Aprilia Dorsoduro

The Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 is a high-performance supermoto-style motorcycle powered by an 896.1cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine that delivers 95.2 hp at 8,750 rpm and 90 Nm torque at 6,500 rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox and ride-by-wire throttle. It features advanced electronics including three riding modes (Sport, Touring, Rain) and a three-level traction control system, enhancing versatility and safety. Design-wise, it sports aggressive, sharp styling with a seat height of 870 mm, suitable for riders comfortable with a tall stance. The suspension setup includes Kayaba upside-down forks and a Sachs monoshock, both adjustable for preload and damping, which provide a stable yet nimble riding experience. Braking is handled by twin 320 mm front discs with four-piston radial calipers and a single 240 mm rear disc, supported by dual-channel ABS. The 12-litre fuel tank supports a claimed range of around 200 km. A full-colour 4.3” TFT display provides Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone integration. The bike’s dry weight comes to about 186 kg, keeping it light for easy handling. It is built for riders seeking a blend of aggressive street performance and touring capability with all the technological enhancements Aprilia offers.

The Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 is a modern continuation of Aprilia’s supermoto lineage, featuring an 896.1 cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine that produces about 95 hp at 8,750 rpm and 90 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. It incorporates advanced features like ride-by-wire throttle, a six-speed transmission, and dual-channel ABS. The frame is a steel tube structure with aluminum subframe plates, designed for a nimble yet stable ride. Its styling is aggressive with a high seat height of 34.25 inches and a lightweight build helped by 17-inch three-spoke alloy wheels. The fuel tank capacity is 12 litres, balancing weight and range for urban and some highway use. The Dorsoduro 900 brings a mix of sharp handling, strong mid-range power delivery, and Italian design finesse. It was available in India until recently but is now discontinued, making it an exclusive choice for those who can find one. It’s ideal for riders looking for a supermoto with premium features, a distinctive exhaust note, and a focus on rider engagement.

The Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 stands out as an exceptionally agile and potent supermoto-style motorcycle that combines aggressive styling with refined performance. The 896cc V-twin engine produces a strong 95.2 hp and 90 Nm of torque, delivering a thrilling ride whether in city traffic or on highways. Its sharp handling, aided by premium upside-down forks and adjustable suspension, offers confident cornering and stability. The bike’s electronics package, including three riding modes and a three-level traction control system, enhances rider confidence and adaptability across varied conditions. The 870 mm seat height keeps it accessible to a broad range of riders while the compact 12-litre fuel tank is adequate for spirited urban and touring use. The Dorsoduro's mix of sportiness, relatively light 186 kg dry weight, and advanced features like a full-colour TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity make it a desirable premium option in the Indian market. However, its niche supermoto character and relatively high price limit its appeal mostly to enthusiasts seeking a versatile, high-performance rider with trademark Italian style. For those looking for an engaging street bike with modern tech and distinctive presence, it is an excellent pick in its segment.

The Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 is a spirited and refined supermoto-style motorcycle that blends sporty performance with urban versatility. Its 896.1 cc V-twin engine delivers a compelling 92.5 to 95.2 bhp, offering strong mid-range torque that suits both spirited city rides and occasional highway blasts. The bike’s agile handling, aided by a steel tube frame with aluminum subframe plates and a well-tuned suspension, makes it immensely fun and confidence-inspiring. Ride-by-wire throttle and dual-channel ABS add modern sophistication and safety. While the seat height may feel tall for some riders at around 34.25 inches, the overall ergonomics are upright and comfortable for commuting or weekend adventures. The Dorsoduro 900 stands out with its aggressive styling, lightweight alloy wheels, and quality components. Its niche appeal suits riders looking for a unique motorcycle that offers character beyond just outright speed or touring comfort. However, its premium price and fuel efficiency still pose considerations in the Indian market. Overall, it's a compelling choice for enthusiasts who prioritize performance and exclusivity over pure practicality.

Aprilia has announced that the Dorsoduro 900 will not be part of their 2024 lineup, marking the end of an era for this popular streetfighter. This decision is likely due to the companys focus on other models like the Tuono V4 and RSV4. I think this is a shame, as the Dorsoduro 900 had a unique charm.

In a recent update, Aprilia confirmed that the 2020 Dorsoduro 900 would be the last model year for this bike in many markets. The bike was known for its powerful 896cc V-twin engine and agile handling. It will be missed by fans of the brand.

The 2020 Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 received a minor update with new color schemes and some tweaks to the suspension settings. This was aimed at enhancing the bikes already impressive handling and comfort. I believe these small changes made a big difference for riders.

Aprilia released a special edition of the Dorsoduro 900 in 2019, featuring unique graphics and a few performance upgrades. This limited edition was a hit among enthusiasts looking for something exclusive. It was a great way to celebrate the bikes popularity.

In 2018, the Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 faced some criticism for its identity crisis between being a supermoto and a streetfighter. Despite this, the bike maintained its loyal fan base due to its raw power and fun riding experience. I think its a great example of a bike that doesnt fit into one category but still excels.

The Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 is priced at approximately ₹14.23 lakh ex-showroom in India, with on-road prices varying by city but typically around ₹14.8 to ₹15.5 lakh depending on taxes, insurance, and registration fees. This positioning places it in the premium performance motorcycle niche, competing against other high-end middleweight and entry-level superbikes. While the up-front cost might seem steep compared to many standard motorcycles, the Dorsoduro offers advanced engineering and features that justify the premium. Buyers must also consider ownership costs including servicing and premium fuel—not as economical as commuter bikes but reasonable within this category. The relatively compact 12-litre fuel tank and focused performance orientation mean it's not a commuter bike but a capable urban and occasional touring machine. Given the competition and Aprilia’s brand cachet, this pricing is competitive yet reflective of its exclusivity and advanced equipment. It is a bike for enthusiasts willing to invest in a distinctive, sporty motorcycle with a European pedigree.

The Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 is priced quite steeply in India, with the ex-showroom price hovering around INR 12.5 lakh. On-road costs, including insurance, road tax, and registration, could push the total close to INR 13.5-14 lakh depending on the state, making it a premium offering in the mid-sized motorcycle segment. This pricing level positions it well above many conventional street and adventure motorcycles, reflecting its exotic European engineering and premium features. Import duties, limited availability, and niche demand contribute to the high cost. While the Ducati and KTM bikes compete in similar price brackets, the Dorsoduro’s supermoto character and exclusive appeal justify the price for many buyers who want a standout machine. For enthusiasts seeking a premium Italian supermoto experience with advanced technology and strong brand heritage, the price is reasonable. However, budget-conscious buyers should consider the running costs and resale value in India’s evolving premium motorcycle market.

Expect a mileage of around 18-20 km/l in real-world Indian conditions with moderate riding, which is typical for a 900cc performance bike. While not optimal for high fuel-efficiency, this mileage strikes a balance between spirited performance and reasonable running costs, making it manageable for enthusiasts who prioritize fun over frugality. Running costs will be higher than standard commuter motorcycles but should be in line with other premium performance motorcycles in India.

The Dorsoduro 900 offers an average mileage of around 20-22 km/l under typical Indian riding conditions. While this is modest compared to smaller capacity motorcycles, it is reasonable given the 896 cc V-twin engine's focus on performance rather than economy. For buyers prioritizing fuel cost efficiency, this bike represents a balanced compromise but is best suited for those who value sporty riding and exclusivity over maximum mileage savings.