TVS APACHE RTR 160 4V OVERVIEW
Performance and Engine
The Apache RTR 160 4V features a 159.7cc, single-cylinder, 4-valve, oil-cooled engine with TVS’ O3C technology, producing 17.55 PS at 9,250 rpm and 14.73 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm. Its Race Tuned Fuel Injection (RT-Fi) ensures a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
The bike has three riding modes—Sport, Urban, and Rain—for optimised power delivery based on conditions. It is equipped with a 5-speed manual gearbox for smooth gear shifts and responsive handling.
With a top speed of around 114 km/h, the Apache RTR 160 4V is among the fastest in the 160cc segment. The bike adjusts power output in Urban and Rain modes to enhance safety and fuel economy for daily riding.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
The Apache RTR 160 4V offers an ARAI-certified mileage of about 47.61 to 49.80 kmpl, making it competitive in its segment. Real-world mileage reported by users generally falls between 43 kmpl and 50 kmpl in Indian conditions, affected by factors like traffic, road types, and riding style. This efficient mileage makes it a good choice for daily commuting while keeping its sporty character.
Features and Technology
Advanced Battery Options and Long Range
- Powered by a 159.7cc, 4-valve, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine with patented Race Derived Oxygenated Combustion Chamber (O3C) technology.
- The engine delivers a best-in-class maximum power of 17.55 PS at 9,250 rpm and peak torque of 14.73 Nm at 7,500 rpm.
- Race Tuned Fuel Injection (RT-Fi) technology ensures enhanced throttle response and fuel efficiency.
- Equipped with a super-slick 5-speed manual gearbox providing smooth and precise gear shifts.
- Includes Glide Through Technology (GTT) for effortless low-speed control in urban traffic.
Ride Modes
- Three distinct ride modes: Sport, Urban, and Rain.
- Each mode optimises engine output and ABS response to match different road and weather conditions, enhancing control and safety.
Suspension and Braking
- Segment-first 37mm Upside Down (USD) front suspension in top variants delivers improved handling, stability, and cornering agility.
- Rear suspension through a mono-shock system designed for a balance between comfort and sporty dynamics.
- Dual-channel ABS with Rear Lift-off Protection (RLP) for sharper braking control and enhanced safety.
- Front and rear roto-petal disc brakes provide aggressive stopping power and efficient heat dissipation.
Connectivity and Instrumentation
- TVS SmartXonnect system with Bluetooth connectivity allows riders to pair their smartphones for turn-by-turn navigation, call and SMS alerts, and voice assist features.
- Fully digital race-inspired instrument cluster displays gear position, lap timer, 0-60 timer, top speed recorder, and detailed ride analytics for a high-tech riding experience.
Lighting and Design
- Aggressive LED headlamp with TVS signature DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) for superior visibility and a menacing look.
- LED tail lamp with sharp styling complements the sporty aesthetics.
- Newly refreshed graphics, premium gold-finished USD front forks, and colored alloy wheels (top variant) enhance race-inspired styling.
Convenience and Safety
- Adjustable brake and clutch levers for personalised comfort during rides.
- Special Wave Bite key system to prevent theft by disallowing duplicate keys to start the bike.
- Crash alert feature that notifies emergency contacts with the rider’s location in case of a fall detected by the system.
Additional Highlights
- Bullpup dual-barrel exhaust system designed to reduce weight and emit a signature sporty sound.
- Aerodynamically designed muscular fuel tank and tank cowl provide a big-bike feel and aerodynamic efficiency.
- Single-seat design optimised for rider comfort and control during aggressive cornering.
Build Quality
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V features a sturdy build that showcases TVS Motor Company’s commitment to durability and craftsmanship. Its chassis utilises the Double Cradle Split Synchro Stiff design, enhancing stability by 25% through advanced engineering.
The paint quality is good, and precise welding adds to the frame’s robustness. Overall, the materials and fit-and-finish, including switches and controls, are high-quality, giving the bike a premium feel and ensuring long-lasting reliability.
Handling
The Apache RTR 160 4V excels in handling, making it a top choice in the 160cc segment. It features a 37mm upside-down (USD) front suspension fork that improves stability and agility during cornering. The rear mono-shock balances comfort with sporty responsiveness, effectively handling bumps for a smooth ride on different surfaces.
Additionally, it comes with dual-channel ABS and Rear Lift-off Protection (RLP) to enhance braking control and prevent rear wheel lift during hard braking. The roto-petal disc brakes deliver strong stopping power and efficient heat dissipation, ensuring reliable braking in both city and highway conditions. Its chassis design and weight distribution allow for easy manoeuvring in traffic and stability at higher speeds.
