11000 miles VS 5000 miles!!! It was obvious where you are going to 😂 I had T7 and now I have Aprilia Tuareg 660, I can say that you nailed it. Electronics on Tuareg works great. Tubeless tires is a must for me. Cruise control is an amazing feature. On my trip to Alaska, cruise control gave me a chance to set up the desired speed and enjoyed the scenery. I have 22000 miles problems free on my Tuareg.
So great to hear you have so many trouble free miles on your Tuareg. It is great bike and much better experience than the T7. What a trip you took. Alaska, right on.
Purchased my Tuareg in November of 2023. I have put 11,000 miles on it and have not had a single issue with it. I keep scrutinizing every little aspect of it and it has no faults. Exceptional off-road machine and exceptional asphalt qualities, specially handling and long distance comfort. Cruise control is a game changer. Ergonomics are perfect. I can stand up all day. This bike inspires confidence and the fun factor on pavement and particularly off-road is exponential! Best bike I have ever owned.
I would like to add something to my previous comments. The real true brilliance about the Tuareg is the impeccable job the Aprilia engineering team did on the geometry of the frame and distribution of the weight. It feels like a feather, even at a standstill. As I said, it’s the best bike I’ve ever had, be it street bikes and off-road bikes. However, if I was going to do an around the world trip the Tuareg is not the bike I would choose. Not because it wouldn’t make, but because you’ll be waiting a long time to get parts if you need them. The Tenerè on the other hand is a bike of which parts are findable all over the world! If you ask me to travel anywhere in Europe or North America then the Tuareg is the only bike I would take!
Got a Tuareg over a year ago, and it definitely makes me look a waaaay better rider than I really am, specially offroad. Plus smiles! life's too short to ride boring bikes (had too many of them over the years)
34 000km in the tuareg done exclusively on long european tour. It was a demo bike so one of the first out there. Had all the small issues. Aprilia took all care of it even after warranty ended. Dealer relation does matter. But Nothing stopped me even 7000km from home. I also learned a lot more about bike mechanic than in 4 years owning a vstrom. Its just a more refined and exciting bike.
@@DB-sd3cw 34 000km in 5 month of active riding on 2 years on a new demo bike. parameters matter. I do expect it to do a lot more km. but the bike has been out since spring 2022. Some have done 50 000km in that period. So yeah I think its relevant. haters can hate. I dont care about bike brand nationality. I love all bikes and pick the one that suits me most.
I would say Tuareg is the better bike, if all works and no issues. T7 is a tank, 0 issues. I will buy the T7 as my next bike, because reliability is more important to me than electronics. I like older bikes more anyway, my offroad beast is a1990 XTZ750 Super Tenere currently for the last few years, so Yamaha is a no brainer for me :)
When it comes to reliability, when you buy a bike today, there are pretty much no bad bikes left. Aprilia's reputation is from 10+ years ago. They got dramatically better around 2015-2016. I've had modern day Triumph, KTM, BMW and Aprilias. None had major issues. My 08 Daytona had some electrical problems, but my 19 Speed Triple has been trouble free. Buy the bike you like and forget the rest.
You are spot on. I have been thinking the same thing. There are a lot of happy Aprilia owners leaving comments on how their bikes have been trouble free.
I've also found that many of the most critical posters on the internet are the same people who don't own and have never even ridden the motorcycle they are criticizing.
@@BlazinBlades the ride is so amazing it is worth any trouble that may come up. I see it as a an adventure. However, if you read through the comments you will see many Tuareg owners with lots of reliable miles.
In most cases they're just curious bikers who did their due diligence and saw the countless reliability issues that come with Italian bike ownership, aprilia especially, and decided their money was better spent on superior workmanship.
@@DB-sd3cw I think the tide is turning in Aprilia's favor. Reliability seems to be significantly improved since Piaggio took over and Aprilia is making the bikes we want. I am trying tonflog my Tuareg to see what it can take.
Best comparison of these 2 I’ve ever seen. And especially it comes from the owner that already put few miles on them. I don’t own any of them but I agree with you 100% Tuareg represents way better package and value. To me tubeless tires and cruise control makes the price difference “0”. Yes reliability is still bing “?”. For time being Tuareg represents great value.
@@richardhretczak536 thanks for the feedback. There are a lot Tuareg owners with 1000s of trouble free miles. They, like me, absolutely love this bike. I am going to push it to its limits to see just how well it does.
I bought a toureg 660 in 2022 absolutely love it but unfortunately crashed 😢 it this year but if it can't be fixed. I will be definitely be buying another 1 done BTC in Morocco this year can't wait for next year's event best bike I've ever had Vincent
News Flash : brand new Tuaregs can be found via Cycle Trader for well under $11k..... Further beating the crude and unrefined T7 into submission... As for Aprilia "reliability".. I raced a 2010 RSV4 (thanks Micah at AF1 Texas) until 2017 in CSS and WERA S/E Region with zero mechanical issues...in the White plate Expert class .. I then purchased both a MG V85TT and Tuareg to replace my 10 year old GSA... 11k miles in the V85TT in 10 months...ZERO mechanical issues...as for the Tuareg it was under $12k OTD with a taller screen and quick shifter ( thanks MotoPlex Daytona for doing me a solid).. a 1 tooth smaller front sprocket and RMATV Tusk ADV tires and off to nasty Florida single track...this is where the Tuareg DESTROYS the T7 and zero mechanical failures after nearly 100 miles of sugar sand, palmetto roots and typical Florida swampy condotions ..aside from ghastly roast your right leg engine heat from the Aprilia there is no comparison... Great conparo vid Matt...spot on !
Thanks for sharing your experience with your bikes. I have experienced similar heat issues with the T7, so they are really close in that respect. The Tuareg is an amazing bike.
I understand your position. I have had bike with electronics for a very long time and I have not had electronic failures. I don't typically see reports of electronics failures of the traction control, abs or cruise control. There is value in simplicity.
A very informative real world comparison, thank you. As an Aprilia owner (not a Tuareg), I have not experienced any mechanical issues whatsoever in four years of ownership, so would not hesitate in buying a Tuareg over a Yamaha.
Yeah, I had one issue I documented and I am aware of some fuel gauge failures and a few oil leaks in the first ones off the factory floor. I think most of those bugs were ironed out. There is an issue with the fork valving but that is the fork manufacturer issue not Aprilia, but Aprilia really needs to acknowledge the issue and fix it.
I own a T7 and a riding buddy has the 660. The 660 is an awesome bike and I could easily own one. Nice motor, great handling, comfortable and very nice looking. The only thing I didn't like about it was the amount of heat from the engine to the inside of my thighs on both legs. Probably not a deal breaker but I sure noticed it. Both are wonderful bikes so go with what spins your prop on a test ride. We are lucky to have such great bikes to choose from!
Right on, yeah test ride both and see which one speaks to you. I haven't found the heat off of the Tuareg to be a problem but everyone is different. I had similar heat issues with my T7 in 90 degree temps.
Excellent review. I’ll never understand the Tenere’ considering all the better alternatives. I love my Aprilia Tuareg, it’s the best bike out there in this category. Thanks Matt!
11k miles on tuareg its been great, got the new transalp as well but the chassis the playfulness, the low mass of weight of the tuareg its in another league ... So many bikes i tryed nothing compares for me is the unicorn 🦄
THANKS for this. You directly and concisely answered all my questions backed by experience. I came away from a multi-day off-road adventure on the T7 a bit unimpressed (granted, I’m 5’7” and average skilled) and have been trying to articulate why. Would have to agree its outstanding qualities are its simplicity and reliability. And it shares its sister bike the MT-07’s quality of demanding more from the rider to safely maximize its potential.
If you haven't test ridden a Tuareg, I highly recommend it. At your height and riding skill you will get more out of the bike and feel more comfortable doing it. Cheers.
And... because of the demand for the Tenere and the lack of demand for the Tuareg, the Tenere is often marked-up and the Tuareg is often discounted. I bought my 2023 Tuareg (Indaco Tagelmust) for 10,999 USD in March, a $1700 discount. I love it! I've been riding for almost 60 years and It's the best bike I've ever owned.
