Congratulations! You have just purchased one of the most exciting entry-level sportbikes on the market—the Aprilia RS 457. With its aggressive Italian styling and punchy parallel-twin engine, it is a machine built for pure fun.
However, straight out of the showroom, a motorcycle is rarely 100% ready for the real world. Whether you plan to ride on the track or commute through city traffic, adding a few key accessories can protect your investment, improve comfort, and make the bike truly yours.
Here is a list of the must-have accessories to install immediately after buying your Aprilia RS 457.
1. Frame Sliders (Crash Protectors)
This should be the very first item on your shopping list. The RS 457 is a faired motorcycle, meaning it has beautiful plastic bodywork covering the engine. If the bike accidentally tips over in a parking lot or slides at low speed, these plastic fairings can crack or scratch, which is very expensive to fix.
Why you need it: Frame sliders act as a buffer. They stick out slightly further than the bodywork, taking the impact of a fall so your expensive fairings don't have to.
2. Radiator Guard
The radiator on the RS 457 keeps your engine cool, but it is located right behind the front wheel. This makes it vulnerable to small stones, debris, and mud kicked up by your tire. A single sharp rock traveling at speed can puncture the radiator, causing a coolant leak and potentially overheating your engine.
Why you need it: A radiator guard is a metal mesh grill that covers the radiator. It allows air to pass through for cooling but stops rocks from hitting the delicate metal fins. It is a small price to pay to prevent a major mechanical failure.
3. TFT Screen Protector
The Aprilia RS 457 comes with a beautiful 5-inch TFT color display. It looks like a smartphone screen and provides all your ride data. Just like your phone, this screen is prone to scratches from dust, cleaning cloths, or your keys.
Why you need it: A simple tempered glass or high-quality plastic screen protector will keep your dashboard looking brand new. It prevents scratches and reduces glare from the sun.
4. Tank Pad
When you ride a sportbike, you lean forward. The zipper or buttons on your riding jacket can rub against the fuel tank. Over time, this constant friction will dull the paint and cause ugly scratches on that beautiful tank.
Why you need it: A tank pad is a thick sticker (often made of rubber or gel) that you stick to the center of the fuel tank. It adds a sporty look to the bike and ensures your jacket doesn't ruin the paintwork.
5. Swingarm Spools (Paddock Stand Bobbins)
Unlike commuter bikes, true sportbikes like the RS 457 do not come with a center stand—they only have a side stand. This makes simple maintenance, like cleaning and lubricating the chain, very difficult because you cannot spin the rear wheel.
Why you need it: Swingarm spools are small knobs that screw into the rear of the bike. They allow you to use a "Paddock Stand" to lift the rear wheel off the ground safely. This is essential for chain maintenance and washing the bike.
6. Adjustable Brake and Clutch Levers
Stock motorcycle levers are "one size fits all," but every rider has different sized hands. If the levers are too far away, your hands will get tired quickly, especially in traffic.
Why you need it: Aftermarket adjustable levers allow you to change the distance of the lever from the handlebar. This improves your control over the bike and reduces hand fatigue during long rides. Plus, they usually look much better than the factory silver levers.
7. Tail Tidy (Fender Eliminator)
This accessory is purely for aesthetics (looks). Due to government regulations, new bikes come with a long, bulky plastic "tail" that holds the license plate and turn signals. It often ruins the sharp, sporty lines of the motorcycle.
Why you need it: A tail tidy replaces the bulky plastic unit with a sleek, metal bracket. It tucks the license plate closer to the rear light, making the back of the RS 457 look sharp and race-ready.
Conclusion
The Aprilia RS 457 is a masterpiece, but these accessories make it durable and user-friendly. Start with protection (Frame Sliders and Radiator Guard) before moving on to aesthetics. By investing a little extra now, you save money on repairs later and enjoy a much better riding experience.
