Aprilia has unveiled its much anticipated RS 660 at EICMA.  Aprilia claims its newest supersport machine provides top-level performance.

New engine

The core of the RS 660’s performance comes from Aprilia’s new 660 cc forward-facing parallel-twin engine.  It produces a claimed 100 HP.

Aprilia used the front bank of their 1100 cc V4 to come up with the new engine design.  Because of its roots, the new engine is quite compact and Euro 5 homologated.

The front view of the Aprilia RS 660.

Optimum engine performance is assured by a full suite of electronics, directly adapted from the Aprilia V4.  The RS 660 gets multimap Ride-by-Wire electronic assistance for precise throttle management.  The system eliminates low-speed stuttering and optimizes fuel consumption.

Lightweight structure

Aprilia says that the RS 660 is more than just its engine and electronics. The new machine uses a new lightweight “structure” incorporating both the frame and swingarm.  Both assemblies are aluminum to help keep weight down.  With a claimed dry weight of 372 pounds, the RS 660 boasts an excellent power to weight ratio.

The engine is also a “load-bearing element” that contributes to the structure’s rigidity.  Following this ethos, the swingarm is pivoted on the engine.  And, the adjustable shock is mounted so that no additional linkage is required.

The frame and swingarm of the RS 660 are fabricated from aluminum.

The bike’s headstock also earned Aprilia engineer’s attention.  It is designed to ensure stability on the road as well as the track.  Connected to that headstock is an adjustable Kayaba upside-down fork with 41 mm stanchions.   Brembo radial brake calipers grab a pair of 320 mm steel discs when things need to slow down.

Electronics

The RS 660 uses Aprilia’s Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) system.  It contains a six-axis inertial platform that is able to recognize the bike’s operating status and riding situation and sends that information to a control unit that provides assistance to the rider when appropriate.

The RS 660 offers plenty of electronics and a TFT color display with Aprilia’s MIA multi-media system.

APRC system

The APRC system includes:

• ATC: Aprilia Traction Control – Adjustable traction control with precise, high-performance intervention logic.
• AWC: Aprilia Wheelie Control – Aprilia’s adjustable wheelie control system.
• ACC: Aprilia Cruise Control – Lets you maintain a set speed without touching the throttle.
• AQS: Aprilia Quick Shift – An electronic gearbox that allows very rapid shifting without closing the throttle or using the clutch. Clutchless downshifting is possible with the system as well.
• AEB: Aprilia Engine Brake – A system to control engine braking when closing the throttle.
• AEM: Aprilia Engine Map – Various engine maps change the character and method of engine power delivery.

Ride modes

In addition to the APRC rider aids, the RS 660 has five ride modes.  Three of those modes: Commute, Dynamic and Individual are suitable for street usage.  The Commute mode is most suitable for daily riding.  Dynamic mode is for sport riding on the road.  Lastly, the Individual mode allows full personalization of the electronic controls.

The two additional riding modes: Challenge and Time Attack are for on-track use.  The Challenge mode is suitable for track sessions where a rider wants to exploit the full potential of RS 660.  Time Attack utilizes a separate logic that allows more expert riders to fully personalize the electronic set-up of the bike.

Other electronics

The final bit of technology comes from the bike’s TFT color instrument cluster.  Aprilia’s Aprilia MIA is a new multimedia platform that allows you to connect your smartphone to your bike.  The system allows you to navigate, take phone calls and have access to your multi-media.

Available colors

The RS 660 is available in two different paint schemes.  The purple/red paint is a tribute to Aprilia’s RS250 in its Reggiani Replica Version.  Also available is a black/red version which is part of Aprilia’s sports history.

Aprilia has not yet announced pricing and availability.