Aprilia Tuono 660 vs Moto Guzzi V85 TT
The Italian motorcycle industry offers fascinating contrasts between cutting-edge technology and timeless tradition. Two machines that embody these different philosophies are the Aprilia Tuono 660 and the Moto Guzzi V85 TT. These motorcycles represent fundamentally different approaches—modern sporting aggression versus classic touring elegance—yet both target riders seeking distinctive Italian character and premium riding experiences. Let’s explore this comprehensive power and comfort battle that reveals which Italian masterpiece best suits different riding styles and priorities.
Brand Philosophy: Racing DNA vs Heritage Touring
Understanding what each manufacturer represents helps explain the fundamental differences between these compelling Italian motorcycles.
Table of Contents
Aprilia Tuono 660: Racing Technology for the Street
The Aprilia Tuono 660 represents the Noale manufacturer’s commitment to bringing MotoGP-derived technology to the middleweight segment. Aprilia has built its reputation on racing success and technological innovation, and the Tuono 660 distills this expertise into an accessible yet sophisticated naked sport bike that prioritizes performance and electronics.
Aprilia targets riding enthusiasts who appreciate cutting-edge technology, want engaging sporting performance without liter-bike extremes, value advanced electronics and rider aids, and seek Italian style combined with competitive pricing. The Tuono 660 appeals to experienced riders seeking a sophisticated middleweight, newer riders graduating to serious performance, and anyone who views motorcycling as an active, engaging pursuit.
The Tuono 660 is designed for riders who prioritize dynamic performance over long-distance comfort, appreciate sophisticated electronics that enhance capability, want a motorcycle that excels on twisty roads and occasional track days, value modern aesthetics and premium build quality, and seek the prestige of Italian racing heritage. Aprilia emphasizes that middleweight capacity doesn’t mean compromising on technology or capability.
Moto Guzzi V85 TT: Classic Adventure with Modern Capability
The Moto Guzzi V85 TT represents the Mandello del Lario manufacturer’s interpretation of adventure-touring with distinctive Italian character. Moto Guzzi has built motorcycles since 1921, and the V85 TT combines this heritage with modern capability, creating an adventure bike that prioritizes character, comfort, and timeless style over maximum performance.
Moto Guzzi targets riders who appreciate heritage and tradition, want comfortable touring capability with moderate adventure potential, value distinctive character over specifications, and seek motorcycles with soul and personality. The V85 TT appeals to experienced riders who’ve owned various bikes and now seek character, touring enthusiasts wanting something distinctive, and riders who view motorcycling as much about the journey’s quality as the destination.
The V85 TT is designed for riders who prioritize comfort and character over maximum performance, appreciate classic aesthetics and mechanical simplicity, want a motorcycle that handles both paved roads and light off-road with confidence, value all-day riding comfort, and seek the individuality of Moto Guzzi’s unique engineering. The brand emphasizes that adventure riding should be comfortable, characterful, and timeless rather than extreme or technical.
Engine Performance: Modern Parallel-Twin vs Classic Transverse V-Twin
The heart of any motorcycle defines its character, and these engines deliver profoundly different experiences reflective of their manufacturers’ philosophies.
Aprilia Tuono 660 Engine
The Tuono 660 is powered by a liquid-cooled 659cc parallel-twin engine producing approximately 95 horsepower at 10,500 RPM and 67 Nm of torque at 8,500 RPM. This engine represents modern parallel-twin development with a 270-degree crankshaft creating irregular firing intervals that add character while maintaining reasonable smoothness.
Power delivery is smooth and progressive with strong mid-range punch that makes the Tuono 660 feel faster than its specifications suggest. The engine pulls cleanly from around 4,000 RPM, building torque steadily through the mid-range before delivering enthusiastic top-end performance. The broad powerband means you’re rarely hunting for gears—the engine delivers usable power across diverse situations.
The engine is exceptionally smooth for a parallel-twin, with minimal vibration even at high RPM. This refinement allows comfortable highway cruising while the eager rev-happy nature rewards spirited riding through twisty roads. The engine note is distinctive and characterful, enhanced by a well-tuned exhaust system that creates a satisfying soundtrack without excessive volume.
