The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is a standout offering from TVS Motor Company, a renowned Indian two-wheeler manufacturer celebrated for blending performance with practicality. Launched as part of the Apache series, this motorcycle has carved a niche in the highly competitive 160cc segment in India, appealing to riders who seek a balance between daily commuting and spirited weekend rides. With its race-inspired design, cutting-edge technology, and a legacy rooted in TVS’s racing heritage, the Apache RTR 160 4V has become a favorite among young enthusiasts and urban commuters alike. Since its debut, the bike has undergone multiple updates, with the latest iterations incorporating advanced features like ride modes, Bluetooth connectivity, and enhanced suspension systems, making it one of the most feature-rich motorcycles in its class.
The Apache RTR 160 4V is not just about aesthetics; it’s a testament to TVS’s commitment to engineering excellence. Powered by a 159.7cc, 4-valve, oil-cooled engine, it delivers impressive power and refinement, setting it apart from its peers. Whether navigating the chaotic traffic of metro cities or cruising on open highways, this bike promises a versatile riding experience. Its aggressive styling, characterized by sharp lines, a muscular fuel tank, and an LED headlamp, complements its dynamic performance, making it a head-turner on Indian roads. In this detailed product overview, we’ll explore its technical specifications, variants, pricing in metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of its features, alongside a comparison with its closest competitors.
Technical Specifications
Below is a comprehensive table outlining the technical specifications of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, sourced from reputable platforms like BikeDekho and BikeWale, ensuring accuracy as of March 30, 2025.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 159.7cc, Single-Cylinder, 4-Stroke, 4-Valve, Oil-Cooled, Fuel-Injected (BS6) |
| Displacement | 159.7 cc |
| Max Power | 17.55 PS @ 9250 RPM (Sport Mode); 15.64 PS (Urban/Rain Mode) |
| Max Torque | 14.73 Nm @ 7500 RPM (Sport Mode); 14.14 Nm (Urban/Rain Mode) |
| Cooling System | Oil-Cooled with Air Assist |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Fuel Supply | Fuel Injection (Race Tuned Fuel Injection – RT-Fi) |
| Mileage | 45 kmpl (User-Reported Average); 47.61 kmpl (City, Tested); 49.80 kmpl (Highway, Tested) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 Liters |
| Emission Standard | BS6 Phase 2 |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic Forks (USD Forks in Top Variant) |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock |
| Brakes (Front) | 270 mm Disc |
| Brakes (Rear) | 130 mm Drum or 200 mm Disc (Variant-Dependent) |
| ABS | Single-Channel or Dual-Channel (Variant-Dependent) |
| Tyres (Front) | 90/90-17 (Tubeless) |
| Tyres (Rear) | 110/80-17 or 130/70-17 (Radial, Tubeless, Variant-Dependent) |
| Wheel Size | 17 inches (Front and Rear) |
| Kerb Weight | 144 kg – 146 kg (Variant-Dependent) |
| Ground Clearance | 180 mm |
| Seat Height | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1357 mm |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 2035 mm x 790 mm x 1050 mm |
| Battery | 12V, 8Ah MF |
| Headlamp | LED with DRL |
| Taillamp | LED |
| Instrument Cluster | Fully Digital (Bluetooth-Enabled in Higher Variants) |
These specifications reflect the bike’s capability to deliver a robust yet efficient performance, tailored to diverse riding conditions.
Variants
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is available in multiple variants, each catering to different rider preferences and budgets. The table below lists the variants along with their key features, based on the latest updates.
| Variant | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Single Disc ABS – Black Edition | Front Disc, Rear Drum, Single-Channel ABS, Blacked-Out Styling |
| Single Disc ABS | Front Disc, Rear Drum, Single-Channel ABS |
| Dual Disc – ABS | Front and Rear Disc, Single-Channel ABS |
| Dual Disc – ABS – Bluetooth | Front and Rear Disc, Single-Channel ABS, Bluetooth Connectivity, Ride Modes |
| Special Edition | Front and Rear Disc, Single-Channel ABS, Adjustable Levers, Unique Graphics |
| Dual Channel ABS | Front and Rear Disc, Dual-Channel ABS, Wider Rear Tyre |
| Dual Channel ABS – USD Forks | Front and Rear Disc, Dual-Channel ABS, USD Front Forks, Premium Styling |
The range of variants ensures that buyers can choose between affordability and premium features, with the top-end model offering cutting-edge technology like upside-down (USD) forks and dual-channel ABS.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. The table below provides the on-road prices as of March 30, 2025, sourced from BikeWale and BikeDekho.
