By India Bike Week 2023 is the biggest biking festival in India and most of the two-wheeler manufacturers participate in this annual event to showcase their latest products. This year is no different as there are several big launches lined up and Aprilia is one of them as the Italian manufacturer will be part of this year’s IBW. The big launch from Apirila is the RS 457, which was unveiled earlier this year and it is one of the anticipated performance motorcycles to be introduced in the Indian market.
The RS 457 is manufactured in India at the company’s state-of-the-art plant in Baramati, Maharashtra and we can expect Aprilia to price the model aggressively against the competition. One noticeable detail is the name – RS 457, which deviates from the expected RS 440 nomenclature. The exact reason behind the name choice remains a mystery, but what’s clear is that it houses a potent 48hp, four-valve per cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled engine with a 270-degree crankshaft. This engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.
The RS 457 boasts an aluminium perimeter frame akin to the larger RS 660, emphasizing agility and precise handling. Suspension duties are entrusted to a preload-adjustable 41mm USD front fork offering 120mm of travel, while the preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear provides 130mm of travel. With a dry weight of 159kg, the fully fueled weight is 175kg, ensuring a nimble and responsive ride. Braking performance is addressed by a single 320mm front disc and a 220mm rear disc featuring ByBre components. The RS 457 proudly debuts with TVS Eurogrip Protorq Extreme tires, renowned for their impressive grip and performance.
