OVERVIEW
PERFORMANCE AND ENGINE
The Aprilia Tuareg 660’s 659cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine makes 80 PS at 9,250 rpm and 70 Nm at 6,500 rpm. It delivers strong low- and mid-range power, smooth throttle response. It features a counter-rotating crankshaft and a semi-dry sump for reliable performance in Indian conditions.
The Tuareg 660 comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox that gives riders good control at any speed or on any terrain. Its advanced wet clutch and slipper system help riders feel confident during quick downshifts, making fast riding in India both fun and safe. The optional bi-directional quickshifter allows clutchless gear changes for smooth highway rides, improving efficiency and enjoyment.
The Tuareg 660 can reach a top speed of 198 kmph in ideal conditions, showing a good mix of performance and adventure-focused design.
MILEAGE AND FUEL EFFICIENCY
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 has an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 20 kmpl, based on standard tests conducted in India. Its 18-litre fuel tank gives it a reasonable range for long trips.
In daily use, Indian riders get about 20 kmpl, which matches the ARAI rating for mixed city and highway rides. Fuel economy can drop a bit in heavy traffic or harsh off-road conditions. The engine is tuned for Indian fuel and riding styles, so efficiency stays steady, though ride mode and how much you carry can change the results.
FEATURES AND TECHNOLOGY
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 comes with high-end features for Indian riders, including advanced safety tech and locally friendly connectivity options.
- Engine:659cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin, 80 PS and 70 Nm torque, tuned for Indian roads.
- Transmission:6-speed manual with slipper clutch and optional quickshifter for smooth gear changes.
- Instrument Cluster:5-inch full-colour TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity and support for Aprilia MIA smartphone integration.
- Ride Modes:Four options, including two customisable, for different Indian terrains and preferences.
- Safety:Dual-channel ABS and multi-level traction control for Indian road safety.
- Engine Braking:Helps modulate deceleration for better control on Indian roads.
- Cruise Control:Enables relaxed riding during long highway journeys across Indian expressways.
- Digital Panel:Displays crucial information, including a speedometer, tachometer, trip meters, gear position, and a clock, for rider convenience.
- USB Charging Port:Keeps mobile devices powered during long rides, a common experience in Indian travel.
- Passenger Comfort:Passenger footrests enhance pillion comfort.
- Safety Additions:Hazard lights and saree guard meet Indian norms.
- Frame:Lightweight steel tubing with aluminium plates for strength and agility on Indian roads.
- Wheels and Tyres:Tubeless tyres and alloy wheels built for Indian conditions.
- Maintenance:The service-due indicator helps keep the bike reliable in India.
- Rider Control:Engine kill switch and shift light enhance safety and awareness.
BUILD QUALITY
The Tuareg 660 uses a steel frame with aluminium plates for strength and less vibration. Weighing 204 kg, it balances strength and lightness. The adjustable KYB forks and monoshock with 240mm travel make it durable in different conditions.
Premium Brembo brakes and metal-braided lines deliver strong, reliable stopping power. The 18-litre tank and tubeless spoke wheels help the bike handle long rides better.
HANDLING
The bike handles well thanks to its nimble chassis, low centre of gravity, and adjustable suspension designed for Indian roads.
Dual-purpose tyres on cross-spoke wheels provide grip in all conditions. Switchable ABS lets riders slide off-road. The bike’s unique size helps it stay nimble everywhere.
COMFORT
The 860mm seat, good padding, and design help reduce fatigue and make the bike comfortable for Indian roads.
The upright seating, wide handlebars, and adjustable footpegs help riders sit naturally. Features for passengers and wind protection add comfort on long trips or in city traffic.
STYLING
The Tuareg 660 has bright LED headlights for excellent night visibility on Indian roads. Its tall, adjustable windscreen gives better wind protection on highways and off-road trips. The sculpted tank and simple bodywork make it look aggressive and help riders move freely and stay in control on Indian trails.
The exposed sub-frame and LED taillight give the bike a rally look. Handguards and a bash plate add off-road protection, which is useful in India.
COLOUR OPTIONS AND VARIANTS
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 is officially offered in two striking colours in India:
- Hailstorm White
- Tornado Green
These colours mix usefulness, style, and tradition, making them attractive to both city riders and Indian adventure fans.
The Tuareg 660 comes in one version, with premium features and rugged styling for Indian adventure riders.
VALUE FOR MONEY AND PRICING
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 is a premium mid-size adventure bike, starting at Rs ₹ 20,14,504 ex-showroom Delhi for the base model. The price matches its high-end features, build quality, and brand reputation.
