2021 Aprilia RS 660 | 600 Mile Review | For The Everyday Rider

[@LuckyLuke_81]

This is hell of a comprehensive review especially if you're fairly unexperienced rider. Great vid!

[@SK_XIII]

Appreciate the support mate!

[@marcusgeorge1825]

A nice impression video. Thank you. As someone who has been riding for over 40 years and also raced for 8 of them ending up as an ex Australian Superbike factory racer I’m always interested in hearing thoughts of new riders on different bikes who are learning the craft as you can’t get those same feelings, just nice to be reminded about getting into 2 wheels in the first place. 👍😎🇦🇺

[@SK_XIII]

40 years is impressive! Riding on 2 wheels is amazing to say the least. I am humbled somehow every time I ride, which is good I'd say haha. Appreciate the support mate!

[@marcusgeorge1825]

@@SK_XIII Being humble is definitely a positive thought. Know your limits and never ever let ego into the equation as that can end in a bad way. Forgot to mention that I’ve subscribed to your channel which I rarely do. Looking forward to seeing you grow and develop. 👍😊

[@SK_XIII]

@@marcusgeorge1825 Excited to experience my growth as well brotha. Appreciate the sub and wisdom!

[@Error-33]

you make great content man, keep up the good work the quality is insane im sure you will blow up one day

[@SK_XIII]

Thanks mate! That means a lot, appreciate you 👌

[@alejandrobrufal257]

Hi from Spain. I have my RS660 acid gold since last wednesday and I'm in love. Thanks for your reviews and videos!! Keep like that 😁

[@SK_XIII]

Appreciate the love all the way from Spain mate! Do you have to wait to get the bike unlocked over there?

[@alejandrobrufal257]

@@SK_XIII yes, we have to. The power limitation is on 35kW which is around 47hp, after 2 years if you finally pass the A license exam it can be unlocked to 71kW (95hp). And why is not possible to unlocked untill 100hp, which is the power of unlocked version? Well, is not possible because of an european normative for reducing CO2 emissions and noises and bla bla bla. I will lose 5hp but I really dont mind but, who buy a Z900 locked will lose 30hp at the end. That hurst a lot 🤣

[@SK_XIII]

@@alejandrobrufal257 Wow, thats pretty crazy! Things are so strict out there Europe! I would take a 5hp loss over 30hp any day hahahaha

[@saulcr839]

Hola Alejandro! Me podrías decir cuántos kilómetros le has hecho y si te ha dado algún problema ? Estoy loco por comprarla pero los problemas de fiabilidad me tiene hablando solo y realmente estoy acojonado... No te ha dado absolutamente ningún problema o alguna cosa que tiene fácil arreglo?

[@Spitfiya.rs660]

SK XIII, what’s up bro always good to see your video and your comments. Much appreciated. My comments about the RS660 as you know in my previous reply to you I also obtain a 2022 RS660 in the Apex black color. Just reached 500 miles. First dealer service I will get at 650 miles. They perform 50 point inspection more or less. Love my new full titanium SC project CRT-1 exhaust with a carbon fiber tip and Sprint filter as well, Evo tech frame sliders, rear spools, Header/radiator guard) trickle charge connector kit, Tech Spec snake skin tank grips, Aprilia tank protector, tucked tail tidy license plate with upgraded LED Razoma Amber turn signals, RSV Shorty full adjustable black clutch and brake levers. The sound is freaking amazing. You need to get this exact exhaust on your bike. I agree with you about receiving a lot of looks it is a beautiful looking bike. As far as the additional features on the bike don’t forget it has at night time cornering lights that flick on when you’re coming around the corner to light the curb for you and it also has 2 track modes along with the 3 street modes that you originally mentioned. It also is equipped with self canceling turn signals as well. As far as the cons I agree with you the mirrors are terrible anything over 4000 RPM you can’t see you can’t tell the distance you can’t find the range of how close another vehicle is to you. So I agree with you 100%. I’m still looking for a good fix on that which I’ll let you know if I do find something that works. As far as the quick shifter I have no issues just make sure that you give it a little bit more RPMs. Between first and second I usually use the clutch during that time but as long as your RPMs are on the rise you should be able to shift through those gears let off the gas downshift and it should go right in as well. I have no issues at all with the up and down quick shifter. You might want to go with a Puig double bubble windshield in the future but I’m OK with the stock one for now. My biggest issue is the mirrors but enough said about that. I always enjoy watching your videos and hearing your comments just like to add a little bit more for the viewers in yourself. Feel free to comment back. Be smart, ride safe and have some fun on that Bad A- RS660!!💪🏼💯🏍💥🔥

