Tag Archives: Aprilia

2024 Africa Eco Race: Aprilia Takes Overall Victory

Aprilia started its Back to Africa project with one purpose in thoughts: To take the Tuareg 660 to the Africa Eco Race and check its would possibly in opposition to all the things that one of many world’s main rally raid occasions may throw at it. Fast ahead to January 2024, and Aprilia’s Jacopo Cerutti stood proudly on the high of the 2024 Africa Eco Race podium.

He and teammate Francesco Montanari each took their rally-prepped Aprilia Tuareg 660s to contest one of many world’s hardest occasions. Modifications from the inventory bike embrace an Öhlins by Andreani suspension, an SC-Project titanium exhaust, and a Sprint Filter air filter. 

Both Cerutti and Montanari put in a formidable displaying, with Cerutti beginning out because the veteran within the pairing and Montanari because the rookie. Throughout the occasion, Cerutti persistently stayed within the high three with Yamaha Tenere World Raid Team riders Alessandro Botturi and Pol Tarrés. 

Together, the trio swapped locations within the high three throughout every stage, and the occasions have been fairly shut between them. When all was stated and completed, in any case 12 phases of the 2024 AER, lower than 26 minutes separated the highest three riders.

2024 Africa Eco Race Top 10 Finishers Overall

Once all of the occasions have been added up and any relevant time penalties assessed, here is how the highest 10 riders fared based on the official outcomes.

Rider Team 2024 AER Total Time
Jacopo Cerutti Aprilia Racing GCorse 39:52:49
Alessandro Botturi Yamaha Tenere World Raid Team 39:59:27
Pol Tarrés Yamaha Tenere World Raid Team 40:17:58
Alexandre Vaudan Casteu Trophy 44:22:39
Attilio Fert France Road Book 45:27:52
Marco Aurelio Fontana Honda Genuine Oil 45:47:08
Marco Menichini Solarys Racing 45:55:33
Francesco Montanari Aprilia Racing GCorse 47:46:06
Nicolas Charlier Yamaha Tenere World Raid Team 47:48:57
Nicola Quinto Jacque De Molay Team Solarys 48:15:33

“I had quite a scare today, because at the 20th kilometer there was a bit of a mix-up on a note and I thought my rivals had dropped me. But then I found the track again and it was me who caught Botturi,” Cerutti stated after the race.

“From that moment on, we went on together and I brought the result home. I must compliment my opponents for the fairness they showed throughout the race, it was really an honor to battle with them,” he added.

“It was a very tense Africa Eco Race for us, leading from the start with Botturi and Tarres putting pressure on us, but we managed it. Thanks also to a great bike; the Tuareg proved itself equal to a demanding marathon like this. I can’t wait to celebrate together with the team!”

Aprilia Leads The 2024 Africa Eco Race, Battles For Podium With Yamaha

The prime three finishers in Stage One of the 2024 Aprilia Eco Race simply maintain swapping locations. So far, there have been two stage winners on this yr’s AER: Aprilia’s Jacopo Cerutti and Yamaha’s Alessandro Botturi. (Did we point out that Pol Tarrés could be racing with a damaged foot?!)

At the tip of the tremendous lengthy Stage Three, Alessandro Botturi took the win for the day with a complete time of 05:37:23. In the early phases of competitors, he, his teammate Pol Tarrés, and Jacopo Cerutti have confirmed themselves to be the quickest within the discipline, they usually maintain difficult one another and themselves to go sooner and be higher in every stage.

Cerutti had a navigation mishap throughout stage three, and Tarrés was preventing by way of ache and swelling sustained from a foot harm on the earlier stage. Initially, he mentioned that he wasn’t completely positive that he’d even be capable to begin Stage Three as a result of he did not know if he might get his boot on over the bandages. 

In the tip, he ended up discovering a bigger boot to slip on over the bandages, so he is carrying two totally different boot sizes to get the job executed. After all that, he nonetheless managed to complete in a stable second place, only one minute and 29 seconds behind his teammate. If you wanted additional affirmation that cross nation rally racers are hardcore, right here you go.

