Upgrade Hunter 350 to RE 650?

Aprilia is a performance-focused Italian motorcycle brand, and its Indian motorcycle range is aimed more at riders looking for sporty performance, advanced electronics and distinctive chassis engineering than those simply looking for an everyday commuter. The current range stretches from the 457cc RS 457 and Tuono 457 to the 660cc RS, Tuono and Tuareg, while the RSV4 sits at the top with a 1,099cc V4 engine.
That makes choosing an Aprilia less about simply comparing engine sizes and more about deciding how and where you intend to ride.
The following reasons make Aprilia bikes suitable for a range of riders:
Bike | What Stands Out for Riders? |
RS 457 | Its semi-handlebars sit above the steering yoke, giving it a sportier riding position without going as extreme as a dedicated supersport. |
Tuono 457 | The upright riding position and wide handlebar make it the more natural fit for riders who want the 457 platform for regular road riding. |
RS 660 | The RS 660 brings track-developed electronics and chassis to a middleweight sports bike, while retaining a riding position designed for road use. |
Tuono 660 | It takes the 660 platform into a naked-bike format, giving riders a more upright alternative to the RS 660 rather than simply being a stripped-down version. |
Tuareg 660 | It is the only Aprilia in this range developed around both asphalt and dirt, with riding possible either seated or standing. |
RSV4 | This is Aprilia's race-developed superbike, with the focus on aerodynamic efficiency and high-performance riding rather than everyday versatility. |
SR 125 | Its 14-inch wheels and multi-terrain tyres are designed for more than just smooth city roads, with Aprilia specifically mentioning potholes, long asphalt roads and rough tracks. |
SR 175 | The 175cc version is focused on quicker acceleration and traffic manoeuvrability, while its 14-inch wheels, adjustable rear suspension and ABS are aimed at maintaining control as riding speeds increase. |
SR Storm 125 | It combines the SR's urban focus with 14-inch wheels and a more rugged design, while Aprilia specifically positions it for different road surfaces rather than just smooth city roads. |
Consider following factors before buying an Aprilia bike in India:





