This is the adventure motorcycle the Tenere 700 should have been...
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- Опубліковано 25 лют 2024
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🎬 - Llel Pavey
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Dear Aprilia.
Thank you.
Thank you for making this bike. A bike that many people will never understand, will not buy and will give four stars in a review. A bike that will make people comment about reliability, and dealer networks whilst drooling over CF MOTO's. KOVE's and obscure bikes from niche brands.
Thank you for being a challenger with the ability to build quality; for putting good suspension in a bike, good electronics and not charging the earth for it. Thank you for not compromising the bike in the name of a bottom line.
Thank you for this week of riding I won't forget. Please keep doing this until it sticks and then do it some more. I hope we meet again someday.
Keep making great bikes.
Llewelyn Pavey - Авто та транспорт
#1/#2 determing factors on an adv bike purchase is.....
Reliability. Why buy an adv bike if you're not going into the backcountry?
Dealer network.
2 things that the Aprilia lacks.
Several documented over heating problems on the 660, both reddit and youtube. Ive also talked to two owners who've had terrible experiences with their dealers in the US.
I was in the market for a new bike. I spent a year evaluating and test riding/borrowing adv bikes, and the T660 was super high on the list.
Ultimately, i wemt a different direction on this one, and not the t660. Im not giving up on the Aprilia though, i am just going to wait for more dealers to pop up, and for Aprilia to polish some of the quirks out the model. Probably will wait for a second year of the second generation.
When that happens, ill pay cash for it, and be done. I trust myself wrenching on my bikes, more than i do a dealership. I worked at one for 2years when i was younger, and i dont trust my life in the hands of a business industry that follows this model:: fast fast fast, go go go, get em in get em out.....nah, no thanks, ill take my time and ensure my bike doesnt fail when it matters
I think this in an interesting point and is clearly the main discussion around the discussion. I'm not going to argue the dealer network point because to a lot of people this seems important.
I think the main caveat here, is that large quantities of people will forgo that to buy a Love, an AJP or something else, but baulk at the Tuareg.
However, the reliability issue I think is really subjective. The T7 is without question, reliable. The Tuareg has far more reports of it being reliable than it does of it being unreliable. I seem dozens of forum reports of people loving them, showing high mileage or using them on trips and I think the stigma plays here.
The proof of that lies in the KTM 890 platform. That bike is notoriously proven to have niggles. Unbelievable heat radiation, clutches failing regularly and lots of comments stating the issues.
It seems like Aprilia worked quickly to rectify the 660's small issues and because it's exotic the image sticks.
Obviously this is based on anecdotal evidence and no hard data and it's why I made the point in the video.
@@BrakeMagazine As somebody who does their own maintenance, the dealer network thing isn't as big of a deal to me. But I believe Big Rock Moto mentioned in his long term review that you need a dealer to clear any service lights. Personally, I'd find that pretty frustrating since the closest dealer is about 4 hours away from me (I'm in the US).
I can't help Aprilia help themselves really 😂 Totally agree, four hours is probably a bit annoying. @@Michael_Shay
@@BrakeMagazine I'm super excited to watch their network grow. The Tuareg is such a cool bike, I hope to ride one some day
I’ve looked at the T660 a lot, I like the bike no doubt. I just can’t bring myself to buy one. I understand all bikes have problems but looking at UA-cam and other forums there are just too many owners reporting issues. I just don’t want to take an expensive gamble on whether I get a good one or not. It’s a shame there have been so many early issues. I will never get anywhere close to using the full capabilities of bikes like these so I’d rather have a slightly less capable bike but know it’s going to be way more reliable and if we are talking about the Yamaha with valve checks every 24 thousand miles compared to the Aprilia 12 thousand mile valve checks be much cheaper to run/maintain.
It's the bike I'd still be riding today if I didn't need to buy other bikes for content. Truly phenomenal motorcycle. Great review.
The highest praise man. Pretty crazy considering how many bikes you go through and glad I'm not on my own in this 😂
I must have missed how much you loved this bike on your channel. It'd be great to hear more about your personal choices, rather than be so led by viewers choices (my 2 cents)
Had lots of reliability issues sadly.
Not really Sami. Just read the comments here. It had some that were rectified under warranty like almost very brand has and now seems to be pretty rock solid.
Go watch his full review again! It's got a lot of high praise without the excess prose of my video 😂
Here's a reliability anecdote on Aprilia's side. I rode 1200 miles of dirt roads and trails through the Southwest desert of the United States, in 2023. About a quarter of the way through the journey I crashed very hard and sheared off the bolt holding the shift lever in place and put a very significant bend in my radiator. It wasn't until I reached home that I learned I had completely destroyed one of the cooling fans. And through it all, the Tuareg purred. I watched it like a hawk but I never saw the temperature gauge raise above normal. When I finally got back to pavement, two days later, I had to shift by pulling on the shift lever with my hand. It was a nuisance, but the bike still performed brilliantly. Oh, and if anyone suggests you replace the factory's steel shift bolt with a titanium bolt, don't bother. Titanium only helped in the sense that I now had a spare bolt. The Tuareg and I will be doing another 1500 miles of off-road through the Pacific Northwest this year. Maybe I'll carry spare bolt again, a steel one, just in case.
