In a strategic move to expand its footprint in the mid-range motorcycle market, Aprilia has unveiled the Tuono 457 in India. Priced at ₹3.95 lakh (ex-showroom), this naked streetfighter is designed to captivate enthusiasts seeking a harmonious blend of performance, aesthetics, and advanced technology Sharing its platform with the RS 457, the Tuono 457 distinguishes itself through unique design elements and riding dynamics tailored for both urban commuting and spirited rides.
Design and Aesthetics
The Tuono 457 adopts a minimalist yet aggressive naked bike design, setting it apart from its fully-faired sibling, the RS 457. The front fascia features a centrally positioned LED headlamp, flanked by boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights (DRLs), creating a distinctive visual signature Muscular fuel tank extensions and exposed frame components enhance its sporty appeal, while the underbelly exhaust contributes to a clean and uncluttered rear profile Aprilia offers the Tuono 457 in two striking color schemes: Piranha Red and Puma Grey, catering to diverse rider preferences.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Tuono 457 lies a 457cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, mirroring the powerplant found in the RS 457. This engine delivers a commendable 46.9 bhp at 9,400 rpm and 43.5 Nm of torque at 6,700 rpm, ensuring robust performance across various riding conditions Paired with a 6-speed gearbox, the Tuono 457 offers smooth and precise gear shifts. For riders seeking enhanced convenience, an optional bi-directional quickshifter is available, facilitating seamless clutchless gear changes. With a dry weight of 159 kg and a wet weight of 175 kg, the Tuono 457 boasts an impressive power-to-weight ratio, translating to agile handling and spirited acceleration.
Chassis and Suspension
The Tuono 457’s chassis architecture reflects Aprilia’s commitment to performance and rider confidence. An aluminum frame provides a lightweight yet rigid foundation, contributing to precise handling characteristics The suspension setup comprises a 41mm upside-down (USD) front fork with 120mm of travel and preload adjustability, paired with a rear monoshock offering 130mm of travel and preload adjustment. This configuration ensures a balanced ride, adept at absorbing road imperfections while maintaining stability during spirited riding.
Braking and Wheels
Safety and control are paramount in the Tuono 457’s design. The braking system features dual 320mm discs at the front, complemented by a 220mm disc at the rear. ByBre calipers provide effective stopping power, while the dual-channel ABS system, developed in collaboration with Bosch, enhances braking confidence by preventing wheel lock-up Notably, the system allows riders to deactivate rear-wheel ABS, offering greater control during dynamic riding scenarios. The motorcycle rides on 17-inch alloy wheels shod with 110/70-section front and 150/60-section rear tires, striking a balance between grip and maneuverability.
Technological Features
Embracing modernity, the Tuono 457 comes equipped with a suite of technological advancements aimed at enhancing the riding experience. A vibrant 5-inch color TFT display serves as the central interface, providing riders with real-time information on speed, gear position, fuel levels, and more Bluetooth connectivity enables seamless integration with smartphones, allowing for navigation prompts, call notifications, and media controls directly from the display Multiple riding modes Eco, Sport, and Rain—and traction control settings empower riders to tailor the motorcycle’s performance characteristics to their preferences and varying road conditions.
Market Positioning and Competition
Positioned competitively in the mid-range naked motorcycle segment, the Tuono 457 enters a market populated by formidable contenders Its primary rivals include the KTM 390 Duke and the Yamaha MT-03, both renowned for their performance and value propositions The Tuono 457 distinguishes itself with a slightly higher displacement, premium build quality, and a feature-rich package Aprilia’s strategic pricing aims to offer enthusiasts a compelling alternative that combines Italian design flair with robust engineering.
Pricing and Availability
The Aprilia Tuono 457 is priced at ₹3.95 lakh (ex-showroom). On-road prices vary depending on the city, accounting for additional charges such as registration, insurance, and taxes. For instance, the on-road price in Delhi is approximately ₹4.52 lakh, while in Mumbai, it stands at around ₹4.68 lakh.
Bookings for the Tuono 457 have commenced with a nominal fee of ₹10,000, and prospective buyers can secure their reservations through authorized Aprilia dealerships across India Test rides and deliveries are slated to begin in the first week of March 2025, providing eager riders an opportunity to experience the Tuono 457 firsthand.
Conclusion
The Aprilia Tuono 457 emerges as a formidable player in the mid-range naked motorcycle arena, blending performance, aesthetics, and advanced technology Its introduction reflects Aprilia’s commitment to catering to a diverse audience of motorcycling enthusiasts in India.
With its competitive pricing, distinctive design, and comprehensive feature set, the Tuono 457 is poised to make a significant impact and carve a niche among riders seeking an exhilarating yet practical two-wheeled companion.