RIDING THE RS457
The Aprilia RS457 brings a distinctive offering to the New Zealand market , combining performance , style , and the thrill of Italian design into an accessible mid-capacity sportbike . Renowned as ‘ the Italian brand that brought affordable exotica to the masses ’, Aprilia ’ s RS457 looks to infuse the style and feel of high-end performance with a design and price point accessible to a broader audience . As I approached Hampton Downs Motorsport Park , I had an inkling the RS457 would deliver something unique . But I had no idea what specific ‘ exotica ’ it ’ s to bring to New Zealand , and how it stacks up against its competitors . From the first look , Aprilia ’ s design intentions are clear . The RS457 ’ s double-spar aluminium frame shines between the stylish doublewalled fairing , instantly setting it apart from other bikes in its class . Competitors like the Yamaha R3 , KTM 390 , and Kawasaki Ninja 400 all offer great entry-level performance , but none of them can match the RS457 ’ s frame , and Italian flair . Aprilia ’ s lines have an unmistakable
sophistication , differing from the Japanese sameness , but giving the bike a bigger bike look than the sharper-edged Austrian KTM 390 offering . The RS457 is powered by an all-new , liquidcooled , 457cc parallel twin-cylinder engine with a 270-degree phased crank , producing a maximum of 47hp ( 35kW ). This output along with its low relative weight brings it to the upper limit of New Zealand ’ s LAMS ( Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme ), making it ideal for both beginner riders and experienced riders who want something agile and responsive . Unlike some models that derive from larger engines , this parallel twin is purpose-built for the RS457 , offering smooth and balanced power delivery without overpowering new riders . On the track , the bike felt lively and responsive . Though the revvy over-square motor ( meaning it has a bigger bore dimension than its stroke ) claims an impressive 82 % of it ’ s maximum torque at just 3000rpm , suggesting it still maintains a nice linear delivery . Its three riding modes ( Eco , Sport and Rain ) add versatility for different riding conditions .
KIWI RIDER 51