TVS Apache RTR 160 4V Long Term Report: June 2018

Practicality Pays

TVS has been on a roll these past few years. Every product launch of theirs has been phenomenal and has greatly exceeded our expectations. We have the new Apache RR310 in our long-term fleet, along with their new sensational 125cc scooter, the NTorq. We really love both of them, and just last month we were given the keys and part-time ownership to their newest Apache – the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V.

Now, the RTR 200 is another amazing product from the TVS stable. The new design and the engineering behind it really put a smile on our face. The new RTR 160 is based entirely on the RTR 200, but, of course, it has a lesser capacity engine. There are other changes to make it more commuter friendly. TVS has fitted it with a single-piece seat as opposed to the split seats and a taller handlebar instead of the 200’s clip-on. The side panels and the tail section have also been mildly altered. There are different colour options and alloys. Still, the bike looks attractive and sporty. 

I’ve only managed to ride about 300km in last month, and all of that riding was in the city – from my house to the office, where the roads are mostly nice with a few rough patches in between. The seating position is a bit cramped for tall riders, but it’s not uncomfortable, and you can easily get used to it. The really good parts about the RTR 160 is that it’s a beautiful handler with a super smooth engine. The suspension is perfectly setup for the city, which makes its ride quality really excellent. The brakes are also very good and the clutch is light. The gearbox operates flawlessly. As an entire package the bike rides great.

 
What I don’t like so much about it is that the front-end feels a bit too light and very unresponsive. This of course is great for heavy traffic situations, as it allows you to meander through traffic and make very nice sharps turns. However, it’s too relaxed and requires a lot of time to get used to. Other than that, there’s really nothing to complain about the RTR 160. I have only been able to ride it for short stints, but I will definitely continue to use it as an everyday commuter.