The Indian motorcycle market is heating up with exciting launches in the mid-performance segment. Two of the most talked-about machines right now are the KTM 390 Duke and the Aprilia Tuono 457. Both are naked streetfighters, both promise thrilling rides, and both target riders who want aggressive looks with sporty performance—without spending a fortune.
But which one is better for you? Let’s break it down with a detailed and easy-to-understand comparison.
Table of Contents
- Design & Styling
- Engine & Performance
- Ride Quality & Handling
- Features & Technology
- Comfort & Ergonomics
- Price & Value for Money
- Final Verdict
- FAQs
1. Design & Styling
Both the KTM and Aprilia follow the streetfighter design language, but with different personalities.
- KTM 390 Duke: The 2024 model looks sharper than ever. It carries aggressive cuts, angular LED headlamp, bold tank extensions, and a new tail section. The bike screams performance even when standing still. KTM’s orange-white theme remains iconic.
- Aprilia Tuono 457: Aprilia keeps it sleeker and more European. Inspired by its bigger sibling Tuono V4, the 457 gets a dual-pod LED headlight, aerodynamic panels, and sculpted fuel tank. It’s sporty but slightly more mature in its styling.
Verdict: KTM wins on visual aggression, while Aprilia scores on premium appeal.
2. Engine & Performance
Power is the soul of a streetfighter, and both bikes pack a punch.
- KTM 390 Duke: Powered by a new 398cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, it produces 44.25 bhp and 39 Nm of torque. It’s mated to a 6-speed gearbox with quickshifter and slipper clutch. The low-end torque is impressive and offers fast acceleration.
- Aprilia Tuono 457: It runs on a 457cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine that churns out around 48 bhp and 43.5 Nm. The twin-cylinder setup ensures smoother power delivery and stronger mid-range pull.
Verdict: Aprilia edges ahead in power and refinement, but KTM fights back with better low-end grunt and a peppy nature.
3. Ride Quality & Handling
Streetfighters are built for urban fun and corner carving.
- KTM 390 Duke: This bike is lightweight (around 165 kg), agile, and super responsive. The updated frame and adjustable WP Apex suspension at both ends make it highly flickable in traffic and stable in corners. It also has supermoto ABS for sliding fun.
- Aprilia Tuono 457: The Tuono is heavier (about 175-180 kg expected), but the chassis is well-balanced. It’s based on a sporty frame similar to the RS 457. Expect stable handling and confidence at high speeds. Suspension might not be as adjustable as KTM but will be tuned for sporty street use.
Verdict: KTM is more playful and suitable for aggressive riders. Aprilia offers a more planted feel, ideal for longer rides and highway stability.
4. Features & Technology
Modern street bikes are loaded with tech, and these two don’t disappoint.
- KTM 390 Duke:
- 5” full-color TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity
- Ride-by-wire
- Dual-channel ABS with supermoto mode
- Traction control
- Launch control (yes, really!)
- Adjustable suspension (segment-first)
- Quickshifter (bi-directional)
- Aprilia Tuono 457:
- 5” TFT screen (same as RS 457)
- Ride modes
- Dual-channel ABS
- Traction control
- Ride-by-wire throttle
- Expected: Quickshifter (likely optional)
Verdict: KTM easily wins the tech battle with more features packed as standard.
5. Comfort & Ergonomics
You want a bike that looks sporty but doesn’t break your back, right?
- KTM 390 Duke: The seat height is now taller at 820mm, but the riding triangle is still upright. It’s not too aggressive and works well for daily rides. The footpegs are slightly rear-set.
- Aprilia Tuono 457: Slightly more relaxed than the RS 457, the Tuono gets a raised handlebar and neutral footpeg position. Expect a balanced mix of sportiness and comfort, ideal for long city commutes.
Verdict: Aprilia feels more comfortable for daily and highway use. KTM is great for short blasts and city stunts.
6. Price & Value for Money
- KTM 390 Duke (2024): ₹3.39 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Aprilia Tuono 457 (Expected): Around ₹3.6–3.8 lakh (ex-showroom)
While prices may vary depending on city and variant, KTM is more value-loaded. Aprilia brings a twin-cylinder advantage but may cost more due to CBU or CKD status.
Verdict: KTM offers more bang for your buck if you’re looking at sheer features. Aprilia justifies the premium with twin-cylinder refinement and premium brand value.
7. Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Styling | Tie |
| Engine Performance | Aprilia Tuono 457 |
| Features | KTM 390 Duke |
| Handling | KTM 390 Duke |
| Comfort | Aprilia Tuono 457 |
| Price/Value | KTM 390 Duke |
Choose KTM 390 Duke if:
You want an aggressive, feature-rich street machine that’s fun in the city, loaded with tech, and comes at a competitive price.
Choose Aprilia Tuono 457 if:
You want smoother power, more comfort, and a European design flair with a twin-cylinder experience.
8. FAQs
Q1. Is Aprilia Tuono 457 good for beginners?
Yes, it’s beginner-friendly with smooth power delivery, but it’s best suited for riders with some experience due to its performance.
Q2. Does the KTM 390 Duke have a quickshifter?
Yes, the 2024 KTM 390 Duke comes with a standard bi-directional quickshifter.
Q3. Which bike is better for long rides?
The Aprilia Tuono 457 is more comfortable and refined for highway rides.
Q4. Which bike has better fuel efficiency?
The KTM 390 Duke, with its single-cylinder engine, is likely to be more fuel-efficient than the twin-cylinder Tuono.
Q5. Which one looks better?
Depends on your taste! KTM is sharp and loud, while Aprilia is sleek and premium.
Conclusion:
Both the KTM 390 Duke and Aprilia Tuono 457 are amazing machines in their own right. Your choice depends on what you value more—tech and agility (KTM) or refinement and class (Aprilia). Either way, you’re in for an exciting ride!