Right on. I missed the March discount by two weeks and had to settle for $1000 off. It is the best bike I have ever ridden. It is so much fun to ride and is easy to ride.
Hello, tenere 700 extreme edition owner here ! I would say i love the T7 especially my 2023 extreme edition wich has way better suspension then the normal does. I do agree on the agricultural gearbox feeling, sometimes it remembers me my Harley davidson ! The main thing i doesn't like is the seat height, wich even if i'm 1m83 (6 feets), i barely touch the ground, wich makes it very sketchy in slippy muddy conditions. That said, i have done pretty much everything with this bike : Big jumps, Mountain climbing, Deep mud, 700kms (430 miles) of road travel in one go, and i can just relate this bike handles it all very nicely. It's simply a great and cheap allrounder. I spoke to my Yamaha dealership which also sells Aprilia, and he told me he had more issues with the Tuaregs then the T7, and he would not advise me to switch for it (wich was my question). I did 15 600 kms (Approx 9700 miles) in 6 months with my tenere this year, had not a single issue with it. I may test the Tuareg soon and have my own feeling about this Italian bike. PS. Never accidently locked the rear wheel on the T7, since the motor is very linear and takes easily up on low rpm, i don't get why people would slam 2 gear down like they are riding a sport bike... But you know, people ask for traction control on 40hp bikes nowadays, what a pity ?
@@Jonathan-ez8tq we don't get the other versions of the T7 in the states. It's a shame. The riding experience of the Tuareg is much better for me. The first model year had a few issues but the most recent bikes seem to have all the issues resolved.
Great comparison! I find the quick shifter on the Tuareg to be amazing, never had one before, especially when standing on the pegs and picking your way through rough terrain.
Yeah, I realized during the editing I forgot to mention the quick shifter. You are spot on, it works really well and is great both on and off road. It was worth the small price paid to add it.
I had a new T7 in 2021 put 10k miles on it in a year, great bike but they are a little top heavy no argument, about to buy a new mid size and very very tempted with the Aprilia, but there's one small problem, I've just had a World Raid on demo, and it was good, very good! 😖🤦
The updated 390 adventure being introduced at eicma next week looks to check a lot of the boxes that the Aprilia does along with lighter weight. It's exciting to see all the new choices available. Kove, Cf moto, Royal Enfield Himalayan, rumored Aprilia 457 toureg. Thanks again for your thoughts.
The new 390 will have all of the Tuareg electronics, and surpass the ABS and MTC with its being lean sensative, that said, OOF is a significantly higher seat, and it looks like it will have tubed wheels. Of course the lower cost means adding VMX tubeless spoked wheels will be less painful than adding them to a Tenere. - Frank
Saw this video with a rider with his feet down which gives me hope that the height won't be as negative as the specs make it out to be. Kofi moto from a month ago. Sorry won't let me copy it. Love my vmx wheels.😄
I have a T660. My CAT fell off, so I put a full system on it, and it's not HOT. There was still some heat from the engine and RAD, but it's fine. The CAT superheats the exhaust. its been very reliable, Im not gentle on it and the things that break are my fault. I'm at 9000km
That's a new one. Had not heard someone say the cat fell off. Glad you are enjoying your Tuareg. It really is a fantastic bike. I don't think the heat is that bad. I may have adjusted to it. I think my T7 put off almost as much heat, but that might have been because of the skid plate I put on it. Ride your beast hard and report back.
Good stuff! I've ridden a T7 many times (do not own one) and it doesn't work for me. A T660 demo ride is absolutely in my future (when I get off injured reserve.) Thanks for sharing Matt.🤘
Really surprised you didn't mention the quickshifter since it's so much more usable than cruise control with today's drivers hitting the brakes on the freeway for no reason. I LOVE the quickshifter- It makes the bike accelerate a little quicker and reduces fatigue on multi-day rides. Also, when we talk about reliability- It's worth mentioning the fork shim problem. Easy to fix, but it is a problem.
@@bretthawton yeah, as I was editing I realized I forgot about the quick shifter, which I love. I did consider mentioning the fork issue but it's not clear to me if it every fork or certain years. I will likely be doing a dedicated suspension video in the bike later.
You are correct about the the weight balance. The engine sits very high in the chassis. The handlebars are at least an inch taller than any other bike I have ridden, partly because the tank it so tall to make room for the engine.
Great video. I agree overall, i own the 660. Ive ridden the T7. Things i like about the T7 include reliability, and the front end feels so planted with the anti squat. Outside that... Its top heavy and tall, i prefer the Tuareg tremendously. I disagree in terms of problems with the 660. Shim issue is documented and virtually all forks pulled apart have the issues. Relatively easy fix, additionally the fuel guage is a known issue, mine failed at 6000 miles. Regardless, jeez what a damn machine. I had an africa twin, atas, got rid of it due to fork seal failure, big $$$ with electronic suspension to repair it. However, the electronic package for me is spot on with the tuareg. Cruise control is great, and no nonsense navigating them. Other notes, fuel mileage! The 660 gets significantly better mileage than the T7, 2 up in canyons i have seen 70mpg on the aprilia (40 mile average or so). One other gripe i have (pretty petty) is the numeric coolant temp on the T7, vice coolant bars on 660. Really small admittedly, but i like real data.
Thanks for the feedback and your experience. Yeah, the fork issue keeps coming up. I haven't address mine yet and it was something I should have mentioned. I am planning a full suspension video with new rear spring and maybe fork internals, I will cover it then and maybe take mine apart as well. Great points.
@@advmatt If you're trying to keep the price down, definitely talk to Paul at Evo Oregon suspension. The next price point above that is the Teknik Suspension, which is the route I went just before Paul got his own valves made. The Teknik kit is pretty complete, and definitely gives the suspension more of a supported feel for sure. But the overall action of the suspension is similar to stock if that makes sense. The Andreanis just seemed harsh overall. But as someone in the ADVrider forum learned, bringing the oil level down makes it much better. If you have the money, jump to the Tractive set up. I haven't ridden it on the Tuareg, but I've ridden it on the T7. It is an absolute game changer. It made the bike feel like a properly set up dirt bike, getting rid of the dive characteristics. And the amount of bottoming resistance is crazy.
Hey Matt, you are a natural at this and very nicely done honest and fair review. Would like to hear how you reflect upon your previous bikes now with newer bike perspectives such as the 390ADV? Dollar for Dollar comparison?
@@StormKingExpedition thanks for the feedback. I still think there is a lot of value in the 390 Adv. Especially the newer models that hold their traction control setting. The riding experience of the Tuareg exceeds that of any other bike I have ridden. I still have my 390 Adv because I still enjoy getting out on it.
I think an important difference hasn’t even been revealed yet. The dealer support. I’ve been checking out the Aprillia. I called the parts department and asked about some parts and the time it takes to get from Italy. The parts guys says, “I’m just telling everyone 3-4 weeks”. Also, the “dealer light 💡” is a deal breaker for me. If I pay $14K on a motorcycle, it’s MINE. There’s no light that turns on telling me I need to go give some guys some money. Ultimate faith in your Touareg dealer is required. They will be wrenching on your bike and you won’t be there. I don’t like the feeling of this. They are probably decent people but I’d rather do the work myself. I did my research. The Italian motorcycle experience is different. If you only have one bike, I think it should be reliable and easy to get parts. A Toureg would be a great second bike maybe.
@ Sounds good. I’m thinking about not even buying the bike but investing in parts and reselling them on Craigslist. For a “reasonable” mark up of course. 😎
I have 13 1/2K on mine so far (it is my only bike). It has never failed to get me home after riding in some very remote areas and on a couple of BDRs. It has not seen the dealer since the original 600ish mile service. I ignore the light and a local shop I trust services the bike for things I do not want to do. I order basically all my parts from AF1 Racing (to include most of my third party parts). Dealers do not stock parts these days anyway, so the parts argument is pretty much moot (we had a guy smoke his Tenere rear brake pads on the Wyoming BDR and we called literally every Yamaha dealer in the state and all of them use just in time ordering and carry zero stock).
