2016 TVS Apache RTR 200 review, test ride

The Apache RTR series features TVS’s top-of-the-line bikes, with sporty styling, quick performance and able handling all on the menu. On paper, it’s clear TVS has gone the whole hog with the new Apache RTR 200, providing several options to meet varying customer requirements; be it in terms of carburettion or fuel-injection, ABS assist for the brakes or the premium Pirelli or TVS soft compound Remora tyres.

All in the family

Visually, the RTR 200 retains its Apache family identity, yet has improved on the earlier RTR. The first thing you notice is the compact dimensions. The 200 is more butch than earlier RTRs, the 160 and 180, that makes for a more hunkered down, meaner attitude. The front bears resemblance to the Ducati Streetfighter, and the 200's headlight is crested by a smartly turned out, fully digital instrument cluster. The console packs in plenty of features, including a cascading tachometer at the top, easily read speedometer, shift-light beacon, 0-60kph timer and fastest lap-time timer.

The Apache RTR 200 is a well-built motorcycle, and gives the impression TVS is already drawing on learning to improve its bikes, from famous German technology partner, BMW Motorrad. The RTR 200 holds a high-quality feel and attention-to-detail is apparent; in little things such as a neatly bisected fuel tank, carefully crafted filler-lid and a dust cover to protect the rear disc brake from road grime.

The control levers are smart on the new TVS, buffed alloy and with a nice solid feel, although we felt the absence of a clutch play adjustment nut when riding the bike, being unable to take up some cable slack without asking for a set of spanners. The Apache RTR 200 comes with clip-on bars, soft and comfy palm grips, and switches that work well. The mirrors are broad, familiar as TVS units, that offer good rear view.

Edgy tank extensions lean forward to the Apache RTR 200’s dinky oil-cooling radiator. The tank leads back into a split seat. A smartly designed belly cowl sits below the engine bay, and much of the motorcycle is black, including its flank panels, alluminium alloy-encased engine and elegant 10-spoke alloy wheels; the front telescopic forks are golden. Another visual high point is the purposeful, double barrel, under over format exhaust. Much of the exhaust is stainless steel, starting from the cylinder as the bent-pipe snakes downwards.

The RTR 200 will be sold in matte finish yellow, red, white, grey or black, with a glossy black shade option. There’s generous use of light alloy on the motorcycle, seen in the footrest and steering head region.