Things are getting quite exciting for the Indian motorcyclist. Last month, we witnessed a slew of compelling new bikes in the 400cc category, out of which HD 440X and Triumph 400 had made quite a buzz in the market, and today, the buzz is getting even more amplified with the global unveiling of the new sports bike Aprilia RS 457. It was revealed yesterday at the Italian Misano MotoGP round, and we expect it to launch during MotoGP Bharat later this month. The bike will be manufactured at Piaggio's plant in Baramati, Maharashtra.
Like you, we also look up to this bike in high regard, which could/should prove to be a capable track machine. The RS 660 model has significantly impacted the design of RS 457. The styling is undeniably eye-catching, and very few would dare to disagree. Aprilia's headquarters in Noale, Italy, is where the RS 457 was designed and developed.
Aprilia RS457 gets a 457cc, liquid-cooled, parallel twin-cylinder with four valves per cylinder, double camshaft timing, and a 270-degree connecting rod assembly. The engine produces 48 hp of peak power and comes mated with a 6-speed gearbox with a slip-assist clutch.
Aprilia RS457 has a kerb weight of just 175 kg. In terms of hardware equipment, RS 457 gets 41 mm USD front forks with 120 mm of travel and preload adjustability at the front, and rear suspension gets a preload adjustable monoshock with steel swingarm and 130 mm wheel travel. Braking duties are being taken care of by a 320 mm disc at the front with a radial-mount 4-piston calliper and ByBre caliper setup, whereas the rear gets a 220 mm steel disc. Braking is facilitated with a dual-channel ABS system. In terms of wheels and tyres, RS457 gets 110/60 R17 at the front and 150/60 R17 at the rear and is expected to come with TVS Eurogrip Protorq Extreme tyres. I have already tested these tyres for a short span of time, and I came thoroughly impressed with their grip. Click here to learn more about the track ride experience with TVS Eurogrip Protorq Extreme tyres.
The Aprilia RS 457 features an electronic package, including a Ride by Wire system with three riding modes that adjust power delivery and traction control. The bike also gets a quick shifter and adjustable traction control for three different levels. RS457 gets a 5-inch TFT display as standard.
The bike is expected to be launched soon, later this month, and we expect the prices to be around the 4.50 lakh mark. The bike will rival the KTM RC 390, Ninja 400 and the upcoming Yamaha R3.