@ They are a great machine. Ultimately, the long term reliability is unknown. I think the correct strategy with owning an Italian motorcycle is to buy it brand new. And let the second and third owners of the bike worry about long term reliability. Ride it like you stole it until the warranty is about to expire. Then sell it and get something else. This is the advantage of buying new from the dealership, IMO. Always riding under dealer warranty. It goes for any brand really. Just extra important when you add unknown long term reliability to the equation. Have fun out there 👍
@@E_Clampus_VitusWith a lot of the European bikes the warranty experience can be all over the map. If your localish dealer does not have some juice and/or is not willing to go to bat for you (preferably both) you can have drastically different warranty experiences even within the same brand. I have owned a lot of orange bikes and had a few warranty issues throughout the lifetime of those bikes. In every case the dealer was the difference between having a good warranty experience and a bad warranty experience. Between 4 different dealers I have unfortunately seen both sides of the coin.
It's concerning when you hear someone say they have locked up the rear wheel a few times because the bike didn't have a slipper clutch. This indicates that you are becoming too dependent on the electronics of the motorcycle than you should be. As the owner of multiple motorcycles, some with electronics and slipper clutches, and some without, I ride them all the same...as if none of them had electronics or slipper clutch. I never want electronics to change my throttle control or alter my riding style
This engine has insane amounts of engine braking. I never had a slipper clutch, and I don't have think about revmatching when downshifting on any other bike. With the tenere, I also often locked up the rear and pay much more attention to downshifting, then on any other bike
I have to ride the Tenere much different than any other bike I have ridden. Have had any experience on the Tenere. It rides like no other bike I have been on.
@@advmatt you can add the Slipper Clutch of the R7, parts in Germany are around 600€. But I would probably just stick to the tuareg. Only thing going for the tenere is the look of the bike
Speaking of Italian bikes, the Moto Guzzi V85TT is proving to be a very reliable bike as well. I own a ‘22. It’s more of a ‘touring scrambler’, but still a nice ADV bike.
I just bought a new '23 a couple of months ago with a nice $1500 discount. I definitely see it more as touring bike with the capability of some light offroading, which is exactly what I wanted.
Good review Matt. I currently have a KTM 890 which is nice, but the cost of maintenance is a pain in the you know what. An Aprilia dealer is about a half mile from mt house, and I really like the Tuareg, but I'm not sure about their reliability cause I've heard about the oil leaks. I will wait till spring before I make a move on a new bike which will be the Honda AT or the Tuareg. Decisions, decisions, decisions.
In the spring the 2024 Tuaregs will be discounted. You can get a great deal. The oil leak issues from the first model years seem to be worked out. I haven't seen anyone having issues with the newer ones.
@@advmatt This dealer of Aprilia and Moto Guzzi, and other lesser brands, take the fun out of buying by charging over 2K for freight and setup!! The Tuareg is around $12K when discounted depending on color as the white multi-colored version is a few hundred more. It's over 15K out the door. The front/balls of my feet touch the ground which is a bit higher than my KTM. I had a few major mechanical problems with my KTM so I'm done with them, and having to pay extra for the quick shift left a bitter taste in my mouth. I had a Honda Street bike years ago and it was the best bike I've ever owned! Both my Kawi's cruisers leaked oil and coolant, so I'm done with them also. The Honda AT that I want is the top one with the DCT cause I'm middle aged and my long days with a clutch are over. At that price, I'm looking at a 900GS and the Ducati Desert X also.
Do you have KTM but is concerned about tuareg reliability? Come on 😂 AT dct is fookin good bike but will feel heavy and boring compared to kat. You should also consider gs1200. I have AT dct and GS and I'd say they are both equally amazing bikes. GS is better on road and have much better features and electronics but AT suspension work better off-road and is overall tougher bike, you can ride it aggro off-road, while I'd be scared about GS on some stuff that I did on AT. I'm pretty sure one pit in the gravel road that bent my center stand would smoke GS wheel and or mono arm. It hit so hard that rear abs stopped working, I thought I destroyed rear wheel. NOTHING happened to bike other than bent center stand. I was shocked @@packfan1946
@@miclinda256Honda TA suspension stock is garbage. Once modified ( replaced cartridges + second cartridge + springs + damper rebuild) then strip some weight out its a absolutely fantastic bombproof bike. 4l oil sump and solid but imperfect electronics and a ballsy engine makes it an easy pick over a T7
As far as parallel twin engines go. The DR is surely the most simple of bikes, easy to work, dead reliable and ready to go around the world. If was going to attempt an around the world journey that would likely be my choice. You set a good example of what is possible. Since I have limited time I want my rides to the enjoyable ride possible, and fun, and fast.... Cheers.
I am thinking of getting either the Tuareg 660 or Suzuki 800 DE, leaning toward Suzuki 800 as I live out in the middle of no -where very concerned about Tuareg 660 reliability , what kind of luggage on the Tuareg 660 ?
@@kevf500 I have DIY tackless luggage on my bike. Video will be coming soon on my setup. I only spent $250 for my rackless luggage setup. It would take too long to describe it here.
Not sure if this was already asked. Did you have to re-shim the compression fork because I hear KYB incorrectly assembled it so the shim stacks could be bent/broken? I just sent my forks in to be reshimmed/valved for that reason.
@@thambu19 I didn't mention it and I haven't done it yet. I am thinking about replacing the cartridges in the forks. I am planning an entire suspension video when I get to that point.
The T7 was a great bike when it came out nearly 5 years ago, but it looks increasingly dated in face of its competition. Today if not a Tuareg, I would have bought a 800DE.
I agree. The 800DE seems to be a really great bike. If Suzuki could have kept the weight a bit lower I think it would have been more popular. We all seem to be swayed by spec sheets.
I've put 26,000 miles on my T7. 40% of that off-road. I've ridden the Tuareg. The tuareg is absolutely the better motorcycle. I loved it. But simplicity, reliability, durability, and dealer support are real concerns and that's why i won't take an Aprilia and beat it in the Backcountry. My T7 is great and has held up to the abuse.
I hear you. I wanted to see what the Tuareg could do and so far it has taken the abuse I have given it. Granted I don't do extreme offroad. There is something to be said about reliability.
@advmatt I've laid down the T7 at over 40mph twice on forest roads and have ridden a lot of drivable trail and rocks here in PA. But I try to keep it off knarly single track. I have a dual sport for that. Even having a local Aprilia dealer there just aren't enough of them around to put my mind at ease. I take a yearly 1000+ mile trip. I like to know there's at least a somewhat good chance I won't need to pay a tow bill or rent a u haul back home.
@jerdman10 I understand. I did a 4500 mile trip on my Tuareg and had complete confidence, and lots of time if something went wrong. It takes some time on the bike to grow to trust it.
i d like too ask you two things.does the tuareg feels more powerful?couse in a test ride,on road,i did i wasnt impressed that much of the famous cp2.and second, how is the engine heat compared with the tenere?
The Tuareg does feel more powerful. It has a kick at 5500rpm if you really get on the throttle. It does depend on the fuel mapping you have set in the different ride modes. Full power on the throttle map rips. Keep in mind it still only 80HP so it won't compete with the more powerful middleweight bikes, but it is more fun the Tenere. The heat off of the Tuareg is a bit more than the Tenere, I don't think it is that much more. My right foot has been cooked from the Tenere in slow offroad riding, so I think the bikes are very similar. I really only notice the heat in ambient conditions between 75 to 85 degrees. Less than that I appreciate a little more heat and more than that it is already quite hot so I don't really notice it. I think the heat issue is very subjective. Hope this helps.
@advmatt i think the bike with the best engine in this category is the vstrom800.but,damn its heavy and bulky.the 2025 tuareg has some small nice changes which i like.and one good thing ,there is official aprilia dealer close from where i live.thanks man
@@thodoris3790 I haven't had a chance to ride the Vstrom DE but I hear good things. Tubed wheels, no cruise control and heavy is a deal breaker for me on that bike. I would like to try it. Aprilia is swinging hard at the ADV market.
@@advmatt I added McCruise to my 2022 T7 about 1.5 years ago. works brilliantly, but I would have paid the 850 to Yamaha for it to be stock for sure. I also use exceptionally light weight gear on my trips. After through hiking the Appalachian trail you learn what you dont need and also the impact of each gram/ounce.
