TVS Apache RTR 180
Maxabout Review
Racing DNA Unleashed!!
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Overview Of Apache RTR 180
TVS Motors has come up with another variant of Apache - The RTR 180. Apache RTR has been very well recieved by bike enthusiasts and the new RTR 180 is going to take a step further with more powerful engine and some interesting additions in design. The bike retains the basic lines of the current RTR & comes with all the high tech features: digital speedometer with top speed, 0-60 timer, trips, and other extra functionality plus stunning looks. Apache RTR looks best in its class and has been priced very competitively in comparison to other bikes in its segment.
Engine & Performance Figures Of Apache RTR 180
The Apache RTR 180 is powered by a 177.4cc engine which generates 17 Bhp of maximum power with 15.5 Nm of maximum torque. The new 177.4cc mill is a bored out variation of the 160cc mill, and has a longer stroke too. The new engine still remains an oversquare unit, but not so much so as the 160. Power is up by 1.3 Bhp to 17 Bhp and the new engine produces 2.4 more units of twisting force at 15.5Nm. The peak power is produced at 8500 rpm, similar to RTR 160, though the peak torque is now produced at 6500 revs.
The aerodynamic air scoops add to the design plus it ensure Air is directed towards the engine unit to help better cooling efficiency. TVS claims the new apache RTR 180 to reach 60kmph from standstill in 4.15 seconds and top speed as 125kph. Here is a comparison of Apache RTR 180 with Yamaha R15, Karizma ZMR & Bajaj Pulsar 220. Though the class of Apache RTR 180 is a segment lower than the other three bike in terms of engine capacity but Apache 180 generates 17.3 Bhp of maximum power which is in the league of the other three bikes.
Apache RTR 180 vs. Bajaj Pulsar 220 vs. Karizma ZMR vs. Yamaha R15
| Data |
New Karizma ZMR |
Bajaj Pulsar 220 |
Yamaha R15 |
Apache 180 |
| Engine |
4 Stroke |
4 Stroke |
4 Stroke |
4 Stroke |
| Displacement |
223cc |
220cc |
149.8cc |
177.4cc |
| Max Power |
17.6 Bhp-7000 rpm |
21 Bhp-8500 rpm |
17 Bhp-8500 rpm |
17.3 Bhp-8500 rpm |
| Max Torque |
18.5 Nm-6000 rpm |
19 Nm-7000 rpm |
15 Nm-7500 rpm |
15.5 Nm-6500 rpm |
| Gears |
5 Speed |
5 Speed |
6 Speed |
5 Speed |
| Cooling Type |
Liquid Cooled |
Air Cooled |
Liquid Cooled |
Air Cooled |
| Top Speed |
126 kmph |
144 kmph |
135 kmph |
125 kmph |
| 0-60 kmph |
3.70 secs |
NA |
3.20 secs |
4.35 secs |
| Brakes |
Discs |
Discs |
Discs |
Discs |
| Price |
91000.00 |
71000.00 |
97000.00 |
64000.00 |
Looks & Styling Of Apache RTR 180
The TVS Apache 180 adorns a new graphic scheme to distinguish itself from its smaller siblings, with RTR emblazoned boldly on the tank scoops. The front forks and the gas reservoirs for the rear shocks are now painted in a new golden shade and the clip-ons have a new RTR 180 emblem at the centre. Stylish alloys, unique grab rails, classy silencer, larger & sharp lined fuel tank, all these elements combine perfectly to give Apache RTR 180 a sporty eye-catching looks. Apart from the New White tachometer the rest of the instrument cluster is same like the RTR 160 with Digital blue backlit Speedometer. The rear is also same with LED tail lamps, re-styled silencer and CBZ X-treme type split grab rail.
Ride & Handling Of Apache RTR 180
New Apache RTR 180's wheelbase is longer than the old Apache RTR 160 by a good 400mm, making it substantially more stable and confidence inspiring than its earlier iteration when leaned over. RTR 180 feels more stable and planted both in straight line as well as around bends. The engine fairing design shows the amount of detailing gone into its development plus add into aerodynamic design.
It employs a forged brake lever and gear lever set which delivers great looks and also lighter in construction. It also comes with removable rear fender - a first in its class. The riding posture on the RTR 180 is forward set up one which brings a huge difference in ride quality. A pillion rider will also feel more comfortable sitting on a RTR because of its forward set foot pegs and elegantly designed unique grab rails. RTR's specially developed race crouch mirrors provide better angle and safety besides looking great too.
Main Features Of TVS Apache RTR 180 :
- Digital Speedometer which looks very cool especially at night.
- Petal shaped disc brakes which not looks good but also helps in better braking.
- Bigger RTR sticker on the tank scoops - the main sign to know that this is a RTR 180.
- Naked chain cover which gives it a true racing bike touch.
- LED tail lamps - looks good but TVS should have changed it - the same one is featured in Apache 160's.
- Clip on handlebar for various positions.
- Service and battery indicator.
- The digital display has a feature to test the top speed achieved.
- You can also test your 0-60km/h timing on the digital display.
- RTR 180 logo near the clip-on’s
- A wider rear tyre
- New white back light for the speedometer
Price & Shades Of Apache RTR 180
TVS has priced the new Apache RTR 180 competitively at Rs 63,900 (ex-showroom Delhi) and Rs 64,900 (ex-showroom, rest of India). Apache RTR 180 is available in four shades - Yellow, Black, Gray & Pearl White.