Quick Analysis
Aprilia RS 457
15.0 pts
Unweighted: 12 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S
19.5 pts
Unweighted: 14 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 457 cc | 1301 cc |
| Engine Type | 2 parallel forward-facing cylinders, 4 valves per cylinder | 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, V 75° |
| Power | 47.6 PS (≈ 35 kW) at 9,400 rpm | 160 PS @ 8750 rpm |
| Torque | 43.5 Nm at 6,700 rpm | 140 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13L | 23 L |
| Mileage | 30 kmpl | 17.5 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 175 | 250 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 | 849/869 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | Disc 320 mm 4 Piston | Disc 320 mm |
| Front Suspension | 41mm upside-down fork, adjustable preload, 120mm travel | WP SAT (semi-active technology) Upside-Down Ø 48 mm |
| Rear Brake | Disc 220 mm 1 Piston | Disc 267 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock, adjustable preload, 130 mm wheel travel | WP SAT (semi-active technology) shock absorber |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 110/70 - 17 | 120/70 - ZR19 |
| Rear Tyre | 150/60 - 17 | 170/60 - ZR17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | LED Headlight |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12v MF | — |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Prismatic-Dark.avif | — |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Opalescent-light.avif | — |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/GP-Replica.avif | — |
| Bike Image 4 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Coral-Snake-blue.avif | — |
| Bike Image 5 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Arsenic-yellow.avif | — |
| Cluster | — | Scratch-resistant 7-inch TFT display |
| 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 | ORANGE |
| 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. | High Price & Running Cost: As a premium big adventure bike, the 1290 SAS is expensive to buy and maintain. Complex Electronics: The rich electronics package may be overwhelming for some riders and can lead to occasional software glitches. Reliability Concerns: Some owners report electrical issues (e.g., MTC error, key fob issues) and other rare faults. Seat Comfort: The stock seat is criticized by several users for being hard, especially on long rides. Weight: With a kerb weight of around 250 kg, it’s a heavy machine, which can make it less agile in certain situations, particularly off-road. Heat & Engine Complexity: The powerful V-twin can generate noticeable heat, and servicing its complex components (like twin plugs, semi-active suspension, etc.) can be demanding. |
| 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 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is the thrilling apex of KTM’s travel bike lineup, blending raw power with modern electronics and long-distance capability to deliver a truly versatile adventure machine. At the core of the bike lies its mighty 1,301 cc LC8 V-twin engine, which churns out around 160 PS of power and 140 Nm of torque. This translates into effortless rapid acceleration, strong highway performance, and the brute force needed to carry luggage or cruise with a pillion. Whether you’re blasting down twisty mountain roads or towing through open terrain, the 1290 SAS feels like a bike that can do it all. One of the standout features of the Super Adventure S is its adaptive cruise control (ACC) — a rare find in this segment. With its radar-based system, riders can maintain a set distance from the vehicle in front, reducing fatigue during long rides. This, combined with a rich electronics suite that includes Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC), cornering ABS, traction control (MTC), quickshifter+, and multiple riding modes (Rain, Street, Off-road, Rally), gives you confidence and control no matter where you’re headed. The 7-inch TFT display serves as the cockpit brain, presenting ride data, navigation details, and vital alerts with clarity. In terms of handling and comfort, the 1290 SAS strikes a remarkable balance. Equipped with semi-active WP suspension, the bike dynamically adjusts damping based on ride conditions, ensuring a smooth ride over broken tarmac while maintaining tight control when pushing hard. The trellis frame is rigid yet light enough to make the weight (over 250 kg) feel manageable. The ergonomics are well thought out — the adjustable windshield, comfortable seat, and raised handlebars make for a relaxed riding posture that’s ideal for long touring. Fuel capacity is another strong point. With its 23-litre tank, the Super Adventure S offers excellent range, making it