The Aprilia RS 457 represents a significant milestone for the Italian manufacturer – their first lightweight supersport in nearly two decades and their first motorcycle manufactured in India for global markets. With class-leading power-to-weight ratio, sophisticated electronics, and race-inspired handling, the RS 457 brings Aprilia’s racing pedigree to an accessible price point. This parallel-twin powered machine combines aggressive styling with everyday usability, making it an intriguing option for both new riders and experienced enthusiasts seeking a nimble yet capable sports bike.
Buying Guide Overview
The Aprilia RS 457 positions itself as a premium offering in the sub-500cc sportbike segment. Manufactured at Aprilia’s Baramati plant in India, this motorcycle is designed for global markets with a blend of performance and accessibility.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | December 2023 (India Bike Week) |
| Manufacturing | Made in India (Baramati plant) |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹4.23 Lakh (India), $6,899 (USA), €7,199 (Europe) |
| Available Colors | Prismatic Dark, Racing Stripes, Opalescent Light |
| Warranty | 3 years or 36,000 km |
| Target Riders | A2 license holders, urban commuters, weekend sport riders |
| Segment Competition | KTM RC 390, Kawasaki Ninja 400, Yamaha R3, TVS Apache RR 310 |
Performance and Engine Specifications
The heart of the Aprilia RS 457 is its modern 457cc parallel-twin engine that delivers impressive performance while meeting A2 license requirements in Europe. With a class-leading power output, this engine combines everyday rideability with engaging performance.
| Engine Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 457cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder |
| Bore × Stroke | 69 mm × 61.1 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Maximum Power | 47.58 PS (35 kW) @ 9400 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 43.5 Nm @ 6700 rpm |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection with ride-by-wire |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual with wet multiplate slip & assist clutch |
| Optional Quickshifter | Available as accessory (up/down) |
| Fuel Capacity | 13 liters (2.6 liters reserve) |
| Claimed Mileage | 24-30 kmpl (varies by riding conditions) |
| Top Speed | 190 kph (118 mph) |
The engine’s character is noteworthy for its accessible torque across the rev range, with 82% of maximum torque available from just 3,000 rpm. This translates to excellent driveability in urban environments, with clean power delivery from low speeds and minimal clutch slippage required when navigating city traffic.
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Chassis and Handling Specifications
The RS 457’s outstanding handling characteristics come from its aluminum dual-beam frame that uses the engine as a stressed member, contributing to its exceptional power-to-weight ratio. This design philosophy is borrowed from Aprilia’s higher-end supersport models.
| Chassis & Suspension | Details |
|---|---|
| Frame Type | Dual Beam Aluminum Frame |
| Front Suspension | 41mm USD fork, adjustable preload, 120mm travel |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock, adjustable preload, 130mm wheel travel |
| Front Brake | 320mm disc with ByBre 4-piston radial caliper |
| Rear Brake | 220mm disc with ByBre single-piston caliper |
| ABS | Dual channel with dual mapping (switchable rear ABS) |
| Front Tire | 110/70-17 |
| Rear Tire | 150/60-17 |
| Wheelbase | 53.1 inches (1349mm) |
| Seat Height | 800mm (31.5 inches) |
| Ground Clearance | 120mm (reported by dealers) |
| Kerb Weight | 175-178kg (varies by source) |
| Dry Weight | 159kg |
| Length × Width × Height | 1960mm × 795mm × 1137mm (est.) |
The relatively low ground clearance of 120mm has raised some concerns among potential buyers, particularly for Indian road conditions. This could be a consideration for riders who frequently encounter large speed breakers or unpaved roads.
Electronics and Dashboard Features
The Aprilia RS 457 stands out in its segment with a comprehensive electronics package typically found on more expensive motorcycles. The ride-by-wire throttle system-technology Aprilia pioneered in MotoGP-enables multiple riding modes and traction control settings.
| Electronics Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Instrument Console | 5-inch color TFT display |
| Ride-by-Wire | Yes, with three riding modes (Sport, Road, Rain) |
| Traction Control | Three levels, can be turned off |
| Navigation | Yes, via smartphone connectivity |
| Backlit Controls | Yes |
| Display Functions | Speedometer, tachometer, odometer, gear indicator, fuel gauge, trip meters, fuel consumption, range, temperature, lap timer, clock |
| ABS Settings | Dual-channel with anti-rollover system (2 maps) |
| Engine Maps | AEM (Aprilia Engine Maps) |
These electronic aids provide newer riders with confidence-building safety features while giving experienced riders the flexibility to tailor the bike’s characteristics to their preferences or riding conditions.
