BS6 TVS Apache RTR 200: Pros, Cons And Should You Buy It?

We point out all the positives and negatives of the new BS6 RTR 200 4V to help you make an informed decision

The TVS Apache RTR 200 4V has always been one of the most potent motorcycles out there. It offers a great balance of performance and everyday usability. But can the new BS6-compliant model still retain its performance quotient while emitting fewer fumes? Well, we got to ride the updated BS6 RTR 200 4V at the TVS test track. So, should you spend Rs 1.24 lakh? 

Pros: 

Performance and character virtually unchanged from BS4 version:

Usually, updating an engine from BS4 to BS6 generally means a drop in performance. But we are happy to report the new RTR 200 4V feels similar to its predecessor. Now, considering the torque has gone down by 1.6Nm, there might be a slight drop in performance, but nothing that we could feel on the test track.

Also read: BS6 vs BS4 TVS Apache RTR 200 4V: What’s Different

No visual update, but still looks contemporary and stunning:

Apart from the new LED headlamp unit and the decals, there’s nothing new on the updated Apache RTR 200 4V -- and we aren’t complaining. Because even though it has been on sale for around three years, its design looks contemporary enough to make it stand apart from the crowd. 

Minimal vibrations almost throughout the rev range: 

The 197.75cc motor in the RTR 200 4V is an absolute gem. There are absolutely no vibrations at the lower power band. However, if you push the motor a bit, the vibes start to creep in. 

Cons: 

An increment in power output would have been welcome!

Don’t get us wrong. There’s no issue with the current power output (20.5PS), but a bit of a boost in power could have made it a complete package as its rival, the NS200’s 199.5cc engine puts out 23.5PS.  

Bluetooth connectivity app could be easier to use: 

The new Bluetooth connectivity feature throws up information such as lean angle, average speed and lap time on your phone. However, we wish the user interface of the app would have been smoother to use. However, it’s not a major issue as TVS can fix this with a simple Over The Air (OTA) update. 

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

Should you buy it? 

Of course! It is around Rs 10,000 more expensive than the BS4 variant, but TVS has thrown several features to justify that price tag. Moreover, the transition from BS4 to BS6 usually means there’s a loss in performance, but after riding the new RTR 200 4V at the track we are happy to report that it feels similar to the previous iteration.