If you’re hunting for a twin-cylinder sportbike that strikes the right balance between performance, refinement, and everyday usability, two names are bound to dominate your shortlist — the Aprilia RS 457 and the Yamaha R3.
Both motorcycles carry serious reputations. The R3 has long been the benchmark for everyday-friendly performance, while the RS 457, Aprilia’s first locally assembled twin, aims to shake up the segment with its Italian flair and cutting-edge engineering. But which one truly deserves your hard-earned money? We spent time with both to find out how these machines perform not just on paper, but in the real world.
Design and Styling
Aprilia RS 457 – Big-Bike Energy in Compact Form
When it comes to visual appeal, the Aprilia RS 457 immediately steals your attention. It looks almost identical to its elder siblings — the RS 660 and RSV4 — and exudes premium European sportbike DNA. From its aggressive LED face to the aerodynamic fairing and sculpted fuel tank, everything feels straight out of a larger displacement superbike.
Even the riding ergonomics support that perception. The wide clip-ons, raised tail, and large body proportions make the RS feel like a full-sized machine, not a scaled-down entry-level bike. It’s easily the most imposing motorcycle in its class, and Aprilia has nailed that “big bike” visual formula.
Yamaha R3 – Sharp, Compact, and Familiar
The Yamaha R3, on the other hand, retains the familiar Japanese supersport silhouette. It’s sharp, compact, and elegantly designed, with sleek LED headlights and clean bodywork. The R3 is handsome in its own understated way, but when parked next to the RS 457, it looks noticeably smaller and slimmer.
That’s not necessarily a bad thing — it gives the Yamaha a light and approachable feel, especially for shorter riders. However, in terms of road presence and “wow” factor, the RS 457 stands a step above.
Engine and Performance
| Specification | Aprilia RS 457 | Yamaha R3 |
| Engine | 457cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin | 321cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin |
| Power | 47.6 hp @ 9,400 rpm | 42 hp @ 10,750 rpm |
| Torque | 43.5 Nm @ 6,700 rpm | 29.5 Nm @ 9,000 rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed | 6-speed |
| Kerb Weight | 175 kg | 169 kg |
The Sound and the Fury
Before numbers, let’s talk about something that makes or breaks a twin-cylinder — sound.
The Aprilia RS 457 uses a 270-degree crank, and the result is a rich, deep growl that sounds far more exotic than anything else in this price bracket. From idle to redline, it has that throaty, characterful note that makes you want to keep twisting the throttle. It’s easily one of the best-sounding twins under ₹5 lakh.
The Yamaha R3, with its 180-degree firing order, sounds familiar — smooth and linear, but not particularly emotional until you push it to its 12,000 rpm redline. At high revs, though, it transforms into a sharp, exhilarating howl that feels pure Yamaha.
Acceleration and Mid-Range
On the road, the difference in displacement becomes immediately apparent. The RS 457 is brutally quick. It pulls hard from as low as 3,000 rpm, surges through the midrange, and rockets to 100 km/h in under 5 seconds. It’s officially the fastest locally assembled motorcycle in India right now.
The Yamaha R3 is no slouch — it hits 100 km/h in around 5.8 seconds and has a thrilling top-end rush. But the Aprilia simply walks away once both bikes stretch their legs. The RS 457’s broader torque curve and stronger mid-range make it quicker in roll-on acceleration and more flexible on the highway.
Refinement and Efficiency
Refinement is where the R3 claws back some points. Yamaha’s engine feels silk-smooth at all speeds. You can ride it for hours without fatigue. The Aprilia, while refined at lower revs, introduces minor vibrations near its redline.
Fuel efficiency also goes in Yamaha’s favor. The R3 returned an impressive 28–30 km/l in the city and 34–36 km/l on highways during testing. The RS 457, being more performance-oriented, averaged 25–27 km/l in mixed conditions — respectable for the power it makes.