Comfort
The Apache RTR 160 4V features an ergonomic design focused on rider comfort while maintaining a sporty look. Its dual-tone racing seat offers a firm grip for stability during cornering and allows for easy movement.
The upright riding posture, aided by well-placed handlebars, minimises wrist and shoulder strain, making it suitable for both daily commuting and longer rides. Adjustable brake and clutch levers provide customisation for different hand sizes. Additionally, the suspension effectively absorbs road shocks, and the cushioned seat reduces fatigue during more prolonged use.
Styling
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V showcases an aggressive street-fighter design with a sculpted fuel tank and extensions for a big-bike feel. The aerodynamic tank cowl features sharp graphics that emphasise its racing appeal. Its intimidating front LED headlamp includes fang-like Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) with the TVS logo.
The sleek tail section has LED taillamps for a sporty look. The top variant features premium gold-finished 37mm upside-down (USD) front forks and colored alloy wheels. Its single-seat design prioritises comfort and grip for enhanced cornering and control.
Colour Options and Variants
The Apache RTR 160 4V is available in a wide range of vibrant and race-inspired colours in India to suit diverse rider preferences. Colour options include
- Matte Black (New)
- Granite Grey (New)
- Pearl White (New)
- Glossy Black
- Lightning Blue
- Matte Black
- Knight Black
- Metallic Blue
- Racing Red
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V lineup in India consists of seven variants catering to different needs and budgets. These include:
- RM Drum (Black Edition) (Base variant) with front disc and rear drum brakes
- Front Disc, Rear Drum variant
- Front and Rear Disc variant
- Disc Bluetooth variant (adds TVS SmartXonnect Bluetooth connectivity)
- Special Edition variant featuring exclusive graphics and finishes
- Dual Channel ABS variant for enhanced braking safety
- Dual Channel ABS with USD Suspension (top-end model) featuring upside-down front forks and premium components
The variants differ mainly in terms of braking setup, rear tire type (radial or standard), suspension, and connectivity features.
Value for Money & Pricing
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is competitively priced in India, starting at ₹1,24,870 (Ex-Showroom) Delhi. It offers excellent value with a powerful 17.55 PS engine, triple ride modes (Sport, Urban, Rain), and TVS SmartXonnect Bluetooth for navigation and race telemetry. Other features include Glide Through Technology for smooth city riding and a dual-channel ABS braking system.
The bike features high-quality components like 37mm USD front forks (top variant) and impressive handling dynamics. Users appreciate its powerful performance, precise braking, comfortable ergonomics, and modern digital display. Its advanced features, typically found in higher-displacement bikes, give it a competitive advantage.
In the competitive 160cc segment, the Apache RTR 160 4V competes against:
- Bajaj Pulsar NS160
- Bajaj Pulsar N160
- Yamaha FZ-S FI
- Hero Xtreme 160R 4V
- Suzuki Gixxer 150
While competitors have their strengths, the Apache RTR 160 4V stands out with its race-inspired design, triple ride modes, and SmartXonnect technology, offering an engaging riding experience.
VERDICT
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is a standout in the competitive 160cc motorcycle segment in India, offering a powerful engine, sharp handling, and various ride modes. It’s an exciting choice for young riders looking for a sporty yet practical commuter.
Although it has minor downsides related to suspension comfort and connectivity, its aggressive styling, safety features, and innovative technology provide great value for money. Overall, the Apache RTR 160 4V is a strong option for those wanting a fun and functional motorcycle.
PROS
- Powerful Performance: The 159.7cc, 4-valve oil-cooled engine delivers 17.55 PS, providing an exhilarating ride in the 160cc segment.
- Advanced Technology: Features include three ride modes (Sport, Urban, Rain) and TVS SmartXonnect Bluetooth connectivity for enhanced adaptability and navigation.
- Handling and Suspension: The 37mm USD front forks and mono-shock rear suspension ensure sharp handling and improved stability for city and twisty road rides.
- Safety Features: Dual-channel ABS with rear lift-off protection enhances braking performance and rider confidence.
- Sporty Styling: Aggressive design with an LED headlamp, muscular fuel tank, dual-barrel exhaust, and premium graphics gives the bike a bold look.
- User-Friendly Features: Glide Through Technology for easy low-speed control, adjustable levers, and a digital instrument cluster enhance comfort.
- Mileage: Users report a practical mileage of 43-50 kmpl, competitive for this performance segment.
CONS
- Suspension Comfort: Some users report the rear suspension feels a bit stiff on rough or potholed roads, potentially compromising comfort during longer rides on bad surfaces.
- Ride Quality for Taller Riders: The ergonomics, while sporty, might not be the most comfortable for taller riders, especially in heavy city traffic or prolonged rides.
