Quick Analysis
Aprilia RS 457
26.5 pts
Unweighted: 22 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Bajaj Pulsar 125
7.5 pts
Unweighted: 5 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | Air‑cooled |
| Displacement | 457 cc | 124.4 cc |
| Engine Type | 2 parallel forward-facing cylinders, 4 valves per cylinder | 4-Stroke, 2-Valve, Twin Spark BSVI Compliant Engine |
| Power | 47.6 PS (≈ 35 kW) at 9,400 rpm | 8.68 kW (11.8 PS) @ 8500 rpm |
| Torque | 43.5 Nm at 6,700 rpm | 10.8 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13L | 15 L |
| Mileage | 30 kmpl | 51.46 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 175 | Split: 144 / Single: 146 |
| Seat Height | 800 | 795 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | — |
| Front Brake | Disc 320 mm 4 Piston | 240 mm Disc |
| Front Suspension | 41mm upside-down fork, adjustable preload, 120mm travel | 30mm Telescopic forks |
| Rear Brake | Disc 220 mm 1 Piston | 130 mm Drum |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock, adjustable preload, 130 mm wheel travel | Twin Hydraulic Suspension |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 110/70 - 17 | 80/100 × 17 Tubeless |
| Rear Tyre | 150/60 - 17 | 100/90 × 17 Tubeless |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | 12 V HS1 35/35 W |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12v MF | DC, 12V, 4Ah VRLA |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Prismatic-Dark.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/black-2.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Opalescent-light.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/cyan.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/GP-Replica.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/red-3.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Coral-Snake-blue.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/gold.avif |
| Bike Image 5 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Arsenic-yellow.avif | — |
| Cluster | — | Fully Digital LCD |
| Color Options | Racing Stripes | #0F0F10, #C1121F Prismatic Dark | #1C1C1E, #6E6E73 Opalescent Light | #F5F5F5 GP Replica | #0B0B0C, #5A2CA0 Coral Snake blue | #1F3A93, #C1121F Arsenic yellow | #D4AF37, #6E6E73 | Racing Red Tan Beige | #A50000, #C7A27C Black Race Red | #111111, #B00000 Black Cyan Blue | #111111, #00A3C7 Black Dark Grey | #111111, #5C6166 Black Gold | #111111, #B08D57 |
| Cons | Seat height is a bit tall, may be challenging for shorter riders to place feet flat at stops. Mileage tends to be modest (around 30–35 kmpl), especially if ridden hard not ideal for those seeking fuel economy. Fuel tank capacity is moderate may require frequent refuelling on long rides or at high speeds. You'll need regular maintenance (for twin-cylinder engine, etc.) more involved than simple commuter bikes. Riding posture and engine character lean sporty less relaxed comfort compared to cruiser-style bikes or scooters. Insurance, maintenance, and running costs will be higher compared to smaller, entry-level bikes. | The feature list feels basic compared to some newer 125cc motorcycles that offer fully digital displays, Bluetooth connectivity, and additional rider information. Engine vibrations become noticeable at higher RPMs and prolonged highway speeds. The motorcycle carries more weight than several competitors in the segment, which can make low-speed maneuvering feel slightly heavier. Rear suspension comfort can feel firm on badly broken roads, especially when riding solo. The design has evolved gradually over the years, so some buyers may find it less modern than newer rivals. Highway performance remains limited by the engine capacity, particularly when riding with a pillion or luggage at higher speeds. Lighting and instrumentation remain relatively simple on lower variants. |
| Detailed Overview | The Aprilia RS 457 is a fully faired motorcycle built around a 457cc parallel-twin engine. This engine produces around 47 PS of power and 43.5 Nm of torque, and it uses liquid cooling to maintain stable temperatures during regular riding. The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox, and the overall power delivery is designed to be smooth and predictable, which helps riders manage it in both city and highway conditions. The bike also comes with ride-by-wire throttle, which allows different riding modes to adjust how the engine responds. In terms of design, the RS 457 follows a typical supersport layout with a full fairing, a sharp front section, and a slightly aggressive riding posture. The aluminium frame helps keep the overall weight low, with a kerb weight of around 175 kg. The fuel tank capacity is about 13 litres, which is practical for daily use as well as weekend rides. The seat height is around 800 mm, making it accessible for a wide range of riders, although the forward-leaning position may take some getting used to. The suspension setup includes upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock, both tuned to provide stability at higher speeds. The setup leans slightly towards the firmer side, which can make bumps and uneven roads more noticeable, especially on typical Indian road conditions. The braking system includes a front disc and a rear disc, supported by dual-channel ABS, which helps maintain control during braking. The bike also uses wide radial tyres that offer grip in different riding situations. The Aprilia RS 457 comes with a modern electronics package that includes traction control and multiple riding modes. These features adjust parameters like throttle response to suit different riding conditions. All important information is displayed on a digital TFT screen, which shows speed, gear position, fuel level, and other details in a clear format. Some