TVS Apache RTR 160 4V: Which Is The Best Variant To Buy?

Recently, TVS launched a new top-end variant of the Apache RTR 160 4V at Rs 1,47,990 (ex-showroom, Delhi). The Indian streetfighter is now available in 9 different variants, and we help you choose the most suitable one. Here’s an explainer:

DRUM - Rs 1,25,670 

The ‘Drum’ variant of the bike is the base variant and comes equipped with a front disc and a rear drum brake. It is offered in three colour schemes: Knight Black, Metallic Blue and Racing Red. The bike has a modern design and offers peppy performance, but at an affordable price point. It has three riding modes: Sport, Urban and Rain (standard across all variants) and an LED headlamp with DRLs. It is the perfect motorcycle for someone who is upgrading to the 160cc segment and is a budget-conscious buyer. However, we advise you to stretch your budget a tad bit more and opt for at least the dual-disc variant.

Black Edition (Disc) - Rs 1,28,490

The Black Edition of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is based on the Drum variant of the bike but is available in an exclusive Glossy Black colour scheme. It also gets a blacked-out TVS’ logo on the tank. This variant is perfect for someone who needs a stealthy-looking motorcycle that carries an affordable price tag. 

DISC - Rs 1,29,170

The Disc variant, as the name suggests, comes with disc brakes at both ends with single-channel ABS. This variant is offered in the same three colour schemes as the Drum variant. It offers the same equipment as the Drum variant but with a little more safety. It gets a 130-section radial rear tyre, as opposed to the 110-section bias-ply rear tyre on the Drum variant. This is perfect for someone who wants a motorcycle with better safety while retaining its affordable price tag.

BT Disc - Rs 1,32,470

This is essentially the Disc variant but equipped with Bluetooth connectivity. It has the same equipment as the aforementioned variants but a few more convenience features. For a couple of thousand rupees, you can get a little more bragging rights with this variant. This variant is available in the same three colour schemes as the Disc variant.

Special Edition - Rs 1,34,470

Here, TVS adds a little bit more exclusivity to the package with the BT-Disc variant as the base. The Special edition is available in a single colour scheme, called Knight Black, which has a matte finish, sportier silver graphics on the body panels and red-coloured alloy wheels. It also gets three riding modes, a rear radial tyre, and adjustable levers. It is perfect for younger or first-time buyers who want a bike that is affordable and stands out from the crowd as well.

Dual-Channel ABS - Rs 1,36,990

TVS kicks the safety aspect up a notch with this variant. The Apache RTR 160 4V here comes with dual-channel ABS as standard. This variant is available in a single exclusive matte-finished colour called the ‘Lightning Blue’, with red-coloured alloy wheels and a coloured seat with the TVS logo engraved on it. One interesting thing about the bike is that it gets Bluetooth connectivity with voice assist and adjustable levers too.

 It is the perfect motorcycle for someone who prioritises safety on the road rather than opting for flashy features. Also, the colour gives the bike a distinct character, as you can easily spot the bike with its bright shade.

Dual-Channel ABS With USD - Rs 1,39,990

This variant comes with a golden inverted fork. It is available in three colour schemes: Pearl White, Matte Black and Granite Grey, along with red-white graphics on the body panels. This variant looks quite nice and is equipped with a lot of features, like three riding modes, Bluetooth connectivity with voice assist, and an LED headlamp. 

It also gets a 270mm front petal disc, a dual-tone seat, a radial rear tyre, adjustable clutch and brake levers, red alloy wheels, and a coloured seat with TVS branding. It is also the variant that gets the new hydrofoam handlebar, lending it a bit more sturdiness. This variant is great for riders who expect exciting performance from their bike and want sporty looks. We think this is the best value-for-money variant, as it comes equipped with a lot of features while offering decent performance.

TFT - Rs 1,47,990

This is the newest addition to the variant lineup and comes with a lot of updates. This variant gets a redesigned fascia with an LED projector headlamp. It now comes with a traction control system, three riding modes, a slip-and-assist clutch, and a TFT instrument console with turn-by-turn navigation.

It is available in three new colour schemes: Racing Red, Matte Black and Marine Blue and carries over all the features from the Dual-Channel ABS With USD variant. One could argue the need for traction control on a 17.55PS/14.73Nm motorcycle, and the extra that you are paying for this variant doesn’t seem entirely justified. Hence, only get this trim if you like the flashiness that it brings. 

RTR 160 4V Anniversary Edition - Rs 1,50,990

Along with the launch of the TFT variant, TVS also launched a unique variant celebrating the 20th anniversary of the TVS Apache range. This new variant is based on the top-end TFT variant and comes in a single exclusive livery called ‘20 Years Limited Edition’. 

It is a combination of black and champagne gold shades, with black being the base colour with golden and red-coloured graphics on the fuel tank, headlight cowl, and the sleek tail section. The bike also gets dual-tone alloy wheels with half the rim finished in black while the other half is in golden.

The unique paint scheme does make the bike a lot more tempting than the standard TFT trim. You are shelling out Rs 11,000 over the USD variant, though. Hence, you will have to reassure yourself that this special look and the extra features are what you will cherish post your purchase. Else, you better save the premium and use it for fuel and riding gear.