The Ohlins AP661 STX 46 Adventure rear shock is designed to improve control and damping consistency for the Aprilia Tuareg 660 across mixed surfaces. It is intended to manage changing loads and terrain without losing composure, helping the bike track predictably through rougher sections. The focus is on stable, repeatable damping behaviour with practical external tuning for real-world adventure use.

Ohlins | Made to race, perfected to ride

Ohlins develops suspension with an emphasis on damping stability and repeatability. For adventure bikes, that translates to maintaining support and comfort as conditions shift between sealed roads, corrugations and technical trails. The AP661 is built as a serviceable rear unit suited to sustained use.

Shock design & features

This is an STX 46 Adventure-series rear shock. It uses an oil/gas separated design with a remote reservoir to help maintain damping consistency during extended, demanding riding. The overall architecture is aimed at keeping performance stable and reducing fade when the shock is working hard for long periods.

Tuning controls

External adjusters provide the ability to tune:

• Rebound damping to control how quickly the shock extends after a bump, influencing stability and traction over successive hits.
• Compression damping to control resistance as the shock compresses, influencing support under load and sharp-edge behaviour.
• Spring preload to set ride height and balance for rider weight, luggage, and passenger use.

Base setup (factory preset)

The supplied baseline is intended as a workable starting point for the Tuareg 660 with the fitted spring, aiming for a balanced mix of support and comfort. From there, rebound and compression can be tuned to suit riding pace, terrain type and how much weight is carried. Preload changes should be used to restore balance before chasing damping changes.

Before you install

Confirm the unit is fitted to the correct model and that all mounting hardware is in good condition. Set sag and ride height balance with preload first, then adjust damping one change at a time so you can clearly feel the effect. If typical load or terrain differs significantly from the baseline intent, spring choice and a matched setup approach may be required.

Serviceability/lifecycle

Ohlins rear shocks are designed to be serviceable to maintain performance over time. Regular inspection and periodic servicing help keep damping consistent, particularly for bikes used in dust, water crossings or long off-road kilometres. Maintaining clean shaft condition and addressing seal wear early supports long-term reliability.