One of the most anticipated motorcycles for the 2019 EICMA show, we have been waiting for the 2020 Aprilia RS 660 to set the middleweight twins category on its head, and now that we have the spec sheet, we know that it will.
Try this on for size: 100hp from the 660cc parallel-twin engine, in a package that weighs 372 lbs (dry). Even with the fuzzy math the comes from dry to wet weight conversions, it is clear that the Aprilia RS 660 is going to lead its class on power-to-weight ratios.
But the Italian aren’t stopping there with their twin-cylinder assault. The 2020 Aprilia RS 660 also comes with the brand’s robust APRC electronics suite, which means IMU-powered traction control, wheelie control, and cornering ABS, along with an up/down quickshifter, cruise control, and switchable power modes.
Of course, the highlight of the motorcycle is the 660cc parallel-twin engine, which uses a 270° crankpin design. Basically the front cylinder bank off the RSV4 superbike, the Aprilia RS 660 shares a lot of DNA with that class-leading track monster when it comes to engine architecture and philosophy.
The basic shape of the Aprilia RS 660 hasn’t changed too much from the concept version, though some of the lines have been refined.
The double fairing design has been used to mimic what is going on aerodynamically with the Aprilia RSV4 superbike. While not quite winglets, the extra fairing does provide downforce that is aimed at providing stability at high-speeds.
The fairing design is also shaped to enhance rider comfort, with the main task being to pull hot air away from the rider, as well as helping to move air around the rider during high speeds.
The parallel-twin engine is a fully stressed member of the chassis, which helps keep weight down and improve rigidity. Astute eyes will also notice that the asymmetrical swingarm pivots off the engine casing – again, to keep things tight and right.
Suspension is handled by Kayaba forks at the front (we are still waiting to hear what is used for the rear shock), while the braking system comes all from Brembo, and includes dual 320mm discs.
Other goodies include LED headlights, daytime running lights with a cornering function, a 5″ TFT dash, and multimedia connectivity.
For those with a bit of Aprilia nostalgia, the RS 660 also comes in a classic purple and red livery, to compliment the standard black on black on black.
The big question that remains on the Aprilia RS 660 though is pricing, as it is easy to pack a motorcycle with features and big horsepower numbers, but the middleweight twins category can only accommodate so high of a price.
In terms of availability, we expect to see the Aprilia RS 660 in the USA sometime in the summer of next year, maybe even the fall, as a 2021 model year machine.
Source: Aprilia
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