Amazing! Glad to hear the experience was good for you!
Yeah, I'd say a spare bolt could be squeezed on without sacrificing too much weight and space. Happy trails.
I spent a lot of my life making the safe choice. All my early bikes were Hondas and Yamahas because they weren't just great bikes but they were mechanically safe, with a dealer on every corner. When it came time to get into adventure riding the Tuareg had everything I wanted and reviews were praising what Aprilia had done. But people kept shouting "limited dealerships!" and "what if?!" So, to play it safe, I sat on a Tenere 700 waitlist for a year. The T7 didn't have everything I wanted, but it was the safe choice. Then I started to get antsy, and a Tuareg presented itself. It was a tough decision for me but, feeling relatively confident in my mechanical skills, I took an uncharacteristic risk and bought what I really wanted. I'm coming up on two years with my Tuareg and I've never once regretted it. It is hands down the most fun and best all around bike I've ever owned. Have I had problems? Yes. A tiny oil leak that I fixed with a $10 gasket that showed up in days (not the months the "what if" crowd would have had me believe). Could my ownership experience have been a nightmare? Sure, but that can happen with anything. Would I have made the same decision if I had limited to no mechanical skills? Probably not. But I'm just here to throw out one person's real life experience against a mountain of hypothetical scenarios from non-owners. As Llel said, it's a shame these aren't flying off showroom floors.
The logic that's been living in my brain from day one of riding this bike. Pinned comment man!
aprilias are a safe choice. the etv1000 was dead reliable and they are still on the road today.
How long after the initial early oil leak,did it take to feel confident again?
Seems like an awesome bike. I love my Tuono but it has been in the shop for 8 months. Took it in for a valve check and it needed a valve guide. No worries those are available in the aftermarket (Aprilia will only sell you a new head apparently). But it has been 8 months for a head gasket. I am starting to go back to the safe yet not quite as amazing Japanese route.
Mirror image of my experience playing it safe with the Japanese brands. Just acquired the Ducati Desert X and am wondering why I waited so long to get on something other than a Japanese bike.
2022 was coming to a close and after nearly a year on waiting lists for the AT and T7. Than one day I stopped in a dealer to look at a KLR when the mechanic rolled a freshly assemble Tuareg in Martian red and started it up. My god the sound of that stock bike. I knew nothing about it so I watched every review I could. A week later I called the dealer for a test ride. My father and I showed up. I am 6’2” and 220 lbs and my father 5’8” and 180 lbs. we both fit perfectly. I bought the blue color same as this video. Sold on sound, fit and initial ride impressions. Fast forward 2 years and my father has had his KLR and TransAmerica in the shop more times than I’ve changed my own oil with 16,000 miles on it. Zero shop time riding in winter snow and summer storms. I am unbelievably happy with the bike.
I gotta say I really appreciate and admire your engagement in the comments section. The vast majority of content creators don’t give a single fcuk about people who watch their videos, like, comment, i.e. allow them to do what they do. You actually respond and with more than a single word or a short sentence. This is how a good channel should be run. Good work, mate. Keep it going!
Totally agree with you.
I am that guy in the pub that can't stop talking. Just instead of actually going to the pub I leave at least 3 comments in every UA-cam video on the Tuareg 😂
Thank you so much for this video! It is awesome to see that my baby gets the recognition it deserves 🎉
Llel, you know how long I've been waiting for this review and I couldn't be happier with what I saw. You confirmed my thoughts about this bike with your knowledge and skill, and you packaged it in a video that I sat glued to the screen watching. Excellent work mate, the smile on my face is real!
So glad you enjoyed it! I hope it was worth the wait. Took a while to edit those titles together 😂
How is the PR7! Also, email me!
u made me wait alongside you with your video(s) :D
So glad you liked this bike. You are saying what owners have been saying for around 18 months. I love my Tuareg and I cannot envisage any other bike meeting my needs quite so well. I went from a CRF300 to the T660 and, to a point, it was like someone had given my (significantly upgraded) CRF steroids and let it loose. Stability, power, smoothness, agility, flexibility and most important of all, grin-inducing.
This review earned my subscription, your voice, pacing and well rehearsed delivery are superb. The Tuareg 660 wasn’t on my radar but now my antenna are up.
I was buying my Tenere when I saw the Toureg first came out. I went to speak to the dealer about the Toureg and he said they're all pre-sold and blew me off , wouldn't even speak to me. Every Yamaha dealer I have been to has been awesome and there are dealers every where here in OZ , parts are in stock and reasonable prices , no brainer for me !
I think it seems like they have a problem in Australia tbh. High prices kinda negate a fair bit of the points I made in this review.
@@BrakeMagazine yep, the price in Australia puts it in competition with Tiger 900, Africa Twin etc
You aren't on the Sunny Coast, are you?