@zerobucks9 I looked at the McCruise. It's expensive. I try to balance comfort and light weight. Trade offs either way. If you can keep it light, you are doing it right.
Check out images of the Aprilia Tuareg 457. You mike like the rally inspired look. I think this bike will hit European dealerships in 2025 and the North American market in 2026. This bike might really take the small ADV market by storm.
I would love to see that bike, but it would cost as much as the Euro bikes with the same features. Yamaha will be slow to make any changes to these bikes. Especially now that they have so many variants in all the markets but North America.
I do not recommend the Andreani carts (speaking from personal experience). I have the Ohlins F&R (carts and shock) on the Tuareg now, but if the Tractive was out when I bought the Andreani or Ohlins I would have gone Tractive without a second thought.
@ I like my Ohlins pretty well, but Ohlins has very limited options for spring rates on the shock so I am having Cannon Racecraft brew up a custom spring because Ohlins really only has light rider (80), medium rider (95), and heavy rider (105). There are a few rates in between those they skipped which you do not expect when you are buying a high end aftermarket shock. There is a lot of personal preference that comes into play with suspension as well so a full range of spring rates is strongly preferred when you go aftermarket.
I also got the Andreani carts, and took them back out after a bit. I didn't really like the overall feeling of the damping curve. But I have heard they are a lot better with less oil / more air volume.
Great to know thanks. I might lean toward Ohlins than for the forks. I think I will just start with a stiffer spring on the rear shock for now. If I blow it I will upgrade.
@ Kootenai Rider on the advrider forums has the good dirt on working with the the stock bits front and rear. Based on a lot of digging around he is probably the most knowledgeable on modifying that stock setup (and has had some custom bits fabbed to address some of the issues without spending a fortune on the aftermarket). If you are in the PNW you can even roll over his way and he will be happy to get you sorted (Evo Oregon in Forest Grove).
I live in Medellin Colombia fortunately we have an Apilla dealer here. Took a 2022 out last Sat. Was blown away at how it perks up nicely and I’m about same height and weight of you. The Tenere I’m on my vey tippy toes. So that is completely a no go. Went up and did some twisties was super impressed. I have one more bike to test out and I know more expensive and bigger but it’s a Honda. The Africa Twin. But if I had a gun to my head and had to buy right this second. I would buy this bike with no regrets. Great video!
@@augustbrante8117 In my experience the Africa Twin is very very different. I rented one for a few days and it very much feels like the big bike it is whereas the Tuareg and Tenere both feel quite nimble by comparison.
I'd really be very interested to see you ride Vstom 800 DE and know your thoughts on that. Something tells me it is much similar to these in terms of engine charactistics than any other bike
Me and my buddy Bought Tuareg and the T7 at the same time I so many electrical problems & issues bc Well, my , my T7 friend never had a problem, his T7 zero problems. My Twra have so many problems and the dealership was like an hour away that I sold. It couldn’t take it … Sold to someone else’s problem…
Question super super easy to answer try and use an exotic for adventure. Ride Baja or from Alaska to Patagonia. Finding support for Ducati, Guzzi, MV or Aprilia is a challenge to say the least.. and coast to coast in the US has super super limited Italian dealership network..if you call it a network..ride Japanese and you have some support almost everywhere within reason.. German and Austrian are harder but still some support. CFMoto is going in the right direction, w confidence, putting their bikes in showrooms next to most recognized brands.. Aprilia, not so much. Great motorcycle? Maybe but why take the chance after doing basic homework about where you can get parts and service.. but if you ask yourself that and dealership and your riding habits say everything is a reasonable distance then owning an exotic like Aprilia is the right choice
Yeah, I agree with you. I am never going to travel the world. Riding from Alaska to Patagonia is for a select few and bike choice is critical. For riding in North America, even with limited dealerships it is reasonable to explore remote areas. Its much easier to get things sorted in developed countries.
If you plan to travel through Africa or if you live in the middle of nowhere and can't get parts easily, definitively a strong point. If it's to go offroading on European TET for example, way less :)
@JuChams yeah, I agree. For world travel and really remote travel the T7 is the safe bet. For the states, the Tuareg is a great choice for the possible riding experience.
Ok, a couple of things. I just removed the knobby tires off the Tuareg because they were worn out after the summer of riding. Check out my channel and the BDR videos I produced if you question it. I put the more street biased tire on for winter riding because I know I will see more roads. Have you ridden and Tuareg? If you haven't, do yourself a favor and get a test ride in on one. Then come back and tell me what you think.
Bro you are barking at the most subjective T660/T7 comparison on this planet. He literally has a whole chapter close to end of the video praising T7 reliability. Jezaz. T660 is a good bike too.
11000 miles VS 5000 miles!!! It was obvious where you are going to 😂
I had T7 and now I have Aprilia Tuareg 660, I can say that you nailed it. Electronics on Tuareg works great. Tubeless tires is a must for me. Cruise control is an amazing feature. On my trip to Alaska, cruise control gave me a chance to set up the desired speed and enjoyed the scenery. I have 22000 miles problems free on my Tuareg.
So great to hear you have so many trouble free miles on your Tuareg. It is great bike and much better experience than the T7. What a trip you took. Alaska, right on.
Purchased my Tuareg in November of 2023. I have put 11,000 miles on it and have not had a single issue with it. I keep scrutinizing every little aspect of it and it has no faults. Exceptional off-road machine and exceptional asphalt qualities, specially handling and long distance comfort. Cruise control is a game changer. Ergonomics are perfect. I can stand up all day. This bike inspires confidence and the fun factor on pavement and particularly off-road is exponential! Best bike I have ever owned.
If the Tuareg would not be 4,500-5,000 USD more expensive than the T7 here in Israel I would honestly give it a chance.
Your experience is the same as mine. It is a fantastic, very underrated bike.
Oh my, I'd be embarrassed if I owned and had to ride the Yamaha Tenere!
I would like to add something to my previous comments. The real true brilliance about the Tuareg is the impeccable job the Aprilia engineering team did on the geometry of the frame and distribution of the weight. It feels like a feather, even at a standstill. As I said, it’s the best bike I’ve ever had, be it street bikes and off-road bikes.
However, if I was going to do an around the world trip the Tuareg is not the bike I would choose. Not because it wouldn’t make, but because you’ll be waiting a long time to get parts if you need them.
The Tenerè on the other hand is a bike of which parts are findable all over the world!
If you ask me to travel anywhere in Europe or North America then the Tuareg is the only bike I would take!
@ 😝
Got a Tuareg over a year ago, and it definitely makes me look a waaaay better rider than I really am, specially offroad. Plus smiles! life's too short to ride boring bikes (had too many of them over the years)
@@quimpimp totally agree. Ride for maximum fun, not because you have the time.
34 000km in the tuareg done exclusively on long european tour. It was a demo bike so one of the first out there. Had all the small issues. Aprilia took all care of it even after warranty ended. Dealer relation does matter. But Nothing stopped me even 7000km from home. I also learned a lot more about bike mechanic than in 4 years owning a vstrom. Its just a more refined and exciting bike.
Thanks for sharing your experience. It is an exciting bike.
Crazy how italian bike owners think lasting 34k km is a show of reliability.
@@DB-sd3cw stay tuned and we will see how my Tuareg does at 20k, 30k, 40k and 50k miles. I plan to share everything that happens with this bike.
@@DB-sd3cw 34 000km in 5 month of active riding on 2 years on a new demo bike. parameters matter. I do expect it to do a lot more km. but the bike has been out since spring 2022. Some have done 50 000km in that period. So yeah I think its relevant. haters can hate. I dont care about bike brand nationality. I love all bikes and pick the one that suits me most.
@@advmatt definitely following!
I own the 2022 Tuareg I only have 9000 miles on it but have had no problems. I definitely bought the right bike. Great riding experience.
Thanks for letting everyone how many trouble free miles you have on your bike. It is a great bike.
I would say Tuareg is the better bike, if all works and no issues. T7 is a tank, 0 issues. I will buy the T7 as my next bike, because reliability is more important to me than electronics. I like older bikes more anyway, my offroad beast is a1990 XTZ750 Super Tenere currently for the last few years, so Yamaha is a no brainer for me :)
I understand your position. If your priority is reliability then you can't go wrong with the T7.