[@SK_XIII]

SC Project exhausts be catching my eye these days man! :D If you figure out something for the mirrors, definitely let me know mate! They are soooo frustrating. As far as windshields are concerned, thinking about either PUIG or MRA. The Aprilia tall one is kinda meh

[@briannixon9237]

Hey William, have any pics of your setup? IG maybe? I'm looking at a very similar build and would love to see how yours looks. Congratulations on a great bike 👍🏼👍🏼

[@Spitfiya.rs660]

@@briannixon9237 Spitfiya.rs660 mod’s

[@saulcr839]

Hello William , did you has any problem with the bike ? Im looking for one cause im in love with It but there are many problems with some bikes... Can you give me a little feedback ? Thank you mate.

[@Spitfiya.rs660]

@@saulcr839 hey buddy how are you? Just wanted to let you know I have absolutely not one issue with the bikes, engine and performance at all with all of the mods that were installed on it including full titanium exhaust with the Sprint filter. I do not have a tune. I’ve never Dyno tested the bike and I don’t have the ECU flashed or replaced. Bike is running pretty good. I know that it would run better with an AF1 ECU replacement from the stock ECU but I’m waiting for that in the near future. The only issue I have with the bike which is kind of minor, but sometimes major is the mirrors. They vibrate at 4000 RPM and above so it’s hard to tell when anybody is coming up to you, how far away they are from you, how fast they are approaching and how close they are but, around town it’s OK just extremely difficult when you’re on the highway at top speeds. Let me know if this helps you and if you have any other questions, you’re more than welcome to ask and I will try to provide the answer for you. You should not be disappointed with this bike at all. Just remember that it is a parallel twin and when you get to top speeds, it is gonna vibrate more than a liter bike, but that’s to be expected. Totally in love with this bike. Every time I look at her, she basically takes my breath away, and when you crank her up stand back because she does have a mean, growl. Good luck in your choice.

[@jfritch53]

thanks for the review! i'm planning on making it my 2nd bike soon. I was set on black but your lava red looks so uniquely attractive...

[@SK_XIII]

Definitely try to see it in person...the black is a safer choice...but it blends in with all the other bikes out there. The gold was too much pop for me. The blue/purple on the Lava Red...amazing in person!

[@KickTwo]

nice and insightful. im considering getting one of these when i finish college

[@SK_XIII]

Worth it for sure! Hopefully by then they will have worked out the kinks or you're able to find a good deal for a used one. Cheers!

[@EndlessMoneyPits]

Not excited to hear about those dealer fees so when the time comes I might look for a used one. Thanks for the heads up.

[@SK_XIII]

NP! Sucks these bikes are in hot demand, otherwise could maybe negotiate those fees :/

[@3089280288]

​@@SK_XIII Really? There is one near me that has been sitting at the dealer for 2 years

[@SK_XIII]

@@3089280288 say whaaa. where is the dealer located? very surprising haha

[@Champion2Manager]

Maintenance, reliability and recalls are the main red flags. 100hp isn’t much but is plenty for the streets, an ecu flash could solve a lot or minors issues but won’t give you more accessibility to a dealer near you! 🤭

[@SK_XIII]

All things to think about! Thanks for sharing mate

[@3089280288]

100 hp is much.

[@briannixon9237]

Man, your comment about it not being a beginners bike cut me deep haha. I'm awaiting delivery since wait was 60-90 days once ordered. She will be my first bike, but not my first time riding...I've just never owned a bike of my own so I consider myself a beginner. Oh well, I'll grow into the bike for sure and keep it safe and slow-er(haha) until I'm more comfortable and proficient as a rider. Stay safe man! 👍🏼👍🏼

[@SK_XIII]

Hahaha there are exceptions out there man! You can 100% ride this bike safely, but learning riding techniques may take longer, who knows though. Congrats on the purchase mate!

[@ShowTimeReturns]

you'll be fine with this. i rode and 400 then jumped into a v2. 600 and up is a good starting point. as long its not going crazy like an h2 or busa as a first bike lol

[@labasrytas2876]

this is a beginners bike only! and first time rider only! no experienced rider will buy this overpriced shit anyway! :)

[@grahambillions]

Paid close to $14k OTD for my 2022 Apex Black from Rockridge Two Wheels in Oakland. I paid in cash. $11.3k plus tax, title, tags, documents and freight. No mark up.