I tested this bike in a motocross track like a year ago enough to love it immediately, this is by far the best bike I have ever riden and I had a 790 adventure with tuned suspension that was a blast to drive, I tested the vstrom 800de (second best), the tuareg, and I own an f800gs with tuned suspension... God I would love my f800gs to ride close of what the tuareg ride... the geometry and the suspension combination with the very easy engine is amazing... I just love it...
So if you had to choose between the 660 and the new 790, would choose the 660?
@@rjsalameh Yes, every day.
TY!!!!
Awesome to see you cover something that no one is talking about. Love the Aprillia brand, and happy to see you have good things to say about their off road bike as well
A great review @BrakeMagazine 🙂
I absolutely love my Toe-Rag, had it 2 years now and trail rode it from the day I collected it from my dealership. Not had a single issue worth complaining about other than needing to replace a spoke in the front wheel and the front brake needing bleeding.
All in all, it is an amazing ADV motorcycle, the only thing I dislike really is the seat height being a bit tall for me, and the road manors are not great when running proper knobby tyres... which would be the case on any ADV bike.
When it was announced, the Tuareg sounded like the bike I'd been waiting 25 years for (even with 10 of those years having been spent working at BMW shops). Almost too good to be true, honestly. I picked one up shortly after they started showing up in the US, and I have no regrets in the least. I'm lucky to live close to exceptional off-road riding, as well as some decent twisty pavement, but it's also happy to take longer freeway trips as needed - very comfortable and the simple cruise control makes it easy to pack on miles. I've had it almost two years now and I still can't believe how good this bike is at everything - easily my favorite over 20+ bikes owned.
The forums are full of "...but the dealer network!" comments - in this day and age you can have parts overnighted almost anywhere... and sadly most Big 4 dealers (especially those taken over by big conglomerates or private equity vampires) don't stock parts anyway. I understand that "security blanket" feeling, but to have that ultimately be the reason you compromise on enjoyment is a shame. (This coming from someone who has owned 4 V-Stroms) :)
Wonderfully articulate and informative review. Thank you!
The quality of your vids, not to mention your writing, is really getting up there. Can't really think of other motorcycle chanels that match up, even the bigger ones.... Thanks!
Thanks man! I think Fortnine are miles ahead but I appreciate it!
@@BrakeMagazine True, Fortnine is gold, but you're not far off. Keep it up!
Thanks Jostego.@@jostego
@@BrakeMagazine That's certainly a matter of personal opinion. Some people may find Fortnine's presentation style annoying and their attempts at humor a waste of time. Your reviews have clear, concise information without the BS, and your MiniTips add a ton of value. Keep doing what you're doing.👍
From a Tuareg owner, the bike is actually amazing and no issues so far. Seems like only those who have problems or don't actually own the bike are heard.
Strange thing since I bought my Tuareg. Reading advice, fielding questions/statements, from people telling me things about my bike, even though they've never ridden it or experienced it.
The most popular is that it cooks my legs, or overheats. There seems to be some confusion, and as second-hand info regurgitators become third, fourth and tenth-hand, the chinese whispers mean that I'm now reading people telling me I need to check the coolant for oil because of chronic overheating. I'm on all the groups, not seen one of those yet.
The hottest I've ridden mine in was only 24 degrees C so far (in the Gorafe TET routes), and didn't notice anything unusual at all.
Reliability wise, there are some semi-serious gripes that are VERY common. The oil seal on the water pump is a popular one on early build bikes. Easy fix, and a good dealer has those parts in stock anyway. Fixed on later builds, we think (that's anecdotal though, so see above). My bike wept some drops of oil around the 400km mark, and the dealer replaced all pump seals at the first service, no cost.
Luckily I have more Aprilia dealers near me than even BMW dealers (and I'm in Germany).
As mentioned, deals are there to be found. Mine was €9490 on the road?! Same week I was quoted €1000 more for a brand new Transalp and €2000 more for a brand new Tenere! And in stock form, the Aprilia has both of those beaten.
One thing I can say from first-hand experience is that you should make sure the dealer is tech savvy and doing the software updates. I test rode one 660 that was a bit glitchy on fuelling, and lacked mid-range. When I asked if it had the latest software, the sales guy said yes, but the workshop manager admitted he'd lost the logon to the Piaggo system several weeks ago. Facepalm.
My dealer gave me a print-out of the full update process when I picked up the bike, which was great.
More mom'n'pop dealers in the Aprilia network than any other brand. Definitely something to be aware of here in Germany.
ANYWAYS>>> GREAT video, huge cinematography/feature vibes. Well done!
Such good points. I actually love that the dealers are owned by local people and not big stores.
That’s an incredibly good price. In Austria these are super expensive, even the few used ones.
This all makes it sound like a awful bike...I need to me near one of the so very few dealers in the US so that it doesn't leak or need to be rebooted like an old PC?
@@jberejik you ever owned a new BMW? The offending seal is 10$ and only effects early bikes. The early bikes also have an inferior map, new bikes should be delivered with new map, but check. Nobody said anything about rebooting. My 1250 GS had 3 software upgrades and 2 factory recalls, in comparison and that's regarded by many as one of the best bikes ever...