| Variant | Delhi | Mumbai | Kolkata | Chennai | Bangalore |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Disc ABS – Black Edition | ₹1,48,895 | ₹1,50,173 | ₹1,53,092 | ₹1,52,027 | ₹1,59,476 |
| Single Disc ABS | ₹1,54,950 | ₹1,56,228 | ₹1,59,147 | ₹1,58,082 | ₹1,65,531 |
| Dual Disc – ABS | ₹1,55,059 | ₹1,56,337 | ₹1,59,256 | ₹1,58,191 | ₹1,65,640 |
| Dual Disc – ABS – Bluetooth | ₹1,58,341 | ₹1,59,619 | ₹1,62,538 | ₹1,61,473 | ₹1,68,922 |
| Special Edition | ₹1,59,841 | ₹1,61,119 | ₹1,64,038 | ₹1,62,973 | ₹1,70,422 |
| Dual Channel ABS | ₹1,62,884 | ₹1,64,162 | ₹1,67,081 | ₹1,66,016 | ₹1,73,465 |
| Dual Channel ABS – USD Forks | ₹1,65,216 | ₹1,66,818 | ₹1,66,667 | ₹1,68,600 | ₹1,81,052 |
These prices are indicative and may vary slightly due to dealership offers or additional accessories.
About the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V
Design and Styling
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V embodies a design philosophy that screams aggression and sportiness. Its sharp, angular lines and sculpted fuel tank give it a muscular stance, while the LED headlamp with DRL adds a modern touch. The bike’s aesthetics are inspired by its racing lineage, evident in the aerodynamic tank shrouds and the sleek tail section. Variants like the Special Edition and Dual Channel ABS – USD Forks elevate the visual appeal with unique graphics, red alloy wheels, and gold-finished USD forks, making them stand out in a crowd. The instrument cluster, a fully digital unit, enhances the premium feel, with Bluetooth-enabled versions offering smartphone connectivity for navigation, call alerts, and performance tracking.
The ergonomics strike a fine balance between sporty and comfortable. The slightly forward-leaning riding posture, combined with a well-padded seat (dual-tone in the Special Edition), ensures riders can tackle both short city commutes and longer highway journeys without fatigue. The pillion seat is spacious, and the thoughtfully designed footrests cater to comfort, even for side-saddle passengers. However, some users note that the seat cushioning could be softer for extended rides, a minor critique in an otherwise well-rounded package.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Apache RTR 160 4V lies a 159.7cc, single-cylinder, 4-valve, oil-cooled engine, equipped with TVS’s Race Tuned Fuel Injection (RT-Fi) technology. This BS6-compliant powerplant delivers a peak power of 17.55 PS in Sport mode, making it one of the most powerful engines in its segment. The torque output of 14.73 Nm ensures strong low-end grunt, ideal for city riding, while the engine’s rev-happy nature shines on open roads. The inclusion of three ride modes—Urban, Rain, and Sport—is a segment-first feature, allowing riders to tailor performance and ABS sensitivity to conditions. In Urban and Rain modes, power drops to 15.64 PS and torque to 14.14 Nm, prioritizing control and safety.
The 5-speed gearbox is slick and precise, though some riders report slight stiffness when shifting between first, neutral, and second gears in traffic. Beyond that, the transmission complements the engine’s output, delivering smooth power delivery across the rev range. The bike’s acceleration is brisk, with a 0-60 kmph time that rivals its peers, and it can cruise comfortably at 80-90 kmph on highways. However, vibrations become noticeable above 90 kmph, a trade-off for its high-revving character. Fuel efficiency is another strong suit, with a tested mileage of 47.61 kmpl in the city and 49.80 kmpl on highways, translating to a range of nearly 500 km on a full 12-liter tank.
