Aprilia ETV 1000 CapoNord reviews

When I went looking for a replacement I was looking at F650 BMWs, Big BMW GS's, etc. I knew about the Caponord and saw a few for a good price. I did a lot of reading, research etc. But when I looked at bang for the buck, a 2-3-year-old Capo with 7k miles on it looked like a reasonable choice. It's quick enough for me, fun to ride, unusual, looks good, comfortable, runs down the interstate all day, carves up a back road, hauls all of my stuff, etc. One poster mentioned dealer support. There is truth to that. If you want a bike you can ride, to a dealer and drop off like your car, don't buy an Aprilia. I order my parts through AF1 and it has been effortless and painless. They also have a great owners' forum. I do my own work and the Rotax engine is solid and pretty straight forward. Remember, this bike (aside from the bodywork, etc.) is a collection of parts from well-known vendors. If you look at BMW these days, we can't keep a dealer in town, and the long term quality/reliability is not what it used to be. (I have three BMWs and still have a K-Bike) Is an Aprilia Caponord for everyone? No. The only reason I would say no is the lack of a nationwide dealer network. I find this to be a shame as it is a well thought out bike with solid design and performance. Show less

The bike is a great touring mount and extremely comfortable. The windscreen could be bigger, but it does an okay job. There are aftermarkets to pick from. The torque is impressive, but not overwhelming. The bike is deceptively fast. I'm used to a much "busier" motor. It handles as good as some sport bikes I've riden and is very predictable in the corners. It feels too heavy when taking it off the kickstand, but that all goes away the moment you start to roll. This bike has all the things you'd buy a sport touring bike for and all the flickability of a dirtbike on road. Hoenstly, the only complaint was easy to fix. The gearing is too tall. Change the front sprocket from a 17 tooth to a 16. Not only will it put the engine in the sweet spot, but wheelies are easier to do. My only other complaint is that the tripmeter is too complicated to use. I chose the Hepco becker bags for saddlebags because they aren't as oddly shaped as the factory bags and the give the bike the Paris to Dakar look. The bike never fails to turn heads regardless of where I go. With all that room, the rear rack and the platform under the rear seat, I can literally take the kitchen sink with me. This is an SUV for the street and at roughly half the price of the BMW, it's a steal. Show less

Just picked up my bike today, what a ride. I had to take city streets home for engine break in reasons, and this bike just soaks up the bumps. My old ride would have had me in a back brace it was so rough. I'm glad I chose to by Aprilia. Show less

I got my Caponord 2 months ago after a 25 year absence from the bike scene. I checked out harley, indian, ducati and some asian bikes. I even revisited the triumphs like I use to ride years ago to see what was out on the street these days. Then I heard of Aprilia, checked out the Caponord and it was love at first site. As a very tall (6'5") rider I had certain design needs to fit my frame and long legs. The Capo is a very well appointed machine. Very quick, powerful, and nimble with a vigorous response either accelerating or braking. I could go on about other details but many riders may have different styles or preference. My choice is Aprilia. This is only the first of at least two or three bikes I will eventually have to play with (kind of like guitars). It's important for the new rider to read other riders information and testing data to understand the little characteristics like the harmonic sounds in the motor at low speed then suddenly this massive sounding of ballsy power when you twist on the rpms. I have experienced as others have the occasional mild lurch from the fuel injection "forgetting itself" at very low speed but since my milage has hit around 1300 miles the bike has dialed itself in and now runs VERY smooth at all rpms. Show less

Break-in on the Caponord is accomplished in two phases. The first 600 miles restrict you to 5000 rpm, and avoiding full throttle operation. The second phase (to 900 miles) allows occasional full throttle and an rpm restriction of 6250. During both phases, steady speeds are to be avoided, and full use of the transmission is encouraged. Brakes are not required to be babied after the first 60 miles, but normal caution should be exercised as they complete bedding in. With 1100 miles, I still consider the bike to be a first rate machine! It has not disappointed me in any category. The engine vibration that I mentioned in my first report has largely disappeared. The excellent transmission has only gotten smoother. The brakes are awesome - especially the front. Handling of the bike is superb, and power delivery just keeps a big grin on my face. The seat could stand some improvement - butt burn at about 100 miles - but I can say that about every stock seat I have ever ridden. I am not sure how I am going to rectify that yet. I have the hard side bags on my bike - and they are quite large, attractive, and weather proof. The rear seat can be removed to reveal a much larger cargo area for a tail bag or duffle. Add a tank bag, and a solo rider can move his belongings... :) I have seen claims of top speed in the range of 135+ mph. I believe that the claim is an accurate one. However, it is the all around utility of this bike that sets it apart, no the ability to go fast. I am happy to recommend it with no reservations! Show less