- Spotted testing in Pune
- Will be powered by a 440cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine
- Will rival the KTM RC 390, Yamaha R3, and Ninja 300
The Aprilia RS440 has been spotted testing once again but this time, the spy shot comes from a reasonably close range. Here’s what we know from the new image of the upcoming Italian offering.
Aprilia currently has a middleweight supersport, the RS660, in its portfolio and the RS440 will take design inspiration from it. So, we expect it to feature a sharp and aggressive front end with a split LED headlight. As seen in the above image, its side panels get a lot of cuts and creases. Then, the exhaust is set under the belly rather than it being a traditional side-slung unit.
Meanwhile, Aprilia will power the RS440 with a 440cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled motor with an output of around 48bhp. It will be linked to a six-speed transmission and is likely to have a top speed of around 180kmph. We also expect the Italian bikemaker to offer features like a TFT with smartphone connectivity as well.
The hardware setup comprises USD front forks and a monoshock, while the brakes include a single front and rear disc with dual-channel ABS. It rides on 17-inch alloys wrapped in road-oriented tyres.
Going by the test mule, the bike seems to be inching closer to production. We expect an official announcement from the brand sometime later this year. Once launched, it’ll compete against the KTM RC 390, Kawasaki Ninja 300, and the upcoming Yamaha YZF R3.
Image Credits: Powerdrift
