Aprilia India has launched the RS 457 sportbike, which is set to hit Indian roads later this year. Diego Graffi, Chairman and Managing Director of Piaggio Vehicles, announced that the RS 457 will be available through Aprilia’s premium Motoplex dealerships.
These Motoplex outlets serve as one-stop destinations for Piaggio Group brands, including Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, and Vespa. Moreover, Aprilia plans to expand its network of dealerships throughout India in the coming year.
While Graffi didn’t specify the exact number of new dealerships, he did confirm that the initial focus will be on Tier I and II markets before widening the reach of the RS 457 across the nation.
Motoplex stores were introduced globally in 2015, and they are currently situated in Pune, Bengaluru, and Chennai.
The Aprilia RS 457 marks the brand’s most accessible performance motorcycle in the Indian market. Developed at Aprilia’s technical headquarters in Noale, Italy, the same facility responsible for MotoGP-spec RS GP machines, this motorcycle holds significant promise.
At the launching event, Maverick Vinales, a rider from the Aprilia Racing MotoGP team, was present. He was involved in the development of the motorcycle.
The RS 457 houses a 457 cc twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, delivering 47 bhp and paired with a 6-speed gearbox. It boasts USD front forks, a mono-shock at the rear, and reliable disc brakes with dual-channel ABS. Additionally, it offers three riding modes, 3-level traction control, and more.
With a kerb weight of 175 kg, the RS 457 is expected to offer agile handling. While it’s anticipated to be locally manufactured in India, the extent of localization remains undisclosed.
Aprilia India has confirmed that pre-bookings for the RS 457 will open later this year, with the official launch anticipated towards the end of 2023, likely in December. Although the exact launch timeline in India has yet to be confirmed, the RS 457 is a global offering, set to hit multiple international markets.
