KIWI RIDER 11 2019 VOL2 | Page 98

The power figure is matched with a weight of just 169kg dry, creating an exciting weight-to-power ratio compared to other bikes in the segment. This is in part thanks to the all-new aluminium chassis, which also uses the engine as a load-bearing element. Suspension comes in the form of an adjustable upside-down Kayaba fork with 41mm stanchions and a braking system comprising, at the front end, a pair of 320mm steel discs, a pair of radial callipers and a radial cylinder, all by Brembo. Aprilia also has packed the RS660 with class- leading electronics. Equipped with a six-axis IMU, the RS660 boasts the full shebang of Aprilia riding aids including Aprilia’s Traction Control, Anti Wheelie Control to keep the bike’s performance in check, 98 KIWI RIDER while practical inclusions range from cruise control to multiple riding maps and a quick shifter. Aprilia NZ has confirmed that along with the Australian market, New Zealanders will be among the first in the world to get their hands on the RS660. There is a catch, however. Company spokesman Michael Beckhaus says that the bikes are still some time away from their road debut. “They are still a long way off however, we expect to see our first units in November 2020”, he told Kiwi Rider. “We have no confirmation of pricing yet but expect it to be in the vicinity of $20,000 RRP.”