Aprilia launches Tuono 457 Special Edition with comfort-focused upgrades

PUNE: Aprilia is turning over a new wheel. The Italian motorcycle marque has unveiled the Special Edition of its Tuono 457, blending inspiration from the legendary 2006 Tuono 1000R with a package of comfort-focused upgrades aimed squarely at everyday riders.

Announced on World Motorcycle Day, the new Special Edition builds on the success of the Tuono 457, a motorcycle that has quickly established itself as a prominent player in India’s growing mid-performance segment. Rather than chasing outright aggression, the latest version focuses on making daily commutes, city rides and longer journeys more enjoyable without sacrificing the sporty character that defines the Tuono name.

Available in two new colour schemes, Mamba Black and Puma Grey, the motorcycle takes visual cues from the iconic Tuono 1000R while introducing updated graphics and refreshed branding. The result is a sharper, more contemporary streetfighter look that remains unmistakably Tuono.

The biggest changes, however, are designed to be felt rather than seen. Aprilia has introduced an aerodynamic flyscreen for improved wind protection, a redesigned saddle for enhanced long-distance comfort, a raised handlebar position for a more upright riding posture, revised suspension settings and an adjustable brake lever to suit different riding styles and hand sizes.

According to Piaggio Vehicles Pvt. Ltd. chairman and managing director Diego Graffi, the focus was on making the motorcycle more comfortable and confidence-inspiring across a variety of riding conditions.

“We have developed the Special Edition Tuono 457 with a clear focus on enhancing rider comfort and everyday usability while preserving the high performance, precision and character that define Aprilia motorcycles,” said Graffi.

He added that the combination of revised ergonomics, upgraded suspension, improved wind protection and new styling strengthens the motorcycle’s appeal while maintaining its position as a benchmark in the naked twin-cylinder category.

The elevated handlebar is one of the most significant changes. By placing riders in a more relaxed and upright stance, it aims to reduce strain on the wrists, shoulders and lower back during long hours in the saddle. The setup also improves leverage for low-speed manoeuvres, a useful advantage in congested urban environments.

Aprilia’s engineers have also tailored the suspension package to better suit Indian road conditions. A softer initial suspension stroke is intended to absorb potholes and speed breakers more effectively, while revised damping settings improve adaptability across varying surfaces. Riders can further fine-tune the experience through preload adjustment at both ends.

Comfort extends to the seat as well. The redesigned saddle uses a high-resilience foam construction to reduce vibrations from both the engine and the road, helping riders stay fresher over longer distances.

The adjustable brake lever may appear to be a minor addition, but it is expected to make a noticeable difference in day-to-day riding. By allowing riders to customise lever reach, it improves braking modulation, reduces fatigue and provides more consistent feedback under different riding conditions.

Underneath the updates, the motorcycle retains the same mechanical package that helped make the Tuono 457 popular. Power comes from a 457cc parallel-twin engine producing 35 kW and 43.5 Nm of torque. The motor is paired with a lightweight aluminium chassis, ride-by-wire throttle and traction control system, delivering a blend of performance and electronic sophistication that remains uncommon at this price point.

Technology features include a TFT digital instrument cluster with self-diagnostic capability, LED lighting throughout, an immobiliser-equipped ignition system and a range of optional accessories such as a quickshifter, tyre pressure monitoring system and electronic anti-theft system.

Aprilia is also emphasising ownership peace of mind. The company says extensive durability testing has enabled it to offer a warranty of up to four years or 48,000 kilometres, whichever comes first.

Priced at Rs 3.99 lakh ex-showroom Maharashtra, the Special Edition Tuono 457 is now open for pre-bookings at select Aprilia dealerships across India. With its blend of heritage-inspired styling, rider-friendly ergonomics and proven twin-cylinder performance, Aprilia is betting that this latest Tuono will strike a chord with enthusiasts who want their thrills served with a little more comfort.