Aprilia’s upcoming RS 660 middleweight sportsbike may be available for learner-approved riders when it launches later this year.
Following the reveal of the all-new RS 660 at the EICMA show in 2019, Aprilia has announced that it will offer a detuned variant for restricted license holders in Europe.
This means that a LAMS-approved version may very well be offered in Australia.
If so, the Aprilia RS 660 will carve out a niche of its own in the popular learner segment by offering superbike-spec electronics and chassis components.
It will play against smaller-capacity fully faired models like the KTM RC390 and Kawasaki Ninja 400, as well as the larger Yamaha MT-07 and Suzuki SV650 naked bikes.
With styling reminiscent of the monstrous RSV4, the new middleweight features a 660cc parallel-twin engine that delivers up to 98 horsepower (73kW).
With a dry weight of just 169 kilograms (dry), the RS 660 would be spritely even with a significant power cut for LAMS restrictions, and the adjustable Kayaba suspension, double aero fairing and asymmetrical swingarm may provide it with segment leading handling characteristics.
Other performance figures like torque, zero-to-100km/h and top speed have yet to be revealed.
It also features high-end electronics including cornering ABS and traction control, a bi-directional quickshifter, five riding modes, cruise control, engine braking and wheelie control.
The electronics suite is managed on a full-colour TFT dash which supports smartphone connectivity.
This new platform will give birth to other models including a new Tuono model, which is expected to launch next year.
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
