Despite its popularity, the Apache has received only one facelift in its decade-long innings. The bike maker has finally given the Apache RTR 160 a much-needed overhaul. There are two engine variants now, one, a carburettor and the other with fuel-injection.
The look-down
TVS designers have used a top-down approach with the new Apache RTR 160. Its styling is inspired by its elder sibling: the Apache RTR 200. This isn’t a bad strategy, as the TVS Apache RTR 200 is a handsome-looking motorcycle. In fact, they look so similar that it’s easier to list the differences, which include a simple new alloy design, a fresh centre body panel, a one-piece seat unit and conventional handlebars. The 160 also misses out on the new fly screen, redesigned graphics and slipper clutch, which debuted on the 2018 RTR 200.
The boomerang-shaped LED DRLs borrowed from the RTR 200 give the 160 an aggressive face; it also gets the same LED tail-light. The sharing of parts continues with the all-digital instrument console (a first for the Apache RTR 160) being carried forward. The fuel-injected version of the RTR 160 gets a gear-position indicator and a lap timer, both of which are missing on the carburettor variant’s console. Switch gear has also been carried forward, and its quality levels are impressive. The fit and finish levels are at par with those seen on TVS’ latest offerings; they are very good with tight panel gaps, with most of the wirings being wrapped and covered up, neatly.
Performance-wise
The Apache range has always been about performance, and the new Apache RTR 160 now boasts the most powerful motor in its segment. The carb variant pumps out 16.5hp, while the fuel-injected mill is rated at 16.8hp. Torque figure remains identical, at 14.8Nm. It also gets 4-valve technology, while most of its competitors employ a 2-valve head.TVS engines aren’t famous for refinement, but the new 160cc engine is about to change that perception.
The motor likes to be revved and minor vibes can be felt post 7,500rpm, which gain intensity at around 9,000rpm — but the vibes never get out of hand. The fuel-injected variant offered better throttle response and felt a tad bit more refined than the carb one. The carb engine felt more engaging to ride and in tune with the racing DNA of Apache. With my hefty size, I managed to clock 117kph on the main straight, while much thinner (and well, fitter) riders managed 125kph — not bad, for a 160cc engine! However, TVS engineers have focused their efforts on low-end grunt and the fifth gear is pretty tall, which means gathering speed post-100kph needs patience. The sweet spot for the engine is between 85-95kph, while the 5-speed gear box offers crisp shifts.
Clutch action is smooth, though a bit ‘jumpy’. This is good for posting impressive acceleration timings, but riding in traffic could be tiresome. For better heat dissipation, the new motor also gets the benefit of an oil-cooler. Since we were riding the bikes at a good clip, we couldn’t really test the efficiency of the oil-cooler.
Sporty ease
Unlike the clip-on handlebars on the Apache RTR 200, the new motorcycle features a pair of flat and wide handlebars. This results in an upright and relaxed riding position, although the footpegs are still slightly rear-set, so the riding position has a likeable, but manageable, level of sportiness. The rider and the pillion won’t be squeezed for space either, as the single-piece seat is generously sized. The RTR 160 borrows the double-cradle split-frame chassis from its elder sibling.
The difference in handling dynamics could be felt the moment we entered our first corner. The bike turns into the corner with enthusiasm and holds its line through without any problem. However, the rear felt a bit bouncy — especially over bumps on the corner exit. This was likely down to my weight, and dialling up the pre-load setting to six (out of the total seven), ironed-out the issue.
The new frame also endows the bike with a monoshock suspension for the first time, sourced from Showa, while the front features smaller 33mm diameter telescopic forks, in comparison to the RTR 200. The 17-inch alloy wheels come wrapped with TVS Remora tyres, that offer adequate grip. Interestingly, the drum brake version gets a 110/80 section tyre at the rear, while the disc brake versions ride on 130/70 rubber. TVS says this helps reduce the entry-level price. However, we rode only the dual-disc brake variant and felt that the braking prowess of the motorcycle could have been better. You have to squeeze the lever hard for the brakes to dig in. Also, considering that TVS was the first Indian manufacturer to ever offer optional ABS in 2011, it’s unfortunate to see that the RTR 160 doesn’t. But with prices starting at ₹81,490, this bike is good value for money.
