Introduction

The upgraded two-valve line-up of the RTR introduces fresh features, revised styling, minor weight reduction, and more power. TVS Motor Company has launched an updated version of the Apache RTR 180 and the Apache RTR 160. Both the RTR models have undergone minor weight reductions, a marginal improvement in their power figures and enhanced power-to-weight ratios. TVS decided to launch these faster Apache variants to overpower the ever-growing family of Bajaj Pulsar. The introduction of the new Yamaha YZF-R15 triggered the need for introducing something like the Apache RTR 180. It comes with the contemporary race track qualities for enhancing your riding experience. 

How is the design? 

The styling and design of the new Apache RTR 180 is undoubtedly inspired from the previous models in the RTR line-up. Besides some minor visual decals, one can barely make out the Apache RTR 180 from its older sibling, the RTR 160. The fuel tank proudly flaunts the RTR logo in huge texts which is apparently the only give away. The transparent and sporty mudflap at its rear is a classy touch. It can however be replaced by a customisable full mudflap during the rainy seasons. The angle of the clip-on handlebar can be adjusted by four degrees for complying with the riding style. The honed edges and curves of the fuel tank adds to the overall sharpness of the bike. The graphics on the body and the mud pad contribute to the sporty appearance of the bike. The suspension has a bronze finish to give a sense of premium-ness. 

How is the performance?

The new TVS Apache RTR 180 carries the same old engine that propels the former motorcycles in the Apache line-up. The single-cylinder, air-cooled engine has a capacity of obtaining 17 bhp of maximum power at 9000 rpm and a peak torque of 15.5 Nm at 7000 rpm. However, the stroke in the 180 has increased by 5mm and the bore by 0.5mm to generate a displacement of 177.4cc. The transition of the bore to stroke ratio 1.17 significantly perked up the ride capacity of the bike in daily road conditions. The crankshaft inactivity has also been reduced following the weight cut by 25% and this makes its engine rev faster than before. The 5-speed gearbox has been retained from the older Apache RTR models. Unfortunately, the FI version is lacking in this variant. This bike can pick up a maximum speed of 125 kmph. 

How does the TVS Apache RTR 180 ride? 

Soon as you kick-start this bike, you will immediately recognize the familiar brawl from its engine, while the throttle remains open, and the pickup is fast. TVS has claimed that the Apache RTR 180 can pick up from 0 to 60 kmph in only 4.5 kg. The RTR 180 has a better pace than the RTR 160 which seems slower in comparison. The bigger engine feels satisfactory and the bike needed to slow down on corners and for the curves. The new RTR 180 has an apparent self-control which shrouds the typical nervousness concerning the RTRs while keeping up with the flick ability. The swingarm is extended by 30mmfor developing steadiness and the big tyres keep the bike stable on the ground. There is still some room for improving the braking controls that come in the form of a petal disc in the front and a standard disc at the rear. 

How comfortable is the TVS Apache RTR 180? 

The new Apache RTR 180 offers high-end comfort and superb handling. This is a great bike for city traffic and you can take it out on long hauls too. The riding posture on the seat is non aggressive and you can ride for several hours without getting a back pain. The seat is wide and plush and gives enough support to the thigh. However, the pillion space is too small for a full-grown person to seat comfortably through the ride. 

How's the tech? 

The Apache RTR 180 comes with advanced technology which adds to the premium feel of the bike. Some of the technological specifications are listed below. 

• The braking duty is performed by a petal disc in the front and a standard disc at the rear. The braking control is supported with a dual-channel ABS. 
• The instrument cluster is a combination of analogue and digital functionality. While the tachometer is analogue, the trip metre and the speedometer are digital. It also displays a clock.
• This bike has a sculpted digital display. 
• There are indicators for low battery and fuel warning.
• There is a pass light and a fuel gauge. 

How's the mileage of the TVS Apache RTR 180? 

The claimed mileage of the TVS Apache RTR 180 is 47 kmpl. In city traffic, however, it can achieve a maximum of 41 to 42 kmph. 

Is the TVS Apache RTR 180 good value for money? 

The TVS Apache RTR 180 does not come close to the dynamic YZF-R15 from Yamaha in terms of performance even with 17.3 bhp and 137 kg kerb weight. This model remains preferable to the RTR fans who are looking forward to something faster, smoother and better from the same family. 

How is the after sales service? 

The after sales services and the cost of maintenance is pretty affordable when it comes to TVS motorbikes. The Apache RTR 180 gets the first five services at free of cost. The 1st service is scheduled after 1 month of purchase or 500 km of ride, the 2nd after 3 months of purchase or 2500 km of ride, the 3rd one after 6 months of purchase or after 5000 km of ride, the 4th one after 9 months of purchase or after 8500 km of ride, and the 5th one after 12 months of purchase or after 11500 km of ride. 

Which motorbikes compete in this segment? 

There are many other bikes of the same class that compete with Apache RTR 180 and some of these are TVS Raider, TVS Ronin, Bajaj Pulsar 150, Royal Enfield Classic 350, hero Shine, Hero Splendor Plus, KTM Duke, Yamaha R15 V4 and Yamaha YZF-R15. 

Verdict (Value for money)

There are better bikes that you can purchase at this price in terms of endurance and quality. However, if you want to stick with the RTR line-up then you can go for this bike.