- Top-End Performance: Although powerful in the midrange, the engine can feel slightly strained when pushed to triple-digit speeds for extended periods.
- Connectivity Bugs: While the SmartXonnect system offers useful Bluetooth features, occasional connectivity issues and limitations in navigation integration have been noted.
- Gear Position Indicator: The absence of a gear position indicator in some variants can be a minor inconvenience, especially for beginner riders.
- Side Stand Angle: An awkward side stand angle reported by some users can make parking tricky in certain situations.
OTHER RELATED LINKS FROM BIKELEAGUE INDIA
LIST OF ALL TVS BIKES
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177.4cc, 40-47km/l,
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APACHE RTR 160 4V
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14.73Nm @ 7,250rpm
Price – ₹ 1,24,870 Onwards
APACHE RTR 160
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RADEON
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XL 100
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ABOUT TVS BIKES
TVS Motor Company, a prominent player in the Indian two-wheeler industry, has a rich innovation and strategic growth history. TVS Motor manufactures a wide range of two-wheelers, including mopeds, scooters, commuter motorcycles, and racing-inspired bikes like the TVS Apache series and the TVS Apache RR310. The company’s diverse product portfolio caters to various segments, ensuring options for different customer preferences and needs.
History
TVS Motor Company, part of the TVS Group, was founded in 1911 by T.V. Sundaram Iyengar, starting with Madurai’s first bus service. In the 1970s, the group entered the automotive sector, launching Sundaram Clayton and opening a moped manufacturing facility in Hosur in 1976.
In 1980, they released TVS 50, India’s first two-seater moped, revolutionising the two-wheeler market. The company rapidly expanded, introducing motorcycles and scooters, and formed a joint venture with Suzuki before becoming independent again in 2001.
Timeline & Milestones
- 980: Launch of TVS 50, the first Indian moped.
- 1987: Collaboration with Suzuki, introducing advanced products and manufacturing expertise.
- 2001: JV with Suzuki ends; TVS becomes an independent entity.
- 2005: Introduction of the Apache series, marking entry into high-performance bikes.
- 2013: Alliance with BMW Motorrad for co-development of high-end motorcycles.
- 2020: Launch of TVS iQube Electric, signalling robust entry into electric mobility.
- 2024: Over 50 million vehicles on the road; TVS reaches record revenue and expands its EV portfolio.
Manufacturing Facilities
TVS Motor Company operates three state-of-the-art factories in India:
- Hosur, Tamil Nadu: The primary and oldest plant, central to TVS’s manufacturing capacity.
- Mysuru, Karnataka: Supports production for southern and western markets.
- Nalagarh, Himachal Pradesh: Caters to northern and eastern India.
The company has also entered into contract manufacturing partnerships to optimise logistics and expand service in eastern India.
Market Position
- TVS is India’s third-largest two-wheeler manufacturer.
- In the first half of 2025, TVS grew its market share to 18.71%, up from 17.08% in 2024, outpacing competitors like Hero, Honda, and Bajaj. This was driven by robust performance in the electric scooter segment and premium motorcycles.
- The company continues to innovate, leading with connected vehicles, advanced safety features, and a wide product portfolio from commuter mopeds to high-end racing bikes.
Achievements
- Financial Strength: In FY2023-24, TVS posted record revenue of ₹31,776 crore and Profit Before Tax of ₹2,781 crore, with EBITDA margins exceeding 11%.
- Global Presence: TVS exports to over 80 countries and is strengthening its position in international markets with partnerships and homologated products for Europe and other regions.
- Innovation: Pioneer of several firsts, including India’s first catalytic converter in a 100cc bike and connected scooters.
- Recognition: Consistently awarded for quality, performance, and customer satisfaction, reflecting industry trust in the brand.
Future Outlook
- Growth Forecasts: Analysts expect TVS’s earnings to grow at 20.2% annually, with revenue growth projected at 5.8% per annum and return on equity at 26.3% over the next three years.
- EV & Sustainability: TVS is intensifying its EV push, aiming for leadership in sustainable urban mobility. The company is investing in R&D and roping in partnerships to strengthen its EV lineup.
- Premiumisation & Expansion: Continued focus on premium models, expansion of the dealer network, customer-centric campaigns, and a strategic push into Europe, Africa, Latin America, and ASEAN regions.
- Innovation Commitment: TVS will keep innovating, both in product offerings and technology, to match evolving consumer preferences and to remain a trendsetter in the Indian mobility space.
TVS Motor Company embodies Indian manufacturing excellence and adaptability. Starting from modest beginnings, it has become a global leader, driving India’s mobility revolution with a focus on quality, sustainability, and innovation.
