2018 Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 RR ABS

Standard motorcycles get a bad rap. After all, what’s not to like about a sporty, relatively upright—wrists at a reasonable angle, back straight, boots slightly rearward—riding position, especially if that so-called standard is powered by arguably one of the most brilliant engines of all time and tied to a supernatural chassis equipped with user-friendly electronics? Well, that pretty much sums up the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 RR ABS. A Cycle World Ten Best winner, the Tuono V4 1100 RR is the benchmark for motorcycles of this type, particularly if your idea of a good time involves a twisty country road or even a racetrack.

No surprise, Aprilia won four World Superbike titles, three consecutively, with the RSV4 upon which the Tuono V4 1100 RR is based. That influence also helps explain the available colors: Assen Black or Portimao Grey. For 2018, the Tuono V4 1100 RR remains pretty much the same great package as in the recent past. Seeking even more performance? Aprilia offers a higher-spec (and $2.5K pricier) model known as the Tuono V4 1100 Factory.

Likes: That engine! That chassis!

Dislikes: Like to ride two-up? Look elsewhere.

Verdict: The gold standard of sporting standards