ideal for epic road trips. For riders planning multi-day journeys or even cross-country routes, fuel stops are less of a chore, and the engine’s broad torque curve ensures manageable fuel consumption even under load. However, it’s not all smooth sailing. The Super Adventure S’s powerful V-twin can generate noticeable heat, especially in heavy traffic or warm climates. The price tag is also quite premium, reflecting its status as a high-spec adventure bike with semi-active suspension and advanced electronics. As with any complex, electronics-loaded machine, maintenance and service costs are higher than simpler bikes. Despite these trade-offs, the 1290 Super Adventure S excels at its intended purpose: it’s a performance-focused travel machine that doesn’t compromise on comfort or high-speed capability. For riders who crave an adventure bike that feels equally at home on high-speed highways, winding backroads, or loose terrain, the 1290 SAS is one of the most compelling choices. It combines KTM’s racing pedigree with real-world usability, making long-distance touring not just practical but exhilarating. In summary, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is a high-performance, high-comfort adventure bike that brings together advanced technology, raw power, and touring durability. If you’re looking for an adventure motorcycle that doesn’t feel like you’re making too many compromises — power-wise or comfort-wise — the 1290 SAS delivers a premium, capable, and thrilling ride. |
| 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 | 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 is the engine specification of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? A: It uses a 1,301 cc V-twin (LC8) engine with 75° configuration. Q: How much power and torque does it deliver? A: The motor produces 160 PS (118 kW) and 140 Nm of torque. Q: What is the fuel capacity and mileage? A: It has a 23-litre fuel tank. According to Autocar India, the claimed fuel efficiency is 17.5 km/l. Q: What type of brakes and ABS does this bike use? A: The 1290 Super Adventure S features 320 mm front discs and 267 mm rear discs, backed by Bosch combined ABS with cornering ABS and an off-road ABS mode. Q: What suspension setup is on the 1290 SAS? A: It comes with WP semi-active suspension (SAT)—a 48 mm upside-down fork in the front and a semi-active rear shock absorber. Q: What is the seat height and ground clearance? A: The seat height is 849 mm, adjustable up to 869 mm, and ground clearance is 223 mm. Q: What instrument cluster does it come with? A: It features a 7-inch TFT display, which supports angle adjustment, navigation via KTM Connect, and can show ride data. Q: Is the 1290 Super Adventure S good for touring? A: Yes — with its large fuel tank, long travel suspension, and comfort-oriented electronics (like ACC and adjustable windscreen), it's well-suited for long-distance touring. Q: What is the kerb / dry weight of the bike? A: The kerb weight is approximately 220 kg (per 91Wheels). Q: Are there any common issues reported by owners? A: Some users mention electronic gremlins (e.g. MTC error) early on. > “I had 1 mtc error when the bike was new but nothing since.” Also, a few riders ask about suspension tuning, especially at high speed. |
| Fuel System | Fuel injection | — |
| Price Variants | STD | 422229 GP Replica | 437228 | | 2273900 |
| 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. | Massive Power & Torque: Powered by a 1,301cc LC8 V-twin engine, the 1290 SAS delivers 160 PS and 140 Nm of torque — great for both highway cruising and spirited rides. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Comes with radar-based ACC, which allows you to lock on to a vehicle ahead and maintain a safe distance automatically — a big plus for long touring. Advanced Rider Electronics: Features such as Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC), cornering ABS, traction control (MTC), quickshifter+, and multiple riding modes add a high level of safety and versatility. Semi-Active WP Suspension: The WP semi-active suspension adjusts damping dynamically, offering comfort, sporty control, or off-road capability depending on the mode. Long Range Fuel Tank: With a 23-liter fuel tank, it gives a very decent range for touring or long rides. Premium Build & Components: The build quality is high, with a strong trellis frame, durable engine internals (like DLC coatings), and overall excellent material quality. Comfort & Ergonomics: Adjustable windshield, adjustable seat height, and rider-focused ergonomics make it comfortable for long-distance journeys. |
| Starter | Self start | Electric starter |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6 Speed Manual |