When it comes to reliability, when you buy a bike today, there are pretty much no bad bikes left. Aprilia's reputation is from 10+ years ago. They got dramatically better around 2015-2016.
I've had modern day Triumph, KTM, BMW and Aprilias. None had major issues. My 08 Daytona had some electrical problems, but my 19 Speed Triple has been trouble free. Buy the bike you like and forget the rest.
You are spot on. I have been thinking the same thing. There are a lot of happy Aprilia owners leaving comments on how their bikes have been trouble free.
I have heard many guys with way more experience than I will ever have say the same thing
This is wrong on many level, see the 790 and 890 debacle ? the Triumph 400 is a calamity etc...
I've also found that many of the most critical posters on the internet are the same people who don't own and have never even ridden the motorcycle they are criticizing.
I completely agree. Some posters just like to troll.
Agree!
But some are just looking to avoid issues so shy away from the Italian (they trust owner breakdown videos…😅)
@@BlazinBlades the ride is so amazing it is worth any trouble that may come up. I see it as a an adventure. However, if you read through the comments you will see many Tuareg owners with lots of reliable miles.
In most cases they're just curious bikers who did their due diligence and saw the countless reliability issues that come with Italian bike ownership, aprilia especially, and decided their money was better spent on superior workmanship.
@@DB-sd3cw I think the tide is turning in Aprilia's favor. Reliability seems to be significantly improved since Piaggio took over and Aprilia is making the bikes we want. I am trying tonflog my Tuareg to see what it can take.
Best comparison of these 2 I’ve ever seen. And especially it comes from the owner that already put few miles on them. I don’t own any of them but I agree with you 100% Tuareg represents way better package and value. To me tubeless tires and cruise control makes the price difference “0”. Yes reliability is still bing “?”. For time being Tuareg represents great value.
@@richardhretczak536 thanks for the feedback. There are a lot Tuareg owners with 1000s of trouble free miles. They, like me, absolutely love this bike. I am going to push it to its limits to see just how well it does.
I bought a toureg 660 in 2022 absolutely love it but unfortunately crashed 😢 it this year but if it can't be fixed. I will be definitely be buying another 1 done BTC in Morocco this year can't wait for next year's event best bike I've ever had Vincent
@@vincentsavage8823 my thoughts exactly, best bike ever.
News Flash : brand new Tuaregs can be found via Cycle Trader for well under $11k..... Further beating the crude and unrefined T7 into submission... As for Aprilia "reliability".. I raced a 2010 RSV4 (thanks Micah at AF1 Texas) until 2017 in CSS and WERA S/E Region with zero mechanical issues...in the White plate Expert class .. I then purchased both a MG V85TT and Tuareg to replace my 10 year old GSA... 11k miles in the V85TT in 10 months...ZERO mechanical issues...as for the Tuareg it was under $12k OTD with a taller screen and quick shifter ( thanks MotoPlex Daytona for doing me a solid).. a 1 tooth smaller front sprocket and RMATV Tusk ADV tires and off to nasty Florida single track...this is where the Tuareg DESTROYS the T7 and zero mechanical failures after nearly 100 miles of sugar sand, palmetto roots and typical Florida swampy condotions ..aside from ghastly roast your right leg engine heat from the Aprilia there is no comparison... Great conparo vid Matt...spot on !
Thanks for sharing your experience with your bikes. I have experienced similar heat issues with the T7, so they are really close in that respect. The Tuareg is an amazing bike.
The simplicity is what sold me on the Tenere. I don't want a ton of electronics that could fail on a long trip. To each his own.
I understand your position. I have had bike with electronics for a very long time and I have not had electronic failures. I don't typically see reports of electronics failures of the traction control, abs or cruise control. There is value in simplicity.
A very informative real world comparison, thank you. As an Aprilia owner (not a Tuareg), I have not experienced any mechanical issues whatsoever in four years of ownership, so would not hesitate in buying a Tuareg over a Yamaha.
Yeah, I had one issue I documented and I am aware of some fuel gauge failures and a few oil leaks in the first ones off the factory floor. I think most of those bugs were ironed out. There is an issue with the fork valving but that is the fork manufacturer issue not Aprilia, but Aprilia really needs to acknowledge the issue and fix it.
My Tuareg never missed a beat!
@@duncanelliott5120 mine has been fantastic after the assembly issue was resolved. My favorite bike ever.
I own a T7 and a riding buddy has the 660. The 660 is an awesome bike and I could easily own one. Nice motor, great handling, comfortable and very nice looking. The only thing I didn't like about it was the amount of heat from the engine to the inside of my thighs on both legs. Probably not a deal breaker but I sure noticed it. Both are wonderful bikes so go with what spins your prop on a test ride. We are lucky to have such great bikes to choose from!
Right on, yeah test ride both and see which one speaks to you. I haven't found the heat off of the Tuareg to be a problem but everyone is different. I had similar heat issues with my T7 in 90 degree temps.
swap out exhaust and ditch the cat
Excellent review. I’ll never understand the Tenere’ considering all the better alternatives. I love my Aprilia Tuareg, it’s the best bike out there in this category. Thanks Matt!
I agree, best bike in the middleweight category.
11k miles on tuareg its been great, got the new transalp as well but the chassis the playfulness, the low mass of weight of the tuareg its in another league ... So many bikes i tryed nothing compares for me is the unicorn 🦄
@@baklcdcvdfv3434r4 I agree, recently rode the Transalp. It doesn't compare at all. No bike does.
THANKS for this. You directly and concisely answered all my questions backed by experience. I came away from a multi-day off-road adventure on the T7 a bit unimpressed (granted, I’m 5’7” and average skilled) and have been trying to articulate why. Would have to agree its outstanding qualities are its simplicity and reliability. And it shares its sister bike the MT-07’s quality of demanding more from the rider to safely maximize its potential.
If you haven't test ridden a Tuareg, I highly recommend it. At your height and riding skill you will get more out of the bike and feel more comfortable doing it. Cheers.
Great comparison. I can’t speak to the T7 because I’ve never ridden one but everything you said about the Tuareg mirrors my experience as a new owner.
@@Uujjjkiuuhhhy7u thanks for the feedback. The T7 was a hard bike to like. I never got there.
As soon as you mentioned the mileage of each bike, I had an idea how this was going to go! - Frank
Was it that obvious?
Nice comparison Matt. Well done.
Thanks for the feedback.
And... because of the demand for the Tenere and the lack of demand for the Tuareg, the Tenere is often marked-up and the Tuareg is often discounted. I bought my 2023 Tuareg (Indaco Tagelmust) for 10,999 USD in March, a $1700 discount. I love it! I've been riding for almost 60 years and It's the best bike I've ever owned.
Right on. I missed the March discount by two weeks and had to settle for $1000 off. It is the best bike I have ever ridden. It is so much fun to ride and is easy to ride.
Hello, tenere 700 extreme edition owner here !
I would say i love the T7 especially my 2023 extreme edition wich has way better suspension then the normal does. I do agree on the agricultural gearbox feeling, sometimes it remembers me my Harley davidson ! The main thing i doesn't like is the seat height, wich even if i'm 1m83 (6 feets), i barely touch the ground, wich makes it very sketchy in slippy muddy conditions. That said, i have done pretty much everything with this bike : Big jumps, Mountain climbing, Deep mud, 700kms (430 miles) of road travel in one go, and i can just relate this bike handles it all very nicely. It's simply a great and cheap allrounder. I spoke to my Yamaha dealership which also sells Aprilia, and he told me he had more issues with the Tuaregs then the T7, and he would not advise me to switch for it (wich was my question). I did 15 600 kms (Approx 9700 miles) in 6 months with my tenere this year, had not a single issue with it. I may test the Tuareg soon and have my own feeling about this Italian bike.
PS. Never accidently locked the rear wheel on the T7, since the motor is very linear and takes easily up on low rpm, i don't get why people would slam 2 gear down like they are riding a sport bike... But you know, people ask for traction control on 40hp bikes nowadays, what a pity ?
@@Jonathan-ez8tq we don't get the other versions of the T7 in the states. It's a shame. The riding experience of the Tuareg is much better for me. The first model year had a few issues but the most recent bikes seem to have all the issues resolved.
