Aprila’s long-awaited 400cc supersport motorcycle might be closer to production than you think. The upcoming bike was announced a couple of years ago but there has been little update from the company about the model’s development. However, spy shots of the upcoming 400cc machine have now emerged and our hopes are high.
The Aprilia sport bike will take on offerings like the KTM RC 390, TVS Apache RR 310, BMW G 310 RR and the new Keeway K 300 R. There’s also the twin-cylinder Kawasaki Ninja 300 and 400 available at a higher price tag. Naked version will take on the likes of the naked offerings from the aforementioned brands.
The spy shots emerge from Baramati in Maharashtra, which is home to Piaggio India’s manufacturing facility. The camouflage reveals little when it comes to the styling but it’s likely that the company will borrow heavily from the RS motorcycles, while a naked version will be inspired by the Tuono series. What we can make out are the twin headlamps that look similar to the Aprilia RS 660, while the blinkers and taillights are all LED.
The riding posture is committed but feels more upright than a supersport machine. The foot pegs are rear-set but the handlebar feels more upright. This should make the model more touring-friendly and that should also tell you what the character of the engine will be like. Expect it to be performance-friendly but with linear power delivery rather than outright performance.
However, details on the engine and power output remain under wraps. Other visible details include USD front forks and a monoshock at the rear. The swingarm is a box-section unit while the frame could be a trellis unit. You also see disc brakes at either end and dual-channel ABS is a given in this segment. We expect power figures to be around 35-40PS, in line with the rivals, along with an assist and slipper clutch, digital instrument console, and possibly riding modes.
The upcoming 300cc Aprilia not only makes sense for the Indian market but will open more avenues for Piaggio globally. The model will most likely be completely localised and exported to several established and emerging markets overseas. It’s a fairly familiar strategy already adopted by KTM and Bajaj, as well as TVS and BMW Motorrad. Piaggio though is likely to achieve this on its own. Prices could be in the vicinity of Rs 3-3.5 lakh (ex-showroom).
