Aprilia is gearing up to introduce a new bike, the RS 440, and the company recently teased this exciting addition on Instagram. This bike aims to tap into the thriving lower middleweight segment and will be a notable addition to Aprilia’s Indian portfolio. Which currently relies on its 125cc and 160cc scooters. Unlike the Aprilia RS 660 and Tuono 660, which are imported, the RS 440 will be manufactured at Piaggio’s facility in Baramati, Maharashtra.
Aprilia RS 440 Engine and Performance
The Aprilia RS 440 is likely to feature a 440cc parallel-twin motor, although official power figures are yet to be confirmed. It’s expected to produce around 45-55hp, positioning it in a segment similar to the Kawasaki Ninja 400. This engine is designed to be more cost-effective to manufacture compared to the larger 660cc motor that generates 100 hp.
Unique Design and Features
The RS 440 presents a balanced riding posture with a moderate leaning angle, making it suitable for crowded roads. Additionally, its design bears resemblance to its larger siblings, with a prominent fairing, sizable fuel tank, tri-headlight setup, and a decent-sized windscreen. It also features modern tech, including a large digital instrument cluster, liquid cooling. What’s more, it also features ride-by-wire technology, a quick shifter, assist and slipper clutch, and potentially ride modes.
Aprilia RS 440 Chassis and Suspension
As the engine is entirely new, it’s likely to be fitted into a new chassis. The bike comes with a clean underbelly exhaust and disc brakes at both ends, equipped with dual-channel ABS. The suspension comprises USD front forks and a monoshock unit at the rear. While the swingarm design resembles the RS 660, it’s of a smaller size.
Launch and Pricing
The Aprilia RS 440 is set to make its global debut on September 7. However, It’s expected to be priced around Rs 5 lakhs. There’s also speculation that it might be joined by siblings like the Tuono 440 naked and Tuareg 440 ADV in the future.
With the RS 440, Aprilia aims to cater to the growing demand for middleweight bikes in India. Its blend of performance, design, and modern features could make it a compelling option in the competitive two-wheeler market.