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Aprilia Tuono 457 Launched at ₹3.95 Lakh: A New Era for Sub-500cc Naked Bikes
Loans by Team Drivio | 22 Feb 2025
Aprilia Tuono 457 Launched at ₹3.95 Lakh: A New Era for Sub-500cc Naked Bikes
Aprilia has officially launched the Tuono 457 in India at ₹3.95 lakh (ex-showroom), marking its entry into the fiercely competitive sub-500cc naked motorcycle segment. Designed as the streetfighter sibling of the RS457 sportbike, the Tuono 457 combines Italian styling with a parallel-twin engine and advanced electronics. But does it have what it takes to challenge rivals like the KTM 390 Duke and Yamaha MT-03? Let’s explore.
Price and Variant
The Aprilia Tuono 457 is available in a single variant, simplifying the choice for buyers. Here’s the price breakdown:
| Variant | Price (ex-showroom) |
| Aprilia Tuono 457 | ₹3,95,000 |
Positioned as a premium offering, the Tuono 457 justifies its price with a twin-cylinder engine, adjustable suspension, and segment-first features.
Specifications
The Tuono 457 shares its mechanical foundation with the RS457 but adds a naked streetfighter twist. Below are its key specifications:
| Parameter | Specification |
| Engine | 457cc, liquid-cooled parallel-twin |
| Power | 47 bhp @ 9,400 rpm |
| Torque | 43.5 Nm @ 6,700 rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed with slip-and-assist clutch |
| Suspension (Front) | 41mm USD forks (preload adj.) |
| Suspension (Rear) | Monoshock (preload adj.) |
| Brakes (Front) | 320mm disc, 4-piston radial caliper |
| Brakes (Rear) | 220mm disc, single-piston caliper |
| Weight (Dry) | 159 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13 liters |
| Electronics | Ride Modes, TC, Bluetooth, TFT Display |
Review and Riding Experience
Engine Performance: Twin-Cylinder Thrills
The 457cc parallel-twin engine is the star of the show, delivering 47 bhp and 43.5 Nm of torque. Compared to single-cylinder rivals, the twin’s refined power delivery and linear acceleration stand out. The revised gearing (with a +1 tooth rear sprocket) prioritizes low-to-mid-range punch, making it ideal for city commutes and quick highway overtakes. In Sport mode, the throttle response is sharp, while Rain mode tames the power for wet conditions.
Handling: Agile and Precise
Weighing just 159 kg (dry), the Tuono 457 feels nimble. The steel trellis frame and sporty geometry ensure razor-sharp cornering, while the wide handlebar offers better leverage than the RS457’s clip-ons. The suspension setup is stiff for sporty riding but can feel harsh on broken roads.
Ergonomics: Comfort Meets Sportiness
With an 800mm seat height and upright riding posture, the Tuono 457 is accessible to riders of varying heights. The seat is narrow at the front for easy reach but could use more cushioning for long rides.
Electronics: Segment-Leading Tech
The Tuono 457 packs a premium electronics suite:
- 3 Ride Modes (Eco, Sport, Rain)
- 4-Level Traction Control
- 5-inch TFT Display with Bluetooth connectivity
- Dual-Channel ABS
A bi-directional quickshifter is available as an accessory, unlike the standard-fit unit on the KTM 390 Duke.
Braking: Room for Improvement
The 320mm front disc offers strong bite, but lever feedback lacks progression. Upgraded sintered brake pads improve durability, but rivals like the 390 Duke still lead in feel.
Competitors
The Tuono 457 faces tough competition in India’s premium naked bike segment. Here’s how it stacks up:
| Model | Price (ex-showroom) | Engine | Power | Key Features |
| Aprilia Tuono 457 | ₹3.95 lakh | 457cc Twin | 47 bhp | Ride Modes, TC, TFT Display |
| KTM 390 Duke | ₹3.10 lakh | 399cc Single | 44 bhp | Quickshifter, Cornering ABS, TFT |
| Yamaha MT-03 | ₹4.60 lakh | 321cc Twin | 42 bhp | Lightweight, Aggressive Styling |
| TVS Apache RTR 310 | ₹2.70 lakh | 312cc Single | 35 bhp | Ride Modes, Bluetooth, Adjustable Suspension |
Why the Tuono 457 Stands Out:
- Twin-Cylinder Engine: Smoother and more refined than single-cylinder rivals.
- Premium Build: Fit-and-finish levels exceed the competition.
- Adjustable Suspension: Rare in this segment.
Key Drawbacks:
- Higher Price: Costs ₹85,000 more than the KTM 390 Duke.
- No Standard Quickshifter: Offered only as an accessory.
Conclusion
The Aprilia Tuono 457 is a bold move in India’s performance motorcycle market. Its twin-cylinder engine, premium build quality, and agile handling make it a strong contender against established rivals. However, the ₹3.95 lakh price tag places it in a niche, especially when the KTM 390 Duke offers similar performance at ₹3.10 lakh.
Who Should Buy It?
- Riders seeking a refined twin-cylinder engine.
- Enthusiasts prioritizing premium design and Italian pedigree.
- Urban riders who value agile handling and advanced electronics.
Who Should Skip It?
- Budget-conscious buyers eyeing the KTM 390 Duke or TVS Apache RTR 310.
- Touring enthusiasts needing plush suspension.
Aprilia’s decision to manufacture the Tuono 457 in India highlights its commitment to the market.