[@SK_XIII]

Sounds about right for bay area numbers!

[@ll.7927]

In ny they told me 14k otd. Didn’t really get to negotiate cause I got there at closing smh lol. Didn’t buy the buy gonna go back within the next week n see if I pick it up for 13k. Especially it being winter here should help. Wanting to upgrade from my drz400. Hoping to use this bike for longer highway rides that the drz isn’t really capable of doing.

[@233kosta]

90° V twins and fours have an uneven firing order, consistent with 90° crossplane V8 engines in cars, hence sounding so similar. Crossplane inline twins have the same uneven firing order, creating the same exhaust note. That's why this one, as well as Yamaha's CP2 engine, Honda's 750 twins (Hornet, Transalp and NC750, etc.) as well as their 1100 (Africa Twin, NT1100, Rebel 1100) sound very similar. The sound is inherent to the crossplane crank, but the exhaust system has to take advantage of it too. I imagine Aprilia either did some creative exhaust tuning or just straight up went for equal length headers to make the 660 sound so awesome.

[@SK_XIII]

thanks for educating us mate! appreciate it 👌

[@GettingthruLife]

Seems the reports on this bike for reliability are scary and concerning. Now, this can be bad hype or over exaggerated but it is something to consider if you see this from people. I have an interest in this bike which would be a 2022. I see new owners reporting blown motors (people on their second and third motor after warranty replacement) with low low miles and fluid leaks galore. Are you still happy with this motorcycle and have you had to return for recalls, warranty repairs, parts breakages and fitment issues/quality control?

[@SK_XIII]

When you research forums and videos online, majority of what you will read is negative when it comes to reliability. But in reality, most of these models have no issues. That being said, I would be hesitant to buy one if I didn't have a dealer close by. I personally have had no issues with mine and it is still lovely to ride!

[@bundatmoto7144]

1st comment here.. shout out sir from philippines💪🤘😎

[@SK_XIII]

Thank you for the support, ride safe!

[@chrisdavis7533]

Fam, good to see you upload. About that af1 tune: I do have that map. It does *lessen* the flat spot, but its definitely still there. Only way around I've found is just keeping your rpm high if you're gonna go for performance. If you are interested in that race ecu, I'd consider getting with you about sending you mine and reverting back to the stock ecu and getting the upmap because I want to get some velocity stacks. They recommend a custom tune for the stacks. Also, get those rizomas mirrors if you are gonna swap off the stocks, imo. Yeah a little pricy, but they look *damn* good on that bike and are definitely functional enough and almost no vibration at all. The only complaint I'd have with them is the view is a little small, and it's kind of a pain to use the right hand mirror due to its position versus your throttle hand. Pretty much agree with everything you said in the vid. I personally noticed an improvement in the vibration on the bike after 1st service, and it just felt a bit tighter overall. She's been in the shop for 2 pinched gaskets, but should be back home this afternoon. I miss her greatly. Anyhow, let me know about that ecu if you're interested and if so we will figure out how to make it happen.

[@SK_XIII]

Yooo Chris! Haha sounds like you're going all out with the RS mate! Man if the only way to solve the vibrating mirrors is to go with Rizoma..I may have to. Damn, that is sad to hear about the AF1 tune...I think maybe UpMap maybe the course I will go. Not in a rush though because I wanna figure out other mods first. If I get an exhaust then UpMap is probably the easiest to go with. I can already tell that it vibrates less, kinda blew my mind 😂

[@chrisdavis7533]

@@SK_XIII I've definitely put some cash in it heh. I know i promised some vids, those will come soon. If you ever get out utah way though, we got some nice roads to cut up, just sayin! I don't blame you for considering the upmap. Tbh, as far as i can tell, upmap has that same race map, but wont brick the ecu if you have to flash it. Seems to be the smart call.

[@SK_XIII]

@@chrisdavis7533 Would be awesome to come out there one day! Can never turn down some nice roads :D. Yup yupp, I think in general the UpMap just gives you more options

[@YZEtc]

Nice review. The reason your RS660 sounds like that is because it has a 270-degree crankshaft. My FZ-07 had that feature. Wait until you put on an aftermarket exhaust.

[@SK_XIII]

Droppin knowledge! Appreciate the info mate. I am very excited for when I get an exhaust :D

[@gremer6]

They sound similar at lower rpms, at higher rpms sound is rather different. Of course it is in case both have stock exhaust systems. But even with aftermarket the main difference is that MT07 has no similar induction noise/roar comparing to rs660.