variants also offer a quickshifter as an option, allowing clutchless gear changes. The riding position is slightly committed, with clip-on handlebars and rear-set foot pegs, which gives it a sporty feel. At the same time, the overall size and weight make it manageable compared to larger supersport bikes. The bike is designed to offer a balance between performance and everyday usability, although factors like traffic conditions, road quality, and riding style will influence how it feels in regular use in India. | The Bajaj Pulsar 125 is a motorcycle that combines the practicality of a commuter bike with styling elements that are usually associated with larger motorcycles. It is designed for riders who want a motorcycle for daily transportation but also prefer a sportier appearance and a slightly more engaging riding experience than a traditional commuter model. The bike carries the familiar Pulsar design language, including a muscular fuel tank, sporty graphics, split grab rails on selected variants, and body panels that give it a larger road presence than many motorcycles in the 125cc category. Power comes from a 124.4cc single-cylinder, air-cooled DTS-i engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox. The engine produces around 11.8 PS of power and 10.8 Nm of torque. The tuning focuses on providing a balance between fuel efficiency and usable performance. In city traffic, the motorcycle feels responsive enough for daily commuting, while the engine also has sufficient power for occasional highway rides. The 5-speed transmission helps maintain smoother engine operation at moderate cruising speeds and allows the rider to make better use of the available power across different road conditions. Fuel efficiency is one of the important aspects of the Pulsar 125. Under normal riding conditions, real-world mileage generally ranges between 50 and 60 km/l, depending on traffic, riding style, road conditions, and maintenance. The motorcycle is equipped with an 11.5-litre fuel tank, which provides a useful riding range and reduces the need for frequent fuel stops during daily commuting. The riding position is designed to balance comfort and control. The handlebar is positioned in a way that allows a slightly sporty feel without putting excessive pressure on the rider’s wrists. The footpegs and seat placement create a natural riding posture that works well for city riding as well as longer daily commutes. The seat is wide enough for both rider and pillion, and the overall ergonomics are intended to support regular use in different riding environments. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers. The setup is tuned to absorb common road imperfections such as potholes, speed breakers, and uneven surfaces. This allows the motorcycle to remain comfortable during everyday riding while also maintaining stability on smoother roads. The chassis provides predictable handling characteristics, making the bike easy to maneuver in traffic and around corners at normal riding speeds. Braking performance depends on the variant selected. Higher variants are equipped with a front disc brake, while other versions use drum brakes. All variants use Combined Braking System (CBS), which helps distribute braking force between the front and rear wheels during braking. The motorcycle rides on alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres, which add convenience during punctures and routine maintenance. The instrument cluster combines analogue and digital elements. Riders can view information such as speed, fuel level, odometer readings, and other basic ride-related data. The layout remains straightforward and easy to read. Unlike some newer motorcycles in the segment, the Pulsar 125 does not focus heavily on connected technology or smartphone integration. The overall character of the motorcycle is shaped by its combination of commuter-friendly mechanics, sporty styling, practical ergonomics, and everyday usability. Its engine, suspension, braking system, and riding position are designed to handle regular commuting requirements while maintaining the visual identity associated with the Pulsar series. |
| Expert Review | The Aprilia RS 457 fits into the entry-level performance segment in India, where many riders are moving from smaller bikes to higher capacity machines. Its 457cc twin-cylinder engine feels smooth and manageable, but in daily city traffic, the riding posture and heat can still be noticeable. The suspension and chassis are set up for sporty riding, which means rough roads may feel slightly uncomfortable. It also comes with modern electronics that may take some time for new riders to fully understand. The service network is still growing, which can affect ownership experience in some cities. It is more suited for riders looking for performance-oriented riding rather than regular commuting., 4.1, MotoAutiv Team | he Bajaj Pulsar 125 takes the familiar Pulsar formula and adapts it for riders looking for everyday practicality with a slightly sportier feel than a conventional commuter bike. The 124.4cc engine delivers smooth low and mid-range performance, which suits city traffic and routine commuting, while still providing enough response for occasional highway use. What stands out most is how the motorcycle carries the visual proportions and road presence of a larger bike despite belonging to the 125cc category. The riding posture feels natural for daily use, and the suspension setup is tuned to balance comfort and stability across different road conditions. The motorcycle does not focus heavily on modern electronics or premium features, instead relying on straightforward mechanical simplicity and familiar riding characteristics. Engine refinement remains acceptable for regular