Ride and Handling
The Apache RTR 160 4V excels in ride quality and handling, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and chassis. The base variants feature telescopic forks up front and a monoshock at the rear, offering a plush ride over urban potholes while maintaining stability at higher speeds. The top-end Dual Channel ABS – USD Forks variant takes this a step further with upside-down forks, enhancing front-end feel and cornering precision. This upgrade is particularly noticeable on twisty roads, where the bike’s razor-sharp handling shines through.
Braking performance varies by variant. The base model’s front disc/rear drum setup with single-channel ABS is adequate for casual riding, while the dual-disc options with dual-channel ABS provide superior stopping power, especially in emergencies. The wider 130/70-17 radial rear tyre in higher variants improves grip, boosting confidence during aggressive maneuvers. With a kerb weight of 144-146 kg and a ground clearance of 180 mm, the bike strikes a sweet+ balance between agility and stability, making it easy to flick through traffic or lean into corners.
Features and Technology
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is packed with features that set it apart in the 160cc segment. The fully digital instrument cluster displays essential data like speed, gear position, fuel gauge, and trip meters, with higher variants adding Bluetooth connectivity via TVS SmartXonnect. This system offers turn-by-turn navigation, call/SMS alerts, lap timers, and crash alerts, appealing to tech-savvy riders. The Glide Through Technology (GTT) is a boon in stop-go traffic, allowing the bike to crawl forward without throttle input, reducing rider fatigue.
Safety is bolstered by single-channel or dual-channel ABS, with the latter offering greater control on slippery surfaces. The LED lighting—headlamp, taillamp, and DRL—ensures excellent visibility, while the adjustable levers (in the Special Edition) add a touch of customization. However, some competitors offer additional features like a gear shift indicator or more advanced connectivity options, areas where the Apache could evolve in future updates.
Close Competitors
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V faces stiff competition in India’s 160cc segment. Here’s how it stacks up against its closest rivals:
- Bajaj Pulsar N160: Priced at around ₹1.22 lakh (ex-showroom), the Pulsar N160 offers a 164.82cc engine producing 15.8 PS and 14.65 Nm, with a mileage of 47 kmpl. It features dual-channel ABS and a projector headlamp but lacks ride modes and USD forks. The Apache edges out with superior power and features, though the Pulsar is slightly cheaper and heavier at 152 kg.
- Hero Xtreme 160R 4V: Starting at ₹1.21 lakh, this bike delivers 16.6 PS from its 163.2cc engine, with a lightweight 144 kg kerb weight. It offers a strong low-end torque but misses out on Bluetooth and ride modes. The Apache’s refinement and tech give it an edge, though the Hero is a tad more affordable.
- Yamaha MT-15: Priced higher at ₹1.68 lakh, the MT-15’s 155cc liquid-cooled engine churns out 18.1 PS, paired with a slipper clutch and single-channel ABS. It’s sportier and more premium but lacks the Apache’s mileage (45 kmpl) and dual-channel ABS option. The TVS offers better value for city-focused riders.
- Suzuki Gixxer: At ₹1.35 lakh, the Gixxer’s 155cc engine produces 13.4 PS, with a focus on refinement and handling. It lacks the Apache’s power, ride modes, and advanced suspension, making the TVS a more versatile choice for performance enthusiasts.
The Apache RTR 160 4V stands out for its blend of power, features, and affordability, though competitors like the MT-15 appeal to those prioritizing premium build quality, and the Pulsar N160 targets budget-conscious buyers.
Final Thoughts!
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is a compelling package in the 160cc segment, offering a potent mix of performance, style, and technology. Its 17.55 PS engine, ride modes, and USD fork option in the top variant make it a leader in its class, while its competitive pricing (starting at ₹1.25 lakh ex-showroom) ensures broad appeal. Whether you’re a college student zipping through city streets or a weekend warrior exploring highways, this bike delivers. While it could improve in areas like seat comfort and high-speed refinement, its strengths far outweigh its minor flaws. Against rivals, it holds its own with a unique combination of power and practicality, cementing its status as one of India’s best sporty commuters.
