TVS Apache RR 310 First Ride Review

Performance – The Apache RR 310 uses a 312cc, single-cylinder liquid-cooled reverse-inclined motor with fuel-injection technology. This powerplant is borrowed from the BMW G310R and produces 33.5 HP of power at 9700 RPM and 27.3 Nm of torque at a rather high 7700 RPM in the Apache. The engine comes mated to a 6-speed gearbox but there is no slipper clutch or Ride-by-Wire. 0-100 km/hr comes up in a claimed 7.17 seconds with a top speed of 160 km/hr. Turn on the motorcycle and you realise the motor doesn’t sound that great like other Apaches. At idle, it sounds rough with more treble than bass and as you build the revvs, it only gets loud.

The Apache RR 310 has quite a lot of vibes once you get past 6000 RPM

Out on the track, we found the engine to be very refined lower down with a good low-end punch, in fact, so good is the initial pep from the powertrain that being a little enthusiastic with the throttle could make you point to the sky. This also means we were able to ride one gear higher on the track through corners, without feeling the need to downshift, the powerplant not showing any signs of knocking or uneasiness. The power delivery is linear, there isn’t a kick in the pants feel like seen on its primary rival while the mid-range is the strong suit of this motor.

Being an Apache, you would expect vibrations and you get them but only post 6000 RPM when they start to creep in through the footpegs, handlebar, a bit from the mirror ends (only the display bike had mirrors), seat and mostly through the panels like the fairing. The vibes on our test bike were extreme but we will reserve complete judgement till we ride the motorcycle on the street with hopefully first service done. The motor redlines between 10,600 – 11,000 RPM (it jumps between these RPMs) and the prominent shift light reminds you it’s time to upshift. The gearbox offers really smooth shifts, absolutely no mis-shifts or false neutrals and TVS/BMW (whoever is responsible for it), deserves a special applause for the crips gearshifts. The clutch on the Apache RR 310 feels light but the levers aren’t adjustable.

Riding Dynamics – The full faired Apache is underpinned by an all-new, race-origin, light-weight trellis frame that offers dynamic cornering capabilities and sharp handling. Thanks to the inverted engine configuration, TVS has been able to give the bike a long swingarm while keeping the wheelbase short, this helps in improved stability around corners. The handling is nothing short of engaging, the motorcycle is easy to ride even for a newbie rider and tips into corners with ease. It maintains its line very well, remaining stable at high speeds and the windscreen does a good job of deflecting wind too, clearly highlighting TVS’ wind tunnel testing was done phenomenally well.

The Apache RR 310 is wind tunnel tested and the aeros show at high speeds

The Apache RR 310 uses KYB up-side down front forks and a KYB monoshock at the rear, the suspension is on the soft side which did a decent job on the track while it will work splendidly on the road. Shod with Michelin Street Sport tyres, the Apache RR 310 is the first sub-500cc motorcycle to use these and while the grip levels are good, they lack in feedback. Using petal discs and dual-channel ABS, the brakes on the Apache 310 are just splendid with superb initial bite. The ABS isn’t intrusive but it can’t be turned off for all you stoppie loving folks.