Aprilia has officially launched the Tuono 457, priced at Rs 3.95 lakh, a streetfighter version of the RS457. But how does it fare against the competition? In this comparison, we pit it against its chief rivals in the segment to see how this latest entrant stands up to other established players.
Aprilia Tuono 457 vs rivals: Engine and output
The Tuono 457 and MT-03 both feature parallel-twin engines, with the MT-03 falling significantly behind in terms of torque. The KTM 390 Duke, however, is the only bike in this comparison with a single-cylinder engine, yet it closely matches the others in both power and torque. Despite this, the Tuono 457 takes the lead with the highest power and torque figures in the segment. The KTM, with its single-cylinder engine, manages to produce similar output, albeit at a higher compression ratio. All three motorcycles get a 6-speed as is the norm. However, the Yamaha MT-03 misses out on both a slip and assist clutch and a bi-directional quickshifter which the competition offers.
Aprilia Tuono 457 vs rivals: Weight and dimensions
The KTM 390 Duke has the highest fuel carrying capacity whereas the Aprilia Tuono has the lowest at 12.7 litres. This capacity is also 0.3 litres less than the RS 457. The Tuono also weighs heavier compared to the other two bikes. Interestingly, The Yamaha MT-03 being a inline-2 still manages to undercut the single-cylinder KTM 390 Duke by a kilo. The KTM 390 Duke is also the one which gets adjustable seat height.
Aprilia Tuono 457 vs rivals: Suspension and brakes
In this comparison, the KTM 390 Duke is the only one to offer fully-adjustable suspension. The KTM and Aprilia both feature a 150-section rear tyre whereas the Yamaha features a 140-section which should not be an issue due to its low kerb weight, comparatively lower torque and power figures.
Aprilia Tuono 457 vs rivals: Price
At Rs 3.95 lakh, Aprilia Tuono 457 is the priciest of the lot. It does share its cycle parts with the RS 457 and costs Rs 25,000 less than its faired sibling while offering a superior parallel twin engine and not losing on power unlike the Yamaha MT-03. It is slightly more powerful than KTM 390 Duke but this power is delivered through a lower compression ratio unlike the 390 Duke which requires a higher compression to match the power.
Interestingly, Yamaha had recently slashed prices of the MT-03 by Rs 1.10 lakh bringing it in line with its competition. However, the 390 Duke also recently witnessed a price cut of Rs 18,000 widening the gap further. It remains to be seen if potential buyers prefer the latest entrant from Piaggio group, Japanese reliability from Yamaha or an established player from KTM.
All prices ex-showroom, India
Dinshaw Magol
Vishal Venugopal
Azaman Chothia
