It wouldn’t be much of a guesswork if we ask you to name a sport/adventure-tourer with a 90-degree V-twin engine. The answer would likely be the Ducati Multistrada and it would be usually correct as it is such a popular motorcycle.
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However, to guess so this time around would be wrong because we are talking about a certain other Italian which is as capable but probably a wee bit less fashionable as a whole. We are talking about Aprilia and, in particular, the Caponord.
Caponord 1200 is a sport and adventure-tourer which comes with an 1197cc, 90-degree V-twin, DOHC, liquid-cooled engine capable of producing a healthy 125 BHP of maximum power at 8,250 RPM and 114.8 NM of torque at 6,800 RPM. Impressive numbers that are not quite in the ballpark of similar motorcycles from Ducati, BMW and KTM.
Basic comparison aside, the Caponord is an extremely capable and a purposeful motorcycle on its own. Lately, there are certain commonalities that are becoming visible in Aprilia designs in some of their motorcycles. For example, the front of the Caponord is strikingly similar to the RSVR and the Tuono V4. Also, even though the exhaust is bigger and bulkier than the other two, the overall design and the finishing is quite the same.
Other than this, this adventure-tourer comes with a host of electronics that have become a norm in sportbikes these days. It has a 2-channel ABS and a 3-way traction control system which can also be completely turned off. Thanks to the Ride by Wire technology, there are three riding modes as well – Touring, Sports and Rain.
We Sincerely thank Mr. Akhil Venkateshwaran for taking out his time and letting us ride his motorcycle.
Aprilia is clearly not aggressive in India as much as Ducati which is enjoying a pretty good reception in our market. Primary reason for that is all their motorcycles for India are pretty high end that can’t be pitched against the likes of the Triumph Street Triple and the Ducati Monster 821 to name a few. Yet, being an Aprilia, Caponord is a quality motorcycle and has a pretty decent following in the international market.
If you’re someone who is looking to experience how it feels like to own an Aprilia but do not have enough budget, you might find something on OLX if you give it a try.
In the end, though, we do feel that this interesting adventure-tourer from Aprilia does need a little bit more oomph to stand shoulder to shoulder against its rivals. Aprilia is a fierce competitor having immense racing experience and we would like to believe that a sportier Caponord will be up next.