MO Poll: Aprilia Tuono 1100 Factory Or KTM Super Duke R?
The Aprilia Tuono 1100 and KTM Super Duke R have been going at one another for years. They’ve both won MOBO awards and numerous shootouts against one another, as well as other contenders. Both bikes were upgraded for 2017, improving the performance of each. We may or may not conduct another shootout between the two, but prior to if and when we do, we’re curious to know which bike our readers think is the better hooligan.
If you need reminding what each bike brings to the table for 2017 before casting your vote check out our first ride reviews here:
2017 Aprilia Tuono 1100 RR/Factory First Ride Review
2017 KTM 1290 Super Duke R First Ride Review
Comments explaining your choice are also welcome below. We’d love to hear from ya!
A former Motorcycle.com staffer who has gone on to greener pastures, Tom Roderick still can't get the motorcycle bug out of his system. And honestly, we still miss having him around. Tom is now a regular freelance writer and tester for Motorcycle.com when his schedule allows, and his experience, riding ability, writing talent, and quick wit are still a joy to have – even if we don't get to experience it as much as we used to.
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Owned a 2013 Tuono. Then a 2014 Superduke. Both had teething problems. Both seemed to have remedied them (Tuono forum discussion of the ENGINES failing? On a modern bike?). I did NOT like Tuono cam chain rattle on warm start at ALL--just saying.
That said--Tuono is amazing. And baited me into mega-speeding. It's also more comitted and cramped and gas-guzzling and no real pillion ability.
Superduke is real world accessible performance right off from 4000 RPMS. You don't have to ride fast to enjoy the bike. Its performance is every-day accessible. It's comfortable--but wicked drive off bottom let's yuh keep license while experiencing "Yahoo!" Factor.
I saw dyno graph overlays of the 1100 T and SDR. SDR produces Tuono's max torque--which occurs at 9500 RPMS--at a mere 4000 RPMS.
Michigan roads are shit. The "too soft for track" SDR suspension with 1-2" extra travel works well here.
So--I just bought a 2017 Superduke--wanted to try and swing the Tuono but practical performance won the day.
Have about 1300 miles and a track day on my black 2017 Tuono RR. It's a performance beast. Pull your arms out acceleration, gives full confidence at lean, sounds incredible, and turns heads. Plus, for 15k you get all the goodies. Not to mention comfort. I added the factory seat and I wouldn't hesitate to ride it anywhere now. Need Ohlins and a fancy paint scheme? Go factory and it's still a much better value.