As the summer of 2023 heats up, the motorcycle industry is abuzz with anticipation. Moto Guzzi and Aprilia, prominent members of the Piaggio Group, are gearing up to make significant announcements in the coming months.
- Aprilia is making significant progress in introducing the RS440.
- Seen in the photos is also the upcoming Moto Guzzi Stelvio.
Rumours have been circulating about the revival of the Moto Guzzi Stelvio since the end of June, with sources suggesting a release before the year’s end, possibly even at the EICMA event in November. On the Aprilia front, the RS 440 has been generating excitement for several months, and the Piaggio Group further stoked the flames earlier this year by discussing their development plans for a 400-450cc Aprilia sportbike.
Now, in July 2023, we have tangible evidence of the Aprilia RS 440 in action, thanks to a series of spy photos. Interestingly, accompanying the RS 440 in these images is another camouflaged Piaggio Group motorcycle, likely to be the new Moto Guzzi Stelvio, based on the V100 Mandello platform. It seems these two models are keeping each other company during testing.
The styling of the alleged Aprilia RS 440 is strikingly similar to its sibling, the Aprilia RS 660. In fact, the manufacturer went to great lengths to conceal the true identity of the RS 440, employing clever graphics decals to make it appear as an RS 660.
However, upon closer inspection, it becomes evident that the RS 440 features a single brake calliper and disc at the front, unlike the RS 660. While no official specifications have been released for the RS 440, it is highly plausible, if not likely, that this cost-conscious model will come equipped with a single front brake setup.
With these spy shots circulating, motorcycle enthusiasts eagerly await an official announcement from Aprilia regarding the RS 440.
**Image credit goes to the respective owners
