2019 TVS Apache RTR 180 launched in India: Dual channel ABS on offer

TVS Motors has just launched a refreshed version of the Apache 180 RTR motorcycle in India. The sporty motorcycle now gets a bunch of visual changes which give it a facelift of sorts. Mechanicals remain more or less unchanged. The  motorcycle is priced at Rs. 84,578 for the non-ABS version and Rs. 95,392 for the dual-channel ABS equipped model.  TVS dealers around India have begun taking orders for the refreshed Apache RTR 180.

It’s a good thing that TVS motors has chosen to offer dual channel ABS instead of the cheaper, single channel unit. A  single channel ABS unit acts only on the front brake whereas a dual channel ABS unit acts on both the front and rear brakes, making it a lot more effective. Indian regulations state that a single channel ABS is sufficient for  compliance on all two wheelers with engine capacity of 125cc or more. However, many motorcycle makers like TVS Motors and Royal Enfield are going for dual channel ABS for additional safety.

Talking of the other changes the motorcycle comes with refreshed graphics, a new crash guard with integrated frame  sliders, forged bar end weights for the handlebar and a new seat with alcantara finish. The bike also gets a new instrument cluster design. Mechanically, the motorcycle remains unchanged. What this means is, the 177cc four stroke single cylinder motor continues, with power and torque outputs unchanged at 16.4 Bhp and 15.5 Nm. Claimed top speed of the motorcycle is 114 Kmph.

Telescopic front forks and gas charged twin shock absorbers are standard while TVS claims that Remora racing tyres  have been fitted to the motorcycle for better grip levels. Alloy wheels are standard on the motorcycle, which gets a  270mm petal disc brake on the front wheel and a 200 mm petal disc brake on the rear wheel. Weight is rated at 137  kilograms, while the fuel tank has a 14.4 liter capacity. With a claimed mileage of 40 Kmpl, the motorcycle has an effective range of over 550 kilometers. The 2019 Apache comes in five colours: Pearl White, Gloss Black, Matte Blue,  Matte Black and T-Grey.

Price-wise, the TVS Apache RTR 180 has many competitors, but in terms of actual performance, only the Bajaj Pulsar 180 DTSi is a direct rival. Other rivals of the RTR 180 in terms of pricing include the Yamaha FZ16 and the Suzuki Gixxer. While the FZ16 and Gixxer make much less power than the Apache RTR 180, the Pulsar 180 DTSi makes more power but slightly lesser torque. However, the Pulsar 180 does not offer ABS even as an option, and this tilts the balance in favour of the Apache for now.