 April 2023 – Aprilia Racing’s brand new project aimed at bringing the Aprilia brand back to big raid rallies starts off in the best of ways. At his début astride the Aprilia Tuareg 660, Jacopo Cerutti dominated all three race days which included the first two trials of the Italian Motorally Championship and the first trial of the Tricolore Raid TT, held this weekend in Riotorto, province of Livorno.
The Tuareg 660 – Cerutti duo had no rivals in the G-1000 category, reserved for multiple engine displacements besides 600 cc. After finishing ahead of the rest on Friday, valid for the Italian Raid TT Championship, the brilliant rider from Como astonished everyone with a peremptory brace in the prestigious Tricolore Motorally, unleashing an extraordinary performance, so much to contend for the overall victory over the much lighter single-cylinder enduro bikes.
In fact, Cerutti finished the Saturday rally in second position overall – just 25” from a win which would have been unprecedented for a twin-cylinder bike – and in fifth place overall on Sunday. This performance is a testament to the outstanding off-road base features of the Tuareg 660, as well as to the great job accomplished by Aprilia Racing and GCorse.
Aprilia Racing’s second Tuareg 660, entrusted to Francesco Montanari, was also a protagonist with a third-place finish in the Raid TT on Friday, with the podium replicated the following day in the first trial of the Italian Motorally. Montanari then finished the day on Sunday in seventh place, hindered by a penalty.
Jacopo Cerutti
“I’m extremely happy! I didn’t expect to be so high in the standings straight away! It is a great source of pride for me to have been able to win at the Tuareg’s début. We knew that we were competitive and I expected to be able to make a play for the win against the other twin-cylinders, but even being a threat to the specialised enduro bikes was a big surprise. We won even coming close to clinching the overall title and that is a clear demonstration of the bike’s potential, which is extremely high. The Tuareg 660 handles extremely well and rides great on mixed terrain and this characteristic helped me a lot in the special stages – very technical – which we tackled over the weekend. We’ll need to work ahead of the upcoming races with more flowing tracks, but we already know what we have to do to perform well even on the fast stretches. Competing helps us understand where to focus in order to make even more progress in view of our future commitments. Our development work has only just begun!”
Francesco Montanari
“I am satisfied because I started well straight away with third place on Friday and another third in the first trial of the Motorally on Saturday, despite a few mistakes reading the roadbook. On Sunday, in the second trial, I lost a bit of time due to a crash, but the important thing is that my weekend went on an upward trend. We worked well, making a few changes to the suspension, and now I have an outstanding feeling with the bike. I had a lot of fun riding. I feel like I can push when it’s necessary and Jacopo showed that our potential is extremely high. Being on the team with him is just mad motivation. I can’t wait to tackle the next round to try and stay even higher!”
At the top straight away in the GPX Championship as well
In Riotorto, the Aprilia Tuareg 660 proved to be a great protagonist straight away in the fledgling Italian GPX Championship as well, a rally format with simplified navigation – through GPS tracking – created this year to make the discipline accessible to the many off-road fans. Participating with basically a stock Tuareg 660, outfitted only with the minimum modifications required to tackle a competition, Paolo Pettinari took the win in the second of the three trials scheduled on the Tuscan weekend.
Yet another victory that demonstrates how much the Tuareg 660 is actually the new point of reference among twin-cylinder adventure bikes for all enthusiasts looking for a motorcycle with which to approach off-road racing in the easiest and most fun way.
Precisely for this reason, Aprilia will be on the paddock of the Italian Motorally with its own structure to provide support for all those who intend to participate in the GPX Championship astride a Tuareg 660.
CYCLE WORLD EXCLUSIVE FIRST RIDE: V100 MANDELLO
A brand-new engine and model to carry the marque into its next century.
The long awaited arrival of the V100 Mandello is almost here and Cycle World had the exclusive opportunity to test ride the new machine prior to its market release.
The passion around the Piaggio group is infectious, and Moto Guzzi’s team was fully up to the task of creating something very special. Although the engine at the heart of the V100 is arguably the bike’s greatest attribute, that wasn’t enough for the team; the bike needed something else to make it stand out against the sea of motorcycles currently on the market. The team decided to pursue semi-active aerodynamics, not for the motorcycle but for the rider and passenger; this is something that has never been brought to market before. Additionally, it was well understood that Guzzi’s traditional customers still expect the brand to deliver its unique character.
