TVS Apache RTR 165 RP Road Test Review: Image Gallery
Let’s find out if TVS’ special edition bike was worth the hype, via images
Let’s find out if TVS’ special edition bike was worth the hype, via images
TVS launched the Apache RTR 165 RP in December 2021, a race focused iteration of its 160cc naked bike. The RTR 165 RP is by far the most powerful bike in the segment on paper and only 200 units of the bike were made, which are already sold out. We got our hands on the bike, and here is what we feel.
In terms of styling, the RTR 165 RP retains the body design as the standard model. However, it does get a loud race livery with bright red alloy wheels (albeit similar to those on the Special Edition variant of the RTR 160 4V). The livery looks great but the matte finish is prone to scuffing.
Powering the RTR 165 RP is a 164.9cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine. It produces 19.2PS and 14.2Nm, which is the best in class, even more powerful than the Yamaha R15 V4 by 0.8PS. In terms of performance, the RP takes things to another level. The engine is properly tuned for the track and beyond the 6000rpm mark, it goes berserk. Even with the rawness of the power, it does not compromise on the everyday usability of the bike.
The braking duties are handled by a 270mm disc up front and a first-in-segment 240mm rear petal disc brake. And while the braking performance on the standard Apache RTR hasn’t been that exceptional, on the RP the braking behaviour seems vastly improved. Stopping distances have reduced dramatically, improving the predictability of the bike. However, it still lacks a certain character.
One major thing on the RP that hampers its likeability is the suspension. It gets a telescopic fork up front and a monoshock at the rear that aren’t tuned well enough to match up to the performance of the bike. The suppleness of the suspension robs you of confidence and acts as an inconvenience during cornering, which is not something you would expect from a race-focused bike.
Adding to performance restrictions are the tyres which, though good enough for daily use, start to lose traction when the bike’s limits are pushed. The rear tyre, especially, loses traction under hard acceleration and extreme lean angles.
With a price tag of Rs 1.45 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), the RP is really expensive and demands a premium of Rs 25,000 over the Bluetooth and riding modes-equipped RTR 160 4V. Moreover, it is also Rs 4000 more expensive than the Apache RTR 200 4V which packs more performance, features and even gets adjustable suspension.
The limited edition Apache RTR 165 RP gives us an idea of what the bike-maker’s racing DNA can offer for the streets. However, a large premium without the appropriate tyres and non adjustable suspension is where the bike takes a major hit, making the limited edition not really a very special one.
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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