Handling and Dynamics
Aprilia RS 457 – Precision Weapon
Aprilia’s racing pedigree shines through the moment you hit the twisties. The RS 457’s aluminium chassis offers superb rigidity and feel. Its suspension — 41mm USD front forks and preload-adjustable rear monoshock — strikes the perfect balance between agility and control.
The RS feels razor-sharp mid-corner, giving the rider immense confidence to lean harder and brake later. Grip from the stock TVS Eurogrip Protorq Extreme tyres is surprisingly excellent, allowing you to push the limits without fear. The brakes are powerful too, though extended track use can cause slight fade under heavy abuse.
Electronic rider aids like dual-channel ABS, traction control, and ride-by-wire throttle make it one of the most sophisticated sportbikes in the segment. It’s the most track-ready bike you can buy under ₹5 lakh, full stop.
Yamaha R3 – Neutral and Friendly
The Yamaha R3 takes a different approach. It’s designed to be predictable and forgiving, ideal for riders looking to step up from 150–250cc machines.
Its chassis is light, the suspension is plush, and the bike feels easy to maneuver at both city and highway speeds. The handling is neutral and confidence-inspiring, but when pushed hard, the soft rear shock and average Dunlop tyres limit its cornering precision. With upgraded rubber and stiffer suspension, the R3 can become a fantastic track machine, but out of the box, the Aprilia dominates this category.
Ride Comfort and Everyday Usability
Yamaha R3 – The Everyday Supersport
The R3’s biggest strength lies in its comfort. The ergonomics are sporty but not extreme — your wrists and back don’t protest even after long rides. The seat cushioning is soft, and the suspension soaks up bumps impressively well. Whether you’re commuting in traffic or touring for hours, the R3 feels like a natural companion.
Aprilia RS 457 – Firm and Focused
In contrast, the RS 457 feels like a committed sportbike. The seat is firm, the rear suspension is stiffer, and the clip-ons are lower. On smooth tarmac, this translates to outstanding control, but on broken city roads, it can be punishing. You’ll feel every pothole through the seat — especially on long rides.
If you ride daily on uneven surfaces, the R3 is clearly the better choice. But if you value performance precision over plush comfort, the Aprilia’s setup will make more sense.
Braking and Safety
Both bikes come with dual-channel ABS, but the Aprilia’s ByBre braking system offers a sharper bite and better feedback. The R3’s brakes are progressive and reliable, though not as aggressive in feel.
Aprilia adds a layer of sophistication with switchable traction control and multiple riding modes — features missing on the R3. These electronic aids, paired with the 457’s strong mechanical grip, make it safer when riding at the limit.
Pricing and Value
| Model | Ex-Showroom Price (Delhi) | Key Highlight |
| Aprilia RS 457 | ₹4.10 lakh | Most powerful and best-handling twin under ₹5L |
| Yamaha R3 | ₹4.65 lakh | Superior refinement and daily usability |
At first glance, the Aprilia RS 457 is not just cheaper but also more advanced and powerful. The R3’s price premium comes down to Yamaha’s reputation for bulletproof reliability, smoother power delivery, and easier service availability.
If your heart leans toward performance per rupee, the RS 457 wins hands down. But if you want long-term reliability and everyday ease, the R3 justifies its higher tag.
Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
Both motorcycles excel in different ways — and your choice depends entirely on what you value most.
- Aprilia RS 457: The ultimate choice for riders who crave track-level precision, cutting-edge electronics, and explosive acceleration. It’s a serious sportbike that looks, feels, and rides like a big machine.
- Yamaha R3: The ideal pick for riders who want a smooth, dependable, and comfortable twin that can handle daily commutes and long highway runs with ease. It’s forgiving, refined, and beautifully engineered for real-world versatility.
Final Take
If you’re after excitement and raw emotion, go for the Aprilia RS 457.
If you prefer refinement and reliability, the Yamaha R3 remains the benchmark.
Either way, both motorcycles prove that the middleweight twin-cylinder category in India is finally coming of age — and riders have never had it this good.