@@advmatt yes i hope you will get the new 2025 rally wich will be the new extreme edition
@Jonathan-ez8tq I might just upgrade my suspension to something similar and go from there.
@@advmatt should probably wait for the kove 800x rally, then both tuareg and tenere might be on sell 🤣
@Jonathan-ez8tq yeah, maybe so, if Kove solved the KTM cam issue.
Great comparison! I find the quick shifter on the Tuareg to be amazing, never had one before, especially when standing on the pegs and picking your way through rough terrain.
100% agree!
this is the first bike having one; Moving forward, i wont have a ADV bike without one
Yeah, I realized during the editing I forgot to mention the quick shifter. You are spot on, it works really well and is great both on and off road. It was worth the small price paid to add it.
Then u should try DCT ull be blown away ;
I had a new T7 in 2021 put 10k miles on it in a year, great bike but they are a little top heavy no argument, about to buy a new mid size and very very tempted with the Aprilia, but there's one small problem, I've just had a World Raid on demo, and it was good, very good! 😖🤦
Very tough choice between those two bikes. For me the electronics package to include a quick shifter would tip the scale toward the Tuareg.
The updated 390 adventure being introduced at eicma next week looks to check a lot of the boxes that the Aprilia does along with lighter weight. It's exciting to see all the new choices available. Kove, Cf moto, Royal Enfield Himalayan, rumored Aprilia 457 toureg. Thanks again for your thoughts.
The new 390 will have all of the Tuareg electronics, and surpass the ABS and MTC with its being lean sensative, that said, OOF is a significantly higher seat, and it looks like it will have tubed wheels. Of course the lower cost means adding VMX tubeless spoked wheels will be less painful than adding them to a Tenere. - Frank
Saw this video with a rider with his feet down which gives me hope that the height won't be as negative as the specs make it out to be. Kofi moto from a month ago. Sorry won't let me copy it. Love my vmx wheels.😄
I am drooling for the new Aprilia Tuareg 457. It is great to have so many choices, but then its hard to choose which bike to ride.
Thanks Matt great video, very informative. Keep up the good work 👍👍
Thanks for the feedback.
I have a T660. My CAT fell off, so I put a full system on it, and it's not HOT. There was still some heat from the engine and RAD, but it's fine. The CAT superheats the exhaust.
its been very reliable, Im not gentle on it and the things that break are my fault. I'm at 9000km
That's a new one. Had not heard someone say the cat fell off. Glad you are enjoying your Tuareg. It really is a fantastic bike. I don't think the heat is that bad. I may have adjusted to it. I think my T7 put off almost as much heat, but that might have been because of the skid plate I put on it. Ride your beast hard and report back.
Tuareg is my 4th bike, great riding position (I'm 5'8"), just way more fun to ride.
Way more fun to ride. Best way to describe it.
@@advmatt❤
Really great comparison. Very interesting. Thanks !!
Your welcome. Something to think about.
Really good review/comparo
@@pierremartin9048 thanks for the feedback.
Good stuff! I've ridden a T7 many times (do not own one) and it doesn't work for me. A T660 demo ride is absolutely in my future (when I get off injured reserve.) Thanks for sharing Matt.🤘
You won't regret trying it out, and likely taking one home that day. Aprilia nailed it with the riding experience.
Really surprised you didn't mention the quickshifter since it's so much more usable than cruise control with today's drivers hitting the brakes on the freeway for no reason. I LOVE the quickshifter- It makes the bike accelerate a little quicker and reduces fatigue on multi-day rides. Also, when we talk about reliability- It's worth mentioning the fork shim problem. Easy to fix, but it is a problem.
@@bretthawton yeah, as I was editing I realized I forgot about the quick shifter, which I love. I did consider mentioning the fork issue but it's not clear to me if it every fork or certain years. I will likely be doing a dedicated suspension video in the bike later.
one of my fav things on this bike
Fork shim thing is absolutely not easy fix. Mechanic will do it, but taking forks apart is not basic maintenance that even typical DIY biker does
the weight is not just the fuel tank, look at how much higher the tenere engine is in the chassy
You are correct about the the weight balance. The engine sits very high in the chassis. The handlebars are at least an inch taller than any other bike I have ridden, partly because the tank it so tall to make room for the engine.
Great video. I agree overall, i own the 660. Ive ridden the T7.
Things i like about the T7 include reliability, and the front end feels so planted with the anti squat. Outside that... Its top heavy and tall, i prefer the Tuareg tremendously.
I disagree in terms of problems with the 660. Shim issue is documented and virtually all forks pulled apart have the issues. Relatively easy fix, additionally the fuel guage is a known issue, mine failed at 6000 miles.
Regardless, jeez what a damn machine. I had an africa twin, atas, got rid of it due to fork seal failure, big $$$ with electronic suspension to repair it.
However, the electronic package for me is spot on with the tuareg. Cruise control is great, and no nonsense navigating them.
Other notes, fuel mileage! The 660 gets significantly better mileage than the T7, 2 up in canyons i have seen 70mpg on the aprilia (40 mile average or so).
One other gripe i have (pretty petty) is the numeric coolant temp on the T7, vice coolant bars on 660. Really small admittedly, but i like real data.
Thanks for the feedback and your experience. Yeah, the fork issue keeps coming up. I haven't address mine yet and it was something I should have mentioned. I am planning a full suspension video with new rear spring and maybe fork internals, I will cover it then and maybe take mine apart as well. Great points.
I'm right there with you on the coolant temp vs the 4 bars. I'd take the actual coolant temp over the ambient air temp any day.
@@advmatt If you're trying to keep the price down, definitely talk to Paul at Evo Oregon suspension. The next price point above that is the Teknik Suspension, which is the route I went just before Paul got his own valves made. The Teknik kit is pretty complete, and definitely gives the suspension more of a supported feel for sure. But the overall action of the suspension is similar to stock if that makes sense. The Andreanis just seemed harsh overall. But as someone in the ADVrider forum learned, bringing the oil level down makes it much better.
If you have the money, jump to the Tractive set up. I haven't ridden it on the Tuareg, but I've ridden it on the T7. It is an absolute game changer. It made the bike feel like a properly set up dirt bike, getting rid of the dive characteristics. And the amount of bottoming resistance is crazy.
So u sold AT because forks started leaking?
Every adv bike I had starts leaking forks after some time. It's maintenance item
Great straight talking review. Many thanks.
Hey Matt, you are a natural at this and very nicely done honest and fair review. Would like to hear how you reflect upon your previous bikes now with newer bike perspectives such as the 390ADV? Dollar for Dollar comparison?
@@StormKingExpedition thanks for the feedback. I still think there is a lot of value in the 390 Adv. Especially the newer models that hold their traction control setting. The riding experience of the Tuareg exceeds that of any other bike I have ridden. I still have my 390 Adv because I still enjoy getting out on it.
I think an important difference hasn’t even been revealed yet.
The dealer support.
I’ve been checking out the Aprillia. I called the parts department and asked about some parts and the time it takes to get from Italy. The parts guys says, “I’m just telling everyone 3-4 weeks”.
Also, the “dealer light 💡” is a deal breaker for me. If I pay $14K on a motorcycle, it’s MINE. There’s no light that turns on telling me I need to go give some guys some money.
Ultimate faith in your Touareg dealer is required. They will be wrenching on your bike and you won’t be there. I don’t like the feeling of this. They are probably decent people but I’d rather do the work myself.
I did my research. The Italian motorcycle experience is different. If you only have one bike, I think it should be reliable and easy to get parts. A Toureg would be a great second bike maybe.
Lots of Tuareg owners are getting parts from AF1 racing, they seem to be stocking lots of parts
@ Sounds good. I’m thinking about not even buying the bike but investing in parts and reselling them on Craigslist. For a “reasonable” mark up of course. 😎
I have 13 1/2K on mine so far (it is my only bike). It has never failed to get me home after riding in some very remote areas and on a couple of BDRs. It has not seen the dealer since the original 600ish mile service. I ignore the light and a local shop I trust services the bike for things I do not want to do. I order basically all my parts from AF1 Racing (to include most of my third party parts). Dealers do not stock parts these days anyway, so the parts argument is pretty much moot (we had a guy smoke his Tenere rear brake pads on the Wyoming BDR and we called literally every Yamaha dealer in the state and all of them use just in time ordering and carry zero stock).
