TVS Apache RTR 2004V

You will not mistake the TVS Apache for any other bike on the road. You might, however, get the impression of a much bigger streetfighter. Such is the appeal of its design. The most distinctive aspect is the lack of the bikini fairing up front. The headlight is a halogen unit with aggressive fang like LED pilot lights surrounding it. The clocks peak out from the top of the headlight unit giving it a rough edge. Behind the headlight, the bike’s fuel tank adds muscle with its large extensions.

The matt paint and 3D emblem along with the offset fuel cap makes it stand out in unique ways. Then there are sporty touches like the split racing seat and the redesigned tail section with its faux intakes and split grab handles. The blacked out engine also gets a racy cowl. The slim and upswept exhaust looks like a gun. The sportiness then, is very much evident from the design.

The all digital instrument panel only adds to this. It is interactive and also very comprehensive with a speedometer, tachometer, odometer, two trip meters, fuel gauge, gear position indicator, clock, top speed indicator, acceleration timer, and even a lap timer. It will even congratulate you on getting new achievements. Unique 17-inch 5 twin spoke alloys give it an added edge. The front gets a wide 90/90 tire while the rear has a 130/70 tire. The bike measures 2050 mm in length, 790 mm in width, and 1150 mm in height.

The Apache uses a double cradle frame with telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. The frame uses the engine as a stressed member to keep weight low at 149 kg. The short wheelbase of 1343 mm and well honed steering geometry makes the bike a very good handler. However, the bike comes with a softer setup on the suspension that takes away some of that agility especially when trying to change direction quickly. This can be corrected with a quick twist of the throttle and takes some getting used to, following which it turns into a very fun bike. The sporty seat allows the rider to slide around while also giving a solid grip and comfort. The softer suspension also gives the bike a very comfortable riding position. With commuter like seating position and an 800 mm seat height, it is easy to live with on a daily basis.

The TVS Apache RTR 200 4V is powered by a 197 cc, 4-valve, fuel injected and oil and air-cooled SOHC engine that produces a healthy 21.0 PS at 8500 rpm along with 18 Nm of torque at 7000 rpm. The engine itself redlines at a 9000 rpm. The most impressive figure here however is hinted from the name of the bike itself. The RTR stands for racing throttle response. This means that the Apache goes like stink. 0-60 kmph comes at just 3.9 seconds and 0-100 kmph takes 12 seconds. The top speed itself is rated at 128 kmph. The engine is at its best at low and mid rev ranges and the 5 speed gearbox makes good use of it via an anti reverse torque slipper clutch. This character also translates to a more relaxed style of riding. The bike is also fuel efficient with a mileage of 35-40 kmpl and a 12-litre fuel tank. The dual barrel exhaust adds in a throaty exhaust note.  As suggested by the overall build quality of the bike, the engine is very refined and free from vibrations.

The brakes on the Apache RTR 200 4V are very capable in keeping up with the bike’s performance. The front gets a 270 mm petal disc while the rear gets a 240 mm petal disc. With dual channel ABS, it becomes an absolute bargain.

There is a lot going for the Apache RTR 200 4V. And that is before the price advantage comes into play. The Apache is not a fun bike for its price. It has looks to match and is just as practical as any other commuter focused motorcycle. A true bargain.