TVS Apache RTR 200 4V

Expert Review by Maxabout

TVS has officially unveiled the Apache RTR 200 (based on Draken concept) in India. It is powered by an air-cooled engine with an oil-cooler, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. There are 2 engine options: Carbureted and Fuel Injected. The carbureted version generates 20.23 BHP power with 18.1 NM torque. The fuel injected model develops 20.73 BHP power with 18.1 NM of torque. For now, Apache 200 is available in only one model: the base carbureted one without Fi and ABS.

The Standard/Base model of Apache 200 is equipped with non-Fi engine, without ABS and with TVS tyres, is priced at Rs. 88,990 (ex-showroom Delhi). The EFi model equipped with a fuel-injected engine and Pirellli tyres, is expected to be priced at Rs. 1.08 lakhs. The top-spec model with a fuel-injected engine, Pirelli tyres, and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), is expected to be priced at Rs. 1.15 lakhs. All prices are ex-showroom Delhi.

Design and Style

TVS Apache, the performance nameplate comes with a new addition to its ever evolving RTR family. Maintaining the flow with the current design language, the Apache RTR 200 4V comes with a naked street fighter design and presents a whole new generation of motorcycles from TVS. The overall profile of the bike has been kept the same as the older Apache variants, matching their side profile but it is now more aggressive and appealing. It seems as if TVS has picked the older Apache and mixed few of the parts with the Draken concept in order to come up with the new offering. Well, this is a good news for the Draken fans as viewing a white RTR 200 4V seems as if you are looking at the favorite concept from the company. The changes on the visual part of the Apache RTR 200 4V are considerably visible.

Starting with its front view, the new Apache has lost the small windscreen and got itself a more aggressive pair of DRLs than the last generation's beast eye DRLs. The edgy lights are exactly what a naked bike needs, further boosting its overall angry stance. The front suspension has been painted Golden and all-new double barrel exhaust muffler is painted in Black. The other attraction is its differently designed, Draken inspired 10-spoke alloy wheels and the extended tank cowls. These 2 features would pull all the Draken fans into the Apache team and provide a real life version for their dream concept (Draken X-21). Coming to its side profile, the Apache RTR 200 4V comes with a step up seat and a new exhaust system, meeting emission standards of the future via a 2-stage catalytic converter. The overall looks are great and good pricing has made it a good value for money motorcycle.

Instrument Console

A fully digital, pentagonal shaped instrument console has been fitted to the new Apache RTR 200 4V. The console starts exactly where the cover for the headlight ends, providing no fairing for the instrument screen. The display is good for a speedometer, trip-meter, tachometer, odometer, current gear display, clock, fuel gauge and lap timing. Below the screen, you will see the turn indicator LED's, ABS light, low fuel warning, high beam indicator and the neutral light.

Engine and Gearbox

The new Apache uses a 197.75 cc, single cylinder, oil cooled engine which is a bored out version of its 180cc sibling. There is also an option to get fuel injection (BOSCH) at an additional cost. The engine was expected to have a killing performance with around 25 BHP and 22 NM of torque whereas the actual figures reveal a different story. The carburetor fed motor produces just 20.23 BHP (15.09 KW) @ 8500 rpm and 18.1 NM @ 7,000 rpm. The fuel-injected engine develops maximum power of 20.73 BHP (15.46 KW) @ 8500 rpm and maximum torque of and 18.1 NM @ 7,000 rpm. The gearbox is a 5-speed unit for both options. The approximate mileage of TVS Apache RTR 200 is 30-40 kmpl.

Performance and Top Speed

The RTR 200 4V takes 3.95/3.90 seconds for a 0-60 kmph sprint and 12.0 seconds for a 0-100 kmph sprint, providing the rider with a top speed of 128 kmph for non-fi model and 129 kmph for EFi model.

Dimensions and Weight

The overall length, width and height values of Apache 200 are 2050 mm x 790 mm x 1015 mm. The ground clearance is 180mm, and seat height stands at 800mm. The wheelbase is 1353mm and fuel tank capacity is just 12 litres. The kerb weight of RTR 200 is 148 kg (non-Fi model) and 148.5 kg (for Efi model). The maximum payload is 130 kgs.

Brakes and Suspension

The Apache wins in the braking section with its dual channel ABS option, which is not even offered in the premium 200cc KTM bikes. The feature can save you anytime when the roads are bad and safety should not be compromised on the Indian roads. The front and rear comes with petal disc brakes (270 mm for the front and 240 mm for the rear) whereas the tyres on the new Apache have been upgraded for a better grip. The front uses standard telescopic forks for the suspension duties whereas a mono-shock has been used for the rear.

Tyres and Shades

Apache 200 comes equipped with 90/90-R17 tyre at front and 130/70-R17 rear tyre, both of them are TVS's Remora tyres. There is also an option to get Pirelli tyres at an additional cost of INR 10,000. The new Apache RTR 200 4V is offered in 7 attractive shades (5 Matte options and 2 Gloss options):Matte Red, Matte Black, Matte Yellow, Matte Grey, Matte White, Gloss White, and Gloss Black.

Variants and Price

TVS has not updated the official website of Apache 200 with complete price-list, and the list of variants. The bike is expected to be available in total 8 variants. As per the details available, the cost of fuel-injection is Rs. 9000, the cost of ABS is Rs. 7000 and you can get the Pirelli tyres for Rs. 10,000. The Standard/Base model of Apache 200 is equipped with non-Fi engine, without ABS and with TVS tyres, is priced at Rs. 88,990 (ex-showroom Delhi).The EFi model equipped with a fuel-injected engine, with Pirellli tyres is expected to be priced at Rs. 1.08 lakhs. The top-spec model with a fuel-injected engine, Pirellli tyres, and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), is expected to be priced at Rs. 1.15 lakhs. All prices are ex-showroom Delhi.

Verdict

The design speaks cleanly for itself, mixing the blend of a concept naked motorcycle with the practical everyday usability of an Apache series motorcycle. Medium power values would facilitate a better mileage figure whereas practical rear seat height would increase the pillion comfort. The Apache is a reat option if you are not into the 0-100 sprint game as it would keep your pocket full of money for more kilometers than the fuel burners of the 200cc segment.

View Full Size Comparison Infographic