Arun Mohan Nadar takes the RTR 200 4V on a 2,000 km-journey and files this long term report
When we took the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V for a ride at the manufacturer's test track at its Hosur production facility a few months back, it left us amazed. Though the short track wasn't able to unleash the bike's full potential it gave us a pretty good idea about the bike's overall performance. Still, the new Apache was yet to face the real world challenge. The very moment it came to our long-term fleet, we were extremely curious to take it into different riding conditions.
The styling of the TVS Apache has always been appealing and the new RTR 200 4V continues the trend. With the racing DNA instilled the new bike is much sleeker and has sharper lines compared to its other siblings. The always on LED DRLs are impressive and will be surely liked by the young riders. Interesting details like sharp fuel tank extensions, off-set fuel filling cap, matte finish paint options and the bat wing-type split grab rail are certainly going to garner more eyeballs, making it stand apart in the crowd.
The only thing that is not fitting in the package properly is the odd looking twin-barrel exhaust muffler, which could have been given a better shape. The all-digital instrument console with white backlight looks smart and boasts a wide range of information without compromising legibility on the go. The only minor flaw we found on the console is we felt that Team TVS could've worked on making the shift light indicator a bit larger.
The Apache RTR 200 4V is the first bike in its series to get a stepped seat and that means the pillion is going to sit higher. The clip-on handlebars and the rear-set footpegs provide a sporty yet comfortable posture along with enough space on the saddle.
When it comes to performance, the new Apache is available in two variants, carburetted and fuel injected. We got the carburetted version for our long term report, which makes 20PS at 8,500rpm and 18.1Nm of torque at 7,000rpm. The new engine has significantly reduced NVH compared to any other bike in the Apache series.
The 5-speed gearbox performs well enough but can't outshine its Japanese rivals when it comes to making crisp shifts. Quick acceleration with the gear ratios spread out offers an exciting 0-60kmph sprint in less than 4 seconds. The exhaust note gives a sporty feel and the bike touches the 3-digit mark on the speedometer without much effort.
We rode the Apache RTR 200 4V in both dense traffic and open road conditions and the overall fuel economy we achieved in the total run of 2,000km was around 45kmpl. The bike is impressive as a daily commuter; however, the large turning radius makes handling in the city traffic a bit tiresome. Also, the engine heats up while moving at snail's pace in traffic.
The optional Pirelli rubber gives you a nice grip on the road and it gives significant feedback in high-speed cornering. It is the first TVS bike to get a monoshock suspension and we can say that it offers the best ride quality in its segment so far.