The Tuareg 660 is a strong option for Indian riders who want a modern adventure bike. It combines powerful, reliable performance with advanced electronics and a rugged build. The 659cc engine, ride modes, traction control, ABS, and cruise control help riders handle everything from highways to rough off-road routes in India.
The lightweight frame and top-quality parts, such as KYB suspension and Brembo brakes, give the bike good handling and safety, making it worth the price. Tech features like Bluetooth and navigation make riding easier.
The Tuareg 660 competes in the mid-weight adventure segment in India against several noteworthy models:
- Triumph Tiger Sport 660
- KTM 890 Adventure
- Royal Enfield Himalayan
Although it is a premium bike, the Aprilia Tuareg 660’s Italian engineering, advanced electronics, and light frame make it a top pick for Indian adventure riders who want the best technology and performance.
VERDICT
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 is a well-balanced adventure bike for Indian riders who want a capable, stylish, and versatile motorcycle for both city rides and off-road trips.
With its competitive price for a premium bike, advanced features, safety tech, and strong performance, it is a top choice for those looking for a mid-size adventure motorcycle in India.
PROS
- Unmatched handling:The lightweight frame and low centre of gravity make it easy to control on Indian highways and dirt roads.
- Premium suspension:The fully adjustable KYB suspension with 240mm of travel handles potholes and rough roads very well.
- Strong engine:The 659cc parallel-twin gives good low- and mid-range power, making it easy to overtake in traffic and climb hills.
- Advanced electronics:The bike has ride modes, switchable ABS, traction control, and cruise control, making it safer and more adaptable for any trip in India.
- Lightweight build:At 204 kg, the bike is easy to handle in crowded cities and tight off-road spots in India.
- Tubeless wheels:Make fixing punctures and performing maintenance easier, which is helpful for long rides in remote areas of India.
- Comfortable design:The upright seating and 860mm seat height fit most Indian riders for long trips.
CONS
- High price:The premium price may make it less accessible for Indian buyers on a budget.
- Limited service network:Aprilia has few dealers in India, so getting maintenance and parts may take longer.
- Stiff suspension:The bike feels firm over city potholes, which might tire riders during daily commutes.
- Less pillion comfort:The compact design and high load capacity make it less comfortable for frequent two-person rides, which many Indian families prefer.
OTHER RELATED LINKS FROM BIKELEAGUE INDIA
LIST OF ALL APRILIA BIKES IN INDIA
TUAREG 660
659cc, 15-25Km/l
80PS @ 9250 rpm
70 Nm @ 6500 rpm
Price – ₹ 20,14,504 Onwards
RS 660
659cc, 15-22km/l
98.59PS @ 10,500rpm
67Nm @ 8,500rpm
Price – ₹ 18,95,878 Onwards
RS 457
457cc, 16-30km/l
47.6PS @ 9,400rpm
43.5Nm @ 6,700rpm
Price – ₹ 4,58,472 Onwards
About APRILIA BIKES
Aprilia India is the premium, performance-focused two-wheeler division of the Piaggio Group, set above regular commuter brands and known for its sporty scooters and motorcycles. Under Piaggio Vehicles Pvt. Ltd. (PVPL), Aprilia targets urban enthusiasts with models such as the SR scooter range and imported superbikes, supported by Motoplex multi-brand stores that offer a tailored sales and service experience.
History and Growth
- 1990s–2000s – Global foundation: Aprilia grows in Italy from a small-capacity bike maker into a major racing and performance brand, winning multiple world titles and later integrating into the Piaggio Group, which becomes the parent for its India operations.
- Late 1990s–2000s – Early India footprint: High-end Aprilia superbikes and sport models start reaching India in minimal numbers via imports and niche dealers, creating initial awareness among enthusiasts but with no local production or mass scooter presence yet.
- 2012 to 2015: Piaggio focused its two-wheeler business on Vespa and set up the Baramati plant and Motoplex multi-brand showrooms. This laid the foundation for introducing Aprilia as a premium performance brand in India.
- 2016: Piaggio officially entered the Indian scooter market under the Aprilia name by launching the SR 150. Designed in Italy and made at Baramati, it created the ‘sporty scooter’ sub-segment. It became the first mass-market Aprilia made in India.
- 2016 to 2019: Aprilia expanded the SR platform with the SR 125 and SR 160 models, offering a wider, yet still premium, scooter range aimed at urban enthusiasts rather than budget commuters.
