Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 2018 — Specifications

When Noale decides to push the boundaries of its road-going supermotard, it doesn’t do it halfway. The Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 inherits the Shiver’s V2 engine, but in a more powerful version: the stroke increases from 56.4 to 67.4 mm to bring the displacement to 900 cm3, the bore remaining the same at 92 mm. As a result, there’s 90 Nm of torque at 6200 rpm, which is nine percent more than the previous 750. Power follows suit with 95 horsepower at 8750 rpm, enough to reach a top speed of 200 km/h. On paper, the Aprilia Dorsoduro 900’s technical specifications display serious arguments for a declared price of 9449 euros.

What immediately strikes you is the visual continuity with the previous generation. Aprilia didn’t seek to revolutionize the lines, contenting itself with a few chromatic touches inspired by the RSV4-RR: a red frame, a black swingarm, and matching valve covers. For those who hoped for a stylistic break, it’s a disappointment. For others, the aesthetic consistency of the range at least has merit. The seat, perched at 870 mm, and the 212 kilograms when fully fueled make it a mount that requires a minimum of experience, even if A2 certification is available via power restriction to 35 kW, which expands the Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 A2 to recent license holders.

Under the unchanged bodywork, the electronics have progressed significantly. The revised ride-by-wire gains precision while losing 550 grams. Three engine maps cover common uses: Sport for a direct and frank response, Touring to smooth out the twin’s character in everyday use, and Rain to tame the 90 Nm on slippery surfaces. The three-level traction control, which can be deactivated, complements the system, supported by a Marelli 7SM control unit that is faster than the previous generation. ABS remains standard, and the 4.3-inch TFT screen replaces the old analog gauges. Smartphone connectivity is available as an option, for those who deem it essential to listen to music on a supermotard.

The chassis retains the mixed steel tubular and aluminum side rails structure that defines the Aprilia Dorsoduro 900. The adjustable rebound and preload inverted fork loses 450 grams compared to the previous version. The lightweight rims shed another two kilograms on the scale, bringing the dry weight down to 186 kilograms. The front brakes combine two stainless steel discs with radial four-piston calipers, with ABS monitoring the entire system. The rear receives a single disc with a single-piston caliper. The geometry remains that of a true supermotard with 17-inch wheels, with a wheelbase of 1505 mm that favors nervousness in corners rather than highway stability.

Facing the Ducati Hypermotard 950, the Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 must defend its place in a confidential segment in France. Ducati plays on its explosive single-cylinder and its image of a city track bike; Aprilia responds with a more civilized V2, more comprehensive electronics as standard, and a slightly lower price. For the Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 opinion, the machine will mainly convince drivers looking for a versatile supermotard, equally comfortable in a mountain pass as in urban crossings, without requiring the nerves of steel demanded by a competition single-cylinder. The Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 reliability benefits from the hindsight accumulated on the twin architecture, even if the Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 used market remains limited due to low sales volumes. Those who want to personalize their machine will find some Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 accessories and exhaust options in the manufacturer's catalog and at equipment suppliers. The essentials are there: a distinct character, technology up to current expectations, and a consistent proposal for those who want a true supermotard without major concessions.