@ They are a great machine. Ultimately, the long term reliability is unknown. I think the correct strategy with owning an Italian motorcycle is to buy it brand new. And let the second and third owners of the bike worry about long term reliability. Ride it like you stole it until the warranty is about to expire. Then sell it and get something else.
This is the advantage of buying new from the dealership, IMO. Always riding under dealer warranty. It goes for any brand really. Just extra important when you add unknown long term reliability to the equation. Have fun out there 👍
@@E_Clampus_VitusWith a lot of the European bikes the warranty experience can be all over the map. If your localish dealer does not have some juice and/or is not willing to go to bat for you (preferably both) you can have drastically different warranty experiences even within the same brand. I have owned a lot of orange bikes and had a few warranty issues throughout the lifetime of those bikes. In every case the dealer was the difference between having a good warranty experience and a bad warranty experience. Between 4 different dealers I have unfortunately seen both sides of the coin.
It's concerning when you hear someone say they have locked up the rear wheel a few times because the bike didn't have a slipper clutch. This indicates that you are becoming too dependent on the electronics of the motorcycle than you should be. As the owner of multiple motorcycles, some with electronics and slipper clutches, and some without, I ride them all the same...as if none of them had electronics or slipper clutch. I never want electronics to change my throttle control or alter my riding style
This engine has insane amounts of engine braking. I never had a slipper clutch, and I don't have think about revmatching when downshifting on any other bike. With the tenere, I also often locked up the rear and pay much more attention to downshifting, then on any other bike
@@ThiloK9 thank you for commenting that you have also had the same experience.
I have to ride the Tenere much different than any other bike I have ridden. Have had any experience on the Tenere. It rides like no other bike I have been on.
@@advmatt you can add the Slipper Clutch of the R7, parts in Germany are around 600€. But I would probably just stick to the tuareg. Only thing going for the tenere is the look of the bike
@@ThiloK9 i considered adding a slipper clutch to the T7 but it was cost prohibitive and didn't fix all the other issues. Agree, stay with the Tuareg.
Speaking of Italian bikes, the Moto Guzzi V85TT is proving to be a very reliable bike as well. I own a ‘22. It’s more of a ‘touring scrambler’, but still a nice ADV bike.
I just bought a new '23 a couple of months ago with a nice $1500 discount. I definitely see it more as touring bike with the capability of some light offroading, which is exactly what I wanted.
Great bike.
@@2006Whippet ADVPulse's review shows you can do 'real' off-roading with it, too.
th-cam.com/video/roU9iF8B-z0/w-d-xo.html
Good review Matt. I currently have a KTM 890 which is nice, but the cost of maintenance is a pain in the you know what. An Aprilia dealer is about a half mile from mt house, and I really like the Tuareg, but I'm not sure about their reliability cause I've heard about the oil leaks. I will wait till spring before I make a move on a new bike which will be the Honda AT or the Tuareg. Decisions, decisions, decisions.
Nice problems😊 go for Honda….. But if you ride singel track or more technical terrain go for aprilia
In the spring the 2024 Tuaregs will be discounted. You can get a great deal. The oil leak issues from the first model years seem to be worked out. I haven't seen anyone having issues with the newer ones.
@@advmatt This dealer of Aprilia and Moto Guzzi, and other lesser brands, take the fun out of buying by charging over 2K for freight and setup!! The Tuareg is around $12K when discounted depending on color as the white multi-colored version is a few hundred more. It's over 15K out the door. The front/balls of my feet touch the ground which is a bit higher than my KTM. I had a few major mechanical problems with my KTM so I'm done with them, and having to pay extra for the quick shift left a bitter taste in my mouth. I had a Honda Street bike years ago and it was the best bike I've ever owned! Both my Kawi's cruisers leaked oil and coolant, so I'm done with them also. The Honda AT that I want is the top one with the DCT cause I'm middle aged and my long days with a clutch are over. At that price, I'm looking at a 900GS and the Ducati Desert X also.
Do you have KTM but is concerned about tuareg reliability? Come on 😂
AT dct is fookin good bike but will feel heavy and boring compared to kat.
You should also consider gs1200.
I have AT dct and GS and I'd say they are both equally amazing bikes.
GS is better on road and have much better features and electronics but AT suspension work better off-road and is overall tougher bike, you can ride it aggro off-road, while I'd be scared about GS on some stuff that I did on AT. I'm pretty sure one pit in the gravel road that bent my center stand would smoke GS wheel and or mono arm.
It hit so hard that rear abs stopped working, I thought I destroyed rear wheel. NOTHING happened to bike other than bent center stand. I was shocked
@@packfan1946
@@miclinda256Honda TA suspension stock is garbage. Once modified ( replaced cartridges + second cartridge + springs + damper rebuild) then strip some weight out its a absolutely fantastic bombproof bike. 4l oil sump and solid but imperfect electronics and a ballsy engine makes it an easy pick over a T7
Can’t get more simple than the T7? You sure of that? Nice compare Matt. Nice to have so many options
As far as parallel twin engines go. The DR is surely the most simple of bikes, easy to work, dead reliable and ready to go around the world. If was going to attempt an around the world journey that would likely be my choice. You set a good example of what is possible. Since I have limited time I want my rides to the enjoyable ride possible, and fun, and fast.... Cheers.
I am thinking of getting either the Tuareg 660 or Suzuki 800 DE, leaning toward Suzuki 800 as I live out in the middle of no -where very concerned about Tuareg 660 reliability , what kind of luggage on the Tuareg 660 ?
@@kevf500 I have DIY tackless luggage on my bike. Video will be coming soon on my setup. I only spent $250 for my rackless luggage setup. It would take too long to describe it here.
Not sure if this was already asked. Did you have to re-shim the compression fork because I hear KYB incorrectly assembled it so the shim stacks could be bent/broken?
I just sent my forks in to be reshimmed/valved for that reason.
@@thambu19 I didn't mention it and I haven't done it yet. I am thinking about replacing the cartridges in the forks. I am planning an entire suspension video when I get to that point.
@@advmatt thank you
Ride the 660 and you'll get it. Awesome machine and the smiles per mile is off the charts !
Way off the charts. Its an amazing bike.
This is what happened to me. I had a BMW F800GS, strolled into an Aprilia dealership, test rode a Tuareg, sold the BMW the next week.
I’ve owned both. The Tuareg was better in every way.
@@duncanelliott5120 yes it is.
The T7 was a great bike when it came out nearly 5 years ago, but it looks increasingly dated in face of its competition.
Today if not a Tuareg, I would have bought a 800DE.
I agree. The 800DE seems to be a really great bike. If Suzuki could have kept the weight a bit lower I think it would have been more popular. We all seem to be swayed by spec sheets.
I've put 26,000 miles on my T7. 40% of that off-road. I've ridden the Tuareg. The tuareg is absolutely the better motorcycle. I loved it. But simplicity, reliability, durability, and dealer support are real concerns and that's why i won't take an Aprilia and beat it in the Backcountry. My T7 is great and has held up to the abuse.
I hear you. I wanted to see what the Tuareg could do and so far it has taken the abuse I have given it. Granted I don't do extreme offroad. There is something to be said about reliability.
@advmatt I've laid down the T7 at over 40mph twice on forest roads and have ridden a lot of drivable trail and rocks here in PA. But I try to keep it off knarly single track. I have a dual sport for that. Even having a local Aprilia dealer there just aren't enough of them around to put my mind at ease. I take a yearly 1000+ mile trip. I like to know there's at least a somewhat good chance I won't need to pay a tow bill or rent a u haul back home.
@jerdman10 I understand. I did a 4500 mile trip on my Tuareg and had complete confidence, and lots of time if something went wrong. It takes some time on the bike to grow to trust it.
@advmatt it'll certainly be heavy on my mind when I start considering my next bike.
i d like too ask you two things.does the tuareg feels more powerful?couse in a test ride,on road,i did i wasnt impressed that much of the famous cp2.and second, how is the engine heat compared with the tenere?
