2017 Aprilia Dorsoduro 900
Aprilia has announced
updated versions of its Dorsoduro models. Powered by a larger, 896 cc (up from
750 cc) liquid-cooled, 90-degree V-twin with DOHC and 4 valves per cylinder,
which has a longer stroke (67.4 mm, up from 56.4 mm) but maintains the same 92 mm
bore as the 750. Claimed output has increased to 95.2 horsepower at 8,750 rpm
and 66.4 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm, with a broad, flat spread of torque.
A new internal lubrication circuit limits power loss
due to churning and oil consumption, and the exhaust system, fitted with a
double oxygen sensor, meets Euro 4 standards. Power is sent to the rear wheel
through a 6-speed transmission, a hydraulically actuated wet, multiplate clutch
and chain final drive.
A more powerful Marelli 7SM ECU communicates
with an updated, 1.2-pounds-lighter throttle-by-wire system, which offers
Sport, Touring and Rain engine maps. Also new are 3-level traction control,
Continental two-channel switchable ABS and full-color TFT instrumentation.
The chassis consists of an upper tubular-steel
trellis section and lower aluminum lateral plates. A new Kayaba upside-down
fork, which is one pound lighter than its predecessor and is adjustable for
spring preload and rebound damping, connects to the frame via forged aluminum
steering yoke plates. The rear shock is adjustable for spring preload only.
Front/rear suspension travel is 6.3 inches on the Dorsoduro. Slowing both bikes
are a pair of radial 4-piston front calipers squeezing 320mm discs and a
single-piston rear caliper squeezing a 240mm disc. New three-split-spoke, cast
aluminum wheels are 4.4 pounds lighter than the previous wheels.
The Dorsoduro has a
tall, 34.2-inch seat height and a small, 3.17-gallon fuel tank. Wheelbase is 59
inches, and the steering geometry combines 26 degrees of rake with 4.2 inches
of trail. No word on curb weight, but we expect it to be lighter than the
Dorsoduro 750, which weighed 454 pounds.
The Dorsoduro claimed curb weight is not yet
available, but it should be lighter than the 2016 model, which weighed 490
pounds. Pricing and availability for the 2017 Aprilia
Dorsoduro 900 is TBD.
