TVS Apache RTR 160 4V BS6: Pros, Cons & Should You Buy One?
Does the Apache RTR 160 4V still make sense post its BS6 update?
Does the Apache RTR 160 4V still make sense post its BS6 update?
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, for us, has been the pick of the 160cc segment ever since it was launched back in 2018. A stonking motor, well-balanced suspension setup, premium build quality and an extensive feature list made sure it reigned supreme until the strict BS6 emission norms kicked in. While it has gained more features during this transition, it has also lost some of its performance in the process. Here's what has worked in favour of the bike and what hasn’t.
Pros:
Ultra refined engine:
We've come across a couple of excellent motors in the recent past. However, the RTR’s refined motor trumps pretty much every one of them. Vibes, if any, can only be felt through the footpegs over 9000rpm. Now that's saying something.
Also Read: Hero Xtreme 160R vs TVS Apache RTR 160 4V BS6: Comparison Review
Slick gearbox:
The RTR’s slick 5-speed transmission offer precise and positive shifts with every tap on the lever.
Excellent build quality:
The build quality of the RTR 160 4V is top-notch. The use of rich materials and the tactile feel of the switchgear offers a sense of a quality product well worth its price.
Cons:
Performance loss:
The BS6 RTR 160 4V now makes 0.78PS power and 0.68Nm less than the previous-gen model. In our performance tests, It was 0.80 seconds slower to 60kmph and took a leisurely 21.37 seconds to get to 100kmph; six seconds off the older model! Not only this, but it makes most of its power higher up the rev range and feels rather sluggish in the bottom and mid-range.
Slightly sporty riding posture:
Taller riders may find the bike’s riding posture a bit cramped thanks to the bike’s raised footpeg positioning and the slightly lower set handlebars.
New LED headlight design:
We loved the way the BS4 RTR 160 4V looked. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said about the updated model. The new headlight doesn’t gel well with the bike’s sharp and angular design styling.
Should you buy one?
Despite the BS6 update, the TVS Apache RTR 4V still remains a potent machine and a fun bike overall. It's packed with features, has a frugal engine, leads the class in terms of refinement, and has the best build quality in its class, period! Granted, the move from BS4 to BS6 emission norms has robbed the bike of its performance, but if the deficit doesn't bother you, the RTR 160 4V still makes a lot of sense for those searching for a good-looking, reliable product that has the capability to tour as and when needed.
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V (2009-2025) User Reviews
- Very good for
I am very satisfied with the bike's performance. It offers good performance and comfortable riding. The engine is smooth, mileage is ok and maintenance cost are reasonable. Overall it is a reliable bike for daily use and long rides. I would recommend to others for use and bike's look is very cool and I did some modification in bike for good look.
- Urgent sell bike
Apache RTR 4v black is quite good bike as compared to other brand. This bike offer 17 bhp and 15 nm torque which is quite fast coming to looks. It looks like naked super bike with red black colour combination. It offer three riding mode with tft display and abs braking which is single only with better mileage in this segment.
1 1 - Great Performance and Handling but City Mileage Co
I chose the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V TFT USD model mainly for its sporty design, features and strong road presence. The bike feels very stable on highways and comfortable for daily city rides. Handling is sharp and confidence inspiring. It is also good for family usage when riding normally. Overall the build quality, braking and features like TFT display make the bike feel premium in this segment. Ride quality so far has been very good. The Apache RTR 160 4V TFT USD has excellent handling and stability. In highways the bike feels planted and smooth even at higher speeds. Braking performance and suspension are also good for most road conditions. But the biggest downside for me is the city mileage. In city I am getting around 28 to 32 kmpl, which is lower than expected for a 160cc bike. If someone wants good performance, sporty design, great handling and modern features, the Apache RTR 160 4V TFT USD is a very good choice. However mileage is the only reason I hesitate to recommend it to everyone. Competitors like Pulsar N160 give better mileage in city conditions. So if mileage is your main priority you may consider other options, but apart from that the bike is really enjoyable to ride.
3 - A Perfect Balance of Power and Style.
I chose the Apache RTR 160 Limited Edition for its sporty performance, sharp handling, unique limited-edition looks, good mileage, and reliable TVS build, making it perfect for daily use with a premium feel. Apache RTR 160 Limited Edition so far is smooth and fun it feels responsive with good pickup, confident in city traffic, and stable at higher speeds. The handling is sharp and the overall ride quality is comfortable for daily commuting as well as weekend rides. I would recommend the Apache rtr 160 Limited Edition if you are looking for a bike that fun to ride, reliable, good on mileage, and turns heads with its sporty looks. It is a great all round choice for both daily commuting and weekend rides.
2 1 - Apache RTR review
According to online review it's the best bike in the segment. I reviewed other bikes in the segment and everybody has their pros and cons but this is the overall best friend and it has been running on the roads were years that's why. Very punchy and comfortable. It's very manuvareble in traffic and the blood through technology is very helpful in the driving also when it comes to I wait as a very good performance. Mileage is pretty good. Yes to anyone in this segment. Even even has an interesting 160 CC segment this is the best way to go for according to me as it as too much features for the price range and it is very much good for this age group.
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