Find bikes by budget
Find bikes by budget





Find bikes by fuel type

Hear from the
The Aprilia Quickshifter (AQS) allows faster gear changes without using the clutch for upshifts and downshifts, making riding smoother and more engaging.
It is normal for Aprilia motorcycles to feel warm in slow-moving traffic. If the temperature warning light appears, stop safely, switch off the engine, allow it to cool, and check the coolant and engine oil levels before riding again.
The Aprilia RS 457 is light and easy to handle, making it suitable for daily rides. However, its sporty riding position may feel less comfortable than a commuter bike during long hours in city traffic.
Yes, entry-level models like the Aprilia RS 457 and Tuono 457 are suitable for beginners. Larger Aprilia motorcycles are more powerful and are better suited to experienced riders.
Many Aprilia models, including the RS 457, have a manageable seat height and slim design that suit shorter riders. Taller adventure models may require more confidence while handling.
Are any of the RE 650s worth the financial stretch to upgrade from a Hunter 350 for daily commute? If so, which one should a person who likes sports bike should go for?
The answer we give you will vary based on whether or not you will retain the Hunter alongside a new RE 650 upon its purchase. If you were to keep the Hunter for daily use, the Continental GT 650 makes for a good step up, given your sporty leanings. We'd recommend opting for the colour with allloy wheels for added peace of mind that tubeless tyres bring when fixing a puncture. You could even wait for the upcoming Continental GT-R 750 which will offer an even bigger step up in terms of performance and features, although it will be priced higher than the 650. If, however, you plan to only keep one bike to do it all, the Continental will feel cramped, uncomfortable and committed for repeated daily city use. We'd recommend the Interceptor instead because its upright ergonomics will allow you to be comfy in the city and it still handles reasonably well when you venture out on the weekend. Do bear in mind that if you expect razor sharp handling akin to a smaller, lighter machine (like a KTM RC 390 or Aprilia RS 457) from these heavier, simpler and larger bikes, you will not find that here and while the RE 650s handle well, that's in the context of heavy, relaxed neo-retros.
I currently own a Hunter 350 and am considering buying a new bike. I ride around 25 to 30 km a day, mostly in the city with moderate traffic. I find the Hunter 350 a little underpowered for my liking, so I’m looking for something with better performance. My budget is around Rs 3 lakh, but I can stretch it to Rs 5 lakh if a twin-cylinder bike is worth considering.
Since you already have a Hunter 350 and want more power for your daily commutes, stepping up to the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 would be the logical move. The Guerrilla has a punchy engine with a strong mid-range which makes for a brisk yet effortless commuting partner. While the Guerrilla has engaging handling, its suspension is also reasonably pliant to tackle the daily grind. Given that you have experience dealing with the Royal Enfield sales and service network, your ownership of the Guerrilla should also be fairly straightforward and trouble-free. If you want a twin-cylinder experience, then the Aprilia Tuono 457 special edition should be on your radar. The Tuono has sublime handling, a characterful engine that belts out a lovely soundtrack and its also a fairly uncommon sight on our roads, giving you an air of exclusivity. Do bear in mind that the Aprilia dealer network is quite small and service will likely be pricier than its single-cylinder rivals.
Which bike should I choose to replace my CB350 for weekend rides, with 80-120 kph cruising ability, peppy performance and good refinement for fatigue-free riding? I have taken the test drive of V-Storm SX but didn't like it. I’m considering the KTM Adv 390 (350cc), KTM Adv 398cc, Himalayan 450, Tuono 457 and Versys X300. Off-road usage will be minimal and refinement will be an added advantage for fatigue free riding under Rs. 3-5 lakh budget. Among these bikes, which one will you suggest?
From the adventure bikes you've shortlisted, the KTM 390 Adventure X (398cc) and Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 are our top picks. The KTM has a sportier character while the RE is more well-rounded. The Aprilia Tuono 457 is a sublime motorcycle but service is on the pricier side and dealer network too is far smaller than established Indian and Japanese brands. Depending on the sort of rider you are, after taking a test ride of all three, you should make your decision.
Hello, I’m at a crossroads about whether to go with the Bear 650, Tuono 457, or KTM Adventure 350/390. I’m looking for a machine that is convenient to ride in the city, has solid long-distance touring capability, and offers a bit of off-road fun. I’ve been riding an Avenger for over 15 years now. I’m 5'8" tall and weigh 70 kg. From a design and appeal perspective, I prefer understated, muscular motorcycles.
Since you have listed long-distance capability and off-road fun as some of your priorities, that in itself rules out the sporty Aprilia Tuono 457 and the heavy Royal Enfield Bear 650 (at least to some extent). The 349cc/398cc KTM Adventure models are a better fit for your brief, and we'd wholeheartedly recommend spending the extra cash and going for whichever 398cc variant you like because the 349cc version just feels a little too boring to ride and has quite a bit of vibration too. Honestly, we'd recommend you also consider the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 because, while the Himalayan isn't the best at any particular aspect, the way it comes together as a package is quite commendable, and if you don't mind its extra weight, it can make for a wonderful companion. Take test rides of both the Himalayan and 390 Adventure before you make up your mind.
Hi I’m a beginner rider and I’m a bit lean and 5’7 height but I want a good sports bike and my first choice is the bmw G rr310 simply because it is more attractive in colours than the TVS Apache even though the Apache has better features and quick shifter too at a lower on road price. I have had other preferences as well like the duke 250 which I didn’t like that much in terms of looks triumph speed had recent issues with bike that puts a question on the reliability of the bike and I feel Aprilia rs457 and duke 390 are way too overwhelming and powerful for me as my first bike especially in Indian roads with high traffic pls help me decide the perfect bike overall
Last Updated on: 24 Sept 2026