@@thmsprbrisn’t everything super expensive in Austria? ;)
I have watched your videos throughout the years and it is wonderful to see someone with such talent continue to grow.
Very kind words, thank you!
I've been waiting for this video, thank you for making it. I love my Aprilia Tuareg! Yes I will agree the dealer network isnt great, the closest dealer is 9hrs away from where I live in the USA. The feeling I get while riding it and the smile on my face makes up for that! I currently have 5,800 miles on mine.
Right on!
Everyone has been sleeping on it. I bought one last November and loving every mile so far❤
It doesn't seem to get old right?
Have the compression leg looked at by a K-tech suspension technician and You'll love it even more.
It seems to us quite a non-brainer this bike. But even in EU one can complain about any service network and support. A lot of free workshops do more than the reps for this bike though. And it really is light!
Damn. Might have to give it a go in the summer.
It aint hot until You can smell the hair on your leg burning from just being stationary with a big girl like that. :)@@BrakeMagazine
Stop. PTSD.
I like tureg has the muffler mounted correctly and it's amazing yamaha T7 has not addressed that issue yet.
I got the HP high mount exhaust, it's an easy fix
I think Iam heading over to my Aprilia dealer tomorrow morning! Thanks for a Great Video and more, for a really helpful introduction to this machine! Excited!!!
A work of art - love the quality of this edit.❤
Oh and of course that includes the content- which is always on point👌
Thanks! Glad you like it!
13.000 km on my Tuareg and I couldn't be happier with my decision ❤
Yes, I have one of the early bikes and it had the issue with the waterpump gasket.. but so what? You leak a few drops of oil until it gets fixed on warranty during the next service... big deal.
And no, it does not overheat, it just gets warm around the legs but so does EVERY euro5 bike.
People who are afraid of Aprilias reliability just to then go ahead and buy a KTM are just hilarious 😂
yess funny ktm and all, i too have it its the best tried many but there is no comparation
I own a T7 and I’m very happy with it, but indeed based on specifications and price the Tuareg beats the Tenere. Traction control, Tubeless wheels, more power and so on. There is just one thing….every time I see my T7, I think it is a very good looking bike and that is something I completely miss with the Aprilla. Very personal of course and it doesn’t make it a bad bike. Very interested to see how this bike will evolve the next years and hopefully with the next version a real Italian design that appeals more to me.
Then you own the right bike, no question.
I just can’t get triggered if the looks are not there.
Are parts easy to get not do much
Fantastic video. Your storytelling and production are so good. You've really made big steps and are now easily one of my absolute favorite motorcycle chabnels to watch. As for the Tuareg, I've only had the chance to ride it very briefly but that was enough to tell there was something special about it. I wish I could afford to buy one because I absolutely would, especially considering current discounts.
Thanks for very kind words. We're on a. journey to make better videos, for sure.
Good review! It second everything I've been saying about the bike since I took one for a spin back in 2022. It's an awesome bike.
test rode it - yeah, an 660-twin - meh - no torque @ low rpm 🙀, i'll be waiting for an 890cc Tuareg and accept the extra 5kg
Or put an exhaust system on it. The dyno chart from the Akrapovic system looks pretty wild.
We know it's good. But we don't trust it. That is all
Wow Dave! That was truly epic. Thanks
I love my Tuareg.
Pre-ordered it with heated grips and a quick shifter, added crash bars with highway pegs to stretch my legs on the freeway and have not looked back, what a fantastic machine!
I'm very envious. My favourite bike in a long time.
There are two major issues for me when it comes to the Tuareg and they are the reason why one isn’t in my garage.
1) 12k mile major service intervals. As someone who rides that in one year, and my local dealers charging $1,500+USD and 2-4 weeks for this service, the bike becomes too dealer dependent.
2) Aprilia uses a specialty shim for the exhaust valve. According to my dealer, they have to do the service and then order just the exhaust shim to complete it.
Those are two issues for me that short term reviews and press bikes miss out on. A bike that requires specialized bits to complete a service and expensive/short intervals made it a no go for me. BTW…I ride a 2016 R1200GSA so I am used to being overcharged. Lol
You are right, that’s what I hate about bikes these days. I’m actually going back to a DR650 so I can adjust the valves and fix anything on the bike out on the trail. I absolutely will never be a slave to a dealer.
1500$ for service? oil and filters? really?
@@igioz The service includes oil change, oil filter, air filter, and valve check/adjustment. The Tuareg is an amazing bike, but $1500 every 12k miles for the major service is excessive.
Some shim stock and a pair of scissors goes a LONG way
@@j-Photographyvalves adj have to do (EVENTUALLY) @ 20.000km , no 12.000, and its cost is about 400/500€, not 1500€ (in Italy)
1500€ is INSANE, a real robbery
I've got one for a year now, drove TET Croatia and Slovenia (10k km passed). I agree with everything you've said. At the beginning is like with every new bike, there will be "children's diseased" with loose screws on clutch cover (leaking oil if you don't tighten it up), water pump gasket replacement, stock clutch switch sensor will brake (2eur repair), that little bolt that holds your kickstand will definitely brake within a few kilometers of macadam and leave you hanging unless you do kickstand switch bypass and/or you replace spring screw with M8.
