TVS Apache RTR 200 4v
TVS has been criticized for flogging the RTR 180, but now you’ve made a strong comeback with the new RTR 200 4v. What are the parameters you kept in mind when you started working on the new RTR?
First of all, we spoke to our customers so that we could understand exactly what they’re looking for in a motorcycle. Then the next step was to figure out what technology to go with. As Indian customers look at value-for-money, we shortlisted all the features we must keep and those to let go of. As India doesn’t offer the best riding conditions, especially road conditions, we had to decide whether to go for a 5-speed or a 6-speed gearbox. We stuck to a 5-speed gearbox, as the bulk of our customers just want to enjoy the pleasure of riding – they aren’t professional riders. So a sixth gear won’t be used. What’s important is that the engine should have an elastic power band, which makes sure that there’s enough power at low speeds. This’s what our customer is looking for, and this is what we’ve kept in mind.
What was the feedback you received from your customers before you started working on the RTR 200 4v?
The two most important pointers we received were to retain the RTR’s razor sharp handling capability – they won’t compromise on that – and, secondly, they want to be first off the traffic signal. So 0 to 60km/h acceleration is very important. It’s all about keeping it simple for customers. They don’t want anything complicated or too technical – just start the bike and ride!
The BS-IV emission norms will come into play in 2017, how did that influence the design of the RTR 200 4v?
The question that arose was whether to go for an air-cooled or liquid-cooled engine. The latter would make the motorcycle very expensive. Keeping Bharat Stage IV emission standards in mind, we decided to go for path breaking oil cooled technology, which retains the bike’s performance, smoothness, durability, reduces harshness and provides an elastic power band. Today, our vehicles meet the BS-IV norms without any grade change.
TVS has a rich motorsports history. Did that experience help shape the RTR 200 4v?
The DNA of the RTR has always been its handling capability, which is the best in its category. I don’t think any other bike can come close to us in this department, and we’re very proud of this. That’s also the reason why we took out the TVS tyres and put in Pirellis – this is especially for those riders who want better performance and handling. We’ve also had KYB’s race and ride experts from Japan work with us and fine tune our bikes to make sure that they’re the best in their class in terms of both ride and handling.
What can we expect from TVS in the scooter segment, especially when you look at the 150cc segment where there are only two players—Vespa and Aprilia?
We can’t sit quiet, as we did set the ball rolling with the introduction of the Scooty. As the competition is moving, so are we. You’ll hear something very soon from us in the scooter category.
You have one of the most anticipated motorcycles in your stable – the Akula 310. When will you be launching it?
It’s around the corner. The Akula will be out on the streets in March 2017.
Most bikes in the 250-300cc segment suffer from a high price tag. Will the Akula change the premium bike segment with a value-for-money price?
This is definitely an important factor that we have to take into consideration. After all, a right price that offers the right value is a must – it makes all the difference. TVS is always conscious about pricing our products right – we will neither overdo it or underplay it. And, as it’s a flagship product for us, we will be very conscious about it.
What’s your take on the introduction of GST?
We’re looking forward to GST. It will be equal for everyone and it’s going to be transparent. All of us will be in the same boat. So we don’t see it as a problem at all. We see it more as a beneficial move for us.
In recent times, the Dakar rally has seen Indian manufacturers playing a part in some capacity or the other, especially TVS. Can we expect adventure bikes from you for the mass market?
Definitely, we won’t be sitting quiet on that front. We have a lot of options, but it’s all about taking out the right product at the right time – like we did with the TVS Apache RTR 200 4v.
Down the line, are you looking at other future partnerships like you currently have with BMW?
Honestly, we want to launch the Akula first and see how it fares in the market. Then we will wait for the feedback. So to answer your question, it’s a bit early to comment on this.
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