autoX Awards 2024: Aprilia RS 457 Performance, quality and

2024 autoX Awards: Well, it’s time to come clean. We all know the Aprilia RS 457 will compete with it for “Best of 2024” honors, but we’re not ready to let it pass the competition just yet. Just look at the points difference compared to the next “Best of 2024” winner. The RS 457 is head and shoulders above the rest in almost every way, which is impressive.

To its credit, Aprilia absolutely knocks it out of the park with the RS 457. You see, the RS 457 was not only a winner, but a product that redefined the segment. For the first time in India we have a locally manufactured global standard twin cylinder motorcycle. And, icing on the cake, it doesn’t cost a fortune – if you want a world-class supersport twin, you don’t have to break the bank.

From their first interaction with the RS 457, the jury was completely enchanted. Whether it’s the eye-catching design, value-for-money sportbike proportions, lively paint, or impeccable fit and finish, Aprilia leaves nothing to be desired when it comes to looks. Then, when you fire up its brilliant parallel-twin motors, you feel there’s a lot to unpack in terms of the overall visceral experience.

This Aprilia supersport features a 457cc parallel-twin engine with a 270-degree crank that sounds more like a big V-twin. That sound…well, it kind of sets the mood. On the move, the dual motors are a monster. Torque starts to surge from 3,000 rpm, and the motor revs very quickly. Throttle response is quick and you won’t find any complaints as far as performance is concerned – other than a bit of buzz at high revs. However, we classify these as “good vibrations” because they are part of the riding experience and not a nuisance.

Then there’s the sharp handling. On the BIC, the RS 457 immediately feels at home. When it was pushed to its limits, it didn’t disappoint. As you can see, its lap time is nearly two seconds faster than all its direct competitors. Simran believes its explosive power delivery and aggressive geometry/quick steering help riders get the most performance from their motorcycles. However, he did say that he did feel a little twitchy at times, although not to the point of being out of control. Let’s just say it puts you on the edge. Braking performance is also excellent, meaning Aprilia has ironed out the issues we encountered on our first ride in January.

What’s more, the RS 457 is equipped with modern riding aids, including adjustable traction control, three riding modes, quickshifter (optional) and a color TFT display. These features are not only practical, but also make the RS 457 the best-equipped motorcycle in its class. Not to mention, it is the cheapest motorcycle in its class, making it the cheapest product of the year.

Also read: Aprilia RS 457 review: The hype is real!

We are full of praise for the RS 457 as it is the best motorcycle to be launched in the Indian market in 2024 and this is fully reflected in our score sheet. It may have taken Aprilia quite a while to put their first Indian-made sports bike on sale, but it was worth the wait. We tip our hats off to Aprilia for making the RS 457 a sports bike. Their performance exceeded our expectations. Salute again!