BS6 TVS Apache RTR 200 4V Vs BS4 Apache RTR 200 4V: Which One To Buy?

Is it wise to spend nearly Rs 10,000 more for a cleaner future?

It is not surprising that the first of TVS BS6-compliant motorcycles are from the Apache family, namely the Apache RTR 200 4V and Apache RTR 160 4V. The two performance-driven nakeds are the segment benchmarks when it comes to performance and practicality. The BS6 variants of the motorcycle sport subtle changes. Although the bikes are future emissions-ready, they might have lost a bit of zing. To know what is different between the BS6 Apache RTR 200 4V and the BS4 version, you might want to head here. However, which one should you buy?

Looks & Features

There is very little to distinguish between the two motorcycles. The obvious change being the addition of the new LED headlight, which one could say is a bit KTM-inspired. Recently, TVS had added the SmartXonnect tech to the Apache RTR 200 4V’s carb version. This gets carried over to the BS6 model as well.

Engine & Performance

Here’s where there is a major change as you see a drop in performance. Contrary to what we were earlier told by several automotive manufacturers, the BS6 Apache RTR 200 4V loses out in peak torque and not max power. The 199cc engine will arrive only in a fuel-injected avatar, which will continue to make 20.5PS of power. The torque has reduced from 18.1Nm to 16.8Nm, which also kicks in at 7500rpm now -- 500rpm later than the BS4 motor.

Ride & Handling

There are no changes to report in the mechanicals of the Apache RTR 200 4V. However, with the transition to BS6, the bike has gained 2kg as it tips the scales at 153kg. This should not make a vast difference to the bike’s handling as the 200 has always been a sharp handler.

Verdict

Ultimately, it boils down to the price. At Rs 1.24 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), the BS6 Apache RTR 200 4V is Rs 9,450 dearer than the SmartXonnect version launched a while back. And in case you are not interested in the connected tech, you could also get yourself the version devoid of the feature, which retails for Rs 1,11,845. Given the choice, we would opt for the BS4 one with the SmartXonnect tech as you can enjoy features such as lean-angle calculator and ride analytics without missing out on that little performance drop after the BS6 transition.