Let’s cut to the chase. The lightweight sportbike arena just got a serious injection of Italian passion with the Aprilia RS 457. Sitting below its revered RS 660 and RSV4 siblings, this “baby RSV4” promises big-bike thrills in an A2-license-friendly package.
But stacked against proven rivals like the Yamaha R3, KTM RC 390, and the new Kawasaki Ninja 500, does it deliver enough to justify your hard-earned cash, or is it just beautiful noise?
Where the RS 457 Shines
Forget sterile numbers for a second. The RS 457cc parallel-twin with its unique 270-degree crankshaft is the star. It delivers near-class-leading power (around 47-48 hp claimed, dynoing ~44-47 hp) and torque (~32 lb-ft claimed), but more importantly, it feels and sounds special.
That crank gives it a throaty, almost V-twin-like pulse and strong mid-range pull that makes even mundane commutes feel eventful. Competitors like the Ninja 500 (451cc parallel twin) and R3 (321cc parallel twin) feel smoother but less engaging; the RC 390’s potent single offers punch but lacks the twin’s refinement.
The RS 457 boasts a segment-first aluminum twin-spar frame. This translates to exceptional agility, razor-sharp feedback, and planted stability that inspires confidence, whether carving canyons or learning lines on the track. It feels premium and fundamentally different from its rivals. While the RC 390 is also a sharp track tool, and the Ninja/R3 are capable handlers, the Aprilia’s chassis is a next-level experience.
Talking about Tech & Looks: It looks like a mini RSV4. The aggressive, premium styling turns heads. Complementing this is a full-color TFT dash and an electronics suite that is miles ahead of the base competition, featuring Ride-by-Wire, 3 Ride Modes, Adjustable Traction Control (with three levels and an off mode), and Switchable ABS (with a rear-off mode). The Japanese offerings feel basic in comparison; only higher-spec KTMs offer similar tech.
Where Rivals Bite Back
Aprilia’s historical reputation for spotty dealer support and parts availability casts a long shadow. While US experiences are newer and often positive initially, anxiety remains. Kawasaki and Yamaha offer vastly more extensive, proven dealer networks and rock-solid reliability reputations. KTM sits somewhere in between.
Stock Brakes Need Help: That premium feel falters at the lever. The ByBre calipers and 320mm disc sound good, but the stock pad compound often feels spongy and fades under hard use. Upgrading pads is a common (and recommended) immediate fix for serious riders – an annoying extra cost competitors largely avoid.
Forget buying it at $6,799 MSRP? US dealers routinely add $800-$1000 freight, $699 setup, and hefty doc fees ($250-$477+). Real-world OTD prices often land between $8,200 and a staggering $9,600. This pushes it dangerously close to used middleweights and makes the Ninja 500 ($5,299 MSRP) and RC 390 (~$5,899) look like bargains, even considering their lower spec.
The ergos strike a “sport touring” balance – less aggressive than an RC 390, more committed than a Ninja 500. It’s livable daily, but engine heat is noticeable in traffic, and the seat can punish you after an hour+. If pure commuting comfort is key, the Ninja 500 or Aprilia’s own Tuono 457 naked are better bets.
Is the Aprilia RS 457 worth it?
For the Heart (Enthusiasts, Experienced Riders) Absolutely
If you crave a motorcycle with soul, stunning looks, cutting-edge electronics, and a chassis that rewards skilled riding, the RS 457 is arguably the most exciting and sophisticated option in the class.
It delivers a genuine slice of Aprilia’s racing DNA. The engine character and handling are worth the premium for those who value the experience above all—just budget for brake pads and maybe tires.
For First-Timers, Budget-Conscious & Commuters
The Kawasaki Ninja 500 is the smarter “safe bet” – comfortable, reliable, significantly cheaper to buy, and likely to own, with proven dealer support. The Yamaha R3 remains a fantastic learner tool. The KTM RC 390 offers intense track focus at a lower entry price. The RS 457’s potential ownership headaches (dealer access, parts, higher OTD/insurance) and first-gen teething risks are real considerations the Japanese bikes largely sidestep.
The Aprilia RS 457 is a triumph’s technologically advanced lightweight sportbike that redefines expectations. It outperforms and out-feels its rivals on pure riding dynamics and character. However, its success in your garage hinges on your tolerance for potential ownership complexity and that significant OTD price bump.