Display is amazing, you can see it under direct sunlight. Front brake is also very powerful.
A lot of people is arguing about heat from the cat, but if you have proper gear and driving, it is really not that bad. Also, it's really nice feature now through the winter, it keeps your ankles warm! Overheating issue - no issues, it's the reason why it has such a big grill on front so unless you're not reving it up some hill going 2km/h, you're okay. Amazing bike overall.
Been waiting for this!
And just when I had settled on the T7! I love that this sort of ‘light-mid’ category is getting filled with some really cool looking bikes. This, the CF 450MT, the Kove 450, some very interesting stuff being offered from unexpected places.
It does seem that the bigger brands have slept a bit on what a lot of people are asking for, will be interesting to see if they follow suit and aim to catch up or leave this sub category to the underdogs!
Totally agree. Pretty excited by the Kove 800 too.
T7 has absolutely nowhere near the refinement and features of this
As a T7 owner, I admit it's a better bike - we all know the advantages of the Tuareg. But if I want to go to Romania or Turkey or some other remote place, I want my bike to stay in one piece and run without problems. You can praise it all you want - for entertainment purposes or to create an imaginative superhero bike or whatever - but until there's an MK II with a solid reputation, I'll pass , even if I'm a bit jealous.
That's fair enough. I totally get that.
It's funny, cos the comment right before yours was a person who ride their's to Romania & Latvia. 😂
I think it comes down to your appetite for risk really.
@@BrakeMagazine I have owned two 690s and it didn't bother me in the slightest that they didn't have a spotless reputation but in this particular case I'm not willing to bet on it with my hard earned cash. Secondly, I'm not sure about the used bike value. Don't get me wrong, I see your point and like the bike but...
Each to their own right? Sure used value will be lower. no doubt in fact. Everything will be a little quirky with it in that regard.
It's not a BMW or a Yamaha with a million dealers and there is no doubt that's gonna bother a huge portion of people.@@Motografs
If you want to do a bucket list trip from Alaska to points south, Baja or Patagonia.. riding an exotic is a long shot.. Japanese have parts and dealer support that doesn't exist even for Austrian, in Mexico and South America, Ducati is getting a little easier but only a little..
Great video.. thanks for sharing…. I just got my 24 aprilia 660 and I’m loving it !!!! 👍
Glad to hear it!
I frikkin LOVE my Tuareg - and I bought it for all the reasons named here. It is hands down the best dirt-focussed, unbelievablely awesome value for money, adventure bike on the market. And even two of my aussie compatriots have said the same - (on 2 other channels). Good one Mr Pavey! It was nice to hear someone else acknowledging what I know, altho I don't really care what others think of the bike - i just smoke 'em on the trails. 😆
Thanks for the kind words!
Awesome video. Great job guys!
Thanks!
Well done. It surprised me when considering a new moto many people told me this is the one I need.
It surprised me when I rode it and thought, this is the one I've been waiting for 😂
Bought it last year and I'm loving it. 100% would buy again if i was choosing now. It has a soul and is so rewarding to ride.
Agreed.
...and a lovely showcase of the trails around Salisbury Plain too. Top notch.
Had my new "dakar podium" delivered last Thursday, after months of attempting to decide what to buy, she looks good sat next to my 701 LR. Looking forward being different (again)
Good choice
Excellent video!! Big fan of the mag/channel (and now you’ve successfully talked me out of getting a Desert X). I’ve just purchased a Tuareg 660 and I’m just waiting to pick it up from the showroom. I had a great experience with a KTM 640 adventure years ago and after two bulky BMW GS I can’t wait to get back to a nimble well packaged bike for both on & off road.
Great to hear! Hope you enjoy it!
Easily the best bargain in motorcycling. I picked mine up the day it become available here in the states. 14,700 miles in and it has been nothing short of pure bliss. It picks through rock gardens effortlessly, lofts the front on demand, has such a beautifully balanced chasses that it makes right maneuvers practically afterthoughts - on the whole, the Tuareg just makes you a better rider than your skill level would otherwise allow for.
They truly outdid themselves with this machine.
Sure the LC8c is more powerful, but it's also more buzzy, and famed for atypical KTM issues (I used to own a 990, and I loved the damn thing, but I too got to experience the "fun" of long-term KTM ownership). The KTM 890R definitely has better suspension, but it also sells for $3000+ more - and that's not to say "The 890R has good suspension and the Tuareg doesn't." The 890R has exceptionally good suspension for riding offroad - like, it is plainly unparalleled as to how good it is. The Tuareg is also damn good - it just isn't "as" good as the KTM or Norden 901 Expedition which now runs the same kit.
