Bike files: Aprilia RS 457 / Tuono 457

Aprilia’s A2 duo are the sportiest in the class, unsurprisingly…

Tell us about the Aprilia 457s then…

Aprilia introduced its 457 models in 2024. They are the Italian company’s first ‘proper’ bikes for A2 licence holders (previously you’d have to restrict one of the 660 models) and comes in two versions: the RS 457 and Tuono 457. Both share the same platform and both are very sporty, but while the RS is a fully faired race replica style machine, the Tuono has higher handlebars and more minimalist bodywork to create a more streetfighter styled machine.

For the purpose of this feature, we’ll treat them as a single model.

So they are beginner bikes?

The 457 models have been designed to be ridden by A2 licence holders so, in a way, they are aimed at less experienced riders. That said, they have a peak power output of 47bhp and that’s more than enough to top a theoretical 100mph, so they’ve still got plenty of performance to keep experienced riders happy too.

As a ‘first big bike’ they make lots of sense, and provide a big step up from a 125. It certainly doesn’t look like a beginner bike, even though it is very novice friendly.

What other A2 bikes is it up against?

It’s a packed field. Honda’s best selling CBR500R and Hornet 500 are the most obvious competitors, but you also have KTM’s 390 RC and Dukes, not to mention the Kawasaki Ninja/Z 500… among many others.

Are they more expensive than other A2 bikes?

The Aprilias have a higher list price than most A2 bikes on the market, however there are usually deals to be had and those can narrow the gap to its rivals. That said, the Aprilias are a more premium offering than most ‘500s’ on sale today, so it’s not unreasonable for them to be priced at the top end of the market.

What makes the Aprilias stand out?

Like the Hondas, they’ve been engineered to make precisely the 35kw/47bhp allowed under A2 rules. They also tip the scales at the lowest possible weight allowed to stay within the licence category’s power-to-weight ratio. These factors make the 457s the highest performing bikes you can ride on an A2 licence.

The spec sheet also features tech you wouldn’t necessarily expect to find on this size of bike. For example, you get a fancy full-colour TFT dashboard, switchable riding modes and adjustable traction control.

What do the 457s ride like?

The good thing is that they are very novice friendly. The parallel-twin engine has bags of low down torque, meaning you don’t have to thrash it or dance around the gearbox to get the most out of it. It’s also light, at 175kg, and has a relatively low seat height which is unintimidating to the new rider. With its light handling, it’s easy to ride around town while, on the open road, it’s much more engaging than a ‘beginner’ bike has any right to be.

That engine is willing, and sounds good too, while the handling is accurate. The aluminium frame echoes more expensive bikes in Aprilia’s range and, sure, the suspension is unadjustable and not as sophisticated as the equipment you’d find on something like Aprilia’s 660 models, but it’s better than most other sporty A2 bikes (with the possible exception of KTM’s 390s).

The brakes and tyres aren’t really at track day levels either, but it’s more than capable of coping with the 47bhp and as good as you’d expect for the price.

Who should consider buying an Aprilia RS 457 or Tuono 457?

The natural audience is young motorcyclists who are looking for the ultimate motorcycle they can ride on their A2 licence. Those shouldn’t be the only customers though. The RS 457 and Tuono 457 are substantial enough to put a smile on the face of any rider, and with light weight and compact dimensions, they are easy to ride for riders of all shapes and sizes.

The A2 sector is hugely competitive with a diverse range of machines available, but these two contenders from Aprilia can hold their own against the best of them.