Aprilia RS 457 Accessories: From Affordable to Exorbitant
The Aprilia RS 457 has recently made waves in the Indian market, not just for its impressive specs but also for its diverse range of official accessories. These accessories, which Aprilia has meticulously designed, developed, and tested specifically for the RS 457, cater to a broad spectrum of riders’ needs, from everyday functionality to enhanced performance and security. However, the pricing of some of these accessories has sparked quite a bit of discussion among automotive enthusiasts.
Affordable Essentials and Pricey Performance Upgrades
For those looking to personalize their Aprilia RS 457 without breaking the bank, there are several cost-effective accessories available. For instance, the tall windscreen priced at just Rs. 899 and the USB charging option for Rs. 949 offer practical enhancements for a relatively modest outlay. Similarly, items like the passenger seat cowl and helmet lock, priced at Rs. 1,499 and Rs. 1,899 respectively, provide both functionality and a touch of personal style at a reasonable cost.
On the other end of the spectrum, Aprilia has also introduced high-end performance accessories that come with a heftier price tag. The electronic anti-theft assembly and front brake lever protection are prime examples, each priced just shy of Rs. 30,000. These premium options, including the bi-directional quickshifter for Rs. 27,799 and the racing brake pads at Rs. 9,349, are aimed at those who prioritize performance and security.
The Debate: Standard vs. Optional
One of the more contentious points among Aprilia RS 457 enthusiasts is the decision by Aprilia to offer certain high-performance features only as optional accessories. Items like the bi-directional quickshifter and racing brake pads, which are often standard on competing models like the Yamaha YZF-R3, are optional on the RS 457. This has led to some disappointment among potential buyers who feel these should be standard offerings, especially considering their utility and the RS 457’s positioning as a performance-focused machine.
| Sr. No. | Accessory Name | Price (INR) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tall Windscreen | Rs. 899 | $10.96 |
| 2 | USB Charging | Rs. 949 | $11.57 |
| 3 | Passenger Seat Cowl | Rs. 1,499 | $18.28 |
| 4 | Helmet Lock | Rs. 1,899 | $23.16 |
| 5 | Adjustable Brake Lever | Rs. 5,449 | $66.45 |
| 6 | Front Axle Protector | Rs. 8,725 | $106.40 |
| 7 | Racing Brake Pads | Rs. 9,349 | $114.01 |
| 8 | Bike Cover | Rs. 16,875 | $205.79 |
| 9 | Bi-directional Quickshifter | Rs. 27,799 | $339.01 |
| 10 | Tyre Pressure Monitoring System | Rs. 28,749 | $350.60 |
| 11 | Front Brake Lever Protection | Rs. 29,825 | $363.72 |
| 12 | Electronic Anti-theft Assembly | Rs. 29,925 | $364.94 |
Comparing Competitors: RS 457 vs. Others
The Aprilia RS 457 isn’t just competing in a vacuum; it faces stiff competition from other popular models in the segment. Bikes like the Yamaha YZF-R3, KTM RC 390, BMW G 310 RR, and the TVS Apache RR 310 all offer strong alternatives, each with their own set of features and pricing strategies. When compared, the RS 457’s strategy of offering high-cost performance accessories as optional could influence buyer decisions, particularly for those evaluating total cost of ownership and value for money.
Impact on Buyer Decisions
For potential buyers, the decision to purchase an Aprilia RS 457 and its accessories isn’t just about performance; it’s also about assessing the value addition of each accessory against its cost. While some may justify the high prices for premium accessories based on the specific benefits they offer, others might view them as prohibitively expensive, particularly when similar features are available as standard in competing models.
Conclusion: To Accessorize or Not?
Ultimately, the choice to equip the Aprilia RS 457 with these varied accessories comes down to individual priorities and preferences. For those who value performance enhancements and high-tech security features, the investment in pricier accessories may well be worth it. However, for everyday riders, the more affordable accessories will likely suffice, providing added comfort and convenience without a hefty price tag.
As the Aprilia RS 457 continues to carve out its niche in the competitive Indian sports bike market, how it balances these factors will play a crucial role in its overall success. Riders will need to weigh the pros and cons of each accessory, considering both their practical needs and their budget, to fully tailor their Aprilia RS 457 to their liking.
