Introduction to the Aprilia RS 457
The Aprilia RS 457 has emerged as one of the most anticipated motorcycles in recent times. An Italian supersport manufactured in India and priced competitively against Yamaha and Kawasaki rivals would have been unthinkable a few years ago.
However, this has now become a reality, and it was only a matter of time before we tested the RS 457 outside the confines of a racetrack.
The question remains: How does this highly anticipated motorcycle fare in real-world conditions?
Italian Styling and Impeccable Quality
The RS 457 carries the hallmark of Italian design excellence. It is hard to find a non-good-looking Italian motorcycle, and the RS 457 is a testament to this theory.
The bike’s aesthetic appeal is immediately striking, with a beautifully shaped front fairing, cleverly integrated DRLs, and squinting LED headlights. The side fairing, which exposes part of the aluminum frame, adds a touch of prideful display.
The three-quarter angle of the RS 457 is particularly drool-worthy for supersport aficionados. The tail piece is another example of Italian design flair, offering both aesthetics and comfort. The generous pillion seat is a welcome inclusion, highlighting that comfort has not been sacrificed for style.
During a 10-day, 1,000km test, the RS 457 showcased excellent build quality. There were no rattles, squeaks, or loose parts, despite the bike being pushed hard. This durability is a testament to the high standards of manufacturing.
Ergonomics and Comfort: Designed for Versatility
Swinging a leg over the RS 457 reveals a sense of spaciousness. The seat, though firm, is well-padded, and even taller riders will not feel cramped. The reach to the wide handlebars is comfortable, making maneuvering through tight spaces easier. The footpegs are rearset, offering a sporty yet not extreme knee bend.
This ergonomic design ensures that the RS 457 is versatile enough for commuting, touring, or hitting the racetrack. The bike’s comfortable seating position, combined with its well-thought-out design, makes it a pleasure to ride in various conditions.
Performance and Handling: The Heart of the RS 457
At the core of the RS 457 is its 457cc, parallel-twin engine. This engine boasts class-leading power figures and delivers a flexible performance across different riding conditions.
In city traffic, the bike can comfortably run in fourth gear at 35-40kmph without any complaint, reducing the need for frequent gear shifts.
On open roads, the engine’s performance is exhilarating. The RS 457 accelerates rapidly, with a linear power delivery that makes it easy to handle.
The engine’s 270-degree firing order gives it a distinctive, deep sound that adds to the overall riding experience.
The six-speed gearbox is smooth and precise, although the absence of a quickshifter as standard is noticeable. However, the bike’s ride and handling make up for this.
The preload adjustable USD fork and monoshock provide good ride quality, even in stock settings. The suspension is firm but not uncomfortable, balancing comfort and performance.
The RS 457 shines in corners, thanks to its responsive chassis, light front end, and grippy tires. It offers precision and control, making it one of the best handling motorcycles across segments.
This capability makes the RS 457 a joy to ride on twisty roads or racetracks.
Braking and Safety Features
The braking system of the RS 457, equipped with optional sintered pads, proved more than adequate for emergency stops. This contrasts with the stock organic brake pads experienced on the racetrack, which faded under heavy braking.
Opting for the sintered brakes and adjustable lever is highly recommended.
The RS 457 comes with three levels of traction control, ride modes, and dual-channel ABS with the option to deactivate the rear ABS. The traction control is refined, with smooth intervention, and the ABS is well-calibrated, enhancing overall safety.
Technological Advancements
The RS 457 is packed with features that set it apart from the competition. The TFT display is well-designed, with a clear layout and vibrant colors.
Navigating through the menus is intuitive, and the bike also offers Bluetooth connectivity, aligning with modern technological standards.
Fuel Efficiency and Practicality
During our standard fuel efficiency run, the RS 457 returned a decent 23.4kmpl. With a 13-liter fuel tank, this translates to a range of over 300km. However, aggressive riding can lower the fuel efficiency to below 20kmpl.
Despite this, the RS 457 remains a practical choice for both daily commuting and long-distance touring.
Market Position and Value Proposition
The Aprilia RS 457 has carved a niche for itself in the sub-500cc supersport segment. Its combination of performance, build quality, and Italian design has resonated well with riders.
The fact that it is manufactured in India allows it to be priced competitively, despite being a European brand.
Priced at Rs 4.10 lakh (ex-showroom), the RS 457 offers terrific value for money. It competes effectively with Japanese rivals like the Yamaha R3 and Kawasaki Ninja 500, often outperforming them in terms of sales.
Aprilia’s commitment to the Indian market and the local manufacturing of the RS 457 have paid off, making it a popular choice among supersport enthusiasts.
Conclusion: A Supersport Worth Considering
The Aprilia RS 457 stands out as a well-built, fast, and engaging motorcycle. It has met the demands of the Indian supersport market with aplomb, offering a blend of style, performance, and practicality. The competitive pricing further enhances its appeal.
For riders in the market for a sub-500cc supersport, the RS 457 is a compelling option. It delivers on multiple fronts, from its striking design and robust build quality to its impressive performance and handling.
Whether for daily commuting, touring, or racetrack adventures, the RS 457 is well-equipped to handle it all.
The Aprilia RS 457 has indeed set a new benchmark in the supersport segment, proving that high-quality, performance-oriented motorcycles can be made in India.
It’s a testament to Aprilia’s dedication to innovation and excellence, making it a worthy consideration for any motorcycle enthusiast.
