The entry-level performance motorcycle segment is more exciting than ever, and two standout contenders for 2025 are the Aprilia Tuono 457 and the new-gen KTM Duke 390. Being nakeds, both provide a sense of practicality and daily useability. Both bikes promise aggressive street styling, punchy performance (or twin, in Aprilia’s case), and premium hardware — but they approach the formula quite differently. Let’s break it all down.
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Aprilia Tuono 457 | 2025 KTM Duke 390 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 457cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled | 399cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled |
| Power | ~47 hp @ 9,400 rpm | ~44.25 hp @ 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | ~43.5 Nm @ 6,700 rpm | ~39 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed with optional quickshifter | 6-speed with quickshifter standard |
| Top Speed | ~190 km/h | ~170-180 km/h |
The Aprilia Tuono 457 uses a high-revving twin-cylinder engine (shared with the RS 457), delivering linear power and smooth top-end performance, surprisingly the bottom end performance is well taken care of as well. The Duke 390, on the other hand, makes slightly less peak power but compensates with a torquey low mid to high mid range punch thanks to its larger single-cylinder engine. The Duke still struggles with crawling speed torque and loves to be above 3k rpm.
Chassis & Handling
| Component | Aprilia Tuono 457 | 2025 KTM Duke 390 |
|---|---|---|
| Frame | Aluminum perimeter frame | Lightweight steel trellis frame |
| Front Suspension | 41mm USD forks (preload adjustable) | 43mm WP Apex USD forks (compression & rebound adjustable) |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock (preload adjustable) | WP Apex Monoshock (Rebound and Pre-load) |
| Weight | ~175 kg (kerb) | ~171 kg (kerb) |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 800 mm |
KTM has refined the Duke 390’s chassis for 2025, offering a more stable and planted ride with its new geometry. The suspension is fully adjustable and track-focused. Aprilia’s Tuono 457 is no slouch either, offering a balanced ride thanks to its aluminum chassis and well-sorted geometry.
Verdict:
- The KTM edges out in adjustability and flickability.
- The Aprilia offers better high-speed stability and smoother handling overall.
Features & Tech
| Feature | Aprilia Tuono 457 | 2025 KTM Duke 390 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 5″ TFT | 5″ color TFT |
| Riding Modes | 3 modes + track setting | 3 ride modes (Street, Rain, Track) + Cruise control |
| Traction Control | Yes (switchable) | Yes (cornering TC) |
| ABS | Dual-channel, switchable (track ABS) | Cornering ABS, Supermoto ABS |
| Quickshifter | Optional | Standard (up/down) + Launch control |
| Connectivity | Smartphone connectivity | Smartphone connectivity |
Both bikes come well-loaded for their segment, but the Duke 390 pulls ahead slightly with cornering ABS and TC, fully adjustable suspension, and a standard bidirectional quickshifter.
Verdict:
- The Duke wins on paper with more advanced rider aids.
- The Tuono keeps things elegant and functional, aimed at a more purist ride.
Design & Ergonomics
- Aprilia Tuono 457: Styled after its bigger Tuono siblings, the 457 looks aggressive yet refined with a minimalist rear section, aerodynamic small front cowl, and classic Italian flair. Its weird though that it does not look like its bigger Tuono siblings.
- 2025 Duke 390: All aggression and no apologies. Sharper than ever, it has a new LED headlight, more chiseled tank shrouds, and a compact rear end that screams street weapon. The ergonomics are more comfortable than before.
Verdict:
- Want Italian style and road presence? Go for the Aprilia.
- Prefer a youthful, edgy design? The Duke is your machine.
Price & Value
| Bike | Expected Price (India) | |
|---|---|---|
| Aprilia Tuono 457 | ₹3.95 lakh (ex-showroom) | Only one variant |
| 2025 KTM Duke 390 | ₹2.96 lakh (ex-showroom) | Only one variant |
Verdict:
- The KTM Duke 390 offers more tech and power per rupee and is far better value-for-money.
- The Tuono 457 is priced higher but offers twin-cylinder refinement and premium big bike appeal.
Final Verdict: Which One’s for You?
| Rider Type | Recommended Bike |
|---|---|
| Commuters + Weekend Thrill Seekers | KTM Duke 390 + Aprilia Tuono 457 |
| Track Day Enthusiasts | KTM Duke 390 |
| Riders Seeking Smoothness + Refinement | Aprilia Tuono 457 |
| Tech Lovers + Tinkerers | KTM Duke 390 |
| Riders Wanting Street Presence | Tuono 457 |
Both bikes offer incredible performance in the sub-500cc class. The Tuono 457 leans more towards a refined, sporty street bike with a broader powerband and subtle class. The 2025 Duke 390 is the sharper, tech-savvy hooligan that delivers maximum fun with minimal fuss.
