Aprilia India’s Statement About RS457 Issues Leaves With More Questions Than Answers

Social media can colour facts like a toddler with unrestricted access to crayons. The same seems to be the case with many of the viral issues with the Aprilia RS 457. While we aren't discrediting any of the actual issues that customers have faced, Aprilia says that a lot of those had to do with “unauthorised aftermarket modifications”. Before we continue, here’s the official statement from Aprilia in its entirety: 

“Aprilia India today reiterated its immense pride in the groundbreaking 457 platform, an engineering conquest born in Noale. Since its global and Indian debut in 2023-24, the exceptional RS457 has rightfully dominated the mid-performance super sports category, boasting a best-inclass power-to-weight ratio. The 457 platform has garnered widespread acclaim and numerous accolades from our valued customers, dedicated dealer partners, respected journalists, and even elite MotoGP racers, all recognizing its outstanding performance and comprehensive riding experience. We stand firmly behind the world-class product we have brought to the passionate community of super sports enthusiasts. 

At Aprilia, our commitment extends beyond delivering exhilarating motorcycles; we are equally dedicated to providing unparalleled after-sales support and service. We are aware of recent discussions among a small segment of motorcycle enthusiasts concerning the "reliability" of the 457 platform. We want to unequivocally assure our esteemed customers and the broader motorcycling fraternity that Aprilia has meticulously investigated every single of the handful instances brought to our attention regarding alleged issues. A majority of these “issues” are attributed to only two factors - Unauthorized Aftermarket Modifications and Irregular Service Schedules. For the few genuine cases that arose, we promptly addressed and resolved them in a timely manner, ensuring minimal disruption to our customers. 

For riders seeking to enhance their stock RS457, we strongly encourage the installation of our extensive range of genuine aftermarket accessories, available exclusively through authorized Aprilia service centers. 

The Aprilia RS457 platform embodies excitement and pure riding pleasure. It deserves to be enjoyed responsibly and maintained exclusively by certified technicians at authorized Aprilia dealerships. The company is equally responsible and proactive in -ensuring best in class after sales and service and stands firmly by the side of every Aprilia owner. Moreover, we give our 100% assurance that all products sold through our authorized dealerships are in optimal condition, free from any inherent issues, and meet our stringent quality standards.”

While Aprilia has promised in its statement to address genuine issues faced by their customers, we will take this opportunity to address those who are on the fence about buying the Aprilia's most-affordable sportsbike in India. When we rode the RS 457, it proved to have a good value for money.  But it’s easy to be deterred by looking at what’s going on social media, but to that I say, re-read the first line of this story. 

That aside, if you are buying a factory fresh bike, be it from any brand, it’s paramount that you read the owner’s manual. Ideally before even swinging the leg over the bike. And not just read, adhere to the instructions – whatever that’s needed in the running-in period and about the service routine. Following these to the T will ensure your bike runs well for a really long time. 

Next thing you need to know is about modifications. There are two types of mods - ones that will add to the riding experience, and the others that will break your bike. We’ll talk about the latter: these are all the mods that are made by shady or no-name brands, and cheap knock-offs of products from more expensive, established brands. Most common examples are aftermarket exhausts, crash protection, etc. To put it simply, if something is too good to be true in terms of price, then stay away. Your motorcycle would be happier being bone stock instead of having cheapo, untested, uncertified, unwarrantied mods. 

In Aprilia's cases, the brand has clearly refuted claims from owners who have modified their RS 457. Though, we are waiting for further clarification from the brand as to what “Unauthorized Aftermarket Modifications” entail. We shall update this story as soon as we get a response. Irrespective, it might be better to stay away from all modifications that will mess with critical components of your bike – performance upgrades, guards, etc. Though in the same breath, it’s also worth mentioning that Aprilia India claims to have resolved all the “genuine cases”. Again, we are awaiting clarification of what these cases are. 

All said, modern bikes are quite complex machines with intricate electronics and electricals. Even a lot of mechanicals have tight tolerances. It’s just better to stay away from any and all mods unless they are certified/approved by the manufacturer and installed by a certified technician. If you decide to go beyond, be assured, the brand will throw their hands up and deny warranty claims. 

Only go ahead if you can stomach all the future expenses that could arise as a result of such mods. Remember, everything on a bike can be fixed – that is why every manufacturer offers spares. As to who bears the cost of these repairs, that’s dependent on who was at fault – the manufacturer or the owner.