Aprilia equips the engine with ride-by-wire throttle and comprehensive electronic rider aids including multiple riding modes (Road, Sport, Individual), sophisticated traction control with cornering sensitivity, wheelie control, and engine brake control. These systems work seamlessly to enhance performance and safety without feeling intrusive.
The six-speed transmission features slick, precise shifts with an optional quick shifter (standard on higher trims) enabling clutchless upshifts and downshifts. The gearbox is beautifully engineered with positive engagement and well-chosen ratios optimized for sporting street riding.
Fuel efficiency is reasonable for the performance level, averaging around 18-20 km/l in mixed riding. The 15-liter fuel tank provides approximately 250-300 km range—adequate for spirited rides though requiring more frequent stops than touring-focused machines. The engine requires premium fuel to deliver optimal performance and meet emissions requirements.
Moto Guzzi V85 TT Engine
The V85 TT features an air and oil-cooled 853cc transverse 90-degree V-twin engine producing approximately 80 horsepower at 7,750 RPM and 80 Nm of torque at 5,000 RPM. This engine represents Moto Guzzi’s distinctive engineering approach—the transverse crankshaft orientation creates unique characteristics and the classic V-twin configuration delivers character and torque.
Power delivery emphasizes low-end and mid-range torque, creating effortless acceleration from low RPM that makes the V85 TT feel stronger than its horsepower figure suggests. The engine pulls strongly from just above idle, building substantial torque through the mid-range before tapering at higher RPM. Peak power arrives relatively low compared to the Tuono 660, reflecting the V85 TT’s touring focus.
The transverse V-twin creates distinctive character with moderate vibration that many riders find appealing—it’s smooth enough for comfort yet characterful enough to feel alive and mechanical. The engine produces a distinctive exhaust note that’s immediately recognizable as Moto Guzzi—a deep, satisfying rumble that never gets tiring.
The shaft drive system is a Moto Guzzi hallmark, providing maintenance-free final drive that’s perfect for touring. The distinctive torque reaction during acceleration and deceleration (caused by the transverse crankshaft) creates unique handling characteristics that take some adjustment but become endearing to owners.
Moto Guzzi equips the engine with ride-by-wire throttle and multiple riding modes (Road, Rain, Off-Road) that adjust power delivery, traction control intervention, and ABS settings. The electronics are less sophisticated than the Aprilia’s but entirely appropriate for the V85 TT’s mission.
The six-speed transmission features positive, mechanical shifts with well-spaced ratios appropriate for touring and adventure riding. The clutch is light and progressive, reducing fatigue during extended riding or traffic.
Fuel efficiency is excellent for an 850cc twin, averaging around 20-23 km/l in mixed riding. The 23-liter fuel tank provides exceptional range of approximately 400-500 km between fill-ups—genuine long-distance touring capability. The engine happily runs on regular unleaded fuel, reducing running costs compared to premium-fuel requirements.
Handling and Suspension: Sport Precision vs Touring Comfort
How these motorcycles handle reveals their fundamental character and determines which riding situations they master.
Aprilia Tuono 660 Handling
The Tuono 660 features an aluminum beam frame with premium suspension—Kayaba fully adjustable 41mm USD forks with 120mm travel and a fully adjustable Kayaba rear monoshock with 130mm travel. This suspension is tuned for sporting performance with firm damping that maintains exceptional body control.
At approximately 183 kg wet weight, the Tuono 660 is remarkably light, and this shows dramatically in how the bike responds to rider inputs. The handling is exceptionally sharp and precise with quick steering that enables tight lines through corners. The chassis communicates clearly what the tires are doing, building confidence to ride aggressively.
On paved roads, the Tuono 660 excels with handling that’s genuinely thrilling. The bike tips into corners eagerly, holds lines precisely, and responds to mid-corner adjustments intuitively. The suspension provides excellent feedback without harshness, allowing you to feel surface changes and traction limits. Body roll is minimal, and the chassis remains composed even during aggressive riding.
