Yamaha MT-15 vs TVS Apache RTR 200 4V: Is Bigger Always Better?

The Yamaha MT-15 and the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V have long been two very good sporty naked bikes in the sub-200cc segment. But then the TVS bike costs less, has a bigger engine and seems to boast of a lot more features. So does that make the TVS the better buy of the 2? We’re here to find that out through this detailed comparison story: 

Price & Variants

• The Apache RTR 200 4V wins the price war by quite a margin, for its top variant is still more than Rs 17,000 cheaper than the MT-15’s base variant. And if we compare both bikes’ base variants, the difference in their prices is more than Rs 28,000. 

• The MT-15 is a more sophisticated bike in a lot of ways and it charges a premium to justify that. So if we’re talking about sheer value for money, you should look at the Apache RTR 200 RV. 

• To sum things up, it’s the TVS bike that has won the first round of this battle. 

Dimensions & Design 

• Both bikes are easy to ride with low seat heights, manageable kerb weights and an overall light feel. Commuting with both bikes is very easy since they change directions easily and their compact nature means they’ll cut through dense traffic with quite a lot of ease. 

• The one difference that stands out is the 10kg weight difference. That’s not nothing and while the Apache doesn’t feel like a heavy bike in itself, the 160 Duke will feel like the lighter machine almost immediately. 

• Design-wise, the Apache RTR 200 4V recently got a new update, thanks to which it has a new, revised headlight. While the new headlight is still sharp and aggressive, it looks a bit muted as well, which is why we think the MT-15 is the more catchy, aggressive look. So if we had to pick one, it’d probably be the Yamaha MT-15. 

Features & Safety

• We have to call this one a tie, because both bikes are extremely similar. Both have a TFT on its higher variant(s) and both have an endless list of features. 

• Both bikes feel fancy in the way their TFTs feel and are to use. Both will exude the overall feeling of buying an expensive, premium bike.

Engines

• First things first, we’d advise you not to get confused between the Apache’s different output figures. Having different power and torque figures for different ride modes for a 200cc bike does not make sense and we’d recommend you to take into account just the Sport mode figures. 

• The Apache RTR 200 4V is obviously more powerful, with its bigger engine, but it’s also the heavier of the two by quite a margin. So in the real world, both bikes’ acceleration will feel quite similar. 

• And while both bikes love being revved out, it’s the MT-15, thanks to its variable valve actuation, that feels a bit more exciting at higher revs. The bike feels like it comes into its own after about 6000rpm and revs to its redline with a higher sense of urgency. 

• In terms of mileage, the MT-15 could return a better fuel efficiency number than the Apache. This Yamaha engine is known to be a frugal one and if ridden right, it could even return more than 50kmpl. 

Verdict 

This was a close one once again, for both are fantastic and exciting bikes in the sub-200cc space. But the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V has a bit of an edge over the Yamaha MT-15 because the former is less expensive, has a lot of features and is more powerful. So if we talk about the sheer bang for your buck, the Apache bike will be the winner. 

That said, if you’re chasing sheer excitement, you could think about the MT-15. Yes, it costs more but that engine is excellent for any beginner who wants to ride bikes in a spirited manner and will entertain you thoroughly for a couple of years, at least. 

Comparisons With Other Rivals: 

Yamaha MT-15 vs KTM 160 Duke: Spec Comparison: The MT-15 is the more exciting bike, has more features and looks better at a lower price, so it’s the winner for us

Yamaha MT-15 vs Bajaj Pulsar NS200: Spec Comparison: The Pulsar NS200 is the more powerful and exciting of the two, so that’s what we’d suggest you to go for

Yamaha MT-15 vs Hero Xtreme 250R: Spec Comparison: With a bigger engine and better acceleration, the Xtreme 250R makes more sense in terms of value for money

Yamaha MT-15: Same Price Other Options: Here are five bikes and scooters for you to consider instead of the new Yamaha MT-15