Aprilia RS 457 Test Report 2024

The Aprilia RS 457 is equipped with a powerful 457 cc inline engine delivering 48 hp. With a dry weight of just 159 kg and a sporty seating position, it offers excellent handling and riding pleasure. Outfitted with high-quality components such as a quickshifter, slipper clutch, ride-by-wire, and multiple riding modes, the RS 457 is versatile and suitable for both daily use and spirited riding. Despite its sporty ambitions, it remains comfortable and easy to handle.

The HJC helmets in superhero design, which our editors wore for the Supersport motorcycle test, are not only real eye-catchers but also technically sophisticated. The RPHA 1 and RPHA 12 models offer a perfect combination of safety, comfort, and stylish design. The RPHA 1 is particularly designed for aerodynamics and stability at high speeds, providing excellent protection through its premium materials. The RPHA 12, on the other hand, impresses with its versatile range of use and excellent ventilation, ensuring pleasant freshness even on longer rides. Both helmets are adorned with striking superhero graphics, making them a special highlight for all comic fans and motorcycle enthusiasts.

For more information, visit: HJC Helmets.

Our editors not only wore the striking HJC helmets during this supersports motorcycle test, but they were also dressed in high-quality motorcycle gear from Segura. Segura is known for its combination of classic design and top-notch protection. The tested outfits included sturdy leather jackets, which provide the highest safety with their abrasion-resistant properties and integrated protectors on the shoulders, elbows, and back. Additionally, breathable and weatherproof pants and gloves were worn, offering optimal grip and protection. Segura's motorcycle gear combines stylish looks with functional details, ensuring that our editors were not only well-protected but also comfortable and fashionable on the road.

For more information, visit: Segura Motorcycle Gear.

The engine is described as very dynamic and easy to ride, with a wide usable rpm range and minimal, non-disruptive vibration. The motorcycle's electronics mostly work well, but there are issues with the ABS function. Specifically, during heavy braking at the limit and simultaneous downshifting, the ABS can fully release, making sporty riding difficult. Another drawback is that the ABS cannot be deactivated, which is a disadvantage for sport-oriented riders.

The riding dynamics and chassis geometry are positively highlighted, as they can be used both comfortably and sportily despite limited adjustment options. The brakes themselves work well but are impaired by the rudimentary ABS regulation. The seating position is more comfort-oriented, making sporty riding with sharply angled hands and a curved back difficult.

Horvath describes the Aprilia RS 457 as the most harmonious bike in the field of A2 supersports. He praises the engine for its responsiveness and powerful grunt, which is impressive in this class. The low weight makes the bike very nimble. He particularly highlights the sporty chassis and the wide handlebars, which allow for precise control.

However, Horvath criticizes the brakes, noting a lack of modulation and a clear pressure point. At the limit, the ABS also intervenes too strongly for his liking. Despite these criticisms, Horvath sees the Aprilia RS 457 as the sportiest package for an average sporty rider.

Alessio is impressed by the performance of the bike but highlights some criticisms. He finds the front brakes very hard and lacking in feedback, which affects the riding performance in twisties. The uncertainty regarding the braking power means he never knows exactly how hard he should brake. He thinks the rear brakes work better but are also not optimal. The display of the bike is easy to read, even though it is not the most modern or the most beautiful. Alessio particularly praises the sound of the RS 457, which he describes as fantastic. Overall, the bike leaves a positive first impression on him, despite the mentioned weaknesses in the brakes.

Amelie describes her first impression of the Aprilia RS 457 as extremely positive. She is particularly impressed by the sound of the bike, which she describes as convincing and powerful. Compared to other A2 bikes, the Aprilia RS 457 offers a genuine supersports feeling, enhanced by the forward-leaning riding position.

Amelie emphasizes that she hasn't noticed any significant negative aspects. The engine brake and the brakes in general work very well for her, although the front brake has a lot of grip, which requires fine modulation. Despite her lack of experience with supersports, she finds this manageable and believes that one gets used to the riding performance after a few laps. The chassis and gearbox also leave a very good impression on her. Overall, she gives the Aprilia RS 457 a thumbs up and is very satisfied with her experience.

The Aprilia RS 457 offers a harmonious combination of a powerful engine, sporty riding dynamics, good handling, convincing sound, and comfortable ergonomics. The positive impressions of the Aprilia RS 457 can be summarized as follows:

Engine Power and Throttle Response: Powerful and dynamic engine with good throttle response and a wide usable rev range. The engine revs well to the top and offers impressive performance for this class.

Riding Dynamics and Chassis: Excellent riding dynamics and sporty feel. The chassis is well set up, offers a sporty feel, and allows for precise control. Good handling and agility due to the low weight.

Seating Position and Ergonomics: The seating position conveys a true supersports feeling.

Sound: The sound of the bike is described as fantastic and convincing, contributing to the sporty appeal.

Electronics and Display: The display is easy to read, functional, and meets expectations.

• Braking Issues: Hard front brakes with little feedback and problematic ABS at the limit.