- Aprilia RS440 spied again
- Test mule sported RS660 body panels
- Official launch could take place later this year
Aprilia’s upcoming entry-level sportbike for India, the RS440, has been in the news lately owing to its spy images doing rounds on the internet. After its test mule was sighted in India a few weeks ago, fresh spy shots have now emerged from abroad which reveal new and interesting details.
The most noteworthy element in the RS440 test mule is the presence of Protorq Extreme steel belt radial tyres from the Indian tyre manufacturer, TVS Eurogrip. It’s quite unusual for international test mules to incorporate tyres from an Indian brand. Nevertheless, if Aprilia decides to equip the production model with these tyres from the factory, it’s good news! As per our road and track experience, the Protorq Extreme rubbers are profoundly impressive in terms of grip and feedback.
Another interesting detail about the RS440 test mule is that it was sporting RS660 bodywork with the ‘RS660’ badge being clearly visible on the fairing. This is perhaps done to hide the final design of the motorcycle. However, it won’t come as a surprise if the final iteration of the 440 looks identical to its bigger twin-cylinder sibling. Other visible details include 17-inch alloy wheels, non-adjustable front USD forks, a single front disc brake, and a box-type swingarm. Going by other products of Aprilia, the RS440 will certainly be equipped with modern features like a digital console, slipper clutch, dual-channel ABS, and ride-by-wire throttle.
Aprilia is expected to make an official announcement about the launch of the RS440 around the festive season this year. Once it debuts, the motorcycle will lock horns with the KTM RC 390, TVS Apache RR 310, BMW G 310 RR, and Kawasaki Ninja 300.
