UR TV CAST

The big twin has climbing power to spare and the agile suspension and brakes are designed for sinuous mountain roads. Motorway cruising does not demand much of what the Tuono has to give.My only concern about touring on a Tuono would be that I would not ride gently enough to enjoy my surroundings. It has the type of performance that makes middle-aged fathers do silly things. Forward vision is excellent, which was a relief in the crowded suburbs of Pisa at rush hour.If the bike I rode had been fitted with Aprilia’s tailor-made tank and tail-bag set, I would have been delighted to ride it back to Britain. A fast climb over one of the minor roads that cross the Swiss/Italian border would suit the Tuono to perfection.

For the truly speed-obsessed, there is even a race-tuned version, the RSV Tuono Racing, that feels ready for track competition in its standard production form. But the standard Tuono is comfortable as well as lightning-fast. The upright riding position feels accommodating on rural switchbacks and motorways. Treated with common courtesy the Tuono has impeccable handling.

With the robust, tapered handlebars in my grip I was able to corner fast and safely. This machine has an enticing characteristic shared only by bikes that combine huge power with equal practicality It inspires the confidence to ride fast. I found myself approaching each tight bend slightly faster than the last. This bike is as manageable as it is powerful.Granted, the Tuono is a 150mph street fighter and capable of performance only the most boneheaded racer will begin to stretch.