TVS Motors, the Hosur based bike company that has made waves in the sport biking culture of India with its model, the Apache RTR is now all set to launch the same model but with full fairings! The Apache RTR offered in India is offered in the 160 and the 180 cubic displacement variants. The TVS Apache RTR 160 is a tough competitor to the very popular Yamaha R15 and the Bajaj Pulsar 150. A new version of the 160 is due to be launched in India and expectations have been riding very high on this face-lift. It is expected to be showcased at the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo to be held in January.

However, the expensive spares, vibrating mudguard, uncomfortable seats etc makes the bike not fairing very good at the reliability and build quality factor. Hopefully, TVS should resolve these glitches when they come out with the revised model. The TVS Apache with full fairings was showcased recently in Indonesia. The bike is definitely a looker and looks at first glance looks no less than a proper sports bike. The long headlights, full fairings and the thick tires make the bike look quite masculine too. The bike is definitely make waves in the Indian market once launched. We are eagerly waiting for this latest mean machine to come to India. Will this bike take the bike market by storm? What is your opinion?

TVS Motor Company’s flagship models, the Apache RTR is all set to get a makeover. The Apache RTR bikes have been really popular with the Indian bike enthusiasts, especially the sports bikers because of its racing DNA and affordable price. The Apache RTR 160 and the 180 are one of the best engineered Indian make bikes available today in the market. Both the bikes have good power and torque figures and handle superbly at the corners. The RTR 180 is also one of the very few select bikes in the entire Indian motorcycling history to offer brakes with ABS in that segment.

The Apache RTR 160 and 180 have undoubtedly been one of the best bikes from TVS and now they are all set to get a fresh makeover. The ‘face-lift’ is going to include more contemporary and revised styling, increase in its handling capability and riding comfort and may also have some performance revision yet retaining the value-for-money pricing. However, we are not expecting any significant changes to be made to the engine displacement. The RTR 160 is powered by a 159 cc motor that produces 15.7 PS of power @ 8500 RPM and 13.1 Nm of torque @ 6000 RPM while the RTR 180 is currently powered by a 177 cc motor that produces 17.03 PS @ 8500 RPM and 15.5 Nm @ 6500 RPM. The new RTR bikes are due to hit the showrooms soon in a few weeks from now.

Source – Autocar India

TVS had recently launched the Apache RTR 180 ABS. The ABS version of the Apache is priced at a premium of Rs. 12,000/- over the regular Apache 180 and has very few features which distinguish both the models. The TVS Apache 180 ABS has anti-lock brakes, which makes the braking extremely surefooted and safe. The ABS in the TVS Apache prevents lock up, thus proving steering control even during heavy braking. The Apache ABS is priced at Rs. 88,000/- (on-road, Pune) and is available across all TVS showrooms in the country.

The TVS Apache 180 RTR ABS is powered by a 177.4 cc, single cylinder, 4-stroke engine which produces 17.3 BHP of power at 8500 RPM and 15.5 Nm of torque at 6500 RPM. Mated to a 5-speed gearbox, the Apache 180 does 0-60 kmph in 4.15 seconds and has a top speed of 125 kmph. TVS offers the Apache 180 ABS in only white colour with orange graphics. The Apache ABS also features Rear Wheel Lift-off Protection (RLP), which regulates braking during deceleration to prevent lift off. You can switch off ABS via a button on the dash of the Apache 180, if you wish to do some stoppies.

TVS Motors has launched the Apache 180 ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) in India priced at Rs. 78,880/- (ex showroom, Delhi). The flagship Apache is being launched at an introductory price and is priced at a premium of Rs. 9000/- over the regular Apache. If the RTR 180 ABS is successful then TVS will give the RTR 160 ABS as well. Anti-lock Braking System technology is an integration of a HECU (Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit) and Independent Wheel Speed Sensors which help determine when a wheel is likely to get locked. When the brakes are applied hard, the wheel tends to lock. At this point, the HECU takes over instantaneously and modulates the brake pressure continuously to keep the ‘Apache RTR 180 ABS’ in the most effective braking zone while ensuring precise maneuvers.

In simple words, sensors on the front and rear wheels independently monitor the speed of rotation at all times and can sense the risk of wheel lock whenever the brakes are applied. If the sensors communicate an impending wheel lock, the HECU modulates the braking pressure and prevents it, therefore reducing the risk of the rider losing control of his Apache. When the ignition is turned ‘ON’, the Apache RTR 180 ABS does an automatic self-check, which is indicated by the blinking of an LED on the console and the speed sensors monitor the wheel speed and send signals continuously to the HECU.