The Pirelli Diablo Rosso III tires (or similar sport-focused rubber) provide excellent grip with progressive breakaway characteristics. The bike inspires confidence to push hard, rewarding commitment and smooth inputs. On track days or spirited mountain rides, the Tuono 660 delivers capability that embarrasses much more expensive machinery.
The braking system features radial-mount Brembo calipers with 320mm twin discs up front—genuinely excellent stopping power with superb feel and modulation. The cornering ABS is sophisticated, allowing hard braking even while leaned over without intrusive intervention.
Off-road capability is essentially zero—the Tuono 660 is a street-focused sport bike with limited ground clearance and street-biased suspension. It handles smooth roads brilliantly but isn’t designed for anything beyond perfect pavement.
The ergonomics are sporty yet manageable with relatively upright positioning for a performance naked bike. The wide handlebars provide excellent leverage, though the footpegs are positioned slightly rearward emphasizing the sporting nature. Wind protection is minimal as expected from a naked bike.
Moto Guzzi V85 TT Handling
The V85 TT features a steel double cradle frame with long-travel suspension—170mm front and 170mm rear—tuned for comfort and versatility. The suspension is compliant and forgiving, prioritizing passenger comfort over sporting precision.
At approximately 229 kg wet weight, the V85 TT is substantially heavier than the Tuono 660, and this mass creates different handling characteristics. The bike feels planted and stable with reassuring heft that inspires confidence at highway speeds and during loaded touring. However, it’s not as flickable or agile as the lighter Aprilia.
On paved roads, the V85 TT handles with confidence and predictability. The steering is heavier and more deliberate than the Tuono’s, creating stable, composed handling that’s relaxing rather than exciting. The bike carves through sweeping corners confidently, though it doesn’t encourage the aggressive riding style that the Tuono rewards.
The suspension soaks up road imperfections beautifully, maintaining excellent comfort over broken pavement and rough surfaces. The compliant damping means body roll is noticeable during aggressive cornering, but the V85 TT isn’t designed for maximum cornering speed—it’s optimized for all-day comfort.
Off-road, the V85 TT handles gravel roads, fire roads, and light trails competently. The long-travel suspension, adequate ground clearance (190mm), and manageable weight for an adventure bike create confidence on unpaved surfaces. With appropriate dual-sport tires and reasonable skill, the V85 TT explores surprisingly challenging terrain, though it’s clearly not designed for extreme off-roading.
The braking system features Brembo calipers providing strong, progressive stopping power with excellent feel. The switchable cornering ABS works well across varied surfaces including off-road when adjusted appropriately.
The ergonomics are genuinely comfortable with upright seating position, wide handlebars, and relaxed footpeg positioning. The adjustable windscreen provides effective wind protection, and the generous seat accommodates all-day riding without discomfort. This is a motorcycle designed for covering serious distances comfortably.
Design and Styling: Modern Aggression vs Classic Adventure
Visual appeal significantly influences buying decisions in the premium segment, and these Italian motorcycles take dramatically different aesthetic approaches.
Aprilia Tuono 660 Design
The Tuono 660 showcases aggressive, contemporary naked bike styling with sharp angles and purposeful aggression. The distinctive triple LED headlight arrangement creates an immediately recognizable front end with a predatory appearance. The bodywork is minimal yet sculptured, emphasizing the mechanical components and modern aesthetics.
The side profile reveals sporting proportions with the aluminum frame prominently displayed, aggressive tank shrouds, and distinctive radiator covers. The rear section is compact and clean with LED lighting. Color schemes are typically bold with racing-inspired graphics emphasizing the performance character.
Build quality is excellent with premium materials, tight panel gaps, and attention to detail throughout. The Tuono 660 feels like a premium product with quality switchgear, beautiful welds, and thoughtful integration of components.
The instrument cluster is a full-color TFT display providing comprehensive information with modern graphics and smartphone connectivity—clear, functional, and contemporary.
Moto Guzzi V85 TT Design
The V85 TT showcases retro-modern adventure styling that honors Moto Guzzi’s rally heritage while incorporating contemporary elements. The round LED headlight, classic fuel tank shape, and distinctive color schemes create timeless aesthetics that won’t age like trend-chasing designs.
