Aprilia RS 660 (2020) Review: A Game-Changing Middleweight Sportbike
Introduction
When Aprilia rolled out the RS 660 in 2020, it wasn’t just introducing another bike—it was redefining the middleweight sportbike category. This machine blends the brand’s race-winning DNA with a fresh take on what a street sportbike can be: lighter, smarter, and far more versatile. Designed to slot between entry-level 300s and liter-class rockets, the RS 660 hit a sweet spot that had been neglected for too long. With sharp aesthetics, thrilling performance, and class-leading technology, it quickly earned a cult following among new and seasoned riders alike.
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Design and Aesthetics
The RS 660 doesn’t just look fast—it is fast. Aprilia infused its MotoGP styling straight into this road machine, giving it an aggressive fairing, aerodynamic winglets, and a race-inspired LED headlight setup that’s as functional as it is fierce-looking. The bike’s double fairing design isn't just for show—it channels air more efficiently, enhancing performance and rider comfort.
Available in striking color options like Acid Gold, Lava Red, and Apex Black, each variation amplifies its standout persona. The sleek tail section, underbelly exhaust, and sculpted fuel tank all come together to scream Italian flair and performance. If you're the kind of rider who believes your bike should turn heads even when parked, the RS 660 delivers.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the RS 660 is a 659cc parallel-twin engine, derived from the front bank of the RSV4’s V4 motor. It pumps out a healthy 100 horsepower at 10,500 rpm and 49.4 lb-ft of torque at 8,500 rpm. Those numbers translate into thrilling acceleration and a top speed north of 130 mph—plenty to satisfy adrenaline junkies.
The parallel-twin layout offers a unique combination of smoothness and character, making it ideal for a variety of use cases. Whether you're carving canyons, tackling track days, or navigating city traffic, the RS 660 stays lively and composed. The lightweight chassis, weighing just 366 pounds dry, contributes to razor-sharp handling and confidence-inspiring control in tight corners or fast sweepers.
Technology and Features
This is where Aprilia truly flexes its muscle. The RS 660 comes loaded with a six-axis IMU and a full suite of rider aids—rare in this class. You get traction control, wheelie control, engine braking control, cruise control, and even a bi-directional quickshifter, all adjustable via intuitive menus on a full-color TFT display.
The RS 660 also features five riding modes (three for the street, two customizable for the track), letting you tailor throttle response, ABS intervention, and power delivery. Bluetooth connectivity via Aprilia’s MIA system adds smartphone integration for navigation, calls, and media control, giving it a smart edge for modern riders.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Unlike many supersports that demand a committed riding posture, the RS 660 was engineered with real-world comfort in mind. The upright handlebars and slightly relaxed footpeg position mean you can ride it for hours without feeling like you’ve been through a workout.
The seat is plush enough for longer hauls, and even the pillion seat is decently usable—a rare feat in this category. Thanks to its well-balanced suspension setup (Kayaba adjustable forks up front and a mono-shock at the rear), it handles rough roads with surprising grace while staying composed on high-speed corners.
Braking and Safety
Stopping power is delivered by Brembo components—dual 320mm front discs with radial calipers and a 220mm rear disc. Add in cornering ABS powered by the IMU and you’ve got a braking system that’s not only powerful but intelligent.
Whether you're hitting the brakes mid-corner or making emergency stops in the rain, the RS 660 stays planted and predictable. It’s safety without sacrificing the thrill, which is exactly what you want in a modern performance machine.
Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance
You’re looking at roughly 50 mpg from the RS 660 under typical riding conditions, which is impressive for a bike that can hold its own on a racetrack. Its 4-gallon fuel tank means fewer stops on weekend rides or commutes.
When it comes to upkeep, the RS 660 is more forgiving than Aprilia’s larger sportbikes. Service intervals are reasonable, and while Aprilia parts can be slightly more premium in price, they offer unmatched quality. Riders looking to personalize their RS 660 can explore high-performance upgrades like CNC-machined rearsets, quickshifter kits, and race-spec levers—readily available in our store for seamless customization.
Comparison and Competitors
In a field that includes the Yamaha R7, Kawasaki Ninja 650, and Honda CBR650R, the RS 660 confidently sets itself apart. It’s lighter than the CBR, more powerful than the Ninja, and tech-packed far beyond the R7. The only real competitor in terms of innovation might be the KTM RC 8C—but that’s in a different price league altogether.
What really elevates the RS 660 is how it combines track-focused agility with road-going comfort and premium electronics. For riders who crave superbike thrills without the overwhelming size or cost, this Aprilia nails the brief.
Ideal Riders and Target Audience
The RS 660 is ideal for intermediate to experienced riders who want performance without compromise. It's also a fantastic next step for new riders upgrading from smaller displacement bikes who aren’t quite ready to tame a 1000cc monster.
Commuters will appreciate its comfort and fuel economy, weekend warriors will love its handling, and track day regulars will find plenty of potential to unlock with aftermarket parts like upgraded exhausts, race-tuned suspension kits, and performance air filters.
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Conclusion and Final Verdict
The Aprilia RS 660 (2020) isn’t just a sportbike—it’s a revolution in the middleweight class. It delivers big-bike thrills, sophisticated technology, and real-world usability in one beautifully styled package. Whether you’re chasing lap times or mountain sunsets, this machine delivers on every front.
If you’re planning to elevate your ride, consider upgrading with our selection of Aprilia RS 660-compatible accessories—from precision-engineered levers and crash protection to performance exhausts and comfort-enhancing upgrades. Designed to enhance both aesthetics and functionality, these parts are the perfect companion to an already exceptional machine.