The Aprilia RS 660 is an all-round successful mid-range sports bike that the competition has little to offer, especially in terms of engine, ergonomics and chassis.
- Excellent chassis
- Many assistance systems
- Good ergonomics
For years, motorcycle manufacturers have only been on the rise. True to the Olympic motto “Faster, higher, stronger”, one bomb after another came onto the market. Top bikes have over 210 hp on the rear wheel and accelerate so powerfully that they need less than 8 seconds to get from a standing start – to 200 km/h. Aprilia also has such models in its range, and with the RS 660 it also has a fine offering one step below the ultra-powerful V4 engines.
In the test: Powerful 100 hp engine
The engineers halved the size of such an 1100cc engine for cost reasons, but gave it 11.7 millimeters more stroke. Add to that a crankpin offset of 270 degrees, and this engine feels like a V2 with character. The 660 shares some components with the V4, such as throttle valves, piston rings and valves.
From 660 cubic centimeters of displacement, Aprilia teases 74 kW/100 hp and 67 Nm of torque, coupled with an appealing rev range. The Italians are particularly proud of the fact that 80 percent of the maximum torque is already available at 4000 rpm and 90 percent from 6250 rpm. The rev limiter only kicks in at 11,500 rpm. Aprilia launched its mid-range line in 2020 with the RS 660 sports bike. The naked Tuono 660 and the off-road capable Tuareg 660 will follow. The manufacturer is now at the forefront with attractive mid-size machines and could give the Japanese manufacturers in particular a run for their money. Of course, only if the motorcycles are any good. The RS 660 impresses in three test criteria: engine, ergonomics and chassis. The twin can be driven civilly, responds to the throttle cleanly, even the cable clutch works smoothly. As soon as you open the electronic throttle and the speed jumps above 7000 rpm, the bike shoots forward impetuously. When shifting up and down, you don’t need to use the clutch hand, as Aprilia supplies the quickshifter as standard. This works perfectly on winding roads, even when going back to first gear in hairpin bends.
Impressive: Ergonomics and chassis
The Italians have a full range of electronics : cornering ABS, traction and wheelie control, all of which can be sensitively adjusted in the crystal-clear TFT cockpit. You can even adjust the engine braking torque to your liking. The ergonomics also speak for themselves. The RS 660 is not too high, so even small riders can safely put their feet on the ground, and tall riders praise the knee angle . The narrow frame allows the footrests to be mounted close and low without them dragging in corners. The half-high handlebars are old school, just like in the 90s. Long day trips on the RS 660 are possible without sore muscles. If you don’t want a passenger, you have to swap the standard pillion seat for the sleek solo rear section, which is available at extra cost. When it comes to the chassis , Aprilia shines, as befits 54 world championship titles. There are only a few motorcycles that inspire so much confidence right from the start. The 660 doesn’t care whether you thrash it around roundabouts, crush it, or fire it over narrow mountain passes – it always remains precise and composed. The rear shock absorber is a problem on bumpy roads, so the full adjustment and redirection have been omitted. But it is understandable that not all parts can be exquisite for the price.
Sporty and very suitable for everyday use
In the meantime, criticisms have also been addressed: The right side of the swingarm has been given protection so that the driver’s boot no longer rubs. The high beam switch has been shortened so that it is no longer accidentally activated. But Sporty and very suitable for everyday usein this case was just whining at a high level, because the practical things outweighed the disadvantages. Such as the finely adjustable gearshift and brake levers, the easily accessible side stand or the wonderfully small turning circle. And the low weight of 183 kilograms is impressive. The bottom line is that the Aprilia RS 660 is impressive and has little to fear from competition in the mid-range class.
Technical Specification: Aprilia RS 660
We rely on Aprilia’s official site for technical data so you get the right info every time.
| Category | Details |
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled, parallel-twin with 270° crank |
| Displacement | 660 cc |
| Max Power | 100 hp (74 kW) @ 10,500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 67 Nm @ 8500 rpm (80% available at 4000 rpm) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual with quickshifter (up/down) |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection |
| Cooling | Liquid cooling |
| Front Suspension | 41 mm Kayaba USD fork, fully adjustable |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock, adjustable preload and rebound (no linkage) |
| Front Brake | Dual 320 mm discs, Brembo radial calipers |
| Rear Brake | Single 220 mm disc |
| ABS | Cornering ABS (standard) |
| Front Tire | 120/70 ZR17 |
| Rear Tire | 180/55 ZR17 |
| Wheelbase | 1370 mm |
| Seat Height | 820 mm |
| Weight | 183 kg (wet) |
| Top Speed | Approx. 230 km/h |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15 liters |
| Instrumentation | 5-inch full-color TFT display |
| Ride Modes | Commute, Dynamic, Individual, Challenge, Time Attack |
| Assistance Systems | Traction control, wheelie control, engine brake control, cornering ABS, cruise control, quickshifter |
| Key Features | Lightweight frame, sporty ergonomics, adjustable electronics, low seat option available |
| Price Range | Approx. €11,500 to €12,000 (depending on region and options) |
| Manufacturing Origin | Italy |
Conclusion
The Aprilia RS 660 proves that you don’t need monstrous horsepower to have an exhilarating, rewarding ride. With its lively 100 hp engine, razor-sharp chassis, user-friendly ergonomics, and a full suite of electronic rider aids, it offers a perfect balance between everyday usability and sporty excitement. Aprilia’s attention to detail, both in mechanical refinement and practical updates, makes the RS 660 a standout in the fiercely competitive mid-range segment. Whether you’re carving through mountain passes or commuting to work, the RS 660 delivers a lightweight, confidence-inspiring experience that few rivals can match. It’s not just a middleweight sportbike, it’s a statement of how fun, capable, and complete a motorcycle can be today.