Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200 (2010-2018) Review: Performance, Design, and Top Features

The Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200 (2010–2018) is a motorcycle that has carved a distinct niche for itself in the supermoto and adventure-touring scene. Known for its blend of street-fighter style and off-road capability, this bike combines the power of a 1200cc V-twin engine with a unique design that attracts both enthusiasts and experienced riders alike.

With a racing heritage from Aprilia's superbike lineage, the Dorsoduro 1200 is not just a bike – it's a statement on two wheels. Whether you’re carving through tight city streets or tackling winding country roads, this motorcycle offers a thrilling ride that’s impossible to ignore.

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Design & Aesthetics: Bold and Aggressive

The Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200 boasts a striking design that’s built to grab attention. Its sharp, angular lines give it a strong, aggressive presence, while the minimalist bodywork emphasizes its sport-oriented roots. The high-performance stance is complemented by a tall, muscular front end, offering a visual balance between an adventure bike and a street fighter.

Its lightweight aluminum frame ensures excellent handling while contributing to the Dorsoduro's distinctive, agile look. The bike is available in various color schemes, with the matte black and fiery red options being particularly popular. The high-mounted exhaust adds to its edgy vibe, positioning the Dorsoduro as a standout in both appearance and performance.

Technology & Features: Riding Made Smarter

The Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200 is packed with modern rider aids, offering a high level of sophistication and control. The bike comes equipped with:

• Traction Control: Ensures optimal grip on slippery surfaces, allowing you to push the bike without losing confidence.

• Multiple Riding Modes: The Dorsoduro 1200 features different riding modes, adapting the bike’s performance to suit road conditions and riding style. Whether you prefer a more aggressive setting or a relaxed touring mode, the bike has you covered.

• ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): For added safety, the ABS ensures that braking remains effective even in difficult conditions, giving you the confidence to brake hard when necessary.

• Quick Shifter: This allows for seamless gear shifts, making acceleration smoother and reducing the likelihood of stalling during fast shifts.

The display is easy to read, with a clear digital dashboard that shows essential information such as speed, rpm, fuel level, and more. It’s user-friendly and designed to enhance your riding experience.

Comfort & Ergonomics: Ready for the Long Haul

While the Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200 leans heavily toward sport-oriented performance, it does not neglect rider comfort. The seat position is comfortable for medium-to-long distances, with ergonomics that cater to a sportbike-style posture while still offering enough comfort for day-long rides. The footpeg and handlebar placement allow for an upright but slightly aggressive riding stance, making it great for dynamic riding but still easy on your body during longer tours.

The suspension setup features a front inverted fork and a rear mono-shock, both adjustable for preload, rebound, and compression. This allows riders to fine-tune their ride quality based on weight, riding style, and road conditions. For riders looking for smooth handling on rough terrain or long, winding roads, the Dorsoduro’s suspension setup strikes the right balance between comfort and performance.

Braking & Safety: Confidence in Stopping Power

The Dorsoduro 1200 is equipped with Brembo brakes, a well-known brand in the motorcycle world, ensuring top-notch stopping power. The twin 320mm front discs paired with 4-piston calipers and the rear 240mm disc provide precise braking control, with no hint of fade under aggressive riding conditions.

ABS is included as a standard feature, further enhancing safety and rider confidence, particularly in emergency braking scenarios or when navigating slippery conditions.

Fuel Efficiency & Maintenance: A Practical Choice

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200 offers decent mileage for a bike with its performance capabilities. With an average fuel consumption of 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers, you can expect a range that’s perfect for both daily rides and longer journeys.

In terms of maintenance, the Dorsoduro is relatively easy to maintain for a high-performance bike. Regular service intervals and high-quality components help reduce long-term maintenance costs. While the bike’s parts may come at a premium price, their durability and high performance make up for it in the long run.

Engine & Performance: Powerhouse on Two Wheels

Specifications:

• Engine Type: 1197cc V-twin, 8-valve, liquid-cooled

• Horsepower: 130 hp at 8,500 RPM

• Torque: 116 Nm at 6,800 RPM

• Transmission: 6-speed, final drive via chain

The heart of the Dorsoduro 1200 lies in its 1197cc V-twin engine, a powerhouse designed for speed and thrills. This engine delivers a robust 130 horsepower, making it ideal for both aggressive riding and smooth cruising. Whether you're blasting down highways or powering through tight corners, the bike's acceleration is quick and precise, with plenty of torque to maintain high-speed stability.

Handling is another standout feature, thanks to its stiff frame and suspension setup, which offers a confident feel when cornering. The Dorsoduro can tackle the twisties with ease, maintaining stability at higher speeds without losing its nimble characteristics. It’s a bike that loves to be pushed, and it rewards aggressive riders with responsive handling and a thrilling ride.

Ideal for city riding, spirited backroad excursions, and touring, the Dorsoduro 1200 can easily handle various riding scenarios, making it a versatile choice for riders looking for adventure without compromise.

Comparison & Competitors: Standing Out in a Crowded Market

When compared to similar bikes like the BMW F800GS or KTM 990 Super Duke, the Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200 holds its own with superior performance and handling. The KTM 990 Super Duke offers a slightly more aggressive approach, while the BMW F800GS leans more toward touring. The Dorsoduro 1200, however, strikes the best balance between both worlds, providing exceptional performance without sacrificing comfort or versatility.

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Ideal Riders & Target Audience: A Bike for Experienced Riders

The Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200 is best suited for experienced riders who crave both adventure and sport in a single machine. Its powerful engine and handling make it ideal for riders with a few years under their belt, but its versatility makes it approachable for those who are comfortable on sportbikes and looking for something that can handle a variety of terrains.

Conclusion & Final Verdict: An All-Rounder with Edge

The Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200 is a fantastic machine for those looking to combine thrilling street performance with capable off-road abilities. Its aggressive design, powerful engine, and advanced technology make it an exciting choice for riders who want the best of both worlds. While it may not be the most beginner-friendly option, for seasoned riders, it offers a ride full of thrills and adrenaline. Whether you're looking to tackle the city streets or explore some backroads, the Dorsoduro 1200 stands as an exceptional choice.

For those looking to enhance their ride, explore performance exhaust systems, ergonomic seat upgrades, or handlebars from our e-commerce store, designed specifically to complement the Dorsoduro 1200’s capabilities.