- 2020 to 2022: Aprilia launched the SXR 125 and SXR 160 maxi-style scooters, targeting Indian riders who want comfort and style for touring. The brand also expanded Motoplex dealerships for Vespa and Aprilia in significant cities.
- 2023: Piaggio celebrated 25 years in India and announced new Vespa and Aprilia launches, showing an ongoing commitment to premium scooters and motorcycles and plans for more local production in the future.
- 2024: Aprilia began producing the RS 457 twin-cylinder sportbike at Baramati, with deliveries starting in March. This marks a significant move toward making middleweight performance motorcycles locally, rather than relying solely on imports.
- 2024: Aprilia announced a new superbike line-up for India and named John Abraham as its brand ambassador. This move aims to ‘ignite India’s superbike culture’ and strengthen the brand’s aspirational image.
- 2025: Aprilia launched the SR 175 hp-e to replace the SR 160, further establishing itself as a performance-scooter specialist. Industry analysis points to its steady, premium-focused growth in India’s two-wheeler market.
Key Milestones and Developments
- 2016: Piaggio announces local manufacturing of the Aprilia SR 150 at the Baramati plant and formally enters the Indian scooter market under the Aprilia brand, creating a new “sporty scooter” category.
- 2016–2019: Aprilia expands the SR platform in India with SR 125 and SR 160 variants, broadening its reach in the premium scooter segment while retaining a performance focus.
- 2020s (early): Aprilia strengthens its Indian line-up with SXR maxi-style scooters, positioning them as more comfortable, touring friendly alternatives to the SR models.
- 2023: Piaggio marks 25 years in India and announces plans to launch new Vespa and Aprilia scooters, signalling continued investment in the premium two-wheeler space.
- 2024: Production of the India built Aprilia RS 457 begins at Baramati, with deliveries slated from March, marking a significant step into locally manufactured middleweight sportbikes.
- 2024: Aprilia unveils an expanded superbike line-up for India and appoints John Abraham as brand ambassador, aiming to “ignite India’s superbike culture” and boost brand visibility.
- 2025: Aprilia launches the SR 175 hp e in India, replacing the SR 160 and further reinforcing its leadership in the performance scooter niche.
Manufacturing Facilities
Aprilia’s main manufacturing base in India is Piaggio’s integrated plant in Baramati, Maharashtra, where both commercial vehicles and two-wheelers, such as Vespa and Aprilia, are manufactured. The plant produces Aprilia SR scooters and the RS 457, blending Italian design with local production to control costs for the Indian and select export markets.
Piaggio describes the Baramati plant as ‘state-of-the-art,’ built to handle current production and future growth for several brands and vehicle types. Aprilia uses the same vendor base, quality systems, and logistics as Vespa and Piaggio commercial vehicles, helping maintain consistent standards as the brand grows in India.
Market Position and Achievements
In national sales, Aprilia is still a niche player compared to big brands like Hero, Honda, and TVS. However, it holds a clear premium position in India’s two-wheeler market. The SR series helped create the ‘sporty scooter’ sub-segment. At the same time, the RS 457 stands out as a globally relevant sportbike designed for emerging markets and made locally.
Aprilia’s racing history, with hundreds of Grand Prix wins and many world titles, is central to its brand image in India and is often featured in marketing. Motoplex multi-brand showrooms, which include Vespa, Aprilia, and sometimes Moto Guzzi, have helped the company build a premium retail presence in major cities, boosting brand visibility and customer experience even with a smaller market share.
Future Plans
By 2025, Aprilia plans to focus on its performance-led portfolio, increase local manufacturing, and expand its premium network, rather than targeting commuter sales. The company is developing the SR hp-e scooter range and increasing RS 457 production at Baramati, while using Motoplex outlets to introduce more superbike and middleweight models as fully built units for enthusiasts.
Corporate statements call India a ‘key market’ and outline plans to add more sales points, launch more niche scooters for touring, racing, and luxury, and keep updating engines and technology to meet new rules and customer needs. As electric vehicles gain ground in India’s two-wheeler market, industry analysis says Aprilia and Piaggio will eventually need a more straightforward local electric strategy. However, as of 2025, their primary focus remains premium ICE scooters and motorcycles, supported by their racing heritage.
Other related links from Bikeleague India
- Aprilia SR 175 hp-e
- Aprilia SR 125 hp-e
- Motto Guzzi Bikes
- Aprilia SXR 160
- Aprilia SXR 125