“With this new, compact motorcycle Antilock Braking System (ABS), which has been developed by Continental’s Chassis and Safety Division in collaboration with TVS Motor Company, we have further strengthened our presence as a strong international supplier in the Indian automotive industry. ABS for motorcycles emphasizes our philosophy of ‘Intelligent mobility and safety for everyone’. It is a vital and decisive step on the road towards “Vision Zero,” when safety is evolved to such a level that there are no more serious accidents on the road. In view of globally available technologies, safety is non-negotiable. It is gratifying for Continental that we have associated with an Indian manufacturer to give India her first motorcycle with ABS technology,” Mr. Murali Srinivasan, General Manager (Chassis and Safety Division), Continental said.

The Apache RTR ABS, is also equipped with RLP (Rear Wheel Lift-off Protection) system which regulates deceleration when the bike is likely to lift off during emergency braking situations and takes over control, with no loss of stopping distance. With the RLP system continuously monitoring and controlling the braking, the bike gives the best stopping performance. The bike comes with an ‘ABS-Off’ switch, which disables the ABS technology, enabling the rider to showcase his capabilities on the Apache RTR, in controlled conditions. In an effort to enhance the ‘thrill of biking’ in the TVS Apache RTR 180, the company has fitted the bike with an all-new 3 phase Full DC lighting system and an efficient energy management system. The Apache RTR 180 ABS comes in the spectacular white color with differentiating orange decals and is immediately available at select TVS dealerships across the country.

We recently reported about the TVS Apache RTR 180 ABS being very close to launch, after we read facebook updates by TVS talking about the ABS System. Well, the Apache ABS is indeed very close to launch as the company has started inviting the media to test the upcoming variant of the Apache in Chennai. The Apache 180 ABS is similar to the non-ABS variant, other than the fact that it features ABS and DC electricals. Due to ABS, the Apache 180 has proximity sensors on both front and rear wheels to trigger the system. It also has a button on the dash to toggle the ABS system on/off and the instrumentation has a light which tells the rider about the status of the ABS system. Checkout the video below to see how the ABS system on the Apache 180 works.

Edit 19/02/2011 – Another review added

The TVS Apache model with ABS has been long time coming and the latest updates by TVS on its Apache fan page on facebook suggests the Apache ABS is just around the corner. TVS Motors has started talking about ABS on it fan page. The company has asked its fans on facebook to be patient and asked them about experiences where they wished they had ABS. TVS would like to educate the masses about how ABS actually helps before launching the Apache ABS.

“Hi Guys, We know you are eagerly awaiting the launch of Apache with ABS. Through this week, we will talk about ABS Technology, how it helps. And about the bike, dont ask us anything right now!!! We’ll make sure you guys are the first to know about the launch, the works…everything,” TVS Motors wrote on facebook.

Just recently Honda has announced the CBR250R with ABS, which would be the first bike in India to sport ABS. However sources close to TVS Motors have confirmed about the company’s plans to launch the Apache 180 with ABS. Enthusiasts might recollect the Apache 180 ABS from the 2010 Auto Expo where it was displayed for the first time. Expect the TVS Apache 180 ABS to cost Rs. 8000/- more than the non-ABS bike.

My name is Venkatesh and it has been about 6 years I started asking for a bike. If I remember correctly the first model of Apache was launched during 2005 or 2006. My friend was the first to book it. It started everything. As the famous quote goes “owner’s pride, neighbor’s envy”. In this case friend’s envy. So from that day I wanted a bike. Loved every bike. Asked for all the bikes that were being released in the market. Apache, Victor GLX, all models of Pulsar, Centra, Unicorn, Shine, etc.

This thing continued for hard 5 years. Fast forward 5 years. Now I own one. Sweet. In the past I never had any idea about bikes. All I knew is, start and ride. No idea about the power, displacement, torque figures, etc. Once I got my internet connection it changed everything. Also the hunt for bikes begun. Started with Pulsar 180, Unicorn, Apache, Pulsar 200, 220, Karizma R. The buying process took so long that Pulsar 200 was out of production. But even this second, the bike I love the most is Pulsar 200.

Then the search for a second hand Pulsar 200 started. The bikes I saw were full of scratches and also the asking amount was too high. I am a kind of guy who doesn’t want a second hand one that has more than 15k on the odometer. So with a heavy heart, P200 went out of my list. ZMA didn’t suit my physique well. And I felt Unicorn is too simple and boring. Then the bikes in the list were Pulsar 180, 220 and Apache. So as everyone would think 220 was at the top. Nope I still like 180. Yes. Now again a delay gave the UG4 model Pulsars. 220 became 220F. Apache got another model RTR 180. Then came the Dazzler. Forgot to say, R15 was in my mind at one corner.

