The Indian adventure motorcycle segment might soon welcome a fresh contender as Aprilia hints at launching the Tuareg 660 in the country. Globally recognized for its mid-weight off-road capabilities, the Tuareg 660’s possible arrival could intensify the already growing ADV (Adventure) motorcycle market in India.
While no official launch date has been confirmed, recent developments suggest that Aprilia is seriously considering the Indian market for its popular adventure tourer. This comes amid a rising demand for capable, mid-capacity ADVs among Indian riders who are increasingly exploring long-distance touring and off-road riding.
What is the Aprilia Tuareg 660?
First introduced globally in 2021, the Aprilia Tuareg 660 is built on the same platform as the RS 660 and Tuono 660, but tuned for off-road adventures and long-distance touring. It features a 659cc parallel-twin engine, producing around 80 PS of power and 70 Nm of torque, tuned to deliver strong low-end performance, especially useful for trails and rough terrains.
Unlike its sporty siblings, the Tuareg 660 gets a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel, higher ground clearance, long-travel suspension, and a tall windscreen, making it adventure-ready straight from the factory. Its dry weight is around 187 kg, which is quite manageable for a bike of this class.
The motorcycle also comes loaded with features like a 5-inch TFT display, multiple riding modes, traction control, engine braking adjustment, and cornering ABS — offering a modern and safe riding experience for both on-road and off-road scenarios.
Why the Timing Could Be Right
India’s adventure touring segment has witnessed steady growth in recent years. The success of models like the Royal Enfield Himalayan, KTM 390 Adventure, BMW G 310 GS, and Suzuki V-Strom SX indicates a clear trend: Indian riders are no longer restricting themselves to just city riding or short weekend trips. Instead, they are venturing into the world of touring, trail riding, and even international rides.
If Aprilia launches the Tuareg 660 in India, it would directly compete with the likes of the Yamaha Tenere 700 (if launched), KTM 890 Adventure (if introduced), and the Triumph Tiger Sport 660. Its premium positioning and global reputation could make it an attractive option for enthusiasts looking for something beyond the typical adventure bikes already available.
Challenges Ahead
However, pricing will play a key role. Aprilia currently offers high-end products in India through the CBU (Completely Built Unit) route, which leads to steep price tags. If the Tuareg 660 follows the same path, it might end up being priced above ₹10 lakh (ex-showroom), which could limit its appeal to a niche segment.
Alternatively, if Aprilia opts for local assembly or even partial localization, it could dramatically improve its market competitiveness. That said, Aprilia hasn’t made any official statement about local production plans for this model.
Industry Buzz and Expectations
Dealership sources and motorcycling forums have been buzzing with talk of the Tuareg 660 being spotted in India, either for testing or for display at private events. Some even speculate a limited showcase during upcoming auto shows or motorcycling expos. Though unconfirmed, such sightings often precede official announcements.
For now, Indian motorcycling enthusiasts can only wait and watch. If Aprilia does decide to enter this segment seriously, the Tuareg 660 could mark a significant shift in how premium adventure bikes are positioned in India.
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Final Thoughts
With India’s motorcycling scene evolving rapidly, the arrival of globally acclaimed models like the Aprilia Tuareg 660 seems more likely than ever. The big question is not if, but when and at what price.
As the ADV market heats up, 2025 could turn out to be an exciting year for motorcycle enthusiasts across the country.