For his half, Cerutti got here in third place on Stage Three, ending three minutes and 47 seconds off of Botturi’s tempo. After the stage, Botturi praised his teammate and Cerutti, saying he thought they might have enjoyable collectively since their fast tempo is so related they usually’re such well-matched challengers.

After Stage Three, the general occasions for the Top Five riders within the bike class have been:

Racer Team Time
Jacopo Cerutti Aprilia 11:47:19
Alessandro Botturi Yamaha +06:20
Pol Tarrés Yamaha +06:55
Giovanni Gritti Honda +01:32:13
Guillaume Borne Husqvarna +01:32:17

As you may see, the Top Three are miles in entrance of the remainder of the pack. But there are nonetheless a number of phases to go, and something can occur.

Stage Four Just Wrapped, And Look Who Won Again

 

Stage Four simply completed, and Cerutti’s win had at the least one social media commenter asking if they will must revise their Aprilia Racing victory depend sticker that is on their bike after the AER wraps. If the rally continues to progress the way in which the primary 4 phases have, that appears fairly doubtless. Stay tuned.

New Aprilia RS 457 Storms Into The Indian Market

At EICMA 2023, Aprilia unveiled its smallest performance-oriented mannequin up to now, the RS 457. Following within the footsteps of its larger sibling, the RS 660, the RS 457 caters to sporty riders trying to enter the grassroots of bike racing, or just on the lookout for a sensible and tractable sportbike for each the road and the observe.

That being mentioned, we’re already beginning to see the small-displacement sportbike roll into a number of markets. Interestingly, pricing information within the US was one of many first to be introduced, with the RS 457 beginning at a fairly engaging $6,799 for the Prismatic Dark and Opalescent Light colorways, and $6,899 fo the extra premium, racing-inspired Racing Stripes livery. Now, the sportbike has simply been launched in India on the not too long ago concluded India Bike Week, and its tremendous reasonably priced price ticket may make people from different markets a bit jealous.

2024 ApriliaRS 457 Headlight
2024 ApriliaRS 457 TFT Display

In the Indian market, the place the RS 457 is produced, it carries a price ticket of simply Rs 410,000, translating to about $4,918 USD. This makes it an much more reasonably priced possibility than the Kawasaki Ninja 400, a beginner-friendly sportbike which, fairly frankly, is wanting a bit lengthy within the tooth when in comparison with the cutting-edge tech and efficiency options the Aprilia brings to the desk. Could the brand new Aprilia RS 457 elevate the bar in the case of small displacement sportbikes? Only time will inform, however on paper, it positive looks like that is the case.

From a efficiency standpoint, we get a brand new 457cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine with a 270-degree crankshaft. Although it boils down to non-public choice, it’s typically agreed upon {that a} 270-crank parallel-twin delivers higher torque – to not point out sound and character – than that of a 180-degree twin. It’s no shock that different producers like CFMoto and even Honda are going for this configuration. In the case of the RS 457, it dishes out a decent 47 horsepower at 9,400 rpm and 43.5 Nm or about 32 pound-feet of torque at 6,700 rpm.

2024 Aprilia RS 457 - Riding

In phrases of know-how is the place the Aprilia RS 457 actually shines. The Noale model has all the time been related to cutting-edge tech, so it’s becoming that its entry-level premium mannequin ought to come out of the manufacturing facility decked out in all types of techie goodies.

Here, we discover a five-inch, full-color TFT show that retains tabs on all pertinent trip stats. A throttle-by-wire system affords three trip modes, in addition to three ranges of traction management. Meanwhile, suspension consists of a 41-millimeter inverted fork and monoshock combo. As for the brakes, it will get a single 320-millimeter disc up entrance and a single 220-millimeter disc on the again.