use, though vibrations become more noticeable as speeds increase. The overall package is centered around everyday usability, balanced performance, and the established character associated with the Pulsar name., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What mileage does the Aprilia RS 457 give in real riding conditions? A: Most riders can expect around 25–30 km/l depending on traffic and riding style. Q: Is the Aprilia RS 457 a good upgrade from bikes like R15 or RC 200? A: Yes, many riders consider it as a next step because of the twin-cylinder engine and higher power, but the jump in performance is noticeable. Q: Is the Aprilia RS 457 beginner-friendly? A: It can be handled by beginners with care, but it may feel powerful for someone with no prior riding experience. Q: Does the Aprilia RS 457 heat up in traffic? A: Yes, like most sport bikes, engine heat is noticeable in slow-moving traffic. Q: Is the Aprilia RS 457 comfortable for long rides? A: It is manageable on highways, but the sporty seating position may cause discomfort on longer trips. | Q: What engine does the Bajaj Pulsar 125 use? A: It is powered by a 124.4cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, DTS-i engine. Q: How much power does the Pulsar 125 produce? A: The engine produces approximately 11.8 PS of power and 10.8 Nm of torque. Q: What mileage does the Bajaj Pulsar 125 deliver? A: Real-world fuel efficiency generally ranges between 50–60 km/l depending on riding conditions and maintenance. Q: What is the top speed of the Pulsar 125? A: The motorcycle can reach an approximate top speed of around 100–105 km/h. Q: Is the Bajaj Pulsar 125 suitable for highway riding? A: Yes, it can handle occasional highway rides comfortably, although it is primarily designed for city commuting and everyday transportation. Q: Does the Pulsar 125 have a front disc brake? A: Yes, higher variants are equipped with a front disc brake, while some variants are available with drum brakes. Q: Does the Bajaj Pulsar 125 have ABS? A: No, the Pulsar 125 does not offer ABS. It uses CBS (Combined Braking System). Q: What suspension setup does the Pulsar 125 use? A: The motorcycle uses telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Pulsar 125? A: The motorcycle comes with a 11.5-litre fuel tank. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Bajaj Pulsar 125? A: Depending on the variant, kerb weight is approximately 140–142 kg. Q: Does the Pulsar 125 use tubeless tyres? A: Yes, all variants come equipped with tubeless tyres. Q: Is the Bajaj Pulsar 125 beginner-friendly? A: Yes, the motorcycle offers predictable power delivery, comfortable ergonomics, and manageable performance, making it suitable for new riders. Q: Does the Pulsar 125 have Bluetooth connectivity? A: No, the standard Pulsar 125 does not offer Bluetooth connectivity or smartphone integration. Q: What type of instrument cluster does the Pulsar 125 get? A: The motorcycle uses a semi-digital instrument cluster with an analogue tachometer and digital information display. Q: Is the Bajaj Pulsar 125 a commuter motorcycle or a sports bike? A: The Pulsar 125 is generally classified as a sporty commuter motorcycle. It combines commuter-bike practicality with styling and riding characteristics inspired by larger Pulsar models. |
| Fuel System | Fuel injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 422229 GP Replica | 437228 | Single Seat | 92170 Split Seat | 94229 Neon Single Seat | 107675 |
| Pros | Powerful 457 cc parallel-twin engine delivers strong acceleration and good mid-range punch. Smooth 6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch makes shifting crisp and rider-friendly. Dual-channel ABS and strong disc brakes (front + rear) give good stopping confidence, even in wet or tricky conditions. Upside-down front forks and adjustable rear suspension provide a good balance of comfort and handling, suitable for both city streets and open roads. 17" alloy wheels with wide tyres give excellent grip and stability during cornering or highway cruising. Full-LED lighting and 5" TFT digital instrument cluster offer modern feel and better visibility / readouts. Riding modes and traction control add versatility for different road conditions (city, rain, highways). Relatively manageable wet weight for a twin-cylinder bike makes it more nimble in traffic than heavier big bikes. | The 124.4cc engine offers stronger performance than most basic commuter motorcycles, making overtakes and daily city riding feel easier without significantly affecting fuel efficiency. The motorcycle retains the familiar Pulsar design language, giving it a larger and more muscular appearance than many other bikes in the 125cc segment. Ride quality is well balanced for everyday use. The suspension setup handles potholes, speed breakers, and uneven roads reasonably well while maintaining stability at regular commuting speeds. The riding position strikes a good balance between comfort and sportiness. The handlebar and footpeg placement allow comfortable daily commuting without feeling overly upright or aggressive. Fuel efficiency remains practical for daily use, with real-world mileage generally ranging between 50–60 km/l depending on riding conditions. The front disc brake variant provides better stopping confidence than many entry-level commuter motorcycles that rely entirely on drum brakes. Spare parts availability, service network reach, and maintenance costs are generally manageable due to the widespread presence of the Pulsar lineup across India. The motorcycle feels stable at moderate highway speeds compared to many lightweight commuter-focused alternatives. |
| Starter | Self start | Electric & Kick |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 5‑speed |
