Introduction
The motorcycle industry is rapidly evolving, with manufacturers aiming to cater to the growing demand for affordable yet performance-packed middleweight bikes. Aprilia, a name synonymous with racing heritage and cutting-edge engineering, has recently introduced the Aprilia Tuono 457. This bike sits in the sweet spot between entry-level and high-performance motorcycles, offering enthusiasts a chance to experience Aprilia’s DNA without breaking the bank.
As the naked sibling of the Aprilia RS 457, the Tuono 457 combines agility, raw styling, and everyday practicality with race-inspired performance. It is designed for riders who seek thrill and versatility—a machine capable of handling city commutes, spirited highway runs, and weekend track sessions.
Table of Contents
Design and Styling: Aggressive Yet Practical
The Aprilia Tuono 457 follows the brand’s iconic naked bike philosophy, taking heavy inspiration from its bigger siblings, the Tuono 660 and Tuono V4.
Key design elements:
- Aggressive front fascia: The triple LED headlamp with integrated DRLs resembles the larger Tuono series.
- Minimalist fairing: Unlike the RS 457, the Tuono 457 has reduced bodywork for a more muscular, raw streetfighter look.
- Ergonomics: Upright handlebars and a slightly relaxed riding stance compared to the RS 457, making it ideal for city rides and long distances.
- Compact tail section: With a sharp rear design and split seats, it emphasizes the sporty appeal.
- Color schemes: Expected in multiple racing-inspired liveries, likely including Aprilia’s iconic black-red and factory editions.
The styling is modern, aggressive, and unmistakably Aprilia, ensuring the Tuono 457 stands out in the crowded middleweight naked bike market.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Aprilia Tuono 457 lies the same parallel-twin engine found in the RS 457, tuned slightly differently to suit naked-bike dynamics.
Engine specifications (expected):
- Engine type: 457cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin, DOHC
- Power output: ~47 hp (A2 license compliant in Europe)
- Torque: ~43 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch
- Top speed: ~170–180 km/h
The engine is designed to deliver a balance between high-revving fun and low-end torque, making it suitable for both daily rides and enthusiastic corner carving. The parallel-twin configuration ensures smoother power delivery and a thrilling exhaust note.
Chassis and Handling
Aprilia has equipped the Aprilia Tuono 457 with a lightweight yet rigid chassis, ensuring stability and agility.
- Frame: Aluminum perimeter frame for precise handling
- Suspension:
- Front: 41 mm USD forks
- Rear: Monoshock with preload adjustability
- Brakes:
- Front: Dual 320 mm discs with radial calipers
- Rear: 220 mm disc
- Tyres: 17-inch wheels with sporty road-biased tyres
- Kerb weight: Around 175–180 kg (expected)
The lightweight nature of the Aprilia Tuono 457 makes it highly maneuverable in city traffic, while its race-derived chassis ensures excellent stability on highways and twisty mountain roads.
Features and Technology
Aprilia has ensured the Aprilia Tuono 457 is loaded with modern features, keeping in mind the needs of young riders and enthusiasts.
Highlight features:
- Full LED lighting with DRLs
- 5-inch TFT display with smartphone connectivity
- Ride-by-wire throttle for precise control
- Riding modes: Multiple modes (likely Road, Sport, Rain)
- Dual-channel ABS with switchable modes
- Traction control system
- Slipper clutch for smoother downshifts
- Optional quickshifter (expected as an accessory)
The Tuono 457 offers an impressive blend of safety and performance tech, giving it an edge over competitors in the segment.
Comfort and Practicality
Unlike the fully-faired RS 457, the Tuono 457 emphasizes comfort for everyday use.
- Upright ergonomics: Higher handlebar placement reduces wrist strain.
- Split seat design: Supportive rider seat with a sporty yet slightly cushioned pillion option.
- Suspension tuning: Balanced for comfort on daily roads while retaining sporty stiffness for aggressive riding.
- Fuel tank: ~13–14 liters, offering a practical riding range.
This makes the Aprilia Tuono 457 suitable not just for young riders looking for performance but also for those who want a daily rider with occasional thrill-seeking potential.
Expected Price and Launch
The Aprilia Tuono 457 is expected to launch in 2025 in global markets, with an Indian debut likely soon after, following the success of the RS 457.
- Expected Price (India): ₹4.2 – ₹4.6 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Expected Price (Europe/US): €6,500 – €7,000 / $7,000 – $7,500
This competitive pricing positions it as an affordable yet premium alternative in the mid-capacity naked bike segment.
Rivals and Competition
The Aprilia Tuono 457 will enter one of the most competitive segments, facing established rivals such as:
- KTM Duke 390 – Aggressive, lightweight, and track-ready.
- Kawasaki Z500 – Smooth performance with Japanese reliability.
- Yamaha MT-03 – A refined and practical Japanese naked bike.
- CFMoto 450NK – Budget-friendly with decent features.
- Honda CB500F – A slightly more mature and practical option.
Among these, the Tuono 457 stands out with its European racing DNA, premium build quality, and advanced electronics package.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Aggressive Aprilia styling
- Performance-tuned parallel-twin engine
- Loaded with advanced features
- Comfortable ergonomics for daily use
- Competitive pricing for a European brand
Cons:
- Limited dealership/service network in some regions
- Not as fuel-efficient as smaller-capacity bikes
- Pillion seat comfort may be limited
Who Should Buy the Aprilia Tuono 457?
The Tuono 457 is targeted at:
- Young riders upgrading from 200–300cc bikes
- Enthusiasts looking for a mix of style, performance, and technology
- Urban riders wanting a daily commuter with weekend thrill potential
- Aprilia fans who admire the brand’s racing pedigree but want an affordable entry point
It strikes a perfect balance between practicality and excitement, making it a versatile choice.
Future Outlook
The Aprilia Tuono 457 signals a major shift in Aprilia’s strategy to capture the growing middleweight market. With a focus on affordability, design, and technology, it is likely to become a strong contender in both Asian and European markets.
As the younger generation of riders looks for stylish, feature-rich, and performance-oriented motorcycles, the Tuono 457 could very well be one of Aprilia’s most successful models in recent years.
Conclusion
The Aprilia Tuono 457 is a bold new addition to the middleweight naked motorcycle category. With its aggressive styling, parallel-twin engine, advanced features, and competitive pricing, it offers an enticing package for both new and experienced riders.
It brings Aprilia’s racing heritage into an affordable and versatile machine, ensuring that thrill-seekers have an accessible yet premium option. Whether it’s for daily commutes, weekend adventures, or track days, the Tuono 457 is ready to deliver.
For those looking for a European alternative to the Japanese and Austrian middleweights, the Aprilia Tuono 457 is undoubtedly a bike to watch in 2025.
