From KTM to Aprilia: Top Sports Bike Alternatives Around 40HP You Shouldn’t Miss

Looking to upgrade from your entry-level sports bike or take your first leap into the world of performance riding? We've curated a list of the top sports bikes around the 40 HP mark that offer an exhilarating blend of speed, style, and performance. Whether you’re chasing corners on the track or carving up twisties on the weekend, these machines deliver.

⚠️ Pro Tip: Before twisting the throttle, make sure you're geared up. Always ride with certified safety gear and a DOT-approved helmet.

1. Aprilia RS 457 – Rebel With a Roar

Want to stand out with something bold and performance-packed? The Aprilia RS 457 ditches the traditional in favor of cutting-edge design and riding precision. Its sculpted fairings scream aggression, while the parallel-twin engine delivers a ride that's both powerful and smooth.

Power: 46.9 BHP @ 9,400 RPM

Torque: 43.5 Nm @ 6,700 RPM

Brakes: 320mm disc with 4-piston calipers, dual-channel ABS

Price: ₹4,94,507 (ex-showroom)

With its premium chassis and dynamic handling, the RS 457 feels like a machine built for purists and thrill-seekers alike.

2. Kawasaki ZX-4R – Pocket Rocket With Superbike DNA

Though it comes at a premium, the Kawasaki ZX-4R brings superbike-level performance to the 400cc category. With 77 PS under the tank, it’s a screamer on the track and surprisingly flexible for city cruising too.

Power: 77 PS

Chassis: Inspired by WorldSBK racing tech

Highlights: Balanced low-mid torque, agile cornering, top-end punch

Price: ₹8,79,000 (ex-showroom)

Built with inputs from Kawasaki’s race division, the ZX-4R carries the spirit of its big siblings—like the ZX-10R—in a compact form.

3. Yamaha R3 – Smooth, Sleek, and Sporty

A favorite among track day newbies and city riders alike, the Yamaha R3 offers refined performance in a sleek package. While it may not dominate the spec sheet, it strikes a great balance between power, rideability, and comfort.

Engine: 321cc, twin-cylinder, DOHC

Power: 42 PS @ 10,750 RPM

Torque: 29.5 Nm

Chassis: Diamond frame with upside-down forks

Price: ₹3,59,900 (ex-showroom)

Whether you're hitting the curves or commuting with flair, the R3 gets the job done with Yamaha’s signature reliability.

4. KTM Duke 390 – The Street Fighter King

If you're looking for raw street performance with an aggressive attitude, the KTM Duke 390 remains the benchmark. Known for its punchy engine and sharp dynamics, it’s a riot on both road and track.

Engine: 398.63cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder

Power: 46 PS @ 8,500 RPM

Torque: 39 Nm @ 6,500 RPM

Suspension: 43mm WP Apex open-cartridge forks

Price: ₹2,96,670 (ex-showroom)

With lightweight agility, top-tier components, and a wicked power-to-weight ratio, the Duke 390 continues to dominate the value-performance segment.

Final Thoughts

These bikes prove you don’t need a liter-class machine to enjoy serious thrills. Whether you prioritize corner-carving precision, daily usability, or raw top-end speed, there's a machine here to match your riding style.

So go ahead—gear up, twist that throttle, and let the ride begin. 🏍️💨