Lighting and Visibility
| Lighting Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Headlight | LED |
| Tail Light | LED |
| Turn Indicators | LED |
| DRL | Yes |
| Illuminated Switches | Yes |
Comfort and Practicality
While its sporty design might suggest otherwise, the RS 457 offers reasonable comfort for daily commuting and weekend rides.
| Comfort Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Seat Type | Split |
| Pillion Seat | Yes |
| Passenger Footrests | Yes |
| Seat Height | 800mm (optional lower seat available) |
| Handlebar Position | Sporty but not extreme |
| Wind Protection | Decent from front fairing |
| Fuel Efficiency | 24-30 kmpl (depending on riding style) |
| Range | Approximately 312-390 km on full tank |
Rival Comparison Table
How does the Aprilia RS 457 stack up against its main competitors? The following table offers a detailed comparison:
| Features | Aprilia RS 457 | KTM RC 390 | Yamaha R3 | Kawasaki Ninja 400 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 457cc parallel-twin | 399cc single | 321cc parallel-twin | 399cc parallel-twin |
| Power | 47.58 PS @ 9400 rpm | 43.5 PS @ 9000 rpm | 42 PS @ 10,750 rpm | 49 PS @ 10,000 rpm |
| Torque | 43.5 Nm @ 6700 rpm | 37 Nm @ 7000 rpm | 29.6 Nm @ 9000 rpm | 38 Nm @ 8000 rpm |
| Weight | 175 kg | 172 kg | 169 kg | 168 kg |
| Fuel Tank | 13 liters | 13.7 liters | 14 liters | 14 liters |
| Price (India ex-showroom) | ₹4.23 Lakh | ₹2.97 Lakh | N/A (Not sold in India) | ₹5.24 Lakh |
| Ride-by-Wire | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Riding Modes | 3 | 2 | No | No |
| Traction Control | Yes (3 levels) | Yes | No | No |
| TFT Display | 5-inch color | 5-inch color | LCD | LCD |
| Quickshifter | Optional | Standard | No | No |
| Service Interval | First: 750km/30 days | First: 1000km/3 months | First: 1000km/month | First: 1000km/month |
| Ground Clearance | 120mm | 158mm | 160mm | 140mm |
The RS 457 offers more torque than most competitors and features a more comprehensive electronics package, justifying its premium positioning. However, its lower ground clearance compared to rivals could be a disadvantage for some riding conditions.
Real-World Performance and Riding Experience
Daily Commuting
The RS 457 proves surprisingly adept as a daily commuter despite its sporty aesthetics. The engine is tractable at low speeds, pulling cleanly from 2000 rpm with minimal hesitation and requiring little clutch modulation in traffic. This makes it more user-friendly than some high-strung competitors.
The comfortable 800mm seat height should accommodate most riders, though the sportier riding position may cause wrist fatigue on longer commutes. At 175kg, the motorcycle is manageable in urban conditions, but the relatively low 120mm ground clearance requires caution over speed breakers and uneven roads.
Track Performance
On the track, the RS 457 showcases its racing heritage. The aluminum frame and adjustable suspension provide excellent stability and feedback during cornering. With 47.58 PS powering just 175kg, the power-to-weight ratio delivers exciting acceleration, especially in the midrange where most track riding occurs.
The engine character suits both beginners and intermediate track riders, with linear power delivery rather than an intimidating top-end rush. The optional quickshifter enhances the track experience by enabling clutchless shifting, maintaining momentum through corners.
Maintenance and Ownership Experience
Service Schedule and Costs
The Aprilia RS 457 follows a typical service schedule for premium motorcycles:
- First service: 750 km or 30 days (₹3,930 including oil, filter, and consumables)
- Second service: 3,000 km or 90 days
- Third service: 6,000-6,500 km or 6-7 months
Service costs are competitive compared to other premium motorcycles in its class, with the first service costing approximately ₹3,930 including engine oil (₹1,872), oil filter (₹1,184), chain cleaner and lubricant (₹250 each). This is notably less expensive than service costs for CBU competitors like the Kawasaki Ninja 500, which ranges from ₹6,000-₹7,000 for first service.
