When it comes to middleweight sportbikes, few names generate the kind of buzz that Aprilia RS 660 does. With its aggressive design, lightweight structure, and impressive performance features, the RS 660 has quickly become a favorite among both experienced riders and those upgrading from smaller capacity bikes.
In 2025, Aprilia fine-tunes the RS 660 with subtle upgrades while staying true to the DNA that made it an icon in the sportbike world. In this blog, we take a detailed look at everything the Aprilia RS 660 has to offer – from performance and technology to design and real-world rideability.
🔥 A Quick Introduction to the Aprilia RS 660
The RS 660 made its debut as a breath of fresh air in the middleweight motorcycle segment. Positioned between entry-level bikes and liter-class monsters, the RS 660 gives you the thrill of high-speed riding without the intimidating bulk of a 1000cc machine.
Who is it for?
- Riders moving up from 300-400cc bikes.
- Experienced riders seeking a lightweight, track-friendly sportbike.
- Enthusiasts who want a stylish daily rider that performs on twisties and track days alike.
⚙️ Engine & Performance Specs: Lightweight Power
At the heart of the RS 660 lies a 659cc parallel-twin engine, derived from Aprilia’s RSV4 superbike architecture. This engine delivers:
- 100 hp at 10,500 rpm
- 67 Nm torque at 8,500 rpm
- 6-speed gearbox with a bi-directional quickshifter
- Top speed: ~230 km/h
This might not be the most powerful engine in the category, but it offers a perfect balance of power and control, especially for riders looking to push their limits safely.
🧠 Advanced Electronics: Smart Riding for Real Roads
What truly separates the RS 660 from many of its rivals is the Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) system. This is race-derived tech adapted for street use.
Electronic features include:
- Cornering ABS
- Traction Control
- Engine Brake Control
- Wheelie Control
- Cruise Control
- 5 Riding Modes: Commute, Individual, Dynamic, Challenge, and Time Attack
This high level of adjustability ensures the RS 660 can adapt to your mood, road, and skill level. Whether you’re commuting or attacking a mountain pass, the electronics keep things safe and fun.
🧱 Chassis and Handling: Precision Meets Agility
Aprilia designed the RS 660 with a lightweight aluminum frame and swingarm, delivering razor-sharp handling with great stability. At just 183 kg (kerb weight), it’s incredibly flickable in corners.
Suspension:
- Front: Kayaba 41 mm USD forks, preload and rebound adjustable
- Rear: Monoshock with preload/rebound adjustability
Combined with Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II tyres, this setup offers excellent grip and rider confidence, both on the road and the track.
🧩 Design and Ergonomics: Italian Flair With Everyday Comfort
One look at the RS 660 and it screams Aprilia racing heritage. The split headlamp, aerodynamic winglets, and sculpted fairing are designed not just for aesthetics but also for function.
Key design elements:
- Double-layer fairing for better airflow and heat dissipation
- LED lighting all around with DRLs
- TFT full-color digital instrument cluster with smartphone connectivity
Unlike supersport bikes that compromise on comfort, the RS 660 has a more upright seating position, making it suitable for both city rides and weekend getaways.
🎯 Real-World Usability: Not Just a Track Toy
A major selling point of the RS 660 is its dual personality. It’s built for track agility but can easily handle real-world conditions like traffic, speed bumps, and fuel economy.
Practical aspects:
- 13.5-litre fuel tank offers decent range
- Mileage: 18–20 km/l depending on riding style
- Comfortable for rides up to 200–300 km without fatigue
- Suitable for shorter riders due to manageable seat height (~820 mm)
For India or other urban markets, it stands as an exotic alternative to Japanese middleweights like the Kawasaki Ninja 650 or Yamaha R7.
📊 Comparison With Competitors: Why Choose the RS 660?
| Model | Engine | Power | Weight | Price (Est.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aprilia RS 660 | 659cc Parallel Twin | 100 hp | 183 kg | ₹14–15 lakh |
| Yamaha R7 | 689cc Twin | 73 hp | 188 kg | ₹10–11 lakh |
| Kawasaki Ninja 650 | 649cc Twin | 68 hp | 196 kg | ₹7–8 lakh |
Why RS 660 wins:
- More powerful engine
- Top-tier electronics suite
- Italian styling and premium build
- Best-in-class power-to-weight ratio
🔧 Customization and Accessories
Aprilia offers a wide range of genuine accessories, including:
- Racing levers and rearsets
- Lightweight Akrapovič exhaust systems
- Tank pads, tail bags, and touring windshields
- Track-oriented software updates with telemetry
This makes the RS 660 highly customizable based on riding goals—be it weekend warrior or serious track machine.
🗣️ What Riders Say
Riders globally have praised the RS 660 for:
- “Its agility and electronics package feel like something from a liter-class superbike.”
- “I can finally enjoy a premium sportbike without breaking my back or wallet.”
- “It feels like riding a scalpel with a stereo!”
Its growing community of owners reflects its popularity not just for performance, but for lifestyle appeal as well.
🏁 Conclusion: Is the Aprilia RS 660 Worth It in 2025?
Absolutely. The Aprilia RS 660 represents a perfect middle ground in the world of performance motorcycles—offering thrilling speed, high-end electronics, Italian aesthetics, and daily usability.
While it is on the premium end of pricing, the features and ride quality it delivers make it worth every penny for those seeking a refined and exciting machine that doesn’t overwhelm.
Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing from a liter bike, or entering the world of serious motorcycling—the RS 660 in 2025 is a top-tier choice.
