TVS Apache RTR160 4V VIDEO: Is this Bajaj Pulsar/Suzuki Gixxer rival more fun to ride?

TVS set a new benchmark in the 160-cc motorcycle segment with the launch of the RTR160 4V earlier this year. Not only is it the most technologically advance bike in the segment with features like an oil cooler, 4-valve set-up, a race derived engine and top-spec suspension, it also puts out the highest power and torque on paper. That should make it lot of fun, right?

Now we, as responsible journalists, also like to perform a practical test rather than rely on figures. And this is where the entire idea of the video that you see below came up. We teamed up with two Delhi-based young guns, Syed Faiz and Haris Khan. These close friends ride a Duke 390 each and are among the best motorcycle riders in this part of India. Right then, would the TVS Apache RTR160 4V prove its mettle when its comes to the ‘fun’ part? Watch the video right away…

So what makes the RTR160 4V so much fun and an all-rounder? For starters, the race derived O3C engine (even gets ram-air assist) puts out class-leading figures of 16.5 PS/14.8 Nm. This combined with an all-new double cradle split synchro stiff chassis, which increases stability by 25%, gives it best-in-class riding dynamics. And control. No wonder then that with a new platform and a new engine, the RTR160 has a new attitude.

While Faiz opted to test out stunts with the 4V, Haris was keen on getting the best in terms of acceleration and top speed. As seen in the video, pulling long wheelies including stand-ups was a cakewalk for Faiz, followed by rolling stoppies and finally rolling burnies or burn-outs. Worthy of a mention is that in spite of ‘wet road conditions’, the RTR’s tyres provided exceptional grip levels. Also, for the record we had the carb and not the Fi version with us.

Next on, it was Haris’ turn to tame the RTR160 4V and, oh boy, were we all in for a surprise? With a 74 kg rider on board, the 4V hit the 60 km/h mark in less than 4.5 seconds, going on to hit 100 in just over 11 seconds. This is really quick for a 160-cc bike. On the 2-km long empty straight road, the RTR managed to show 124 on the speedometer – now that is something 200-cc machines are expected to do!

At a starting price of Rs. 82,535 (ex-showroom Delhi), TVS is not charging a premium for a bike that delivers so much more compared to its rivals. It looks good, rides well and comes packed with features and technology to keep riders satisfied at all times. No wonder then, the 4V remains one of the bikes under Rs. 1 lakh in India.