Italian motorcycle manufacturer Aprilia has launched the 2024 iterations of its RS 660 and Tuono 660 in India. These middleweight offerings come with a powerful engine, a comprehensive features list, and a premium price tag. Let’s delve into the details to see if these motorcycles fit your riding style and budget.
Performance and Features: A Strong Showing
Both the RS 660 and Tuono 660 share the same heart – a 659cc, parallel-twin cylinder engine. The RS 660 pushes out a healthy 100bhp and 67Nm of torque, while the Tuono 660 is tuned for a slightly relaxed 95bhp while retaining the 67Nm of torque. A six-speed gearbox handles transmission duties, and the RS 660 gets the added benefit of a quickshifter for smooth gear changes.
Aprilia equips both motorcycles with a rider-centric feature set. A six-axis IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) forms the core, enabling a suite of electronic rider aids like traction control, wheelie control, engine brake control, and cruise control. Selectable engine maps, three-level ABS adjustability, and all-LED illumination further enhance the riding experience.
Chassis and Suspension: Built for Control
The RS 660 and Tuono 660 share a perimeter frame suspended on a robust 41mm KYB USD (Upside Down) fork setup at the front and a monoshock at the rear. Both ends offer preload and rebound adjustability, allowing riders to fine-tune the suspension for their riding style and road conditions. Braking performance comes courtesy of dual 320mm discs up front and a single 220mm disc at the rear, all mated to 17-inch wheels.
Ergonomics and Design: Tailored Experiences
The key differentiator between the RS 660 and Tuono 660 lies in their design and ergonomics. The RS 660 adopts a fully faired, track-oriented approach with a forward-set rider triangle for an aggressive riding posture. The Tuono 660, on the other hand, is a naked streetfighter with a more upright riding position, ideal for comfortable everyday riding.
Price and Competition: A Niche Offering
The Aprilia RS 660 starts at Rs. 17.74 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), while the Tuono 660 is slightly more affordable at Rs. 17.44 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). In the supersport segment, the RS 660 faces competition from the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R and the Ducati Supersport, both of which offer more power at a lower price point. The Tuono 660 takes on the Triumph Street Triple 765 RS and the Ducati Streetfighter V2 in the naked streetfighter category.
The Verdict: A Performance Choice for Discerning Riders
The 2024 Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660 cater to riders seeking a potent middleweight motorcycle packed with premium features and Italian pedigree. While their price tag might be steeper than some competitors, the Aprilia duo offers a unique blend of performance, technology, and style.
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