TVS Apache RTR 160 4V First Ride: Exploring the New Changes!

The initial launch of TVS Apache RTR 160 4V changed the game forever.

It introduces so many features for a killer price without compromising performance. It wouldn’t be far-fetched to say that it helped put TVS on the map.

Jagdamba Motors, the authorized distributor of TVS motorcycles in Nepal, hopes to do the same yet again with the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V BS6.

The new variant introduces familiar features and styles. These new features are present in its elder 200 4V BS6 siblings.

However, it finally gets the much-awaited BS6-compliant FI engine.

Moreover, the new upgrades have resulted in a drastic jump in price, with an introductory price of Rs. 3.79 Lakhs.

We were fortunate enough to get the new 160 4V BS6 in for a Full Review. While we are still testing it, we were able to spend a few hours with it.

This is the First Impression article that will highlight our initial thoughts of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V.

TVS Apache RTR 160 4V BS6 First Ride

Design

There are no major changes in the new TVS Apache RTR 160 4V. It is still familiar with styling, which we have already seen in the BS4 ABS variant.

It is based on the “Draken” concept. So, the previous elements continue to remain the same.

It has hints of the bigger TVS Apache RTR 200 4V. However, the design has been refined and simplified.

It still looks modern with its muscular fuel tank, aggressive tank shrouds, an off-placed fuel tank, and a double-barrel exhaust.

However, there is a neat trick to separate BS6 and BS4. TVS has made slight changes to its headlamp section.

There is a drastic change in the LED DRL.

TVS has moved it from the eyebrows to the center of its “ant-head” shaped LED headlamp. While the look is still polarizing, it is a considerable improvement over its predecessor.

Other than this, the rest of the elements continue to remain unchanged.

It still comes with the same single-piece seat, split-type grab rails, and sleek LED tail lamp.

Nevertheless, the headlamp design has aged well. It continues to look modern, aggressive, and sporty.

Additionally, TVS Apache RTR 160 4V comes in three different colors: Red, Blue, and Black.

Performance

TVS Apache RTR 160 4V BS6 is powered by a 159.7cc, Single-Cylinder, 4-valve, Oil-cooled, SOHC, FI engine. It can generate a max power of 17.55PS at 9250rpm and a max torque of 14.73Nm at 7250rpm.

Moreover, it is mated to a 5-speed gearbox with a 12-liter fuel tank capacity.

Usually, BS6 bikes have a trend to get a decrease in powertrain figures.

However, that is not the case here. Apache RTR 160 BS6 now generates 0.93PS more power with an increase in RPM limit. Plus, it is the trademarked Race-Tuned Fuel Injection (RT-FI).

Due to this, the bike feels more open than before. And, the punchiness is officially back!

We tested out the Yamaha R15 just a few weeks ago. Astonishingly, the top-end experience is so very familiar here as well.

It is no VVA but… it is the next closest thing.

Hopefully, this new performance uplift does not affect the overall fuel economy.

Unlike many other bikes in its segment, the TVS has included a neat party trick.

TVS has managed to include Riding Modes with Glide Through Technology. These kinds of features are completely absent in the competition.

The ride modes allow riders to choose from three riding modes: Sports, Urban, and Rain. These modes allow riders to adjust their riding style base

Depending on the riding mode, the powertrain figures are slightly different.

Sports Mode can generate 17.55PS and 14.73Nm whereas Rain/Urban Mode can generate 15.64PS and 14.14Nm. Moreover, there is a slight variation in ABS Pulsation.

The ABS Pulsation is the highest in the Rain Mode and lowest in the Speed Mode.

It will be interesting to see if this will make a difference in the real world.

As for the Glide Through Technology, it promises to provide stress-free riding. In general, it removes the need for the combination of throttle and clutch in slow traffic.

With this technology, the bike can simply glide through the traffic.

Additional Details

TVS Apache RTR 160 4V features Dual Disc Brakes with Single-Channel ABS. The initial braking performance is good. However, the previous iteration had spongy rear brakes.

Hopefully, that has been solved in this.

The suspension setup is Telescopic Forks at the front and Mono Shock at the rear. The setup does have a stiffness to it. Nevertheless, there is a hint of softness.

It is built on a Double Cradle Split Synchro Stiff Frame.

The dimensions are 2035mm in length, 790mm in width, and 1050mm in height. Moreover, the wheelbase sits at 1357mm.

TVS Apache RTR 160 4V has a ground clearance of 180mm. Moreover, the kerb weight is 146kg.

Features

We will talk about these features in detail in our Full Review. Until then, here is a quick list of features in the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V BS6.

TVS Apache RTR 160 4V Features Highlight

• Apache RTR 200 4V Inspired Styling
• 160cc 4-Valve Engine
• BS6-compliant Bosch Fuel Injection
• Ant-Head Headlamp and Repositioned DRL
• Muscular Fuel Tank with Off-Placed Fuel Cap
• Dedicated Info/Control Switch
• Multiple Riding Modes
• Digital Instrument Cluster
• SmartConnect System with Bluetooth Capabilities
• Stylish Grab Rails
• Single-Channel ABS
• Double-Barrel Exhaust with Bass-Heavy Exhaust
• Dual-Disc Braking

Conclusion

We tested out the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V a while back. So, we know how a higher displacement TVS bike is supposed to ride.

More importantly, the price difference is just over a few thousand bucks.

And, it was one of the most pleasant motorcycles to ride.

Why choose the 160 4V over a slightly expensive 200 4V? That is what we will find out in our full review.

However, I am starting to see the Apache RTR 160 4V as something more unique. It seems to have hallmarks for a fun yet practical commuter.

We will test this out in our Full Review.

As for the pricing, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V price in Nepal is set at Rs. 3,79,900. This brings the variants list to whooping six different variants!

On a side note, TVS should consider clearing out a few variants to avoid confusion.