TVS Apache RTR 160

The TVS Apache RTR 160 2V has been one of the core motorcycles in the 150–160 cc commuter performance segment for years. The latest version brings in a new LED headlight and taillight, a fully digital instrument cluster borrowed from the RTR 160 4V. At its heart is a 159.7 cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine paired with a five-speed gearbox.  The RTR 160 2V feels agile and easy to flick through traffic and is engaging to drive in the city, though the ride quality is not on par with some rivals.

Priced from Rs. 1,12,190 up to Rs. 1,34,320 (ex-showroom), it competes with motorcycles like the Bajaj Pulsar NS160, Hero Xtreme 160R, and Yamaha FZ-S FI. For around Rs. 4,000 more, the RTR 160 4V becomes a strong alternative. As seen by Kingshuk Dutta, and from our wider evaluation, the Apache RTR 160 2V continues to offer a good mix of performance, features, and everyday usability, but buyers today do have sharper options at similar prices.

Engine & Transmission

The RTR 160 feels smooth past 3,000 rpm and pulls well through the midrange. Push harder, though, and you will notice the powerband feels a bit narrow with vibrations becoming noticeable after 80 kmph.

City Riding Experience

In city conditions, we found the RTR 160 2V easy to drive. The 159.7 cc air-cooled engine feels comfortable above 3,000 rpm, and with Glide Through Technology, we were able to crawl through traffic in higher gears with no protesting from the bike. Throttle response is clean once you cross 4,000 rpm, and the midrange feels strong up to about 60 kmph. The bike has an agile and flickable feel; however, we did notice a bit of a mechanical feel from the engine, compared to newer 4 valve rivals.

Highway Riding Experience

On the highway, we tested the RTR 160 2V, cruising steadily at 70–80 kmph in a steady cruising position, which seems to be its sweet spot. At 80 kmph, the engine is not overstressed, as it lies comfortably around 6,000 rpm. Need to overtake? Rolling on the throttle past 4,000 rpm produces a clean surge of power to 9,000 before it tapers off. But beyond 80 kmph, vibrations start creeping in through the foot pegs and handlebars.

Proportions & Stance

The TVS Apache RTR 160 2V clings to a sharp, functional design that is appropriate for daily commuting. Its small dimensions and somewhat thin tyres give it an agile feeling in city traffic without lacking sufficient width on its rear to provide a stable grip. The position is still sporty, in between the slimmer commuter setups and the wider, more muscular tyres of some of its rivals in the 160 cc segment:

Build Quality & Materials

With TVS meeting the quality parameters set by BMW, the build has a solid feel. The paint finish is clean, panel gaps are uniform, and the switchgear is sturdy. We checked the tank shrouds, engine cowl and tail section and nothing was loose or poorly assembled. The new LED headlight and taillight, together with the red alloy wheels and subtle red seat stitching, also contribute to the sporty feel. Overall, it is well built for what it costs, and there are no flimsy parts that stand out.

As Kingshuk Dutta points out, 

“This is the first full-fledged revamp the Apache RTR 160 2V has received.”

TVS Apache RTR 160 Colours

TVS offers the Apache RTR 160 in seven colours apart from an Anniversary Special Edition. Here are the shades that are available and what makes one stand out from the others:

Matt Black
Subtle finish with a stealthy appeal

Pearl White
Clean and bright with strong road presence

Glossy Black
Deep finish that highlights the body lines

Racing Red
Sporty look with red alloy wheels

Matte Blue
Understated but modern appearance

T-Grey
Neutral tone with a balanced visual appeal

We found that Pearl White and Gloss Black have a stand-out look that is not flashy. Racing Red is the most aggressive because of the red wheels, while the matte shades are for riders who want a low-key finish.

The bike is most enjoyable in Sport mode, offering responsive throttle input and a strong mid-range. However, the engine shows its age with vibrations creeping in after 80 km/h, which is common among air-cooled engines. It is not the most refined motor in its class, but the mid-range performance remains impressive​.

Lighting & Front Identity

The latest update has given the TVS Apache RTR 160 a new LED headlight and LED tail lamp. The DRL's and tinted flyscreen give it a sharper look and the small tricolour detail on the headlamp cowl is subtle but neatly done. The handlebar is rather flat, and the overall stance is fairly sporty without going over the top.

Side Profile & Rear Section

From the side, the red six-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels are the first thing one notices, while the sleek engine cowl, blacked-out mechanicals, and short rear fender give the RTR 160 a sharp finish. The new LED tail lamp design brings some freshness to an otherwise familiar tail section. The 12-litre fuel tank with scoops provides some muscle to the top half of the bike. The RTR 160 does not look radical, but for the price point, we found it handsome and well-proportioned.

Notable exterior details we observed are:

• The red alloy wheels add a sporty look without looking excessive.
• Paint quality and the feel of the panel and fitments feel solid with good switchgear feedback.
• The 110/80 front and 120/70 rear tyre combination gives it a balanced stance.

Practical Integration

The 790mm seat height makes the Apache RTR 160 friendly to most riders, and we found it easy to flat-foot. In terms of safety hardware, dual-channel ABS is available on the top variant, which is rare in this segment. The bike is also compliant with the latest emission norms with OBD-2B. While the overall list of features is not excessive, we found that the essentials are well covered for daily city life.