Aprilia RS 660: The Perfect Blend of Power, Style, and Everyday Rideability

By Muskan Kumari

Published on:

Aprilia

Aprilia : The motorcycle world has long waited for a sportbike that strikes a perfect balance between exhilarating track performance and daily usability. Enter the Aprilia RS 660—an Italian masterpiece that offers just the right mix of aggression, agility, and approachability. Positioned between lightweight beginner bikes and heavy liter-class machines, the RS 660 is redefining the middleweight segment across global markets, including India.

Let’s dive deep into what makes the Aprilia RS 660 such a compelling option for sportbike lovers in 2025.


🛠️ Engine and Performance: Power Where You Need It

At the heart of the RS 660 lies a 659cc parallel-twin engine, derived from the front bank of Aprilia’s legendary RSV4 engine. It churns out a healthy 100 hp at 10,500 rpm and 67 Nm of torque at 8,500 rpm—numbers that place it comfortably ahead of most other middleweight bikes.

But what really sets it apart is how usable the power is. Whether you’re slicing through traffic or hitting the twisties on a weekend ride, the torque delivery is smooth and predictable. The bike is also lightweight, tipping the scales at just 183 kg (kerb), which adds to its superb power-to-weight ratio and nimble handling.


🧠 Technology and Rider Aids: Smart and Safe

The RS 660 doesn’t just rely on brute force—it’s smart, too. It comes equipped with Aprilia’s advanced electronics suite, including:

  • Ride-by-wire throttle
  • Five riding modes (three for the road, two for the track)
  • Cornering ABS
  • Traction control
  • Engine brake control
  • Wheelie control
  • Quickshifter with auto-blipper

All of these features can be customized via a crisp TFT digital display. For a mid-weight sportbike, this level of tech is virtually unmatched in its class.


🧩 Design: Italian Style Meets Aerodynamic Function

Aprilia is known for its aggressive and attractive designs, and the RS 660 lives up to that legacy. With sharp lines, a twin LED headlamp setup, and aerodynamic winglets, the bike looks like it belongs on a racetrack.

The dual-tone color schemes such as Lava Red, Acid Gold, and Apex Black add even more personality, making the RS 660 a showstopper whether it’s parked or in motion. The forward-leaning stance gives it a sporty edge while still remaining comfortable for daily use.


🛣️ Ride and Handling: Track DNA, Street Friendly

One of the biggest highlights of the RS 660 is its exceptional chassis dynamics. Built on a lightweight aluminum frame and swingarm, it offers sharp turn-ins and solid stability through corners. The Kayaba USD front forks and rear monoshock are fully adjustable, which is rare in this category.

The riding posture is sporty but not overly aggressive—ideal for daily rides or occasional touring. Seat height stands at 820 mm, which may feel a bit tall for shorter riders, but the narrow waist helps in easier footing.

The Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II tyres provide superior grip and confidence on all kinds of surfaces.


🧳 Practicality: A Superbike You Can Live With

Most sportbikes compromise comfort and convenience for performance—but not the RS 660. It has:

  • Relatively upright ergonomics
  • Decent pillion comfort
  • USB charging port
  • Ride modes that tone down power for city use

Fuel efficiency is decent for a bike in this segment, offering around 20–25 km/l, depending on your riding style. The 15-liter fuel tank ensures a decent range on longer rides.

This is a bike you can take to work, enjoy on weekend rides, and even hit the track—a rare all-rounder in the supersport category.


💸 Price in India and Value for Money

In India, the Aprilia RS 660 is priced around ₹17.44 lakh (ex-showroom). While it may seem steep, remember that you’re getting a bike that comes close to supersport territory with flagship-level electronics, Italian craftsmanship, and premium components.

In terms of competition, it rivals the:

  • Yamaha R7 (₹10.3 lakh)
  • Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R (₹11.09 lakh)
  • Honda CBR650R (₹9.4 lakh)

Despite being pricier, the RS 660 justifies the tag with more power, better equipment, and exclusivity.


🛡️ Safety and Build Quality

With cornering ABS, adjustable suspension, and rider aids, the RS 660 ensures that you stay in control under all conditions. The braking system by Brembo, combined with the high-spec tyres, delivers superb stopping power and confidence.

The fit and finish is typically Italian—flawless paint, solid components, and high-quality plastics and metals all around. This is a motorcycle built to last and built to impress.


🌍 Aprilia RS 660 in Global and Indian Markets

Globally, the RS 660 has been a massive hit for Aprilia, drawing attention for its versatility. In India, it remains a niche product but appeals strongly to premium buyers and enthusiasts who want track performance with road manners.

Aprilia has also launched the Tuono 660 (naked version) and Tuareg 660 (ADV version) in some markets—showing just how flexible this 660cc platform really is.


🏁 Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Aprilia RS 660?

If you’re looking for a motorcycle that offers the thrills of a litre-class bike, the refinement of a premium tourer, and the practicality of a daily ride, the Aprilia RS 660 ticks all the right boxes. It may not be the cheapest, but it offers the best all-round performance in the mid-weight segment.

Buy it for:

  • Premium Italian design
  • Race-bred performance
  • Track-ready electronics
  • Road-friendly ergonomics

Skip it if:

  • You’re on a tight budget
  • You prefer cruisers or adventure tourers

✍️ Final Thoughts

The Aprilia RS 660 is more than just a motorcycle—it’s a revolution in the middleweight sportbike category. With superb performance, head-turning looks, and all-day comfort, it’s no wonder it’s winning hearts across India and beyond.

If you’re ready to elevate your ride, the RS 660 might just be your perfect match.

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