If you’ve been eyeing a premium entry level sportbike lately, chances are the Aprilia RS 457 and KTM RC 390 are both on your shortlist. I recently took both for a ride, back to back. And while the RS 457 left me grinning from ear to ear, something still holds me back from putting down that deposit.
Let’s talk about why the Aprilia is so lovable and yet, not quite my next motorcycle at least not yet.
The Setup: Why This Comparison Matters
When it comes to high performance sub 500cc machines, the RC 390 has been a benchmark for years. But with the Aprilia RS 457 finally entering the scene, there’s a serious challenger on the block. This is not just a battle of spec sheets it’s a real world test of feel, finesse, and ride quality.
I went into the Aprilia test ride straight after a KTM session. Same roads, same mindset, and plenty of excitement. Let me walk you through what I found.
First Impressions: Aprilia’s Italian Flair Hits Hard
Looks that Turn Heads
The RS 457 is drop dead gorgeous. From the front profile to the sculpted tank, it’s pure Italian aggression blended with elegance. It’s not just about sharp angles it looks mature, sophisticated, and track inspired without trying too hard.
Build Quality
The materials feel solid, with tight panel gaps and premium touches everywhere. The switchgear feels refined, the TFT screen is sharp, and nothing feels flimsy. Compared to the RC 390, the RS 457 has a noticeable edge in perceived quality.
On the Saddle: Comfort and Ergonomics
The Aprilia feels roomier and better balanced than expected. The rider triangle is sporty but not overly committed, which means you can actually consider using it as a daily rider without torturing your wrists.
Seat height is approachable, and despite its aggressive appearance, the RS 457 is surprisingly comfortable. Tall riders won’t feel cramped, and the weight distribution feels neutral at low speeds.
The Ride: Power Delivery and Handling
Engine Feel
This is where things get really interesting. The 457cc parallel twin motor is smooth, torquey, and very refined. It doesn’t have the raw punch of the RC 390’s single cylinder engine, but it makes up for it with linear acceleration and better high end composure.
- 47.6 bhp and 43 Nm of torque
- Liquid cooled DOHC engine
- 6 speed gearbox with slipper clutch
The power delivery is predictable and engaging. It doesn’t feel as manic as the KTM, but it’s easier to manage at city speeds while still being a blast when you twist the throttle on open roads.
Handling and Brakes
Aprilia’s chassis work is outstanding. The aluminium frame, front USD forks, and well tuned suspension offer a planted yet agile feel. The RS 457 feels more stable mid corner than the RC 390 and less twitchy at high speeds.
Braking is handled by ByBre units with dual channel ABS, and they do the job well, offering good bite and confidence under hard braking. The overall feedback from the front end is excellent.
Where the KTM Still Wins
As much as I loved the Aprilia, the RC 390 still has a few tricks up its sleeve.
Raw Performance
The KTM feels more alive when you push it. The engine revs faster, and the exhaust note is far more aggressive. If you’re looking for that edge of your seat thrill, the RC still has it.
Electronics Package
The RC 390 offers features like cornering ABS, traction control, and a more evolved ride by wire system. The RS 457 is simpler in this regard, which may appeal to purists but is worth noting if you value tech.
The Price Dilemma
Here’s the clincher. While Aprilia is offering a premium product, the price tag nudges it into a different bracket mentally.
Depending on your city, the on road price could cross ₹5 lakh, which is significant. You start to ask: Is it worth spending that much when the KTM is cheaper and nearly as capable?
For some, the extra polish and sophistication of the Aprilia justifies the price. For others, the KTM’s value proposition remains unbeatable in this segment.
Handling That Feels Right
The RS 457’s handling is where it really shines. Its aluminum dual beam chassis feels planted, and at 175 kg, it’s light enough to flick through corners with confidence. The 41 mm USD front forks and rear monoshock soak up bumps better than the KTM, especially on uneven city roads. In tight traffic, it’s agile without feeling twitchy, and on faster sweeps, it holds lines like it’s on rails. Compared to the RC 390, which can feel a bit raw, the Aprilia’s polished ride made me feel like a better rider than I am.
Tech and Comfort
The Aprilia’s tech game is strong. The 5 inch TFT display is crisp, showing everything from speed to riding modes (Eco, Sport, Rain) with Bluetooth connectivity for calls and music. Traction control and a ride by wire throttle add safety and precision, though I didn’t need them much on my test ride. The seating position is sporty but less aggressive than the KTM’s, so my back wasn’t screaming after 30 minutes. Still, taller riders like me—over 6 feet—might find it a bit cramped for long hauls. The KTM’s seat, while firm, felt slightly roomier, but the Aprilia’s vibes are way more refined.
What’s Holding Me Back?
So why am I not signing the papers yet? It’s not the ride—that was near perfection. The Aprilia RS 457 costs Rs. 4.20 lakh (ex showroom), a solid Rs. 1 lakh more than the RC 390’s Rs. 3.21 lakh. For me, that’s a big jump, especially when the KTM’s performance isn’t far off. Then there’s Aprilia’s smaller dealer network in India compared to KTM’s widespread setup. I’ve heard murmurs about spotty service experiences, which gives me pause. Some owners also mentioned issues like timing chain tensioner quirks or rare compression problems. They’re not dealbreakers, but I’m cautious—I want a bike that’s as reliable as it is fun.
Why I’m Not Buying (Yet)
Despite falling in love with the way the RS 457 rides and feels, I’m holding off for now. Here’s why:
- Limited Service Network: Aprilia still lacks the deep, widespread service network that KTM enjoys. That matters if you plan to keep the bike for a while.
- Spares and Ownership Costs: Historically, Aprilia’s spares have been on the pricier side. Ownership costs could be higher long term.
- Real World Feedback Pending: The bike is new, and there’s limited data on reliability, performance degradation, or long term issues. I’d rather wait and watch how early units perform in everyday Indian conditions.
Final Thoughts: Should You Consider the RS 457?
Absolutely. If you’re looking for something premium, well built, and elegant without compromising performance, the Aprilia RS 457 is a standout. It’s not just a competitor to the RC 390 it’s potentially the new gold standard in this segment.
But it’s not for everyone. The KTM RC 390 still makes a compelling case with its aggressive pricing, performance, and tech. If you’re budget conscious or looking for a raw, track ready experience, the KTM might still be your best bet.
For me, the RS 457 is a bike I’d love to own just not right now. A few updates, a stronger support network, and a bit more feedback from real owners might tip the scales.
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