The Aprilia RS 457 Made Its Presence Known At EICMA 2023

The Piaggio Group had a significant presence at this year’s EICMA show, with Aprilia showcasing some of its models such as the Tuareg and SR GT. However, the spotlight was on the Italian brand’s latest small-displacement model, the RS 457.

Aprilia’s smallest sportbike was on exhibit at EICMA, and the new RS 457 garnered attention from spectators. While the pre-order books for the RS 457 are now open and the prices have been revealed in North America, this was the first time the bike was publicly displayed at the show. With a price of approximately $7,000 USD, the brand targets both beginner sportbike riders and experienced riders looking for a smaller bike.

The RS 457 marks a significant milestone for the Italian manufacturer. It was developed from the ground up as an entirely new project, boasting lightness and the best power-to-weight ratio in the A2-restricted motorcycle category. Leveraging the company’s racing expertise, its technological features are designed to enhance the rider’s experience and skill progression on both road and track.

The bike is powered by Aprilia’s new 457cc parallel-twin engine, producing 46.9 horsepower, which is at the legal limit for A2-restricted riders in the European Union. Its 270-degree firing order is similar to the setup of the CFMoto 450 SS and other models. The use of an all-aluminum frame and the engine as a stressed member of the chassis results in a lighter weight compared to other motorcycles in the segment.

Additional features include an optional quickshifter for the six-speed manual transmission, a front 41mm upside-down fork with 120mm of travel, rear mono-shock with up to 130mm of travel, preload adjustment on both ends, a braking system with a 320mm front disc brake and a 220mm rear disc, and 17-inch wheels on both ends with respective tire sizes. The bike also incorporates luxuries such as a five-inch TFT display, ride-by-wire throttle, traction control with three levels, and ride modes.

It will be interesting to see how the RS 457 competes with other small-capacity sportbikes in the market, including the KTM RC 390, Kawasaki Ninja 400, and Honda CBR500R. The competition will also involve the CFMoto 450 SS, offering a more affordable option, but the RS 457’s lighter weight and more advanced features make it a compelling contender in the segment.

2024 Aprilia RS 457 Preorders And Pricing Announced In North America

Back in early September 2023, Aprilia officially unveiled the newest RS on the block at the Misano MotoGP round in Italy. As is common in moto world, covert test mules, spy photos, and speculation had been swirling for months. Since the RS most previously introduced was called the RS 660, most people thought that this new machine might be called the RS 440.  

Aprilia makes its own rules, though—so the RS 457 was born, and fans were intrigued. It’s powered by an A2-compliant 35 kilowatt (about 46.9 horsepower) parallel twin engine. Claimed curb weight is 175 kilograms, or just under 386 pounds.  

Fast-forward to November 2023, and it’s EICMA time once again in moto world. While Aprilia did indeed bring the RS 457 to the festivities so that visitors could see it in person, it wasn’t a new model introduction. Instead, in the US and Canada, Piaggio Group Americas chose this time to officially announce colors, pricing, and availability for the newest member of the RS family. 

Available 2024 Aprilia RS 457 Colors 

For 2024, Aprilia will offer three color options for the RS 457: Racing Stripes, Prismatic Dark, and Opalescent Light. 

Pricing and Availability 

Aprilia sells its bikes in multiple markets, including the RS 457. As such, pricing and availability will vary by region. Preorders at American and Canadian Aprilia dealers are now open as of November 7, 2023. 

In the US, the 2024 Aprilia RS 457 will carry an MSRP of $6,799 for the Prismatic Dark and Opalescent Light colorways. If you choose the Racing Stripes colorway instead, it’s just $100 more, at an MSRP of $6,899. These bikes should hit American showrooms in April 2024. Considering that the RS 660 currently starts at an MSRP of $11,499, that should make the RS 457 significantly more accessible for a wider variety of riders. 

In Canada, the 2024 Aprilia RS 457 will carry an MSRP of $7,799 for the Prismatic Cark and Opalescent Light colorways. Opt for Racing Stripes instead, and the MSRP is $7,999. In the Canadian market, Aprilia dealerships should begin seeing the 2024 RS 457 arrive sometime in June 2024. 

