Unveiled in 2001 at the Bologna Motor Show, the Tuono (Italian for “thunder“) was introduced as a naked sibling to the impressive RSV Mille. Everyone knows the Tuono Factory now – it’s a constant winner of standard bike comparisons – but the precedent for a top-level Tuono was introduced to the world via a very limited-production (we’ve heard estimated between 200 and 220) called the Tuono R Limited or the Tuono Racing.
The stock Tuono was impressive in its own way, but the only-for-2003 Tuono Racing took it to the next level with high-end components including OZ wheels, Brembo radial calipers, and Ohlins suspension (forks, steering damper, and shocks).
All of the bodywork (ignoring the tank and seat cowl) was carbon fiber.
According to this review on Motorcyclist, just 50 made it to the United States.
Manufactured in April 2003, this example is VIN: ZD4RPC05X3S000004, Engine #: V990RP972117NG. The seller bought it in San Diego in April 2014.
During his ownership, the seller has covered 4,000 miles. The odometer shows 12,496 kilometers (7,764 miles).
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection. Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Ok
Engine Oil Level: Good
Engine Oil Quality: Ok
2T Oil Level: N/A
Coolant Level: Good
Coolant Quality: Ok
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: Fail
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: Fail
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: Fail
Final Drive Condition: Dirty and slightly loose
Headlight High Beam: Ok
Headlight Low Beam: Ok
Passing Light: Ok
Parking Light: Ok
Turn Signals: Ok
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light (Front Switch): Ok
Brake Light (Rear Switch): Ok
Plate Light: Ok
Horn: Ok
Kill Switch: Ok
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: 80%
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: 90%
Forks: Leaking
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: 3713
Tire Date Code Rear: 2814
Tire % Remaining Front: 80%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 80%
Tire Press. Front: 22
Tire Press. Rear: 22
Battery Standing Voltage: 11.7V (Needed to jump)
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: 13.8V
Running Condition: Running Well
Test Ride Completed: No
Test Ride Distance: N/A
Notes:
-Front brake pads have fork oil contamination, need to be replaced due to safety
-Both forks are leaking
-Chain has too much lube and is built up; needs to be cleaned, re-lubed, and adjusted
-Tires are out of date
Repair Recommendations:
-Drain old fuel out of tank
-Replace front brake pads
-Rebuild both forks
-Chain service
-Replace front and rear tires
-Replace battery
Modifications:
Aprilia RSV Titanium EVO silencer with matched Aprilia chip.
Gilles tooling rearsets.
Tank protector.
Battery tender lead.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Michelin Pilot Power 3/Dunlop Sportmax Q3 tires with date codes of 3713 and 2814.
The sale includes one key, the stock exhaust/chip, passenger seat, some stock parts, and several parts from the race kit (longer bellypan, front fairing, mesh for the taillight delete).
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Aprilia is offered on a clean California title on Planned Non-Operation (PNO) registration so there are no back fees.
Have any Tuono Racing stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
