Motorcycle specifications ApriliaTuono 457 2025 Ideal first relationship...

The name Tuono has been firmly established in motorcycling parlance since the early 2000s, in 2002 to be precise! First available as a 1000 (now 1100), then more recently as a 660, Aprilia's roadster is now available to young licence holders in a 457 cm3 version. The interest lies in an unbridled relationship, since the engine has been specially developed for A2 license holders. To live without a bridle is to experience all the sensations, even at high revs. Youth nirvana?

A new design reminiscent of another!

The entire design of the Tuono 457 is new, and while Aprilia claims to have started from scratch, the brand's rhetoric isn't so easy to swallow. For older riders (including me), it's impossible not to rediscover the spirit of the Tuono 1000 MK2, released in 2006. Admittedly, the lines are more modern and technological, but it's not entirely without inspiration that the designers have taken the lines of the 457. The fork head has been reduced to its simplest form, while the radiator scoops add a dynamic touch to the styling.

The rear light cluster is also entirely LED, while the twin-cylinder engine with carrier function is intentionally left uncovered, as is the double-beam aluminum frame. The exhaust is discreet and does not detract from the styling, being positioned below the engine. The seat, which sits 800 mm off the ground, is tapered at the sides to help the rider put his foot down.

The Tuono 457 also comes standard with a 5" TFT color instrument panel and backlit controls. The Aprilia MIA system is another accessory that further extends the functionality of the instrumentation: this multimedia platform allows the rider to connect his or her smartphone to the bike. The system offers a connection protocol that minimizes smartphone battery consumption, and includes both the infotainment system for managing voice assistant, calls and music via intuitive handlebar controls, and the navigation function, which allows the rider to view pictogram directions directly on the dashboard after setting the trip destination on the associated smartphone. The Aprilia MIA app can also be used to memorize the routes taken and analyze the data acquired directly on the app, thanks to the geo-referenced telemetry function.

The Aprilia Tuono 457 is available in two colors: Piranha Red and Puma Grey.

Engine: compact but complete

The Tuono 457 is built around a 457 cm3 twin-cylinder engine. The latter is not original, as it has already been seen on the brand-new RS 457 sports bike. It's a water-cooled, parallel-twin engine with double camshaft timing and four valves per cylinder. It delivers maximum power of 35 kW (47.6 hp) at 9,400 rpm - the maximum possible for a motorcycle that can be ridden with an A2 license - and torque of 43.5 Nm at 6,700 rpm, 82% of which is already available at 3,000 rpm. So this little twin-cylinder has plenty of power, and the feeling on the handlebars should be quite pleasant.

Noale's sensational bike has a second trump card in the shape of a real featherweight. The Tuono 457 weighs just 159 kg (dry). The engine also has a load-bearing function, with the swingarm anchored to it.

Aprilia has worked particularly hard on this engine, for example, integrating the cooling circuit into the engine to eliminate the need for external hoses. Various solutions have been used to minimize internal friction: the cylinders are offset by around 6.5 mm from the crankshaft, which reduces friction when the piston is pushed, the countershaft and water pump run on bearings, and the piston pins have a DLC (Diamond-like Carbon) surface treatment. Finally, the gearbox uses roller cages instead of bushes (bearings) - the same as on Aprilia's V4 engines - and also benefits from a new patented lubrication solution, with an integrated system.

The oil-immersed multi-plate clutch is servo-assisted and features an anti-dribble system. Unlike the RS 457, the Tuono 457's final drive is shorter due to the adoption of a crown gear with an extra tooth, making the Tuono a little more responsive when the Ride-by-Wire multi-map electronic throttle is applied.

Comprehensive electronic control systems

Thanks to its Ride-by-Wire throttle, which Aprilia first introduced both in MotoGP with the futuristic RS Cube, and in mass production with the Shiver, the Tuono 457 features three riding modes that adjust power, torque and traction control levels. Traction control can also be set independently on three levels, or switched off completely.

The three driving modes are as follows
ECO: the engine's power output is progressive, while the traction control intervention level is set to medium (level 2).
SPORT: engine power is delivered without restraint, and traction control is less invasive (level 1).
RAIN: a driving mode designed for use in low-grip conditions and on wet asphalt. Power delivery is very smooth, while traction control is set to maximum (level 3).

The ATC (Aprilia Traction Control) system can always be adjusted, regardless of the riding mode selected, even while riding, using the convenient UP and DOWN buttons on the left-hand control block. In all driving modes, ABS is set to the maximum level and is engaged on both wheels. ABS can be disengaged from the rear wheel when the bike is stationary, by pressing and holding the Riding Mode button, to maximize sporty riding on the track, for example.

As an option, you can also equip the Tuono 457 with the Aprilia Quick Shift, which works equally well when shifting up or down.

Chassis: like a big girl!

In this "new" 450 / 500 cm3 market, manufacturers sometimes tend to hide vulgar steel parts under fairings, but Aprilia defends its image of quality and reiterates the same pleasure as on its 125 / 250 cm3 models of the 90s. The frame is composed of two attractive aluminum side beams - it's almost regrettable that the frame isn't polished. The swingarm doesn't get the same treatment and has to make do with steel; with a rather low-end rear section. But you'll only notice it when you turn the chain. Because whether you're taking a break or just hanging out with your buddies, this Italian bike is up to the task. There's no need to hide on a café terrace - on the contrary, your friends will be impressed. The engine functions as a load-bearing element - a solution inspired by the engine of the 660 Road range - creating a compact, lightweight and rigid structure. This solution offers the best power-to-weight ratio in the category.

On the suspension side, we find a 41 mm fork with 120 mm travel. The CF Moto 450 NK, not known for its timidity, had to make do with a 37 mm fork. The fork features preload adjustment, and the rear shock (with 130 mm travel) is also adjustable.

The braking system is equipped with a pair of ByBre calipers (the front of which has a radial mount) which work with a 320 mm disc at the front and 220 mm at the rear. The brake lever on the handlebars is adjustable. The system is assisted by a Bosch dual-channel ABS system with dual mapping, available either on both wheels or on the front only. The 17-inch wheels are fitted with 110/70 front and 150/60 rear tires. A reasonable size, so as not to erode the qualities of a light, rigid chassis.

The object of desire

Aprilia has long dominated the small-displacement market with its 2-stroke sports bikes. The Noale-based manufacturer is once again making a name for itself with its 457 productions, which immediately rank in the category of machines that will make young people dream. Faced with CF Moto, which is very aggressive in this market but whose image has yet to be built up, Aprilia can pride itself on its decades-long successful presence in grand prix racing. Japanese competitors such as the Z500 don't play in the same league, but the aura of certain models can also count on the image of their big sisters. The Z is priced at 5,999 euros, while the RS 457 is priced at 7,199 euros. If Aprilia succeeds in selling its roadster for around 6,500 euros, it could well win the bet.

Vincent Beaucousin - Manufacturer's photos