It’s fast; it’s agile. It’s a crotch rocket; it’s a city slicker. It’s everything you’d want your motorcycle to be; it’s a lot of things a motorcycle can be. The new Apache RTR 200 4V is the mightiest production bike made by TVS Motor Company and the third Apache model to be launched, after RTR 160 and RTR 180.
“Every day is race day,” that’s how the company promotes it.
Design
It’s unarguably the best-looking Apache. Based on the RTR platform (short for Racing Throttle Response), this naked sport bike has a very aggressive styling—right from the drooping headlight cluster to the fuel tank to uniquely-styled 10-spoke alloy wheels. It gets clip-on handlebars, split seats and a double-barrel exhaust. The instrument cluster is all-digital with a tachometer, and has features such as lap timer and fastest speed recorder.
Some other design elements are black finish on the engine and large petal disc brakes. It rides on 17-inch wheels—90/90 R17 front and 130/70 R17 rear.
Engine
The 197cc four-valve carburettor engine is equipped with a balancer shaft mechanism and produces an impressive power of 20.24bhp@8500rpm and a torque of 18.1Nm@7000rpm. The EFI version—which will be launched in the market some time later—will produce slightly more output (20.73bhp). Power is transmitted to the rear wheel via a five-speed gearbox. It is the first production bike from TVS to employ oil-cooling technology.
Performance
The performance is exhilarating, initially. As soon as you let go of the clutch and open the throttle, the rear wheel pushes the bike forward so eagerly that you have to try hard keeping the front wheel on the ground. Its low-end torque is so strong that it propels the bike from 0-60kph in a mere 3.9 seconds. However, from 60-100kph, it takes about 8 seconds. Top speed is 127kph. Clearly, the RTR 200 is all about being the “first off the starting block.”
However, this bike is not only about speed, its riding manners are so refined that it can be used as a commuter bike also. While TVS didn’t share with us its fuel-efficiency figure, we expect it to be close to 40kpl. The fuel tank can hold up to 12 litres of petrol (including reserve).
Control
The double cradle chassis with radically improved torsional and lateral stiffness aids in exceptional control and manoeuvrability. The rear mono-shock suspension too helps in precise handling. One can choose from two tyre options—TVS Remora or Pirelli (for racing-like performance). Front and rear petal disc brakes ensure it stops quicker than it accelerates, and the double channel ABS (anti-lock braking system) safeguards against skidding.
Verdict
The Apache RTR 200 4V currently has two direct competitors—KTM Duke 200 and Bajaj Pulsar NS200. For Rs 89,215, the RTR 200 is very good value for money. It is priced lesser than the Pulsar and is more fun to ride. And while the KTM may be bigger brand value, the Apache has created its own set of discerning admirers who know their machine. Note: You have to pay Rs 5,000 extra for Pirelli tyres.
(Prices are ex-showroom, New Delhi)
