Ever since the Aprilia Tuono 457 was showcased at EICMA 2024, I was eager to see how it would fare against its fully-faired sibling, the RS 457. Having spent some time with the RS, I had a fair idea of what to expect from this platform. Fast forward to February 2025, and Aprilia has finally launched the Tuono 457 in India at Rs 3.95 lakh, ex-showroom.
I got to ride the motorcycle and before I share my experience, I’d like to simply try to put it in a few words. Well, if the RS 457 is a well-behaved, track-ready supersport with a smacking design, then the Tuono 457 is its mischievous, streetwise sibling that just wants to have fun. And boy, oh boy, it excels in it. How? Well, let me explain.
Aprilia Tuono 457: Design
Speaking of the design, the Tuono 457 not only differs from the RS but also from its elder Tuono bros. The model has ditched the semi-faired look of the bigger Tuonos and according to me, it has given the model a whole new identity. Why so? Well, because it doesn’t look like a stripped down RS now.
That said, the centrepiece of this major makeover is the new vertically-stacked LED headlamp that is flanked by boomerang-shaped LED DRLs. Another key highlight is the inclusion of muscular, extended panels on the tank. These panels have added some aggression, and it still looks muscular despite the lack of fairings, equal thanks to the fat fuel tank. At the rear end, the motorcycle remains pretty much identical to the RS – sleek and sporty. Now, you add all of this together and what you get is a proper, no-nonsense streetfighter motorcycle look. To me, it looked absolutely stunning – especially in the black and red colour scheme.
Aprilia Tuono 457: Features
Despite the lower sticker price for the model, Aprilia hasn’t skimped on tech here. You still get the same 5-inch TFT display as the RS, complete with Bluetooth connectivity. There are multiple ride modes: Eco, Sport, and Rain. It’s the same as the RS.
Besides that, it also boasts switchable traction control, and ABS that can be turned off at the rear. No complaints in the feature department as it is well-equipped in terms of electronics but again, like the RS, the quickshifter here comes as an optional accessory. Although, at its price point, it pinches a lot less when compared to its supersport sibling.
Aprilia Tuono 457: Engine
So before we move to the riding part, let’s get the powertrain specs out of the way. Mechanically, nothing changes from the RS 457. You still get that delicious 457cc parallel-twin engine producing 47.6 hp and 43.5 Nm of torque. On paper, it’s basically the same unit but what really makes it slightly different is the shorter gearing. Aprilia has gone with a larger rear sprocket here, which results in stronger acceleration on road.
Due to this, the motorcycle has gained instant acceleration bursts that now makes overtaking much more fun and the bike was really enjoyable while highway cruising. Apart from that, the power delivery is still linear and the unit continues to deliver a strong mid-range. However, this change has also brought in a minor downside as the vibrations start hitting at the 4,000-4,5000 RPM mark at the footpegs. Although, for me, I think I’ll happily trade-off the perfect refinement levels for those rapid bursts of acceleration on highways. Overall, the power delivery is linear and the motorcycle cruises at its best at the 5,500-6,000 RPM mark.
Aprilia Tuono 457: Handling & ride quality
At 175 kg, the Tuono 457 is no featherweight, but it’s still flickable and easy to maneuver. And in an enjoyable manner! The wide handlebars give you more leverage and make the quick directional changes effortless.
As for suspension, Aprilia has kept the same 41mm USD forks and preload-adjustable monoshock from the RS, meaning handling remains sporty but without the overly aggressive nature of a supersport. We tested the motorcycles on course to Nandi Hills in Bengaluru and suspension units did make the hairpin curves easily manageable. That said, the suspension is firm but not back-breaking, and the feedback from the chassis is confidence-inspiring. Overall, the bike feels stable around the corners and at the exits, it makes you feel more confident.
Aprilia has also thrown on a high-rise handlebar, replacing the clip-ons from the RS. The upright ergonomics mean you’re not as stretched out as on the RS, so the Tuono feels less demanding and is ideal for city use. On it, you sit taller, more upright, and in a much more relaxed stance.
Braking is handled by disc brakes at both ends, with dual-channel ABS as standard. The stopping power is solid, though the front brake could have a bit more initial bite as the stopping distance at higher speeds is a bit on the increased side. That said, once you get used to it, the braking performance feels progressive and predictable.
Verdict: Is the Tuono 457 the one to buy?
So, who is this bike for? If you loved the RS 457 but found it a bit too committed for everyday riding, the Tuono 457 is your answer. It’s just as fast, just as engaging, but clearly more practical and comfortable for real-world conditions.
At Rs 3.95 lakh, ex-showroom, it’s Rs 25,000 cheaper than the RS 457, making it even more tempting. So if you’re on a hunt for a good-looking, attitude-filled street naked motorcycle that is also fun on streets, the Tuono should definitely be on your list. The best part? You wouldn’t be burning a hole in your pocket as it is definitely a value-for-money deal.