5 IMPORTANT Insights About The Brand New Aprilia RS 457

The 457cc parallel-twin engine makes a solid 47.6PS, making it the most powerful bike in the segment

• Underpinnings on the RS 457 include an inverted fork and a mono-shock 
• Those wanting a quick-shifter, can get it as an optional accessory
• Features include a TFT console that has Bluetooth connectivity as standard 

Aprilia, the renowned Italian motorcycle manufacturer, made waves in the Indian automotive scene with the much-anticipated launch of the RS 457. Breaking new ground, this small-capacity twin-cylinder motorcycle promises to deliver the iconic supersport design reminiscent of its larger counterparts, the RS 660 and the RS V4, but at a more accessible price point. In this comprehensive overview, we delve into the key aspects that make the Aprilia RS 457 a game-changer in India's sub-500cc motorcycle segment.

Aprilia RS 457 Design

The RS 457 impresses with its genuine supersport design, featuring sharp body panels, a full fairing, and a distinctive LED headlamp setup. What sets it apart is the unmistakable RS-like design inspired by the larger RS models, the RS 660 and the RS V4. 

This scaled-down marvel offers enthusiasts the opportunity to own a bike that exudes the style of its pricier counterparts at a more affordable price. The aesthetic appeal of the RS 457 is poised to attract a wider audience seeking a balance between style and affordability in the supersport category.

Aprilia RS 457 Engine & Underpinnings

Powering the RS 457 is a robust 457cc liquid-cooled twin-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive output of 47.6PS. The suspension system, featuring a 41mm inverted fork and a mono-shock, provides versatility with preload adjustability to cater to individual riding preferences. Braking prowess is ensured by a 320mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc, complemented by dual-channel ABS. 

The option to disable rear ABS for a super moto-style experience adds an extra layer of customization. Rolling on 17-inch wheels with TVS Eurogrip Protorq Extreme tires, the RS 457 promises a dynamic and controlled ride.

Aprilia RS 457 Features

The RS 457 comes equipped with a host of cutting-edge features. Its 5-inch TFT display offers access to three distinct riding modes and three levels of traction control, providing riders with a personalized experience. Bluetooth connectivity, available as an optional accessory, and the quick-shifter enhance the overall riding convenience. 

Weighing in at 175kg (kerb weight), only 3kg more than the KTM RC 390, the RS 457 stands out as a relatively lightweight option in its segment, contributing to its agility and maneuverability.

Aprilia RS 457 Price

And finally, we talk about the most awaited thing, the RS 457’s price. Aprilia has priced the RS 457 at Rs 4,10,000 (ex-showroom). Now yes, that’s not supremely great value for money but you have to understand that it being an Aprilia bike, it was never going to be very competitively priced. Plus given the premium kit it has on offer, it wouldn’t be fair for one to expect a KTM RC 390-like price for it. 

That said, the Rs 4.10 lakh price tag still means that it undercuts its chief rival, the Kawasaki Ninja 400. The Ninja 400 has been priced at an exorbitant Rs 5.24 lakh (ex-showroom India), which makes Aprilia’s price tag seem pretty reasonable. Especially when you factor in the fact that the RS 457 has a LOT more tech than the Ninja 400. 

Now yes, the Ninja 500 will be coming soon, something that Kawasaki unveiled at EICMA 2023. That said, the Ninja 500 will charge an even bigger premium over the 400, so expect it to be priced rather high too. All that makes the RS 457’s price seem reasonable in the sub-500cc twin-cylinder market. 

Aprilia RS 457 Rivals

Primarily, the Aprilia RS 457 will rival the Kawasaki Ninja 400, given that they’re the only bikes in the sub-500cc twin-cylinder supersport segment in India. Yes, both are quite different in the way that the Ninja 400 is more of a sports tourer while the RS 457 is an out-and-out supersport. But they’re the closest rivals to each other. 

Then it’s the KTM RC 390 and the upcoming Yamaha R3 which also rival the RS 457. That said, the RC 390 has a lot less power, and the R3, despite being a twin-cylinder bike too, has less power, torque, and a lot less features. The R3 doesn’t even get something as simple as a slipper clutch and a quick shifter, things that are honestly standard in this segment. So in those terms, the RS 457 stands out as the more modern bike. 

Verdict

All in all, the RS 457 is a very exciting bike, one that we can’t wait to get our hands on. And once we do that, we’d love to put it up against the Kawasaki Ninja 400 too.