Aprilia RS 660

Overview

Performance and Engine

The 659cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine makes 100 PS at 10,500 rpm and 67 Nm at 8,500 rpm. This gives a quick throttle response, perfect for energetic rides in India. The 270-degree crank gives it a feel similar to larger superbikes, making overtaking in traffic easier with strong mid-range power. Features like ride-by-wire help maintain consistent performance across different traffic conditions.

The RS 660 has a 6-speed manual gearbox with a slipper clutch, which makes shifting smooth and helps prevent rear-wheel hopping during hard downshifts in tight corners. The standard quick shifter lets you change gears up without using the clutch, making track days and highway rides easier. Its chain drive gives steady power for different Indian roads.

The Aprilia RS 660 achieves a top speed of 230 kmph, letting riders experience high-speed stability on open expressways such as the Yamuna and the Mumbai-Pune route. Its aerodynamic fairing and lightweight 183 kg kerb weight help it reach impressive velocities while maintaining control at triple-digit speeds. Indian riders report holding speeds effortlessly up to this limit under optimal conditions.

Mileage and Fuel Efficiency

The Aprilia RS 660 has an ARAI-certified mileage of 20.4 kmpl, thanks to its efficient fuel mapping in the BS6 version. This number comes from standard Indian tests and rewards careful throttle use on long rides. Its 15-litre tank means you can travel farther without stopping for fuel as often.

In real-world Indian conditions, mileage typically ranges from 15 to 18 kmpl across mixed city and highway conditions, primarily influenced by riding habits and regional traffic patterns. Owners note around 16 kmpl on average, occasionally dropping to 14 kmpl during more spirited use. Contributing factors include engine heat and frequent gear changes. Yet, owners continue to value the overall balance of practicality and performance for daily use.

Features and Technology

1. Engine: 659 cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled, 4 valves per cylinder with ride-by-wire technology, delivering 100 PS at 10,500 rpm and 67 Nm at 8,500 rpm, compliant with BS6-2.0 emission norms.
2. Transmission: 6-speed manual gearbox with chain drive, equipped with assist and slipper clutch for smooth shifting and reduced rear wheel hop.
3. Frame and Body: Lightweight dual beam aluminium frame ensuring rigid and compact structure for agile handling; kerb weight of 183 kg.
4. Suspension: Fully adjustable suspension setup with a front telescopic fork and rear monoshock for precision and comfort on Indian roads.
5. Brakes: Dual disc brakes with dual-channel ABS for effective stopping power and enhanced safety.
6. Fuel Tank: 15-litre capacity suitable for both city commuting and longer rides.
7. Electronics: Comprehensive tech package including a six-axis IMU, multiple riding modes, traction control, wheelie control, engine braking control, engine maps, cruise control, and a quick shifter as standard.
8. Instrumentation: 4.3-inch full-colour TFT digital display providing navigation, Bluetooth connectivity including call/SMS alerts, USB charging port, service due indicator, gear indicator, speedometer, tachometer, trip meter, odometer, clock, and low fuel warning.
9. Lighting: Full LED illumination with daytime running lights (DRLs) ensuring better visibility on Indian roads.
10. Comfort and Safety: Split seats designed for sporty ergonomics, engine kill switch, hazard warning lights, pass switch, shift light, and saree guard included as standard features.

Build Quality

Aprilia uses a lightweight dual-beam aluminium frame for the RS 660, which also supports the 659cc engine. This design keeps the bike rigid and its weight low at 183 kg. It helps the bike handle rough Indian roads and heavy rains without bending.

The RS 660 uses quality parts like Brembo 4-piston callipers on 320mm front discs and 2-piston callipers on 220mm rear discs, along with tubeless alloy wheels. This setup gives strong, reliable braking and smooth rides, even after prolonged use in humid weather. Owners praise its solid build, tight panel fit, and dependable slipper clutch. The liquid-cooled twin-cylinder engine also maintains steady performance in hot, dusty conditions.

Handling

The RS 660 has a 1370 mm wheelbase and 41mm Kayaba upside-down forks in front, with 120 mm travel and adjustable settings. At the back, it uses a Kayaba monoshock with 130 mm travel, also adjustable. This setup gives precise cornering and stability, whether you’re riding on expressways or through busy city traffic.

A six-axis IMU gives the RS 660 features like cornering ABS (with three levels), traction control, wheelie control, and engine brake control. These help keep the bike steady during sharp turns on tricky roads. The 820 mm seat height makes it easier to handle, even for shorter riders. Indian reviewers like its balanced chassis compared to bikes like the ZX-6R, and the 17-inch wheels and chain drive help riders feel confident at top speeds.

Comfort

The sporty split seats, set at 820 mm, have enough padding for rides of 100-120 km on highways. However, the low handlebars and rear-set footpegs may take some getting used to during daily commutes in heavy traffic.

Commute and Road modes help smooth out bumps from speed breakers and rough roads. Owners say wrist and back strain are moderate compared to other supersport bikes. The 15-litre tank’s central position helps you stay upright at stops. The pillion grab rail and saree guard are helpful for short rides with a passenger. Cruise control and low-fuel warnings make long trips less tiring, but the 745 mm width can feel wide in tight spots.

Styling

The Aprilia RS 660 features sharp LED headlights and aerodynamic winglets, giving it an aggressive front look. Its design is inspired by the RSV4 and stands out at bike meets or on city streets. The layered fairings and shaped tank provide knee support and help with sporty riding.

The upswept tail has an LED taillight, giving the bike a sporty, compact rear that works well for track days. The underbelly exhaust fits neatly into the body panels, highlighting its low, sporty stance. Its 1995 mm length and 745 mm width make it noticeable in city traffic and on highways.

Colour Options and Variants

The Aprilia RS 660 is available exclusively in India in:

1. Blue Marlin
2. Venom Yellow

The RS 660’s colour options show off its premium look. Blue Marlin has deep metallic blues that look elegant and fit well for evening rides. Venom Yellow has bright golden shades that shine in the sun. Blue Marlin is popular with city riders who want a stylish, flexible finish.

Venom Yellow stands out with high visibility and a sporty look, catching eyes in showrooms. Both colours feature Aprilia graphics and contrasting highlights on the fairings and wheels. These options let riders personalise their bikes without requiring any extra changes.

The Aprilia RS 660 is available in India as a single Standard variant. This model comes with all the electronics, adjustable suspension, and performance features, so buyers get a complete package without having to choose between versions. The Standard variant features a 659cc engine, a 6-speed quickshifter, ABS with Brembo brakes, and a TFT display.

Value for Money and Pricing

Aprilia has set the price of ₹ 18,95,878 ex-showroom in Delhi. By offering just one variant, the pricing stays consistent, and the bike is sold as a CBU import that meets BS6 standards.

The RS 660 stands out among Japanese middleweight bikes with its 100 PS parallel-twin engine, advanced electronics such as a six-axis IMU, cornering ABS, traction control, quickshifter, and several ride modes. Its strong build and track-ready setup make it unique.

Owners mention the 183 kg frame, Brembo brakes, and 20.4 kmpl ARAI mileage as crucial for both daily rides and weekends. Running costs are higher because of imported parts, but at Rs 17.74 lakh, it’s still cheaper than full superbikes. Owners value its balanced performance, smoothness, and reliability in India’s humid weather.

Direct rivals include the

1. Triumph Daytona 660
2. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R

Priced higher, the Suzuki Hayabusa (Rs 18.06 lakh) and BMW S 1000 RR are faster but less practical as middleweight bikes. The KTM 890 Duke, which costs about the same, lacks fairing protection and is aimed at a different type of rider.