[@annoyerboka]

That mirror shaking like crazy when high speed.. East asia version with your..

[@TheStringBreaker]

Please do a video on why you don’t recommend the rs 660 as a beginner bike. Keep up the excellent content!

[@SK_XIII]

Thanks mate! Will definitely make a video about this topic :)

[@labasrytas2876]

because its unreliable, and twice as much expensive than any other beginner bike in its category- you will only be paying for sports bike looks (despite its a street bike with fairings) go for MT07, cb 650 - cheaper and better!

[@RyanJM76]

Waiting to see if ai can get the stars and stripes model now. They had one there spoken for and one on the way. Love the new livery

[@SK_XIII]

That limited color really pops in person! I saw one and could not keep my eyes off it ! Hope you're able to find one mate

[@Shuai807]

Great video. Very informative!

[@SK_XIII]

Appreciate the support mate!

[@robertholland4918]

Great review, I ha e the rs660 and agree with everything. Damn mirrors but I absolutely love this bike

[@SK_XIII]

Glad you're enjoying yours mate!

[@motorhead16]

Thank you, Sir!

[@junito1008]

I want to buy this bike because is the best bike on this price…many many features…but I’m afraid because there’s many ppl talking about how unreliable it engine is !! 🤦🏻‍♂️ is that true? 2022 fixed the issues?

[@SK_XIII]

There was a small batch of VINs that were impacted by the engine recall, so it is rare. Other than that, people have had oil leak issues, which seem to mostly be due to bolts that were not tightened enough. The vast majority of owners are not experiencing problems :)

[@Khmersupra]

how is it now with the service usually when bikes break more in gets more smooth and the rings seat in etc

[@SK_XIII]

Definitely vibrates less and overall feels more smooth!

[@TheStringBreaker]

Phenomenal video! Subbed!

[@mikeglick3886]

The flat spot yup it has one. It was an annoyance during brake in for sure. After 3,600 miles of riding it I have learned to keep it at or above 7,000 rpm in canyons and while passing. Now and again, I experience it when I am cruising but not so much anymore. Also in commute and dynamic the throttle is twitchy. Set the individual mode to your desired settings and ride it there you will be much happier. Like most bikes sometimes you just got to learn it's quirks (unless you own a Honda then they just work all the time). My Duke 690 was a learning experience, tons of shifting to keep it in the power band. Once I figured it out that thing would smoke all commers in a tight canyon. The 660 runs so lean it needs a remap just for longevity's sake and I hope it will remove the flat spot. Thank you Euro compliance .

[@SK_XIII]

Thanks for that tip! Now that the first service is out of the way, I feel less guilty keeping it in the higher rev ranges :D

[@SK_XIII]

@John Don So far it has been really good man! In terms of the ride, it is amazing. Definitely some minor annoyances at times but it is so much fun!

[@SK_XIII]

@John Don I'd have to check the odometer later, but ~1000 miles so far. Annoyances being my rear brake squeal, dip in the powerband in the midrange, and then the mirrors just vibrate way too much (impossible to see)

[@marcuslee2026]

What's up, SK! An MT03 is currently my first bike. Currently at 1500 miles in about a month. I'm also looking for a sports bike as my second bike. Thanks for putting your thoughts out there.

[@SK_XIII]

Ayee nice nice! Hope you are enjoying the MT03! Was definitely a blast to ride and learn on

[@kirkdunn1379]

was quoted $13,500 for this bike....no markup just freight, TTL......there is a tuono close by that has slightly cheaper MSRP and special financing....0.99% for 72 mo....its a 21 model and think maybe 22 models have some bugs worked out IDK......everyone raves but small issues are kind of annoying....other option is an 890 duke R.....these are only bikes i have found without dealer markups as well.......wish they would just say so on website to save time while researching but they try to keep it a secret until quote comes back.....

[@SK_XIII]

Yeah I feel you. I had to call around to all dealers in the entire state just to get real quotes, but some were not down to even provide me with a quote too.

[@brawlboy6250]

Hey thanks man for sharing your review. I would like to know about seat height? Can a 5.5" guy flat foot it? And what about u?

[@SK_XIII]

Honestly depends on your inseam size and less your height. I am 5'10-11" ish and I am on my toes. But I am used to just placing one foot down while riding anyways, so not a big issue for me.

