TVS Apache RTR 160 4v Review

Engine and Performance of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4v

TVS is bringing out the new Apache RTR 160 4v in a total of three variants as of now – Carbureted with rear drum brake, carbureted with rear disc and EFI. We got to ride the carb with disc and the EFI, which comes only in a disc brake variant. The engine within the new bike is a 159.7cc oil cooled, single cylinder that is capable of producing a maximum power of 16.5hp @ 8000 rpm in the EFI version while it produces 16.3hp at the same rpm on the carb version. The torque output on both the bikes remains the same at 14.8Nm which can be felt at 6500 rpm. Both the bikes are spirited and do not require you to rev them to the moon in order to get some result. This means that these bikes while packing a lot of punch, will still be home in the slow and crowded city streets. Surprisingly enough, the engine on both bikes felt very refined and there was no sign of any major vibrations. The EFI is definitely a bit more refined and delivers a more liner power delivery. While the carb version is a lot more fun to ride and you can push it better at triple digit speeds. I was actually surprised to find that the EFI seemed to struggle a lot more at 111kmph when compared to the carb version. But then that is natural as the company itself claims that the carb is faster from 0-60 kmph.

The 17 inch tubeless tyres on the new 160 4v do a praiseworthy job of maintaining a good grip at all times and are possibly the best in the segment. There is a 100/80 at the front while at the rear you get a 130/70 but if you opt for the base variant with drum brake then you get a slimmer rear trye. This when combined with the Showa tuned suspension makes for a very stable and confident outing on the bike. At the relatively small track I was able to cross triple digit speeds on the bike and quickly lean in for a long loop in a swift movement. Even while I was pushing the bike on a curve, it stayed true to its line and not for once did I feel even a hint of wobble. This is a handling dream come true in this segment. I would suggest that you try and stay away from the base variant if you plan to buy this bike as the dual discs are required to bring this bike to halt, considering the speeds it can achieve.

There is no doubt that TVS has delivered a true champion here and has priced it competitively as well. The new Apache takes on a much sleeker and more impressive look from its elder brother, the Apache 200 4v and also managed to impress me with its surefootedness. It is a bike that is practical with its comfortable riding position and high ground clearance and at the same time you can have the pleasure of riding a fast motorcycle with a simple twist of the throttle.

Verdict

 I would suggest you to stay clear of the carbureted with drum brake variant that costs Rs 81,490 (ex-showroom Delhi) as you can just put in three thousand more and get the much more fun and safe carb with disc variant for Rs 84,490 (ex-showroom Delhi). But if you want a smoother ride and the handy gear shift indicator the then EFI is the way to go and will cost you Rs 89,990 (ex-showroom Delhi)