India’s motorcycle market is booming, with riders increasingly craving premium performance bikes that blend thrilling power with everyday practicality. Enter the Aprilia Tuono 457, a new middleweight naked motorcycle that promises Italian flair, cutting-edge tech, and a ride tailored for India’s chaotic streets and open highways. Let’s dive into what makes this bike a potential game-changer.
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Design: Aggressive Aesthetics with Everyday Ergonomics
Aprilia’s Tuono lineage is known for its sharp, race-inspired design, and the Tuono 457 stays true to its DNA. The bike flaunts a muscular fuel tank, angular LED headlights, and a minimalist tail section that screams aggression. Unlike its fully faired sibling, the RS 457, the Tuono adopts a naked stance, shedding fairings to showcase its trellis frame and engine. The exposed machinery isn’t just for show—it reflects Aprilia’s commitment to combining form and function.
For Indian riders, ergonomics matter. The Tuono 457 features a slightly raised handlebar and a relaxed footpeg position, ensuring a comfortable upright posture. The seat height is expected to hover around 810–820 mm, making it accessible for riders of average height. The split-seat design offers ample cushioning for both rider and pillion, a thoughtful touch for India’s long rides and daily commutes.
Engine and Performance: Power Meets Practicality
At the heart of the Tuono 457 lies a 457cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine—a configuration designed to balance performance and efficiency. Derived from the RS 457 track-focused model, this motor churns out 47–48 HP and 40–42 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed gearbox. While these figures might seem modest compared to Aprilia’s V4 beasts, they’re perfect for India’s speed limits and traffic conditions.
The engine is tuned for versatility. In stop-and-go city traffic, the Tuono’s linear power delivery and light clutch make maneuvering effortless. On highways, the twin-cylinder comes alive, offering smooth acceleration up to triple-digit speeds. Aprilia claims a 0–100 km/h time of under 5 seconds, placing it ahead of rivals like the KTM 390 Duke. Fuel efficiency is projected around 25–30 kmpl, a respectable number for a performance-oriented bike.
Features and Tech: Premium Kit for the Enthusiast
Aprilia hasn’t cut corners on technology. The Tuono 457 packs a 5-inch TFT display with smartphone connectivity, enabling navigation, call alerts, and music control. Ride-by-wire throttle ensures precise power delivery, complemented by three riding modes:
- Urban: Limits power for rainy days or slick roads.
- Tour: Balanced throttle response for highway cruising.
- Sport: Unleashes full power and sharpens throttle input.
Safety is prioritized with dual-channel ABS and traction control, both adjustable based on riding mode. Suspension duties are handled by USD forks at the front and a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear, promising a plush ride over potholes. Braking includes a 320mm front disc with radial calipers, offering confident stopping power.
Riding Experience: Tamed Beast for Indian Roads
The Tuono 457 isn’t just about specs—it’s about how it feels on the road. The lightweight chassis (kerb weight ~ 175 kg) and short wheelbase make it flickable in traffic, while the suspension soaks up bumps without compromising cornering stability. The upright riding position reduces fatigue during long rides, and the seat’s foam density strikes a balance between sporty firmness and comfort.
For enthusiasts, the Tuono’s exhaust note—a growl from the twin-cylinder—adds to the thrill. While it lacks a quick-shifter (reserved for higher-spec models), the gearbox is crisp, and the slipper clutch prevents rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifts.
Price and Competition: Where Does It Stand?
Aprilia’s challenge in India is pricing. If imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), the Tuono 457 could cost ₹4.5–5 lakh (ex-showroom). However, local assembly (like the RS 457) might bring it down to ₹3.8–4.2 lakh, positioning it against:
- KTM 390 Duke (₹2.8 lakh): Less premium but a proven performer.
- BMW G 310 R (₹3.1 lakh): Brand appeal but lower power.
- Kawasaki Z400 (₹4.1 lakh): Similar specs but dated design.
The Tuono’s edge lies in its Italian pedigree, advanced electronics, and race-bred dynamics. However, Aprilia’s limited service network in India could deter some buyers.
Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
The Aprilia Tuono 457 isn’t for everyone. It’s for riders who crave exclusivity, tech-loaded performance, and a bike that stands out in a sea of KTMs and REs. If Aprilia expands its service centers and offers competitive pricing, the Tuono could redefine India’s premium naked bike segment.
In a market hungry for affordable thrills, the Tuono 457 roars loud—and it’s ready to conquer.