BS6 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V: Pros, Cons And Should You Buy It?
Modified On Apr 3, 2020 06:58 PM By Jehan Adil Darukhanawala for TVS Apache RTR 160 4V
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Should you get the future ready Apache 160 now?
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V has been the benchmark in the 160cc sporty commuter segment for quite some time now. Despite the arrival of the new-generation Suzuki Gixxer, the Apache 160 continues to be our preferred choice of weapon in this segment. After the BS6 transition, the bike has lost a bit of oomph and even undergone plastic surgery to get a new face. How have the changes impacted the bike’s appeal?
PROS
Continues To Strike A Balance Between Sportiness And Comfort
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Adhering to this mantra, TVS has not fiddled with the ergos and the mechanical setup on the RTR 160 4V. It continues to be a sporty naked commuter with a comfortable riding stance that riders will not mind one bit.
Not A Drastic Change In Engine Output
With the BS6 transition, the 159.7cc single-cylinder motor lost 0.78PS and 0.68Nm in performance. After riding the bike for quite some time, the difference in power was not apparent. The Apache continues to be one fun bike to ride. It might just turn out to be fractionally slower, which we shall corroborate once we do a thorough road test, but the 160 4V remains exciting.
New Exhaust Note Is Raspy
Adding to the excitement is a new throaty, raspy exhaust note. The older BS4 motorcycle was a bit too refined for its own good. This new sound adds an extra aural dimension to the excitement.
Also read: BS6 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Apache RTR 200 4V: First Ride Review
CONS
Doesn’t Look Very Different From The BS4 Bike
Visually, the only distinguishing factor between the BS4 and BS6 bike is the LED headlight. We would have loved to see new elements or perhaps a different colour with special liveries.
Brakes Are Still A Downer
Since its launch, the biggest letdown on the Apache 160 4V has been the brakes. Sadly, TVS has not improved the stopping power on the BS6 bike too. While the units seem adequate for the everyday commuter, extra stopping power always comes in handy on our roads.
Should You Buy It?
But should you buy it now? We suggest buying the limited BS4 stock that TVS dealers might have. There is no doubt the new bike is still as exciting to ride as the BS4 version. However, you could save almost Rs 2,500 by opting for the BS4 model.