TVS Apache RTR 160 4V

TVS Apache RTR 160 4V has been around for a while now, but with each update, it keeps getting better and more exciting. We recently spent a few days riding the 2024 version in and around the city, some light highway stints, and even took it through a patchy road. And honestly? It left a smile on our faces more often than not.

TVS hasn’t gone all out with dramatic changes this time, but it has fine-tuned the right things. Let’s know if these updates really make the RTR 160 4V worth it. 

• The Apache still looks sharp and muscular. The tank has a nice sculpted shape that feels great when you’re holding onto it.
• The full LED headlamp gives it a modern look, and it does a decent job of lighting up dark roads.

• New colour options add a fresh vibe. Personally, we loved the Granite Grey. It pops but still feels mature.
• The bike got a sporty tail section with a step-up seat that looks sleek from behind.

• The side profile has those edgy graphics that hint at the bike’s performance nature.
• The plastics and switchgear feel sturdy. Nothing feels cheap or flimsy.
• While riding through broken city roads and a few speed breakers, there were no odd rattles or squeaks.
• The side stand still makes the bike lean a bit too much, which isn’t the best when parked on sloped roads.

• The bike comes with a 159.7cc engine that gives 12.91 kW of power and 14.73 Nm of torque.

• Twist the throttle and the bike responds quickly. The engine feels alive and eager.
• You can easily ride in city traffic in 2nd or 3rd gear without much effort, due to TVS’ GTT feature.
• The engine pulls nicely even at lower revs, which means you’re not constantly downshifting in slow traffic.
• On open roads, it builds speed smoothly and holds steady around 90-100 kmph without buzzing too much.
• Even while pushing near the red line, the bike feels composed, which is not common in this segment.
• The new exhaust note is a little deeper now. It adds a bit more character when you rev it.

• The gear shifts are clean and slot in without any fuss, even in bumper-to-bumper traffic.
• The clutch is super light, so much so that we barely felt it even after a full day of city riding.

• TVS claims 45 kmpl, and we got around 43 kmpl in mixed conditions (city and highway). You can get a range of around 500 km with a 12-litre tank.

• The upright riding posture with a flat handlebar feels perfect for city use. No wrist strain even after long traffic crawls.
• The seat is well-cushioned and wide enough. You won’t be rushing for a break every hour.

• The rear-set footpegs do give it a sporty touch, but they might feel a little high if you're used to a pure commuter bike.

• Pillion comfort is pretty decent for short rides. There's enough room, and the grabrails are positioned well.

• The TVS bike feels super light and easy to handle, especially when you're zipping through narrow streets or squeezing through traffic jams.
• The frame gives a good mix of quick handling and stability. The bike feels stable and planted, even when you're cornering or cruising at 100 kmph.
• We took it out for a weekend spin through some twisty roads, and it leaned into the corners with total confidence. 
• The suspension is a bit on the firmer side so you might feel sharper bumps, especially at the back. However, it’s never too shaky or uncomfortable.

• Tyre grip is decent too. We even rode through a wet patch on the road and didn’t feel nervous.

• The dual-disc setup on the version we rode had strong braking power, and the front brake especially felt sharp and effective.
• The brake feel is nice and gradual. It doesn’t grab too hard but gives you enough stopping power when you really need to slow down quickly.

• The digital instrument cluster is easy to read, even under the sun.

• You get basic info like speed, rpm, fuel, and some cool extras like 0-60 timer and top speed recorded.

• Moreover, riding modes on the top-end variant are a nice addition. The sport mode definitely sharpens up the throttle.
• The hazard light switch is a small but useful touch.
• Bluetooth is available in select variants for turn-by-turn navigation. This feature is handy if you don’t want to keep looking at your phone.

The RTR 160 4V has the right combination of style, features, performance, and ease of use. It’s got enough power to make your rides easy. TVS could improve a few small things, such as the DRL design. But honestly, those are minor issues. The bike feels well-made and easy to live with. Whether you’re a student, going to work, or just riding for entertainment, it works for everyone.