speed gearbox equipped with a quickshifter, a new feature to me and impressive in its seamless action. The TFT dash divides opinions but I’ ve found it easy to read and intuitive to use, and the choice of display layouts gives plenty of scope to find a setup to suit. The selectable ride modes, however, were a revelation, particularly having Rain, Road and Sport all switchable while on the move. Sport mode sharpens the throttle response noticeably, but for most riding, Road mode hits the sweet spot of enjoyment without needing to push the skills or vigilance beyond the bounds of fun. That’ s the real triumph of the 660: it’ s a masterclass in balance. It’ s not hyperaggressive, and for real-world roads that’ s a strength. A newer sports bike rider could grow into it for years while an experienced rider will step off with the grin I first wore on Andrew’ s Daytona, all those years back. And this is the exact kind of bike we’ d have spent entire weekends chasing each other on; compact and precise through the turns, agile, lively and ready to entertain, not unlike Andrew himself. Taking the 660 through quiet rural twisties with that punchy triple beneath me, I’ m sure he’ d have loved it, and that’ s as good an endorsement as I can give. Get out there and smile. BRYAN SHAW
KIWI RIDER 53