Words : Lars Bosjen-Moller

Jock meanwhile was out in damp conditions , scrubbing in the tyres and making new friends on the track . Finally , the weather started to clear and the sun and breeze soon saw dry lines emerging and a chance to get some dry laps in . Jock finished his session and it was my turn to see how this RSV4 look-alike handled . The first thing I noticed , other than the stand out looks of the Lava Red paint scheme , was the ergonomics . The footpeg , handlebar , seat triangle is very comfortable , it isn ’ t as aggressive as most larger sportsbikes , but it isn ’ t too upright either . It means there is no uncomfortable wrist pressure and it ’ s easy to climb off the side of the bike to help get it through the corners . The screen height deflects the wind nicely and it is easy to tuck in under the screen to minimise drag - as I tried to find out just how fast it would go . It didn ’ t disappoint , topping out at about 230km / h in 6th , before having to pull it up for the fast , blind , right hander that is turn one .

THROATY GROWL The parallel-twin engine has a real throaty growl and I ’ m sure it would sound and perform even better with the Aprilia certified Akrapovic exhaust system . The engine is pure torque riders to keep it safe and fun . I ’ m one of the Hampton Downs Ambassadors and help out on track and around the pits , to assist riders with getting the most out of their day and helping the HD Moto crew run things smoothly . Jock took the Aprilia for scrutineering and after a thorough rider safety briefing , it was time to get the bike set up for the track and Jock ’ s stature , as he ’ s not exactly a regularsized rider , towering over most of us mere mortals . Fortunately , Leroy Rich from KSS ( Kiwi Suspension Solutions ) is a regular feature and accredited service provider at HD Moto and he soon had his measurement gadgets and tools out , and with the preload increased and the sag set , the RS660 was ready for action .

WET START Unfortunately , the day started wet , and with only slick tyres on my 1000cc racebike , I wasn ’ t prepared to risk it on track until it dried .

KIWI RIDER 39