The new 2015 Aprilia Tuono V4 is now available in Europe with a more powerful engine and a revised chassis, both in RR and Factory trims. On paper, this machine looks like the sportiest naked bike of 2015. Alas, Canadians will have to wait until after the summer to find out what the Italian manufacturer's lethal weapon can do.

Photo: Aprilia

Even more power
The already explosive Aprilia Tuono V4 now boasts a 1,077cc displacement. Output goes up to 175 hp (+5) at 11,000 rpm, while torque makes a big jump to 88.6 lb-ft at 9,000 rpm. How? Engineers developed specific pistons and connecting rods, as well as a lighter, stronger cylinder head. They also re-programmed the ECU. Power and torque are both available at lower revs; in fact, Aprilia claims the new V4 produces 20 more hp at 8,000 rpm than the 1,000cc engine while being easier to modulate.

The transmission on the 2015 Aprilia Tuono V4 1100RR remains unchanged, however. It's a sharp, robust unit that received a number of enhancements in 2013.

World-class, race-derived chassis
As usual, the Italian streetfighter benefits from the expertise gained by Aprilia in the WSBK with the championship-winning RSV4 RR and RF models. Geometry was revised to increase agility, including a 24.7-degree rake angle (instead of 25.1) and a 99.7mm steering pivot offset (instead of 107.4mm). Meanwhile, the longer swingarm stretches the wheelbase by 6mm to preserve stability. The riding position was also improved (15mm lower seat height, narrower handlebar) to make the 2015 Aprilia Tuono V4 1100RR accessible to a larger number of enthusiasts.

All of the electronics found on the RSV4 are carried over to the latest naked bike. In addition to traction control, wheelie control, Bosch 9MP ABS with rear lift mitigation (RLM), launch control, and gear shift assist, the 2015 Aprilia Tuono V4 1100RR comes with a smartphone app that allows riders to monitor and adjust engine settings remotely.

Well-equipped RR, exhilarating Factory
Braking is handled by an excellent Brembo system consisting of dual 320mm front discs with radial M432 callipers. The Tuono V4 1100RR features Sachs suspension components, while the Factory model uses Öhlins bits including a steering damper, which is definitely a plus on a machine whose front tire loves to take off.

Speaking of which, the 2015 Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory features Pirelli Supercorsa SP tires (120mm front, 200mm rear). It also stands out with more aggressive graphics. Available colours include Portimao Grey and Donington Blue, a nod to WSBK host cities in Portugal and England.

Bottom line
After stunning everyone in 2013, Aprilia wisely made key updates this year to take on new contenders such as the KTM 1290 Super Duke and BMW S1000R. The battle in this segment will be tighter and more intense than ever. Come back to Moto123.com to learn more about the upcoming launch of the 2015 Aprilia Tuono V4 1100RR and 1100 Factory in Canada.