If you bought a Tuareg and threw even 2k at the suspension, there'd really be no arguing even that last point. The Ape cruises quite happily at 75-80mph all day, can handle thousands of miles of hard, off-road abuse, and remain among the best handling ADVs on pavement, too. It is easily the benchmark the rest of the industry should be looking at when designing their newest entries to the segment as it will only serve to get better, more capable machines that make us all better riders.
Superb vid. I found myself nodding moronically at everything you said as its exactly what ive been saying to mates since ive had mine. My dad downsized to the tuareg from an africa twin last year and at that time id only seen pics and thought it looked a little awkward.... then i rode it.
To me, it felt like the bike honda shouldve built when they relaunched the AT in 2015.
I picked mine up last week. Initially, off road i thought it was okay and felt composed but realised i was labouring the engine around 2k rpm. Once i started holding it above 4k it felt like the bike came alive! So responsive and playful to ride. I found myself using everything as a kicker to launch it into the next obstacle. Then rode 2hrs home on cruise control. I was 7hrs in the saddle after a long time off and felt fresh as a daisy.
What a bike! I cant tell enough people about it 😂
Looking forward to seeing the graphics come out. Count me in
Yes! (What you said about the AT)
I have a Tuareg since last June and I chose her for many reasons. First of all I like even if is a little bit bizare. Secondly i chose her for the engine, the handling on and off road and for the correct quantity of electronic support on board like engine maps, quick shifter and cruise control. I enjoyed my bike on the highway for holiday with my wife, on mountain pass and on military road on italian Alps with my friends. I loved every single km with her.
Damn, I was hoping no one would do a review on it like you did. I really enjoy being the only one in my area (dealer is just over an hour away) riding the Tuareg. It was the last bike I demoed (6 total) and I didn’t get two miles
down the road and had to get off road. I’ve had zero issues and love it
😂 Sorry man! Unfortunately Big Rock Moto beat me too it as well and he said he loved it as well.
Yet another great review, beautifully filmed music dubbed nicely. I could go on and on. Love leaving feedback when it's this good! Look forward to your next offering 👍👍👍👍👍
Much appreciated! Means a lot!
Awesome review! Truly an underrated bike, maybe the reliability stigma of Italian bike is still around the the lack of more information out there from the Touareg owners and the media itself makes the difference. Thanks Llel and Brake Magazine team for another amazing video, well done you! 👍👍
Ok. You have twisted my arm. I need to try one. Love this review
Great review. I've always liked this bike and maybe its been over looked untill now.
Glad you liked it!
I thought this was going to be a modded Tenere vid at first. When you were making your list of adv bikes, I was saying how could you miss the Taureg?
But then the dopamine set in; first adv bike.
For me, the list is : Taureg, 890/790 KTM R, Tenere.
I come from a dirt background and the Taureg is the first bike to have me actively stacking cash until i can afford one.
Thanks!
What is a Taureg? TUareg
brilliant review , l test rode one and loved it, even went back the next day and rode it again but didn't buy it !! the reliability "thing" stood in my way , now you've got me excited !!!
The reliability is not a "thing"
I have 9k km on mine and reliability is solid. I know if I made a more reasonable choice and bought a Tenere or 850 GS, I'd be thinking in the back of my head about Tuareg. No such thing now, I'm 100% sure I'd buy Tuareg again if I was deciding today.
Buying a motorcycle is already not a reasonable thing to do, so don't ruin it by buying a reasonable motorcycle 😅
Great review. That bike would be on my very short list if I was in that market right now. BTW I took a chance on a SWM Superdual 650 DS bike. I wanted a modern DRZ/KLR 650 and this sexy Italian has been a joy to explore on. I take it eveywhere. Take a chance people.
Great video Llel.👌I'm not in the market for an adventure bike, but you definitely peaked my interest in those noodles. Cold lunches will never be good enough anymore now!
You should! 😂
Exactly my thoughts. I bought one last spring. Hit with it nasty Romanian and Latvian trails. Its holds up fantastic.. not even thinking to sell it :)
Stoked to hear you enjoy it!
It's even got a big smile - pop a couple of self-adhesive googly eyes on the lower windscreen screws & the lights are a big shiny smile.
What i nice video. Really good script and delivery.
Thank you very much!
Questo video è bellissimo! Sono un felice possessore di un Tuareg 660 con uno Stage 2 di modifiche da due anni. La moto è sempre così dannatamente perfetta! Grazie mille, hai un iscritto in più al canale dall'Italia.
I am looking at wraps for my Tuareg now. Do you have anything to order yet? Great review, thanks!
Coming soon!
There must be different relative pricing in different countries. In Australia have the following ride away RRPs:
Tuareg (base) - $22,230
Transalp - $15,892
V-Strom 800DE - $18,590
Tenere T7 - $20,349
Tenere T7 WR - $25,499
790 Adventure R - ~$19,790
890 Adventure - ~$21,490
890 Adventure R - ~$25,000
Africa Twin - $24,647
So the Tuareg is at the pricey end of mid-weight adventure bikes for us Aussies. Only 20 dealers nationwide, mainly in the capital cities. Can understand lack of popularity here.