If you’re interested in the 2024 Aprilia RS 457, but you live in a region other than the US or Canada, your best bet for the most accurate information is to reach out to your local Aprilia dealer. They should be able to help you with any questions you may have about this or any other Aprilia that strikes your fancy. 

Aprilia Introduces New RS 457 Sportbike in the Indian Market

Aprilia made waves in the global motorcycle market on September 7, 2023, with the debut of the Aprilia RS 457 at the MotoGP round in Misano. This small sportbike is generating a lot of excitement, clearly following in the footsteps of its high-performance siblings, the RS 660 and RSV4 1100.

The Aprilia RS 457 is the latest addition to the renowned Noale company’s lineup. Interestingly, it is manufactured at Aprilia’s factory in India, likely in an effort to make it more affordable for a wider range of customers. The new sportbike has just been launched in the Indian market, and the Indian-spec model closely resembles the one unveiled at Misano, maintaining a consistent global design.

2024 Aprilia RS 457 - Right Side

The design of the new RS 457 clearly draws inspiration from Aprilia’s RS 660 and RSV4. It features the same split LED headlights, topped with a transparent windscreen, giving it a sleek and modern appearance. The RS 457 also includes small fin-like vents on the side fairings, positioned below the handlebar, to enhance its aerodynamic capabilities. This design not only adds to the bike’s aesthetics but also contributes to its performance.

The most notable feature of the Aprilia RS 457 is its engine. It is powered by a capable 457cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected parallel-twin engine with a 270-degree crankshaft that enhances the engine’s character, ensuring balanced and responsive performance. With 47 horsepower, riders can expect an exciting experience on both the road and track. The power is transmitted to the rear wheel through a six-speed manual gearbox, with the option of an optional quickshifter for quicker shifting.

The RS 457 incorporates ride-by-wire technology with multiple ride modes to cater to various riding conditions. Safety features include a three-level traction control system and ABS to provide confident stops when necessary. The bike’s settings can be easily configured through a user-friendly five-inch TFT display, appealing to tech-savvy riders. Aprilia has equipped the RS 457 with impressive technology and performance features, making it an attractive option for motorcycle enthusiasts.

2024 Aprilia RS 457 - Rear Right Angle View

The RS 457 is equipped with inverted front forks and a rear monoshock suspension setup. This combination is known for providing precise handling and a comfortable ride. Front and rear disc brakes, along with ABS, ensure efficient stopping power, enhancing safety during the ride. The RS 457 rides on 17-inch wheels fitted with TVS Protorq Extreme tires, ensuring a firm grip on the road and enhancing overall performance and cornering capabilities.

Although the exact pricing for the Aprilia RS 457 has not been announced yet, it is expected to be competitively priced at less than Rs 500,000, or approximately $6,000. In terms of competition, the RS 457 will go head-to-head with bikes like the Kawasaki Ninja 400 and KTM RC 390, setting the stage for exciting comparisons in the middleweight sportbike segment. It will be interesting to see how it measures up against these established contenders.

Spotted: Aprilia RS 440 Taking A Stroll With A Moto Guzzi Stelvio Buddy

In the motorcycle industry, summer 2023 is heating up. While Moto Guzzi and Aprilia haven’t made any major announcements yet, these two Piaggio Group brands are clearly ready to make waves in the coming months.

Rumors have been circulating about the return of the Moto Guzzi Stelvio by the end of June, with an expected release before the end of 2023. There have also been hints about the development plans for a 400-450cc Aprilia sportbike. Now, in July 2023, spy photos have emerged showing the Aprilia RS 440 in action, with a Moto Guzzi Stelvio (based on the V100 Mandello) following closely behind. It’s nice to see riding buddies, isn’t it?

The styling of the Aprilia RS 440 closely resembles that of the existing Aprilia RS 660. In fact, Aprilia has cleverly disguised the RS 440 as an RS 660 with a graphics decal on the side. However, a closer look at the front wheel reveals a single brake caliper and disc, indicating a potential cost-saving measure in the RS 440 model.

