Aprilia RS 660 & Tunono 660 India Launch Timeline Revealed: Will Rival Triumph Trident 660

The RS 660 and the Tuono 660 are among the most highly anticipated launch in the middle-weight category for premium motorcycles. The RS 660's details have been revealed internationally, while the Tuono 660's details are yet to be known completely.

However, both motorcycle will share most components and features between then. The only significant change between the RS 660 and the Tuono 660 will be the design and the engine, which is expected to be in a lower state-of-tune in the latter model.

The Aprilia RS 660 borrows its design inspiration from its bigger sibling, the RSV4. The motorcycle features an aggressive-looking full fairing and aero winglets as seen on the RSV4. The race-spec style winglets will offer enhanced aerodynamic stability at high speeds.

The RS 660 also features the brand's signature three-part LED headlight which consists of LED DRLs on either side. The motorcycle's aggressive looks are further enhanced by the addition of a sculpted fuel tank and sharp creases lines. The RS 660 rear design looks similar to that of the RSV4.

The engine on the RS 660 is derived from the Aprilia RSV4's unit, which is a 660cc, parallel-twin engine. It produces a maximum of 100 bhp at 10,500rpm and a peak torque of 67Nm at 8,500rpm. The engine will come mated to a six-speed gearbox with slip assist clutch.

The RS 660 tips the scale at 165kg dry making it one among the lightest bike in the segment. Aprilia has packed the motorcycle with a host of electronic rider aids. These include wheelie control, cornering ABS, cruise control, five different ride modes, and a bi-directional quick-shifter as well.

It will also feature a 5-inch TFT split-screen layout, which will help control all the electronic aids on the motorcycle. It is also expected to feature a Bluetooth pairing smartphone pairing for connected technology via an application.

The suspension duties on the RS 600 will be handled by a 41mm, USD forks Kayaba unit, and a mono-shock set-up at the rear, both of which are fully adjustable. Braking will be done via dual-disc brakes at the front and a disc-brake at the rear, both sourced from Brembo.

Aprilia will offer the RS 660 in three colour schemes — Apex Black, Acid Gold and Lava Red, which is inspired by the RS250 Reggiani Replica motorcycle. The company has confirmed that both motorcycles will reach the Indian shores as CBU units.

Aprilia will make use of the new India import rules, which dictates that companies can import 2,500 vehicles via the CKD and CBU channels per year. Under the rule, the imported units do not need a separate homologation as long as it meets International Automotive Standards.

Thoughts About The Aprilia RS 660 & Tuono 660 Launching In India

The Aprilia RS 660 and the Tuono 660 will cater to premium motorcycle buyers in the middle-weight segment in India. However, due to the CBU import, we expect these motorcycle to be priced higher than its rivals. Once launched, the motorcycles will rival against the Kawasaki Ninja 650, the KTM 790 Duke, and the upcoming Triumph Trident 660; among other in the Indian market.