KTM 390 Duke vs Aprilia Tuono 457: Spec Comparison

When Aprilia unveiled the RS 457 earlier this year, we went gaga over the sheer brilliance that Noale had conjured up for the sub-500 cc segment. Its immediate rival, the KTM RC 390 was instantly overshadowed, and a proper performance-oriented, parallel-twin powered fully faired sport bike from Italy at ₹4.10 lakh, suddenly felt so logical and right. 

Will the upcoming Tuono 457, which Aprilia showcased recently at EICMA 2024, be able to repeat the same to the KTM 390 Duke — a proper naked sport that has been defining the segment and has set a whole different benchmark for all? Let’s find that out in this comparison —

Aprilia Tuono 457 vs KTM 390 Duke: Design

When it comes to aesthetics, the KTM 390 Duke has always been a rebel. Its in-your-face attitude, cooped by its bright orange sharp panels ethos, is one of its key hallmarks. With the latest generation, the KTM 390 Duke looks more evolved, focused, and functional. Without tinkering with the basic principles here much, the KTM 390 Duke will split opinions like it would do to air—but it leaves no doubt that when it comes to creating statements, it's a proper looker. 

However, the new Aprilia Tuono 457 might not have such contradicting conclusions about its looks. Like a typical Italian product, it's curvy, and voluptuous, adding to its visual value. Its muscular proportions can be traced back to the Aprilia RS 457, especially in the mid and tail sections. But one look at the front and everyone would be hard-pressed to believe that this also carries the ‘Tuono’ badge. Gone is the distinct semi-fairing design, and in comes a bulbous cowl that also gets its own set of integrated winglets. The exposed aluminium frame under the fuel tank now also gets more detailing which in turn houses the radiator as well. The overall finish makes it look quite plush and practical – giving us an everyday-ready-for-use vibe. 

Aprilia Tuono 457 vs KTM 390 Duke: Engine

Aprilia has made the most of the extra cylinder by upping the Nate when it comes to power figures. The Tuono 457 has employed a parallel-twin configuration which not only leads to more power and torque, but also helps it deliver in a very refined manner. Moreover, the Tuono 457 produces its peak power at 9,500 rpm and torque at 6,700 rpm. In comparison, the KTM 390 Duke produces its peak power at 8,500 rpm and peak torque at 6,500 rpm – thereby the KTM will be quicker in between gears, but the Aprilia Tuono 457 will be able to hold on to its speeds for longer gears. The RS 457 had a better top end than the KTM and we expect the same to be continued with the Tuono 457 too. Additionally, the quickshifter is available as standard with the KTM 390 Duke, while with the Tuono 457 it might be available as an accessory as is the case with the RS 457. 

Aprilia Tuono 457 vs KTM 390 Duke: Suspension And Brakes

Both the Aprilia Tuono 457 and KTM 390 Duke ride on 17-inch wheels (front & rear). But the 390 Duke gets a 43 mm WP Apex USD fork, which is fully adjustable and gets 150 mm travel. Whereas, the Aprilia Tuono 457 gets a slightly thinner 41 mm USD fork with only preload adjustable and 120 mm travel. Both bikes also get monoshock, but in the Aprilia, it has 130 mm travel, but the KTM has 150 mm of travel. Both bikes also have the same size 320 mm disc brake at the front, but the KTM gets the advantage of a bigger 240 mm rear disc, while the Aprilia Tuono 457 goes for a smaller 220 mm disc instead. Dual-channel ABS is available in both. So in terms of adjustability and comfort the KTM 390 Duke holds the edge.

Aprilia Tuono 457 vs KTM 390 Duke: Dimension

We don’t have the length, width or height of the Tuono 457, however, its seat height is the same at 800 mm. Additionally, the KTM 390 Duke has a bigger fuel tank at 15-litres, whereas, the Aprilia Tuono 457 gets a smaller 13-litres fuel tank. As for its weight, the KTM 390 Duke tips the scale at 165 kg, and the baby Tuono is slightly heavier at 175 kg.

Aprilia Tuono 457 vs KTM 390 Duke: Features

On the features front, the KTM 390 Duke is loaded to the brim. From launch control to different ride modes, to cornering ABS, and much more. The new 5-inch TFT cluster looks rich and the user experience is quite intuitive and easy to use. Ride-by-wire is common to both bikes and while the Tuono 457 also gets different ride modes, cornering ABS, etc – it misses out on launch control. A 5-inch TFT cluster is available here as well, which gets Bluetooth connectivity and thereby turn-by-turn navigation and basic alert functionalities as well. Bi-directional quickshifter comes standard on the 390 Duke whereas on the Aprilia it’s an accessory.

Aprilia Tuono 457 vs KTM 390 Duke: Verdict

While Aprilia is yet to reveal the price of the Tuono 457, it is expected to be significantly more pricey than the KTM 390 Duke which currently starts from ₹3.13 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). But by how much remains to be seen. Either way, the upcoming Aprilia will undercut the RS 457’s ₹4.10 lakh asking price. If it manages to do that, the Tuono 457 will come across as quite exciting alternative to the 390 Duke, with more power and refinement. But will it be able to overtake KTM in terms of sales? That looks unlikely given the more affordable price tag and larger dealership network of KTM.