The Aprilia RS 660 is a sportbike that brings together Italian design, cutting-edge technology, and thrilling performance. With a unique blend of lightweight agility and middleweight power, it fills a special niche in the motorcycle world. In this in-depth review, we’ll uncover the features, specifications, and top speed of the Aprilia RS 660, exploring why it’s gaining serious traction among riders and reviewers alike.
A New Era of Sportbike Design
Aprilia has long been known for its success in the MotoGP and World Superbike Championship scenes. The Aprilia RS 660 takes that racing DNA and reimagines it in a more accessible, street-legal package. The result is a bike that offers a perfect balance between track-ready performance and everyday usability.
Styling That Turns Heads
The first thing you'll notice about the RS 660 is its striking aesthetics. With sleek, aerodynamic lines, aggressive twin LED headlights, and a signature triple headlamp setup, this bike looks fast even when it's standing still. The aerodynamic fairing includes integrated winglets for better stability at high speeds—something more commonly seen on liter-class bikes.
Available in bold color schemes like Acid Gold, Lava Red, and Apex Black, the Aprilia RS 660 exudes Italian flair from every angle.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the RS 660 is a 659cc parallel-twin engine. This liquid-cooled, DOHC motor is derived from the front bank of Aprilia’s RSV4 1100 engine, delivering 100 horsepower at 10,500 rpm and 49.4 lb-ft of torque at 8,500 rpm.
This powerplant offers thrilling acceleration while remaining manageable, especially for intermediate riders. The parallel-twin configuration ensures smooth power delivery and a broad torque curve, making the RS 660 versatile enough for both canyon carving and daily commutes.
Acceleration and Top Speed
Thanks to its 403-pound (wet) weight, the Aprilia RS 660 boasts an impressive power-to-weight ratio. The bike can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 3.5 seconds. Its top speed clocks in at approximately 147 mph (237 km/h)—more than enough to satisfy speed enthusiasts.
What makes this top speed even more impressive is how composed the bike remains even at high velocities. Stability and aerodynamic efficiency play key roles in keeping the rider confident and in control.
Cutting-Edge Technology
Aprilia hasn’t cut corners when it comes to electronics and rider aids. The RS 660 comes equipped with the Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) suite, which includes:
Multi-level traction control
Wheelie control
Cruise control
Engine brake control
Cornering ABS
These features can be adjusted via a 5-inch full-color TFT display, which also offers smartphone connectivity through the Aprilia MIA system. Whether you're hitting the racetrack or navigating city traffic, the electronics package gives riders a high level of customization and safety.
Chassis and Suspension
The RS 660 features an aluminum twin-spar frame and a cast aluminum swingarm, both designed to maximize rigidity and minimize weight. The result is a chassis that feels agile yet planted.
Suspension Setup
The bike comes with fully adjustable KYB suspension, offering 41mm upside-down forks in the front and a monoshock in the rear. The suspension is tuned to offer a comfortable ride on the street while still performing admirably on the track.
Braking is handled by Brembo components, with dual 320mm discs at the front and a 220mm disc at the rear. Combined with cornering ABS, this setup provides excellent stopping power and feedback.
Ergonomics and Ride Comfort
Unlike some aggressive supersport bikes, the Aprilia RS 660 offers a more relaxed riding position. The handlebars are higher, and the foot pegs are not excessively rear-set, making it comfortable for longer rides. The seat is well-padded, and the narrow tank allows for easy grip with the knees.
Despite its sportbike nature, the RS 660 is surprisingly accommodating for daily use. Riders around 5’8” to 6’2” will find it particularly ergonomic, although shorter riders may still handle it well due to its relatively low seat height (32.3 inches).
Fuel Efficiency and Range
With a 4-gallon fuel tank and a claimed fuel economy of around 45 mpg, the RS 660 offers decent range for a middleweight sportbike. That translates to about 180 miles of range per tank, making it suitable for weekend trips and long commutes alike.
Who Should Buy the Aprilia RS 660?
The Aprilia RS 660 is an ideal choice for a variety of riders:
Intermediate riders looking to upgrade from a smaller displacement bike.
Experienced riders who want a lightweight sportbike for street and track use.
Style-conscious riders who value Italian design and engineering.
Commuters and weekend warriors who want performance without sacrificing comfort.
Its versatility, performance, and high-end tech make it a compelling choice in the competitive middleweight category.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Lightweight and agile
High-tech electronics suite
Comfortable ergonomics
Impressive top speed
Premium build quality
Cons
Premium price tag
Limited wind protection for taller riders
Slightly firm ride for long-distance touring
Conclusion
The Aprilia RS 660 is more than just a beautiful motorcycle—it's a well-rounded, performance-oriented machine that brings superbike technology into a more accessible middleweight form. With 100 horsepower, a host of electronic rider aids, and a lightweight chassis, it strikes a perfect balance between everyday usability and thrilling performance.
Whether you're a seasoned rider looking for a new track weapon or an enthusiast wanting a versatile, stylish ride for the streets, the Aprilia RS 660 delivers. It’s a clear example of how smart engineering, advanced electronics, and Italian design can come together to redefine what a modern sportbike can be.
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