[@Suisk8]

I wanted this but parts availability and I hear some have already broken engine

[@SK_XIII]

I hear ya mate! Parts availability is a big downside. The engine issues only impacted a select few though, so not too worried about that

[@josgraha]

excellent review I have the same nit-picks or "niggles" as the brits say. FWIW this bike is on a whole other level than the Japense bikes so I get the cost aspect. Great call on getting a tune or ECU flash, I deleted my mirrors (useless) and will maybe go for bar end solution as they perform great no matter how vibey the bike gets.

[@SK_XIII]

appreciate the support! haha I really want to just get rid of the mirrors too, but still deciding how I want to go about it

[@paulcompme856]

Be sure to use 10w 50 Castrol Synthetic Motor Oil or 15w 50 Mobile One Synthetic Motor Oil and the gear shifting will all smooth out. The quick shifter works best when you are doing just that - Quick Shifting - you have to be on the gas while shifting up and completely off the gas when shifting down - and of course short or quick shift the gears, don't rev out the gears too much before you shift to the next gear.

[@SK_XIII]

Thanks for the tips! Will definitely keep the oil in mind for the next oil change! Yup, pretty much manual shift 1st to 2nd and use the QS after that. 2nd to 1st is smooth though

[@labasrytas2876]

i can do that shifting you describe on my 2007 gixxer withouth bleeper :) :) :) - on my honda 2019 quicshifter works as smooth that i could use my finger to change gear :) RR blipper its a discrase!!!! stay away!!

[@sailorsforge4512]

Did you have to buy the rear seat delete? Is yours a special edition?

[@SK_XIII]

Got the rear seat delete separately. mine is not a special edition

[@Shuai807]

Just purchased the same bike

[@SK_XIII]

Congrats mate! Lava red?

[@supunsach5371]

The way you ended the video feels just same as Dave 2D tech channel 🤪

[@SK_XIII]

Oooo i"ll have to check out the channel sometime

[@rupeshb11]

you probably should make a video about its milage

[@SongJLikes]

Dealer fees at my Aprilia shop were similar, if not a tad cheaper, than my Honda dealer…

[@SK_XIII]

that's really good! become friends with them 😆

[@SongJLikes]

@@SK_XIII - to be fair, I think it says more about how greedy the Honda dealer was But yeah, my Aprilia dealer is fair, and I appreciate them… they are a 50 minute ride for me, but could be way worse

[@bradfoley8874]

I ride a 2007 R1. I really like the looks of this bike. Do you think after having the power of the R1 that I would be bothered by this ride? I'm not racing, just riding.

[@SK_XIII]

If you're just riding, I think the power is more than enough for the street. You'll definitely feel the power difference, but does it mean less fun? I dont think so

[@mike6996-]

You will be happy

[@theremedyxan]

how tall are u?

[@SK_XIII]

5'10" - 5'11" ish

[@SongJLikes]

I want a 400ft/lbs Rs660 🤯

[@justindivito1279]

One thing I've noticed since owning an RS660 and others bikes like RSV4 , Shiver 750, CBR900 Fireblade us that if feels underpowered 🤷‍♂️

[@SK_XIII]

I mean comparing to all those bikes, it will feel underpowered haha. But its light and I bet may be faster around a tight turn track/twisties? loll

[@alexv5581]

Well no shit Sherlock, rsv4 and cbr1000rr are full blown liter bikes lol What's the point of your comment ?

[@lancein808]

15.1k in hawaii

[@SK_XIII]

out the door cost? That is a HEAVY premium...

[@lancein808]

@@SK_XIII Yeah 15.1k taxes reg all that. I am now looking at other bikes.

[@SK_XIII]

@@lancein808 Sheeesh mate...I would too at that range. What else are ya thinking about?

[@lancein808]

@@SK_XIII I think i am going to go with a r6 instead

[@SK_XIII]

@@lancein808 Nice! people are marking the R6 up heavy out here, especially for the most recent design ones. I wanna own one some day too

[@labasrytas2876]

triump trident - identical bike , but 3K cheaper!!!!!! dont get fooled!

[@SK_XIII]

haha i'd say they are pretty different bikes. I do like the trident though

[@mike6996-]

Bad mpg

[@MrTaffynoel]

Not a 4 gallon tank. More like 2

[@rupeshb11]

you probably should make a video about its milage

[@SK_XIII]

You want real world MPG data? That will change depending on how you ride. Can go from 35-40 MPG for me

[@rupeshb11]

@@SK_XIII I wana see what you will get. Your riding type is the most common one so can you make a video about it with your riding style........