Automobile News: Aprilia Hints at Possible Development of Tuono 457

Global, 14th December 2023: Recent speculations suggest that Aprilia might be considering the production of a naked version derived from its RS 457 sportbike, possibly named the Tuono 457. Marco Lambri, Piaggio’s design director, hinted at this potential development during a discussion about the brand’s future endeavors.

With Aprilia’s recent launch of the RS 457 sportbike at India Bike Week 2023, their focus on the middleweight segment has become more evident. It’s common for manufacturers to utilize a new motorcycle platform to create various models, minimizing development costs across multiple variants. Aprilia has successfully employed this strategy before, notably with the RSV4 superbike and the Tuono V4 supernaked, which shared a platform, as well as with the RS 660, spawning the Tuono 660 and Tuareg 660.

When asked about the possibility of a Tuono 457, Lambri responded positively, indicating openness to the idea without confirming Aprilia’s specific plans. However, his response significantly keeps the likelihood alive and reinforces the potential credibility of such a project.

The launch price of the RS 457 was slightly higher than anticipated at Rs 4.1 lakh (ex-showroom). Introducing a Tuono 457 could help lower the entry threshold to Aprilia’s motorcycle lineup in India. This aligns with the brand’s strategy seen in international markets, where naked versions are typically more affordable than their fully faired counterparts.

If the Tuono 457 becomes a reality, it is expected to feature a more upright riding position compared to the RS, with a flatter handlebar and reduced bodywork. The 457cc parallel-twin engine is likely to remain mostly unchanged, delivering a power output close to 50hp. Production could take place alongside the RS 457 at Aprilia’s Baramati plant in India, potentially positioning the Tuono 457 just under the Rs 4 lakh mark upon its launch.