KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- RS 457 debuted in India, bookings are to open soon
- Gets a 457cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine
- Expected price Rs 4 lakh
Aprilia RS 457 has finally made its debut in the Indian market. It is a premium middle-weight sports bike which shall help Aprilia to reach out to more customers in India. Equipped with a brand new 457cc parallel-twin engine, it is expected to be launched in the coming weeks. Read our detailed walkaround review of it below to know more about it.
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What Is Aprilia RS 457?
The middle-weight sports bike segment of India has become very interesting lately. With bikes like KTM RC 390 in demand, manufacturers like Aprilia have also started considering the potential of this segment in India. Hence, the highly anticipated Aprilia RS 457 has debuted in India. It is a motorcycle that had enthusiasts brimming with excitement for some time now. Derived from the reputable lineage of Aprilia, the RS457 boasts a proper sports bike design, drawing inspiration from its elder sibling, the RS660. It'll cater the customers who seek pure performance & a track-worthy bike that helps them learn the basics of motorsports; which also happens to be the essence of Aprilia.
Aprilia RS 457 Detailed Walkaround Review Video
Just in case you've not seen our detailed video review of the RS 457, see the video below. We've covered every detail of this new sports bike in-depth in this video.
RS 457 Design - A Baby RS660?
At first glance, the Aprilia RS 457 strikes a chord with sports bike aficionados. The design cues borrowed from the RS660 are evident, giving the bike an aggressive and aerodynamic profile that epitomizes the essence of sports biking. The Aprilia RS 457 features twin-pod LED headlights that lend a very aggressive look to the front, complemented by sleek LED daytime running lights (DRLs). The M-shaped LED taillight at the rear adds a distinctive touch, making it instantly recognizable even from a distance.
The sculpted fuel tank not only enhances the bike's aesthetics but also serves a functional purpose by offering better knee grip for the rider. However, the fuel tank The split seats are not just comfortable but also add to the sporty appeal, allowing the rider to sit inside the bike and feel the thrill of throwing the bike around the curves. Overall, we think that it is the best-looking middle-weight sports bike in India.
Features List - How Much Is Enough?
Aprilia has made sure to equip the RS 457 decently. It gets a 5-inch TFT color display that provides all of the vital stats like speed, RPM, gear position indicator, fuel level, trip meters, and more. This modern dashboard also serves as a hub for the bike's advanced technology features. Buyers will also appreciate the three distinct ride modes, each offering a unique character and performance profile as per the changing riding conditions. Whether you prefer a leisurely cruise or want to unleash the bike's full potential on the track, the Aprilia RS 457 has you covered. Furthermore, three traction control modes help ensure that the bike maintains its grip on the road, regardless of the surface or conditions.
Aprilia has gone the extra mile by offering several optional features that can take the RS 457 to the next level. The Quickshifter+ (optional) enhances the overall riding experience by enabling seamless upshifts and downshifts without having to engage the clutch, contributing to a smoother and faster ride. Additionally, Bluetooth connectivity (optional) helps the riders connect their smartphones to the bike, providing access to a host of features and functions that enhance the overall riding experience. This connectivity feature can also be used for turn-by-turn navigation. Ride-by-wire technology is another notable feature that underpins the Aprilia RS 457's performance capabilities. It ensures precise throttle control, resulting in more immediate and controlled power delivery, and enhancing the overall riding experience.
Engine & Performance - Typical Italian In Every Sense
The Aprilia RS 457 boasts a powerful 457cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine that sets it apart in the middleweight sportbike category. With this engine, it delivers an impressive 48.6 PS of peak power and 48 Nm of peak torque, promising a thrilling and responsive riding experience. The 6-speed gearbox, equipped with a slipper assist clutch, ensures smooth and precise gear shifts, even during aggressive downshifting. And not to mention again, the Quickshifter+ which is optional, also makes things super easy. While the claimed top speed has not been officially confirmed, early reports suggest that it can easily exceed 160 kmph, making it a formidable machine for speed enthusiasts. However, this only gets tested once we get to ride the bike on the road or track. One of the standout features of the Aprilia RS 457 is its aluminum frame, which greatly enhances its agility around corners. This frame design allows riders to confidently lean into turns and provides excellent stability at high speeds.
Aprilia RS 457 Hardware Details
The Aprilia RS 457 is equipped with an aluminum swingarm and rides on 17-inch alloy wheels. These are lightweight & help in maintaining stability and control during high-speed cornering and maneuvering through tight turns. The bike's frame is designed to deliver exceptional rigidity and handling capabilities, allowing riders to exploit its full potential on both straightaways and twisty roads.
On the other hand, the braking system on the Aprilia RS 457 is equally impressive. The front brake features a substantial 320mm disc, providing excellent stopping power and control. The rear brake, with a 220mm disc, complements the front brake, ensuring a balanced braking performance. The inclusion of dual-channel ABS enhances safety, especially during hard braking and adverse road conditions. The dry weight of just 159 kg is remarkably low for a sportbike. This low weight indicates that the performance capabilities of the RS 457 will be very high. A lightweight motorcycle is inherently more agile and responsive, making it easier to flick through corners and accelerate quickly. Riders can expect this bike to offer exhilarating acceleration along with nimble handling.
Conclusion - Should You Wait For It?
The Aprilia RS 457 is an impressive sportbike with an array of high-quality hardware specifications. Its build quality, suspension, alloy wheels, and braking system are all designed to offer a thrilling riding experience. The low dry weight of 159 kg indicates that this motorcycle is poised to deliver exceptional performance on the road or track. However, we expect that its pricing will be a key factor for its success in the Indian market. The current segment rivals are - the KTM RC 390 & Kawasaki Ninja 400. Tell us in the comments, do think Aprilia RS 457 will become a breakthrough in its segment?
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