Aprilia launches supermotard

Aprilia has finally released the Dorsoduro in Europe - a 750cc V-twin supermotard running a fly-by-wire throttle and numerous other goodies, such as radial mount brakes.

Basic stats for the SMV750 include a claimed 92 horses at 8750rpm, 82Nm or torque at a low 4500rpm, and a dry weight of 186 kilos.

Three fuel injection maps are onboard - sport, touring and rain - while the machine rides on suspension that offers 160mm of travel at both ends.

It's biggest problem may be the amount of engine capacity it gives away to the opposition such as KTM and Ducati, though the raw numbers suggest it will be very lively.

Look for a local launch later in the year.