The side profile reveals the iconic transverse V-twin engine prominently displayed, wire-spoked wheels appropriate for adventure riding, and classic proportions that look right from every angle. The bodywork incorporates functional elements like hand guards and protective panels while maintaining clean lines.
Build quality is excellent with premium finishes, quality plastics, and beautiful detailing including the distinctive red valve covers and polished engine components. The V85 TT feels hand-crafted and special—a genuine premium product.
The instrument cluster combines a large analog tachometer with a comprehensive digital display—classic styling with modern functionality. The interface is clear and easy to read in all conditions.
Technology and Features: Cutting-Edge vs Appropriate
Modern premium motorcycles incorporate comprehensive technology, though the approaches differ based on mission.
Aprilia Tuono 660 Technology
The Tuono 660 showcases cutting-edge electronics:
- Six-axis IMU enabling cornering ABS and traction control
- Five-level traction control with cornering sensitivity
- Wheelie control
- Engine brake control
- Multiple riding modes (Road, Sport, Individual)
- Quick shifter (up and down, standard on higher trims)
- Full-color TFT display with smartphone connectivity
- Cruise control (on some markets)
- Comprehensive data logging capabilities
The technology genuinely enhances capability and safety while remaining intuitive to use.
Moto Guzzi V85 TT Technology
The V85 TT offers appropriate adventure-touring technology:
- Three riding modes (Road, Rain, Off-Road)
- Cornering ABS and traction control
- Switchable ABS for off-road riding
- TFT display with comprehensive touring information
- Cruise control (standard)
- Connectivity system with smartphone integration
- USB charging socket
- Extensive luggage and accessory integration
The technology emphasizes practical touring functionality rather than maximum performance capability.
Practicality and Comfort: Sport vs Tour
Real-world usability determines long-term satisfaction beyond specifications.
Aprilia Tuono 660 Practicality
Strengths: Exceptional urban agility, thrilling sport riding capability, manageable weight, premium build quality, advanced electronics.
Limitations: Limited wind protection creates highway fatigue, firm suspension less comfortable on rough roads, minimal luggage options, shorter range requires frequent fuel stops, premium fuel requirement increases costs.
The Tuono 660 excels as a sporting tool for spirited rides but requires compromises for serious touring.
Moto Guzzi V85 TT Practicality
Strengths: Genuine all-day comfort, effective wind protection, exceptional fuel range, extensive luggage capacity, versatile terrain capability, shaft drive eliminates chain maintenance.
Limitations: Heavier weight challenges tight spaces and off-road, less engaging for aggressive riding, premium price point.
The V85 TT excels at comfortable long-distance touring with moderate adventure capability—exactly its intended mission.
Price and Value Proposition
Aprilia Tuono 660 Pricing
Approximately $10,500-$11,500 USD—competitive for the sophisticated technology and performance delivered. Strong value for riders prioritizing sport performance.
Moto Guzzi V85 TT Pricing
Approximately $12,500-$14,000 USD—premium pricing reflecting heritage, comfort, and distinctive character. Good value for riders seeking touring comfort with Italian soul.
The Final Verdict: Define Your Priority
These Italian motorcycles excel in fundamentally different ways.
Choose the Aprilia Tuono 660 if you prioritize dynamic sport performance, want cutting-edge electronics, ride primarily on excellent paved roads, value light weight and agility, appreciate modern aggressive styling, focus on spirited riding over touring comfort, and seek maximum performance per dollar. It’s the engaging choice for sport-focused riding.
Choose the Moto Guzzi V85 TT if you prioritize all-day comfort, want genuine touring capability, appreciate classic styling and heritage, need versatility across paved and unpaved roads, value distinctive character over maximum performance, plan long-distance rides with luggage, and seek individuality. It’s the soulful choice for touring enthusiasts.
Both motorcycles prove Italian manufacturers excel at creating distinctive, desirable machines. The Tuono 660 delivers modern sport performance with sophisticated technology. The V85 TT provides timeless touring capability with unique character. Your choice reveals whether your heart beats for aggressive sport riding or comfortable adventure touring—and either way, you’re getting distinctively Italian motorcycling excellence.
