TVS Ronin: New Base+ Variant Explained

Recently, TVS updated its Apache and Ronin lineup with new variants, features and colours. The TVS Ronin, in particular, got a new Base+ variant, in addition to upgrades in the Mid and Top variants. TVS has priced the new variant at Rs 1,42,490 (ex-showroom Delhi). Here’s what all it gets: 

Design & Styling

All the variants of the Ronin, including this new variant, are identical, design-wise. The new variant gets two new colours: Sunlit Yellow and Desert Mirage. The TVS Ronin features a neo-retro design with a round LED headlamp, sculpted fuel tank, flat seat, chunky tyres and a beefy exhaust. The neo-retro elements along with the slightly raked-out fork give it a unique appearance. The yellow shade is our favourite as it adds some funk to the design. On the other hand, the Desert Mirage shade reminds us of the Desert Storm colour variant of the Royal Enfield Classic 500. 

Features

The feature list is carried forward from the Base to Base Plus variant. Highlights include an all-LED lighting Setup, LCD instrument console, Glide Through Technology (GTT) for low-speed riding in heavy traffic with just clutch modulation, and two ABS riding modes: Rain and Urban. That said, there is no smartphone connectivity on this variant, so no turn-by-turn navigation. The off-set console is fairly feature-packed, otherwise. It gets a gear position indicator, odometer and tripmeter readings, fuel gauge, tachometer, speedometer and tell-tale lights.  

It does get a silent starter, although the adjustable brake and clutch levers are available only on the higher variants.

Engine & Performance

Again, all the Ronin variants are mechanically identical. The Base+ is no different and gets the familiar 225.9 cc, single-cylinder, 4 valve, SOHC, air-oil-cooled engine. It has a 5-speed gearbox, and produces 20.4 PS at 7,750 rpm and 19.93 Nm at 3,750 rpm. The slip and assist clutch is standard across all the Ronin variants.

Safety & Hardware

The only differing factor between Base and Base+ models, apart from the new cosmetics, is the inclusion of dual-channel ABS on the Base+ variant. It has a 300 mm front and 240 mm rear discs with chunky block-pattern tyres, 41 mm USD fork, and preload-adjustable rear monoshock. 

BikeDekho Says

With new paint schemes and addition of dual-channel ABS, the new Base+ variant is Rs 10,500 more expensive than the Base variant. That said, this is worth it as it significantly improves the safety quotient of the bike by offering better braking experience. If you don’t mind the connected features, the Base+ variant is the one to go for if you’re on a budget. The premium won’t pinch as much if you’re buying the bike on EMI.