Aprilia RS 440 sports bike is going to launch in India by September 2023. Ahead of its launch, we tell you its top highlights that we know so far.
- Based on the bigger RS 660 sports motorcycle
- To use locally manufactured parts
- It'll be the most affordable Aprilia bike in India
Aprilia RS 440 sports bike launch has been confirmed for India in September. The upcoming sports bike is based on its bigger siblings. Meanwhile, Aprilia will use locally made parts on it to keep its prices competitive. We tell you its top highlights that we know so far. Read the details below.
Aprilia RS 440 - Design
For now, the spy shots that are wandering the internet show a fully camouflaged bike. However, the basic design and panel details are visible. The basic design speaks of a sports bike. But, look closely and one can see the rather relaxed riding posture. Meanwhile, the front end is looking similar to the RS 660. Aprilia is eyeing to keep the design in flow with the rest of its lineup. The side profile looks bulky and the fuel tank will also be bigger in size. Additionally, the rear-end design is also expected to be similar to the RS 660 but only with slight variations. The machined alloy wheels will probably look good in contrast with the rest of its design.
Features
Aprilia is going to pitch the RS 440 as one of its mass-segment products. The bike will be placed in the middleweight category of sports bikes. Hence, the features list on it needs to be rich and sound. As far as we suspect, it will probably get a color TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity for smartphones. Additionally, it will get multiple riding modes, turn-by-turn navigation, and even a gear shift indicator. Meanwhile, the lighting all around will be LED for sure with a projector headlight upfront. We're also expecting it to get a USB phone charging socket; which has become a mandate nowadays.
Engine
First, there were multiple rumors suggesting that it will be a 300-400cc bike. However, some reliable sources on the internet later confirmed that it will use a parallel-twin engine. The suspected capacity of it is 440cc and it will be a SOHC unit. However, its peak power and torque figures of it are still unknown. But, anticipating its rivals, we think it will generate something in between 40-50 bhp. Also, a 6-speed gearbox is going to be used as a standard fitment on it.
Specifications
Now, in terms of specifications, a few things are already visible via the spy photos. The front suspension is going to be a USD fork unit. Additionally, it will get a bigger disc brake at the front and rear as well. At the rear, it is going to use a monoshock suspension that can be adjusted as per preload requirements. Meanwhile, the braking will be made even safer with dual-channel ABS & even traction control. To surprise, Aprilia might also throw new tech like the ride-by-wire & even wheelie control switch.
Price & Rivals
Aprilia has confirmed that the RS 440 will launch by September'23. The probability of it getting launched around the Indian MotoGP is even higher. Also, the company will use locally produced components on it. Hence, the price of it will be competitive with its competitors. We expect that it will debut with a price tag of around Rs 4 lakh. Upon its launch, it will directly rival with KTM RC 390 & Kawasaki Ninja 400.
Verdict: Aprilia is trying to enter into the mass segment via the RS 440. If this upcoming bike is designed with a value-for-money proposition; it will become a game changer. Additionally, the localization will also help in its low cost of maintenance for future buyers.