Common Ownership Concerns
Potential concerns for owners include:
- Ground clearance of 120mm may be challenging on poor road conditions
- Service network availability compared to more established brands
- Parts availability and costs for a newly introduced model
Pricing and On-Road Costs (May 2025)
India Pricing
- Ex-showroom price: ₹4.23 Lakh
- On-road price in Delhi: ₹4.81 Lakh (including ₹33,840 RTO and ₹24,476 insurance)
- On-road price in Bangalore: ₹5.31 Lakh
- On-road price in Mumbai: ₹4.95 Lakh
- EMI options start from ₹13,182 per month at 9.7% interest rate
International Pricing
Pros and Cons
Strengths
- Class-leading power-to-weight ratio in A2 license category
- High-spec electronics package uncommon in this segment
- Premium aluminum frame typically found on higher-end motorcycles
- Parallel-twin engine with strong midrange torque
- Adjustable suspension with quality components
- More affordable service costs than imported competitors
- Italian design aesthetics and brand prestige
Weaknesses
- Limited ground clearance of 120mm may be problematic on rough roads
- Higher entry price compared to single-cylinder competitors
- Relatively new model with unproven long-term reliability
- Service network not as extensive as Japanese competitors
- Fuel efficiency lower than some competitors
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Aprilia RS 457’s top speed?
The Aprilia RS 457 has a claimed top speed of 190 kph (118 mph).
What is the mileage of Aprilia RS 457?
The claimed mileage ranges from 24-30 kmpl, depending on riding conditions and style.
Does the RS 457 come with traction control?
Yes, the RS 457 features three levels of traction control that can also be turned off completely.
How does Aprilia RS 457 compare to KTM RC 390?
The RS 457 offers a twin-cylinder engine with more torque (43.5 Nm vs 37 Nm) and additional electronic features, while the KTM RC 390 is more affordable and has better ground clearance.
What is the ground clearance of Aprilia RS 457?
According to dealer information and real-world testing, the ground clearance is approximately 120mm.
What is the service interval for Aprilia RS 457?
The first service is at 750 km or 30 days, second service at 3,000 km or 90 days, and third service at 6,000 km or 180 days.
Does Aprilia RS 457 have quickshifter?
A quickshifter (both up and down) is available as an optional accessory.
How much does it cost to service an Aprilia RS 457?
The first service costs approximately ₹3,930 including oil, filter, and consumables.
What is the fuel tank capacity of Aprilia RS 457?
The fuel tank capacity is 13 liters with a 2.6-liter reserve.
What is the warranty period for Aprilia RS 457?
Aprilia offers a standard warranty of 3 years or 36,000 kilometers, whichever comes first.
Call to Actions
🏍️ 2025 Aprilia RS 457 Base – Experience the Aprilia RS 457’s performance first-hand at your nearest dealership.
📦 Shop Aprilia RS 457 accessories – Enhance your ride with official Aprilia accessories including quickshifter, protection kit, and performance upgrades.
💡 Compare Aprilia RS 457 with KTM RC 390 and Yamaha R3 – Make an informed decision by comparing specs, features, and pricing of top lightweight sport bikes.
Recently Updated (May 2025)
- Price update: Aprilia has increased the RS 457 price by ₹10,000, with current ex-showroom price at ₹4.23 Lakh.
- New color scheme: Limited edition Racing Stripes livery now available at select dealerships.
- Service report: First batch owners report positive first service experiences with average costs between ₹3,900-4,200.
- Track day feedback: Recent track testing confirms strong mid-range performance and stable handling characteristics at Kari Motor Speedway.
- Accessory update: New tail tidy and frame sliders now available through official Aprilia dealerships.
The Aprilia RS 457 continues to impress riders with its blend of Italian design flair, accessible performance, and premium features. Whether you’re commuting daily or enjoying weekend canyon carving, this lightweight sportbike delivers an engaging experience that justifies its position as a premium offering in the segment.
