TVS Apache RTR 160 with Single Channel ABS launched in India

Indian two-wheeler manufacturer TVS has now launched ABS version of Apache RTR 160. The price for ABS version of the Apache RTR 160 starts at Rs 84,710 ex-showroom. A few days back TVS also introduced ABS in the RTR 160 4V version.

Apart from addition of ABS no other mechanical changes are made to the bike. It continues to draw power from a 160-cc, single cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces 15 Bhp and 13 Nm of torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.

Talking about the design, the Apache RTR 160 ABS gets an aggressive styling with Apache’s signature LED DRLs, sculpted fuel tank and edgy engine cowl. All these design elements give this bike a sporty and aggressive feel. TVS only has offered single-channel ABS in the RTR 160 and the bike is available in two variants – one with drum brakes at rear and the other with a disc brake at the rear.

The drum brake version is priced at Rs 84,710 and the rear disc variant is priced at Rs 87,719 – all the prices are ex-showroom. Both versions retail at a premium of around Rs 6,000 over the non-ABS variants which will soon be taken off from the line up.

ABS or Antilock Braking System will be mandatory on all the two-wheelers which have 125cc or higher capacity engines from 1st April 2019. Until now, there were no such rules and many manufacturers offered ABS and non-ABS versions of their products to keep the price low. However, ABS is essential in vehicles, especially in two-wheelers, which easily get imbalanced.

The ABS works by sensing a wheel lock-up and quickly releases the pressure on the brakes and grips it again. This happens within microseconds and continuously, which makes the vehicle stop without skidding even under heavy braking. Also, ABS gives the rider to steer the motorcycle around an obstacle even under hard braking, thus avoiding collisions. Hence, it’s a life saving safety technology that benefits all motorcycles. ABS is well worth the premium it commands. Don’t hesitate to opt for an ABS equipped bike despite the higher cost.

Bikes with lower capacity engines will get CBS or Combi-Braking System, this technology works by ensuring that both the front and rear brakes are deployed when a single brake lever is pressed. The idea is to evenly distribute braking pressure to reduce the chances of skidding. TVS recently launched Kargil Edition of their commuter bike Star City+ motorcycle with Sync Braking Technology, which is the name given by TVS to their CBS.