The Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 stands as a formidable contender in the middleweight naked bike category. Known for its thrilling power delivery and unmatched handling, the Dorsoduro offers a unique combination of street performance and off-road capability. It’s a bike that commands attention, both on and off the road, and it's backed by Aprilia’s rich heritage of producing high-performance motorcycles. Whether you’re a seasoned rider seeking an exhilarating ride or a newcomer to the world of adventure motorcycling, the Dorsoduro 900 offers something for everyone.
Design & Aesthetics
The Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 isn’t just a bike you ride – it’s a statement you make. From the angular frame to the bold, aggressive lines, this motorcycle exudes a commanding presence. The sleek, modern design combines sportbike agility with the rugged stance of an adventure bike. The Dorsoduro 900 features a robust, tubular steel frame that enhances both durability and handling, making it well-suited for challenging terrains.
Available in several striking color options, including classic Aprilia red and black, the bike's paint job highlights its sporting nature. The 17-inch wheels are wrapped in high-performance tires, ideal for on-road and off-road excursions, further enhancing the Dorsoduro's versatility.
The sharp, eye-catching LED headlights give it an unmistakable look, while the sculpted fuel tank and rear tail section add a touch of sportbike flair. Every element of the design feels purposeful, with nothing left to chance, making the Dorsoduro 900 a true visual masterpiece.
Technology & Features
Aprilia has outfitted the Dorsoduro 900 with cutting-edge technology to ensure that it remains at the forefront of modern motorcycles. The bike comes with ride-by-wire throttle control, allowing for precise and customizable power delivery. The three riding modes – Sport, Touring, and Rain – adjust the throttle response, traction control, and ABS, letting riders tailor the bike’s behavior to their riding conditions.
One of the standout features is the Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) system, which includes advanced traction control, wheelie control, and launch control. This feature provides maximum safety and stability during aggressive riding. The integrated digital display offers a wealth of information, including ride mode, fuel consumption, and gear selection, all easily readable in varying light conditions. For tech-savvy riders, the Dorsoduro also supports smartphone connectivity through Bluetooth, allowing you to track performance metrics and connect with your bike in new ways.
Comfort & Ergonomics
The Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 is designed with a comfortable yet engaging riding position, striking a perfect balance between sport and adventure. The seat is firm yet supportive, offering sufficient padding for longer rides while maintaining a low profile to enhance maneuverability. Whether you’re cruising through urban streets or embarking on an all-day tour, the seat ensures comfort without sacrificing performance.
The handlebars are positioned for an upright stance, reducing strain on your wrists and shoulders, making it suitable for both short and long rides. The bike’s suspension setup includes fully adjustable front forks and a rear shock absorber, both designed to provide exceptional handling while ensuring comfort over rough surfaces.
Braking & Safety
Braking power is top-tier, courtesy of Brembo’s advanced braking system, which includes twin 320mm discs at the front and a 240mm disc at the rear. These are paired with a Bosch 9.1 MP ABS system, ensuring effective stopping power in all conditions. The Dorsoduro 900 handles well under hard braking, providing precise feedback and stable deceleration even on uneven surfaces.
Safety is further enhanced with the APRC system’s cornering ABS, which optimizes braking performance in lean conditions. Combined with the adjustable traction control system, riders can feel secure in all riding scenarios, whether on dry pavement or in the rain.
Fuel Efficiency & Maintenance
With a fuel tank capacity of 14 liters (3.7 gallons), the Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 offers decent range for a bike in this class. While fuel efficiency can vary depending on riding style, riders can expect around 5-6 liters per 100 kilometers, making it a relatively economical option for those who enjoy touring or longer rides.
In terms of maintenance, the Dorsoduro 900 is designed for ease of service. Regular oil changes and basic maintenance are straightforward, and the bike's high-quality components ensure longevity when properly cared for. It's worth noting that while Aprilia motorcycles are generally known for their reliability, keeping up with service intervals is crucial for maintaining optimal performance.
Comparison & Competitors
In the competitive segment of middleweight naked bikes, the Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 stands tall against competitors like the Yamaha MT-09 and the Ducati Hypermotard 950. While the MT-09 offers a more budget-friendly option, the Dorsoduro 900 outshines in terms of advanced technology and overall off-road capability. The Hypermotard, on the other hand, may offer slightly more raw performance, but it lacks the same level of versatility and comfort on long rides as the Dorsoduro 900.
What sets the Dorsoduro apart is its balanced approach to power, comfort, and versatility. It’s not just a naked bike – it’s an all-rounder, capable of handling both street and off-road conditions with ease.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 is its 896cc V-twin engine, delivering an impressive 95 horsepower at 8,750 RPM and 90Nm of torque at 6,500 RPM. This power is harnessed through a six-speed gearbox, ensuring seamless gear shifts and smooth acceleration. The 900cc engine’s punchy low-end torque and linear power delivery provide the perfect balance of performance for both city commuting and adventurous off-road escapades.
When it comes to acceleration, the Dorsoduro 900 excels, offering a thrilling, rapid surge of power. Whether you’re zooming through city streets or taking on twisty mountain roads, the bike’s performance remains consistent. The top speed is more than enough for spirited riding, and the Dorsoduro’s agility and nimbleness make it ideal for slicing through traffic.
Riders can expect smoothness and responsiveness in the throttle, even when the road or trail conditions are less than ideal. With a comfortable riding position and the ability to easily transition between city roads and more rugged paths, this bike proves that it is versatile enough for all terrains.
Ideal Riders & Target Audience
The Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 is ideal for intermediate to advanced riders who are looking for a bike that can handle both urban commuting and off-road adventures. It’s perfect for those who want a blend of performance, versatility, and technology in a single package. Whether you're looking to tackle twisty mountain roads, cruise through the city, or explore gravel trails, the Dorsoduro 900 is built for riders who appreciate dynamic performance and modern features.
Conclusion & Final Verdict
The Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 is a well-rounded, high-performance motorcycle that caters to riders who demand both power and versatility. From its aggressive design to its cutting-edge technology, it excels in almost every aspect. The smooth ride, advanced rider aids, and comfort make it suitable for long-distance touring, while its agility and punchy engine ensure it’s a blast to ride in the city or on twisty backroads.
If you’re looking to upgrade your motorcycle, the Dorsoduro 900 deserves serious consideration. And for the best riding experience, check out our range of compatible accessories, performance parts, and upgrades designed specifically for your Aprilia Dorsoduro 900. From exhaust systems to suspension kits, we’ve got everything you need to enhance your ride.