I think what you're seeing is that the transalpine is really cheap. If we're comparing it to the T7, it's still significantly better value. To get a T7 working to same level, you'll be spending upward for $3-4K.
@@BrakeMagazineThat's part of the difficulty trying to compare all these bikes. Working out what has to be done to each, and the cost to make it right for yourself by sorting through reviews done by others gets complicated. No right answer for everyone. I appreciate the way you approach this in your reviews with a focus on the riding experience.
Cheers.
I currently own it's predecessor, the Aprilia Pegaso 650. Also a wonderful old hog to ride. I met two Germans riding this Touareg and was blown away by the sound.
Excellent review, you so get this bike. Over 8000 trouble free miles and I'm like a kid with a new toy every time I ride it! It's such a joy to ride.
Right on!
Where have you been till now it’s been out what 2 years. Thanks as always a fantastic vid thank you
Took me two years to find the press contact 😂
I watched another video on the Aprillia. Like you say, reputations shouldn’t stick. Great suspension, good power, huge carrying capacity for 2up, nice TFT and electronics package and small enough and comfortable enough to have some real fun off road. I’m booking a test ride. This ticks a lot of boxes. Great review.
Thanks for sharing
I've actually sold my Ducati Desert X to buy one of these. The DDX is a great bike, but the high centre of gravity, heavier weight and that ridiculously fragile and super expensive metal tank just put me off using it the way I had intended. Johannes Dalen (takk for alt Johannes) said that your review was imminent and it doesn't disappoint so great job Liel. The Tuareg arrives next Wednesday and things are looking good :-)
😁
Interesting… Am looking for my next bike. Will add this to the test ride list. Thanks! 👍
Have fun!
Great vid very interesting
I tested all mid-size adv bikes, to replace my crashed Africa Twin DCT that I enjoyed very much over 45.000km. DesertX had my preference for handling and engine but insane pricing. Tuareg660 came 2nd for handling, equipment, pricing, but a high handle bar, a tough gear selector, and too small capacity engine for my program with lot of long road trip, made me choosing a 890R at discounted price. But fully agree the Tuareg660 is a very good adv bike for offroad enthusiasts.
A great assessment!
I've bot one after reviews at BigRock and I love it. No issues so far
A mate bought one early but didn't get on with it in the end. I'd love to see a comapro with the upcoming F900
Amazing video, as always. I was searching on squid plate and crash bars, so I appreciate the suggestion! If you have any other suggestions for aftermarket products for this bike, please feel free to share!
Cheers from Portugal!
CrossPro are from Portugal too!
yea but the T7 is reliable...period. No discussion/defense needed. And doesn't mandate a dealer stop for computer clearance. As someone who actually "adventures" their bike, Ill take a tubed wheel and a stronger wrist over an Aprillia any day. Great video, great content, keep them coming! #politelydisagree
Nah, we're not disagreeing here, except on cruise control. Cruise control is a gem. I'm not with you on the tubes either. That puncture took me the time it to make a coffee to fix and I didn't have to sweat once.
Reliability of the T7 isn't in question. I've never heard of one breaking down. I think it's still a great bike and you won't hear me question that, I just happen to think the Tuareg is better.
Thanks for being polite too mate. I'm pretty sure there will be a barrage of comments in about 36 hours telling me I'm a prick 😂
We all feel different about some things, for some reliability is most important, regarding tube/less tire discussion, it all depends, what you do if that puncture was a bigger slash, then a tube tire could still be fixed, at least for you to drive home or too a dealership, of course you would need to remember to have the spare tube with you 😝😂😂
I totally agree. I mean, on longer rides I take a tube incase that happens.
@@gryphongryph You can put a tube inside a tubeless tire as well, just cut off the tubeless valve stem and insert tube.
@@SpyCRS I know, but why then run tubeless 😜
Enjoy the channel and the insights…. Your tire change setup in the intro caught my eye. I’ve never seen one like it.. care to share info?
It's called a Rabaconda Street Tyre Changer. Review coming soon :)
i Have the Tuareg, my brother got the transalp 750, i tried the transalp i tried the guzzi v86tt , tried the v100 mandelo , cb 500x cb500f , NC750X ...i like to change bikes but i find there is nothing to change to Tuareg 660 is weirdly exceptional now im stuck with it as nothing drives so effortlessly in every situation`it just work on magic
I was waiting for this one, but was not ready for the cinematography! Video felt 2 minites long, great work as always. I was definitely between the Tuareg and the Tenere but ended up with the T7 since I was able to get a great deal on one, but the Dakar Podium Tuareg was calling my name.
Quick question: even with the Rally Raid Extreme suspension in your T7 project bike, the Tuareg still feels better to you. Is that down to the chassis and its dynamics? I know how a bike handles is more than just suspension but that is high praise for the Tuaregs setup and engineering.
Really appreciate the kind words. I try!
Yes. The quality of the RR suspension is high, but getting the balance on the T7 really perfect is actually quite tricky. Possible, and when it's right it's superb, really. That bike was one of the best things I've ever ridden fun wise.