The Tuareg does feel more powerful. It has a kick at 5500rpm if you really get on the throttle. It does depend on the fuel mapping you have set in the different ride modes. Full power on the throttle map rips. Keep in mind it still only 80HP so it won't compete with the more powerful middleweight bikes, but it is more fun the Tenere. The heat off of the Tuareg is a bit more than the Tenere, I don't think it is that much more. My right foot has been cooked from the Tenere in slow offroad riding, so I think the bikes are very similar. I really only notice the heat in ambient conditions between 75 to 85 degrees. Less than that I appreciate a little more heat and more than that it is already quite hot so I don't really notice it. I think the heat issue is very subjective. Hope this helps.
@advmatt i think the bike with the best engine in this category is the vstrom800.but,damn its heavy and bulky.the 2025 tuareg has some small nice changes which i like.and one good thing ,there is official aprilia dealer close from where i live.thanks man
@@thodoris3790 I haven't had a chance to ride the Vstrom DE but I hear good things. Tubed wheels, no cruise control and heavy is a deal breaker for me on that bike. I would like to try it. Aprilia is swinging hard at the ADV market.
i think a newer T7 with ride by wire would be closer in price and make the jerky throttle at low rpm less of an issue?
@@zerobucks9 and aftermarket cruise control can be added. Weight balance will still be an issue.
@@advmatt I added McCruise to my 2022 T7 about 1.5 years ago. works brilliantly, but I would have paid the 850 to Yamaha for it to be stock for sure. I also use exceptionally light weight gear on my trips. After through hiking the Appalachian trail you learn what you dont need and also the impact of each gram/ounce.
@zerobucks9 I looked at the McCruise. It's expensive. I try to balance comfort and light weight. Trade offs either way. If you can keep it light, you are doing it right.
I think your review ended by the 11 second mark when you stated the ‘23 Toureg has more than twice the miles than the ‘22 T7.
Yep, demonstrated my preference. The rest of the video was why.
i havent still bought my new bike.i m waiting to see the 25 models.i m hoping for 25 they ll change this headlamp
Check out images of the Aprilia Tuareg 457. You mike like the rally inspired look. I think this bike will hit European dealerships in 2025 and the North American market in 2026. This bike might really take the small ADV market by storm.
Yamaha must step up and make a Tenere 9 with cruise control, upgraded suspension, and at least basic rider modes.
They didn't even have a cruise on their 1200 tenere 😂 ridiculous
I would love to see that bike, but it would cost as much as the Euro bikes with the same features. Yamaha will be slow to make any changes to these bikes. Especially now that they have so many variants in all the markets but North America.
I do not recommend the Andreani carts (speaking from personal experience). I have the Ohlins F&R (carts and shock) on the Tuareg now, but if the Tractive was out when I bought the Andreani or Ohlins I would have gone Tractive without a second thought.
i did ohlins (front and rear) and happy with it.
@ I like my Ohlins pretty well, but Ohlins has very limited options for spring rates on the shock so I am having Cannon Racecraft brew up a custom spring because Ohlins really only has light rider (80), medium rider (95), and heavy rider (105). There are a few rates in between those they skipped which you do not expect when you are buying a high end aftermarket shock. There is a lot of personal preference that comes into play with suspension as well so a full range of spring rates is strongly preferred when you go aftermarket.
I also got the Andreani carts, and took them back out after a bit. I didn't really like the overall feeling of the damping curve. But I have heard they are a lot better with less oil / more air volume.
Great to know thanks. I might lean toward Ohlins than for the forks. I think I will just start with a stiffer spring on the rear shock for now. If I blow it I will upgrade.
@ Kootenai Rider on the advrider forums has the good dirt on working with the the stock bits front and rear. Based on a lot of digging around he is probably the most knowledgeable on modifying that stock setup (and has had some custom bits fabbed to address some of the issues without spending a fortune on the aftermarket). If you are in the PNW you can even roll over his way and he will be happy to get you sorted (Evo Oregon in Forest Grove).
I live in Medellin Colombia fortunately we have an Apilla dealer here. Took a 2022 out last Sat. Was blown away at how it perks up nicely and I’m about same height and weight of you. The Tenere I’m on my vey tippy toes. So that is completely a no go. Went up and did some twisties was super impressed. I have one more bike to test out and I know more expensive and bigger but it’s a Honda. The Africa Twin. But if I had a gun to my head and had to buy right this second. I would buy this bike with no regrets. Great video!
thanks for the feedback. I love the Tuareg so much I want to buy another one. Not a good decision but it is such a great bike.
@@augustbrante8117 In my experience the Africa Twin is very very different. I rented one for a few days and it very much feels like the big bike it is whereas the Tuareg and Tenere both feel quite nimble by comparison.
@@advmatt Two is one, one is none.
@@williamb.6918 agreed, always have a back up. That is why I still have my KTM 390 ADV.
I'd really be very interested to see you ride Vstom 800 DE and know your thoughts on that. Something tells me it is much similar to these in terms of engine charactistics than any other bike
I need to find somewhere to get a test ride on that bike. My local shops don't have any available to test. I would like to experience it.
T7 is top seller bike because of reliability, so some of its negative aspects can therefore be ignored.
Yes, I agree the reliability of the T7 is why it continues to be a top selling bike. It is a factor when deciding which bike to purchase.
And the negative can be fixed 😄 then you have a world class bike, But it Will cost you ……..
Me and my buddy Bought Tuareg and the T7 at the same time
I so many electrical problems & issues bc
Well, my , my T7 friend never had a problem,
his T7 zero problems. My Twra have so many problems and the dealership was like an hour away that I sold. It couldn’t take it … Sold to someone else’s problem…
I have heard the first bikes out had some problems. The newer ones seem to be rock solid. You can't go wrong with T7 reliability.
Question super super easy to answer try and use an exotic for adventure. Ride Baja or from Alaska to Patagonia. Finding support for Ducati, Guzzi, MV or Aprilia is a challenge to say the least.. and coast to coast in the US has super super limited Italian dealership network..if you call it a network..ride Japanese and you have some support almost everywhere within reason.. German and Austrian are harder but still some support. CFMoto is going in the right direction, w confidence, putting their bikes in showrooms next to most recognized brands.. Aprilia, not so much. Great motorcycle? Maybe but why take the chance after doing basic homework about where you can get parts and service.. but if you ask yourself that and dealership and your riding habits say everything is a reasonable distance then owning an exotic like Aprilia is the right choice
Yeah, I agree with you. I am never going to travel the world. Riding from Alaska to Patagonia is for a select few and bike choice is critical. For riding in North America, even with limited dealerships it is reasonable to explore remote areas. Its much easier to get things sorted in developed countries.
T7 >
@@trapskilla it's perspective and which characteristics each of us value more. Have you ridden a Tuareg?
reliability. 1sec. done.
There are a lot of Aprilia owners commenting how they have had great experiences. However, it is hard to beat the Yamaha Tenere in that area.
If you plan to travel through Africa or if you live in the middle of nowhere and can't get parts easily, definitively a strong point.
If it's to go offroading on European TET for example, way less :)
@JuChams yeah, I agree. For world travel and really remote travel the T7 is the safe bet. For the states, the Tuareg is a great choice for the possible riding experience.
@@advmatt must be never got stranded on a road in Romania at night alone with few hungry bears... :D :D :D
@skazma1199 we have lots of bears here too. Not too worried about them.
lol ok what a bs nothing come close to t7 . dude look at your tires street rider t7 gone hit 180k easly when aprila be done 50 k miles no ty
Ok, a couple of things. I just removed the knobby tires off the Tuareg because they were worn out after the summer of riding. Check out my channel and the BDR videos I produced if you question it. I put the more street biased tire on for winter riding because I know I will see more roads. Have you ridden and Tuareg? If you haven't, do yourself a favor and get a test ride in on one. Then come back and tell me what you think.
@@advmatt im asuming you from gs 1200 lol t7 was made to run forever and no bs crap on it sad they put abs on it and again nothing come close to t7 .
you mad bro?
Bro you are barking at the most subjective T660/T7 comparison on this planet. He literally has a whole chapter close to end of the video praising T7 reliability. Jezaz. T660 is a good bike too.
U dumb