2023 Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory: A Race Track Rendezvous from a 5'4" Perspective

Riding the 2023 Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory at the race track at NJMP was an exciting experience that perfectly balanced high-performance engineering with everyday usability, even for someone of my stature, coming in at a whopping 5 feet 4 inches. With two advanced riding courses now under my belt from Total Control I was eager to test the Tuono V4 Factory in challenging conditions including a wet racetrack, and it delivered on every level. For $19,599 USD I really hope it would!

A wet racetrack, and the Aprilia Tuono V4 with traction control settings. Easy.

Track-Ready Confidence

One of the standout features for me was the traction control system. On a day where it was drizzling on and off and when parts of the track were wet, the bike’s finely tuned electronics kept it impressively planted in corners. The traction control settings were spot on, instilling confidence as I pushed the bike through aggressive bends. This technology allowed me to maintain control even on unpredictable surfaces, making every lap feel secure and composed. I didn’t feel like the back was sliding around or dancing on me, something that I did get to experience on my 2019 MT07 that same day. For context, there’s no fancy traction control settings on the MT07. But unlike the MT07, the Tuono V4 Factory was actually designed with a track perspective in mind.

Handling and Nimbleness

Despite the seat height being a bit tall at 32.48 inches, something I noticed right from the pit, the overall handling of the 2023 Tuono V4 more than compensated for it. It’s only 460 lbs wet weight which is great for this category. The dry weight is 408 lbs. The bike’s nimbleness made maneuvering in pit lanes effortless, and once on the track, the slightly elevated seating position provided an excellent vantage point, enhancing visibility during high-speed cornering. The taller up the seating position is, the slower it seems like I am going which is useful for gaining confidence at the track. Aprilia has clearly designed the Tuono V4 Factory with precision, ensuring that its agile character translates to both the track and everyday settings.

The bike stays planted in the corners, it’s confidence inspiring and with the upright seating position it makes comfort a priority too, something rare at the track.

Specs To Note on the Tuono V4 Factory:

The 2023 Tuono V4 Factory is powered by a robust 1077cc V4 engine, delivering exhilarating performance that’s evident from the moment you twist the throttle. Here are some of the key specifications that contributed to its impressive track-day performance:

Engine: 1077cc V4 engine DOHC known for its dynamic power delivery and a thrilling sound.
Power Output: Delivers an impressive 175 horsepower at 11,350 RPM that positions it among the sportiest naked bikes on the market. 89.2 ft-lbs of torque (121 Nm) at 9,000 rpm.
Suspension: Features high-quality suspension components—with the standard model sporting finely tuned Showa forks and rear shocks, while the track-focused Tuono V4 Factory version offers upside-down double braced aluminum swingarm; Öhlins piggyback monoshock with Smart EC 2.0 electronic control.
Electronics: Comes equipped with advanced electronics including multiple ride modes, cornering ABS, wheelie control, and a sophisticated traction control system that inspired confidence during every twist of the track.
Brakes: High-performance Brembo brakes ensure that you can decelerate confidently, even when pushing the bike to its limits. 330 mm diameter floating double disc. Brembo M50 monobloc radial calipers in the front. 220 mm diameter disc Brembo floating caliper with two Ø 32 mm isolated pistons in the rear.
Chassis: Aluminum dual beam chassis with pressed and cast sheet elements. Adjustments foreseen: position and angle of the headstock, engine height, swingarm pivot height. Smart EC 2.0 electronically managed Öhlins steering damper.

A pleasant upright seating position gives me some comfort if I wanted to ride this bike off the track. And I definitely would.

A Balanced Ride

The 2023 Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory strikes an impressive balance between raw performance and rider comfort. The engine’s aggressive character is tempered by smart electronic aids, which means that even experienced riders like myself can trust the bike to behave predictably under pressure. The finely calibrated traction control, in particular, was a game-changer, helping me maintain stability in wet conditions and inspiring a level of confidence that allowed me to push the limits safely.

Final Thoughts

For a rider with a track background and a height of 5 feet 4 inches, the 2023 Tuono V4 Factory proved to be an outstanding machine. The slight challenge of a taller seat was quickly offset by the bike’s nimble nature and exceptional handling, both on the track and in the pit. Its blend of a powerful 1077cc engine, advanced suspension, and a suite of electronic rider aids makes the 2023 Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory a compelling option for those who crave a versatile ride capable of performing under pressure. Whether carving through corners on a rainy track or navigating tight pit lanes, this bike stands out as a true testament to Aprilia’s commitment to performance and rider-centric design.

Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory: A Track Review