Honda Dazzler – Actually liked the looks of it. Asked the dealer if they can deliver one for me in the first lot he gets. Yes I looked into Dazzler before it was released in Chennai. Did nothing. Just asked Motorbeam how was the bike as they had attended the Mumbai launch recently. Their reply was a thumbs up. Eyes closed. Was ready to book. Went to the showroom with cash in hand. Two things made me not to select the bike.

1. Long waiting period. I was afraid that if dad would change the mind again and cancel the booking.
2. JSP Honda’s attitude. The sales team didn’t mind to turn towards us after contacting the receptionist too. When we inquired about it, their reply was “WAIT”. Dad got angry and said “We don’t need that bike even if they are going to give one for free.” After reaching home, on asking more about the matter as I knew the bike was good, he said, “If the sales is like this, think of after sales”. Those words made me think. End of story. Dazzler ruled out.

Yamaha R15 – Yamaha’s costly maintenance and also price put me away. I didn’t feel like giving 1.07 lakhs for that bike although I love it.

Pulsar 220 and 180 - Dad never liked pulsars. Still I don’t know why. To add pain, our family friend who is a doctor said “the bike that undergoes most of the accidents is Pulsar.” Finish. No arguments. Case closed. I don’t know how true it is, but I tried telling that it all depends on the rider. Dad never heard. So gone. Still I envy guys having Pulsar 200 and 220.

Apache - My whole family liked its looks. I just loved its performance figures (also looks). Tried RTR 180. But I felt 180’s ride was harder compared to 160. Don’t know why. Was happy with 160. Booked on the same day. Did a PDI next morning, paid the cash, hurray next day delivery. Beauty was I got a 3 digit number too. Pretty fancy, huh.

Apache 160 Ownership – Nothing much to say. Was very hard to control myself during the break-in period. Did give some hard twists for few seconds. The only troubling thing is the vibration after 4500Rpm. But on varying speeds you don’t see it. RTR is a piece of engineering. Insane torque makes wheelies while shifting from 1st to 2nd gear at right Rpm. I am in complete love with this bike. Drool maal. Only thing is that wish TVS gave white color in 160 too.

Positives : -

• Power
• Torque
• Elegant design

Negatives : -

• Old design
• After sales
• No white color
• Rust in the rod connecting the gear lever to the gear box (Got it replaced from TVS for free. They are replacing it only if you ask for the same. No callback has been made)
• The clutch lever’s metal is giving away. Getting black marks in my left hand after riding in heavy traffic (any of you faced similar issues?)
• Useless lights

TVS Motors displayed the Apache Velocity Concept at the Kakarta Motorcycle Show. As can be seen, the Apache Velocity is a modified version of the Apache 160 featuring a few add-ons which make it look extremely pleasing, aesthetically. The Velocity Concept features a more roundier tank, wider handle bar, bigger petal discs front and rear, extended silencer with dual outlets, monoshock, upside down forks and wider tyres.

TVS Apache Velocity 160 Specifications : -

Head Lamp: TVS Neo X3i
Cover Head Lamp Visior: Custom
Master Brakes: Kitaco
Tires Front: Bridgestone Battlax 120/70-17
Rear Tires: Bridgestone Battlax 150/60-17
Front wheels: After Market 3:00 inch
Rear wheels: After Market 4:00 inch
Front Shock: Up Side Down (Mito)
Rear Shock: YSS
Front disc / Rear: After Market
Swing Arm: Custom
Body Work: Cutom Fiberglass
Tank: TVS Apache RTR 160 DD
Muffler: Custom
STEEP Foot Forward: Yoshimura
Brake Lights, Sein & Rear Rear Rear: DRC edge 2
Speedo Meter: TVS Apache RTR 160 DD

TVS has quietly launched a new version of the Apache RTR, called the Hyper Edge. The bike remains largely unchanged and retains the same specifications and features as the Apache RTR 160. TVS has added Hyper Edge stickers on the fuel tank, front fender, exhaust and front. The bike now features a removable rear fender, just like the Apache RTR 180. The good news is, the company has not hiked the prices of the bike.

TVS Apache RTR 160 Hyper Edge Features : -

• Aerodynamic Airscoops (Hyper Edge Sticker)
• Engine Fairing (RTR Sticker)
• Split Grab Rails
• Racing Foot Pegs
• Racing GT Stripe
• Forged Brake Lever
• New Silencer