The design of the production-spec Aprilia RS 660 has
leaked via its patent images. The middleweight supersport motorcycle was
unveiled in concept form at the 2018 EICMA motorcycle show, and we expect to
see the production-spec model at this year’s iteration of the motoring event in
Milan, Italy. The launch will most definitely happen in 2020.
The styling of the motorcycle in the patent images
is quite similar to the RS 660 prototype, which raises a few eyebrows. However,
it could be possible that the production-spec model will look nearly identical
to the concept motorcycle. Thus, we expect to see MotoGP style winglets on the
fairing for improved downforce during straight-line acceleration. The sleek,
twin LED headlights look more appealing than the units of the 2019 RSV4 1100.
The patent images do not feature a pillion seat, but
we do expect to see the updated saddle in the production-form. Aprilia may sell
a passenger-focused setup (seat and footpegs) as an optional extra. The rear
numberplate and blinkers are missing in the leaked image, but maybe the
hardware will be added during the homologation process. We expect to see
conventional blinkers as standard and the accessories to include LED units as
an option.
The shock absorption department will include an
asymmetrically mounted rear monoshock and upside-down telescopic front forks.
The suspension hardware on the concept motorcycle was sourced from Ohlins.
Similar to the higher displacement products such as the Tuono and the RSV4, we
expect the RS 660 to arrive in two variants. The lower spec model will most
likely use Sachs sourced shock absorbers, while the premium variant (most
likely to be called RS 660 RF) will feature Ohlins sourced hardware.
Anchoring hardware includes dual discs at the front
and a single disc at the back, which will be grabbed by Brembo sourced
callipers. We expect Aprilia to add a comprehensive electronic package on the
RS 660. The production-spec bike will most likely feature a large exhaust
outlet than the unit seen in the leaked images. The exhaust will get components
that will make the bike Euro-V compliant.
The Aprilia RS 660 will compete with the Yamaha
YZF-R6, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R and the next-gen Triumph Daytona 765. Expect
the performance numbers on the Italian middleweight supersports to be at par
with its rivals. We may also see a naked roadster variant of the Aprilia RS 660
in the future, but that’s still some time away.