Recently, another test mule of the same model was spotted testing on public roads in India. The photos show similar features to the previously mentioned spy shots, including the single-disc brake setups, alloy wheels, frame design, mirrors, and windscreen. Although the dash is slightly obscured, it provides a small glimpse of what to expect.

If the estimated unveiling of the RS 440 in September during the Indian MotoGP round is accurate, it makes sense to see these near-production test mules in different locations. However, until official information is released, everything remains speculative.

Extra Particulars About Aprilia’s Tuareg Rally Prototype Emerge

Aprilia has been testing their new Aprilia Tuareg prototype, specifically constructed for conquering the desert, and issues are wanting fairly promising. The manufacturing unit riders, Jacopo Cerutti and Francesco Montanari had some optimistic suggestions after the bike’s first check runs.

The public received a sneak peek of the Tuareg in the course of the superior Aprilia All-Stars celebration on May 27. This beast of a motorbike relies on the technical platform of the inventory mannequin, which has been kicking ass within the Italian Motorally Championship. They selected that terrain to develop the “Back to Africa” project.

Aprilia Racing, in collaboration with Gcorse (owned by the Guareschi brothers), worked their magic on the Tuareg, making it a beastly machine for the desert. They targeted on the chassis within the preliminary phases, introducing a brand new modular body and tweaking the geometries to make sure stability at excessive speeds and higher suspension journey. Over the subsequent few months, they’re going to be engaged on engine improvement and including a supplementary tank. 

The competitors model of the Aprilia Tuareg 660 is decked out with Öhlins by Andreani suspension, a titanium SC Project exhaust, and a particular Sprint Filter air filter. Metzeler jumped on board too, as they’re eager on the journey world of twin-cylinder bikes and selected Aprilia to develop merchandise for future rally raids.

Recently, Aprilia Racing and GCorse took half within the fifth and sixth trials of the Italian Motorally Championship in Umbertide. Both Jacopo Cerutti and Francesco Montanari, using the manufacturing unit Aprilia Tuareg 660 machines, proved themselves as high contenders within the G-1000 class, which is reserved for multi-cylinder bikes over 600ccs.

As for the suggestions from Ceritti and Montanari, that is what they needed to say: 

“The sensations within the saddle of the primary Tuareg prototype for the desert had been instantly optimistic! There continues to be a lot work to do, however we’re assured in view of the subsequent improvement steps as a result of the beginning base by way of chassis structure is excellent. After the checks in Sardinia, we received again to racing in Umbertide, bringing dwelling outcomes that now enable us to reach on the ultimate spherical of the championship main within the standings. We’ll be within the combine all the way in which to the top, and this could go away us happy and proud. The solely disappointment was Saturday. I had struggled a bit within the first particular, however within the second, which was cancelled because of inclement climate, I had managed to shut the hole and I might have been capable of take a win that may have been helpful to us. I began Sunday on the assault. There had been two actually quick particular trials deliberate for the rally and I knew that there could be a minimal margin for error. It was a query of seconds in opposition to Botturi and, ultimately, regardless of a mistake within the second particular trial, I managed to grab it. The feeling with the bike and with the Metzeler tyres was optimum, particularly on the rear, the tyre held up effectively regardless of the facility and I used to be all the time capable of depend on loads of traction.”

“The first check with the Tuareg for African races was improbable. You can really feel the enhancements on the chassis structure stage right away and so they allow you to pressure the tempo extra simply. I believe we’re headed in the fitting path. On the primary day of the Umbertide Motorally, sadly I didn’t journey effectively. I made varied errors in navigation, late in studying the notes and consequently dropping floor. On the second day, issues went higher. Knowing that we’d sort out quick and quick particular trials, I attempted to journey extra easily and it went effectively ultimately, with placement on the rostrum that lets me arrive on the ultimate spherical in third place total.”