The sporty commuter motorcycle segment a.k.a the 150-160cc department is much in demand. It comes as a break from the boring commuter motorcycles. With on-road prices going up to around Rs 1.1-1.15 Lakhs, they come in the budget of a middle-class buyer.
These bikes look good, offer decent performance and keep a check on the mileage too. Well, from this popular segment, we planned to take the best selling model. A lot of them must have already guessed.
When TVS first brought the Apache in the early 2000s, it instantly became a hot bike. Competing with the popular Pulsar 150 and 180, it was a bit more premium looking. Here, we are a decade ahead, and things still remain the same.
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V has bolstered the sales of the Apache brand name. So, here we list you some reasons that you can consider before buying or not buying this bike.
The engine is smooth and refined
Apache RTR 160 4V uses the same 159.7cc engine that comes on the regular RTR but gets 4 valves. The engine has been redesigned heavily to offer better performance, and actually, it does.
We found the engine to be refined and smooth, without any disturbances. While touching triple speed digits, the engine does not deliver heavy vibrations. Even when kept idle, you can hardly feel any vibrations.
The overall engine performance has improved
A good thing that power delivery is spread out across the entire RPM range. As a result, the acceleration power is much satisfactory. Be it picking up the bike from as low as 20 km/hr on the third gear, the acceleration was fine.
Most of the torque seems to be offered in the low-range and mid-range, which is appropriate for the city riding. However, after crossing 5500-6000 RPM, it felt a bit out of breath. Still, it is not that much to complain about.
The light-to-shift 5-speed gearbox also aids in the acceleration. We got the carburettor variant, which produces 16.3 BHP and 14.8 Nm of peak torque. 0-60 km/hr sprint is achievable in 5.09 seconds, which is somewhat similar to the other 160cc motorcycles.
Nimble handling and comfortable riding
The Showa-tuned suspension helps the Apache RTR 160 4V easily gobble up potholes and damaged roads. The suspension is balanced, not too stiff for hard jerks and not too soft for spoiling the cornering abilities.
However, the TVS Remora tires are not that sticky, which might not give full confidence while cornering. We experienced the same problem with RTR 200 4V.
Apache RTR 160 4V offers a slight dedicated riding position, good for a naked street bike. The footpegs are slightly rear set, making it easy for you to switch from a relaxed position to a slightly crouched position.
Overall, the handling was quite nimble, thanks to the double cradle Diamond frame. Zip-zapping through the traffic is easy, as expected.
High On Features
Another TVS trait that I personally like. All the two-wheelers from the manufacture are known to be feature rich, despite being more affordable than their competitors. Basically, there are Hyundais of the four-wheeler world.
RTR 160 4V comes with features such as a fully digital console, LED pilot lamps, ABS, single step-up seat and the dual-barrel exhaust port. The console displays information such as fuel reading, RPM, trip meter, odometer and the clock. Sadly, the gear position indicator from the RTR 200 would have been appreciated here.
Needless to say, the RTR 160 4V is the most feature-equipped motorcycle in its segment. Of course, different bikes offer some or the either better features, but the list is impressive over here.
Mile Muncher
TVS motorcycles and scooters are usually considered to offer lower mileage than their competition. That’s because they focus more on performance. Here, it’s a very different scene.
Putting through our daily tests, we were able to achieve 45 kmpl in the city and nearly 51 kmpl on the highways. On average, the Apache RTR 160 4V offers 48 kmpl.
With the fuel tank capacity of 12 Litres, the bike can offer a riding range of nearly 550 kms. We tried both the styles of riding – aggressive and easy-going, but there was not much difference between the figures.
The sporty naked styling
Well if you ask me, actually ask anyone, the RTR 160 4V is better looking, sportier and much more aggressive looking than the regular RTR 160. The older one possesses some commuter bike styling bits, which are not found on the 4V.
It all starts with the sculpted headlamp with the DRLs on the side. The tank shrouds are sharp, but not as much as the RTR 200 4V. I personally did not like the chrome under seat panel that much.
TVS is known to make its premium motorcycles and scooters sporty, with a sharp design and a muscular look. Well, all these bits flow through the body panels of the 4V. Looks like TVS has tried to make it look as similar to the RTR 200, which they have almost succeeded.
Have I praised it too much? Or have I?
Poor Braking
We found the brakes to be just fine. On our media bike, the initial bite of the front brake was not up to the mark. The rear disc brake locks up very easily, which actually made my confidence low. Disc brakes on both the ends are available on the top-spec variant, while the lower ones get the front disc as standard.
Just now, TVS has updated the Apache RTR 160 4V with a single-channel ABS. We did not get to test the ABS-equipped motorcycle, but it is expected to work fine.
Pricing
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V with ABS is priced from Rs 90,133 to Rs 99,133 (ex-showroom) Delhi. At this price, it is the most expensive motorcycle, but also the best-selling. As said, the price range is higher, but given its features and better performance, the extra bucks should not matter.
FYI, RTR 160 4V competes with the likes of Honda CB Hornet 160R, Suzuki Gixxer, Yamaha FZ V3, Hero Xtreme 200R and Bajaj Pulsar NS160.
Low service costs
Based on user reviews and personal experiences, we know that the service costs are low. Also, the wide dealership and service centre network over the country is appreciable.
Verdict
Well, we gave you the reasons to buy or not buy the Apache RTR 160 4V. Summing up, it is a sorted out motorcycle with great city riding abilities. It would not mind the often highway cruises, given it acts mature even after crossing 100 km/hr.
The brakes and tires could have been better, giving the rider full confidence. For a better experience on slippery surfaces, we would suggest you other tire options. If it does not bother much, you can still continue with the Remora tires.
This Apache can easily be one of the best 160cc motorcycles in its competition, appealing to the younger generation as well as the older people.
