Aprilia has expanded its middleweight motorcycle range in India with the launch of the Tuono 457 Special Edition priced at Rs 3.99 lakh (ex-showroom). This is just Rs 2,000 higher than the standard Tuono 457, but it is for the benefit of rider comfort and long-distance use.
The Tuono 457 Special Edition is meant for those who enjoy the sportiness of the motorcycle but would like to enjoy it more, for long trips and long rides. The engine and the main mechanical properties stay essentially unchanged, but Aprilia has made some ergonomic and comfort-oriented improvements.
Comfort Takes Centre Stage
The most interesting feature of the setup is a taller handlebar that improves the riding posture and reduces the strain on the wrists, shoulders, and lower back of the rider on long rides.
The suspension has also been tweaked; this is the first time in the suspension that it has a soft initial stroke that will assist with the road imperfections. This will help to make it easier to ride on uneven roads and urban streets with potholes and rough patches that are well-known.
Aprilia has also improved rider comfort by providing a new high-resilience foam core. The firm says that the new seat reduces vibrations reaching the rider and therefore it is more comfortable for long-distance trips.
Another practical addition is a front brake lever that can be manipulated as needed so that the rider can make the lever reach more suited to individual hand size and riding preference. The motorcycle also has a smoked flyscreen that reduces wind blast and makes the ride more comfortable on highway cruising.
Engine and Features Remain Unchanged
Mechanically, the Tuono 457 Special Edition is the same as the standard model. It still uses a 457cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that produces around 47.6 hp and 43.5 Nm of peak torque. The engine is coupled to a six-speed gearbox.
The seat height remains the same at 800 mm, and shorter riders will not experience any difference in accessibility. The motorcycle has a subframe like the RS 457, which explains the same seat height and overall ergonomics.
Feature-wise, Aprilia retains the 5-inch TFT instrument cluster, ride-by-wire throttle system, and traction control package. The quickshifter is optional and is not part of the standard equipment.
Heritage-Inspired Colours and Extended Warranty
The Tuono 457 Special Edition is available in two new colour schemes: Mamba Black and Puma Grey. Both paint options are inspired by the classic 2006 Tuono 1000R and give the motorcycle the feel of Aprilia’s heritage design.
Aprilia is also offering a 4-year or 48,000 km warranty package, which is among the most comprehensive warranty offerings in this segment.
Bookings Open Across India
Bookings for the Tuono 457 Special Edition are now open at select Aprilia dealerships in India. The standard and Special Edition versions are available in very small quantities, so most people will opt for the latter due to the comfort and extended warranty.
For riders seeking a balance between sporty performance and everyday practicality, the Aprilia Tuono 457 Special Edition is a great deal without drastically increasing the overall cost of ownership.