On Aprilia it felt more like the 890 ADV R. It doesn't need you to have the set-up so precise, possibly a better balance to the chassis.
Really well done review! That bike ticks a lot of my boxes, but up to now cannot justify 9/10k on a bike, any bike, and I don`t own a car. This could be the exception, you did such a good job!
Ok Llel, tell me how much time you spent on roto on this episode 😁 Great production values and super compelling yarn you've spun!
I am a dirt bike guy, so it took the 450 twin for me to pay attention to Aprilia.
And, they still have my attention!
Well good to have some more personal experience with the bike. I hope that they will continue improving it and won't discontinue it. It is I agree a total unicorn and I was dead set on buying it but was too scared as I'm in the US and there are not many dealers and shops that would service it. I think that in Europe it is a different story.
A little. We have more dealers, but it's almost always the same story.
High praise indeed! I have a KTM 890 Adventure that honestly lacks overall. I don’t need monster power but the ergonomics just don’t work nor the non-adjustable suspension. The Tuareg is actually in my sights and your review covers exactly the issues. A test ride soon…. Thanks!
Another fantastic video! Would love to know your suspension settings and weight.
Ran the standard settings, a fair amount of preload on the shock. Ran two and four clicks out on the fork compression to test. It got softer. Weigh about 98kg.
I was at the Truff Hivernale last weekend and my neighbour had an Aprilia that has already covered 150,000 km. That seems reasonably reliable to me.
After being unable to find a T7 to buy, for months, I said screw it and went and bought a Tuareg. After 9000 miles in a little over 7 months I have not looked back. I have ran into some long lead times on some maintenance parts (spoke ends), but went ahead and ordered some of that stuff before I even need them. Aprilia did such a good job with this motorcycle. I'm hoping they can put that new 457 motor into a sub 400lb machine but with the same suspension. That would probably be the only bike I would trade my 660 in on.
the tuareg 457 with less than 400 lbs would be great.
I’m not an ADV guy but even I was a Tuareg 660! Currently riding a Tuono 660 Factory and absolutely love it. Amazing value for money.
at last! Someone summarises the genius of this motorbike. Thank you! I love mine and it's the best thing I've ever ridden.
Great to hear!
Good video!
Beautiful video and great way to tell things. Great job and Subscribed!
In Italy Journalists and UA-camrs are mostly “attracted” by other brands despite the facts that you well mention on this video. Also, Aprilia doesn’t push very much on marketing as it should…
Ps: Happy Tuareg owner here but I would have been subscribed anyway 😊
Thanks for the sub!
Great review thanks for sharing. Watching in Ushuaia having ridden from Alaska on a Himalayan. Want to treat myself to something a bit more plush when home and have been struggling to decide; Tuareg, Husky 701, T7 or a ground up rebuild of an XT600E... I'm sorry to say I'd discounted the Tuareg but you have tempted me back... now subscribed :)
Test rode the Taureg and it was great, bought a T7 and love it
Great to hear!
As Wayfarer said below - in the US it is the lack of dealer network hurting sales. My friend bought one and likes it, but travels a long way for service and parts take forever to get. Cheers
It's a catch 22 though right, because if no-one buys them, even if they're cheaper and better, then it becomes impossible for things to change,
I get it though.
Yes in the UK both Aprilia and KTM dealer networks are quite sparse, which is off putting for some.
It was like that for BMW 20 years ago too, but that has changed.
Once the machine is out of manufacture warranty, you can take it to any garage.
My local garage is always busy with motorbikes, even though there are Honda etc main dealers just 15 miles away.
So really only an issue for the first couple of years ( and to try / buy in the first place ).
I own one and I am totally in love with it
Also - could regearing, a re-map and full exhaust bring up some low end or mid powah?
Absolutely. I'd love to see what that does.
At last, great review!
Truly exceptional bike, mine has been as reliable as a stone axe >18k kms.
Unfortunately now for sale as I've moved to dirt and bought a small enduro and no longer need the tarmac capability.. bargain on Oz bike sales ..
Very attractive bike, thank you. I believe the engine is adapted from the sporty tuono, which may explain the low torque at low rpms
Yes, you are right
Bought this bike when it came out. Great bike marred by Piaggio Group and KYB front suspension assembly.
Thanks for your thoughts on this one!
My pleasure!
Good one. I just bought Tuareg, 800km at the moment. Waiting for first service. 1 question from my side - can you give me your opinion on vibrations from engine starting from be noticable from 4k RPM? It s like small Buzzing, around 6k is really noticable. In general only few ppl who revieved this bike said anything on this topic and I am curious about opinion from somebody more experienced.
Mine didn't have any noticeable vibration that I wouldn't expect. Do you have crash bars fitted?
@@BrakeMagazine not yet. In general I found that there is huge difference in different shoes- in Alpine stars smx 6 it was quite intense. When I switched to SIDI adv 2 its hardly noticable until 6k RPM. Maybe its only my feeling - till now I was riding honda vfr for last 8 years and got used to V4 engine, I am new to R2 ones.