TVS Apache RTR 180 BS6 vs BS4: Which One To Buy?

Are you better off shelling out Rs 6,704 more for the BS6 model or save it by opting for the BS4 bike?

The TVS Apache RTR 180 BS6 model is now listed on the company’s website, and that means it is pretty close to its official launch date. That said, TVS still has the BS4 model on offer that’s a lot easier on the pocket. So which one makes for a better investment? We help you find out.

Performance upgrade:

You get more power with the BS6-compliant Apache RTR 180 -- 16.79PS compared to the previous 16.62PS at 8500rpm. However, the torque output remains unchanged at 15.5Nm at 6500rpm. The same goes for the transmission too, a 5-speed gearbox.

Different dimensions:

The mechanical changes have also led to some weight gain and alterations in the BS6 RTR 180’s dimensions. For instance, it has a shorter wheelbase -- 1300mm from the earlier 1326mm. In theory, this should make the BS6 model slightly better in corners compared to the BS4 model. There's more room underneath as well, which should help the bike glide over tall speed breakers. In other words, the ground clearance has gone up from 165mm to 170mm on the BS6 model. Thankfully, the bike's seat height remains unchanged at 790mm.

Also Read: TVS NTorq 125 BS6 Specifications Revealed

On the flip side, thanks to the added mechanicals, the BS6 model now weighs in at 141kg, making it 2kg heavier than the BS4 bike. The fuel tank capacity remains unchanged at 12-litres, though.

More features:

The BS6 RTR 180 also brings with it more features. The streetfighter now comes with Glide Through Technology which enables the bike to crawl effortlessly in city traffic by just modulating the clutch.

Unchanged components:

The BS6 and BS4 model share the same hardware, so you aren't missing out on anything. The new bike gets the same telescopic front fork and gas-charged twin shock absorbers at the rear. The same goes for its braking setup -- a 270mm petal disc up front and 200mm petal disc at the rear with single-channel ABS. 

Also Read: TVS Jupiter BS6 Specifications Revealed

Price difference:

The updates have led to a price hike of Rs 6,704 over the BS4 model which retails at Rs 94,746 (ex-showroom). The extra dough does get you a bit more performance, a future-proof engine, and better features. A win-win in our opinion. However, if none of the above aspects catch your fancy, you could still stick to the BS4 model and save some money. However, make sure to get one before BS6 emission norms come into effect on  1 April 2020.