The TVS Apache RTR 160 has a somewhat simple design when you compare it to the more aggressive Apache RTR 160 4V. However, it brings in a bit of sportiness with its eyebrow-shaped daytime running lamps (DRLs) and muscular fuel tank extensions. The graphics on the fuel tank and tail panels also give it a premium appearance. While subtle updates have kept the design fresh, some buyers will feel the overall design is a bit dated.

The TVS Apache RTR 160 is powered by a 159.7cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine. Although the engine used to feel a bit outdated, the latest version has had a significant update with multiple riding modes. It offers Sport, Urban, and Rain modes, each with different power outputs.

In Sport mode, the engine delivers 16.04PS at 8750rpm and 13.85Nm at 7000rpm. For Rain and Urban modes, the power is slightly less at 13.3PS at 8000rpm and 12.7Nm at 6500rpm, respectively. The RTR 160 is good at quick acceleration in a straight line, but it could be smoother at higher speeds.

TVS claims that the tank cowl is designed not only to make the bike more aerodynamic but also to reduce engine heat by a significant 10 degrees celsius. In Sport mode, the claimed top speed is 107kmph, while it drops to 97kmph in Urban and Rain modes. The engine works with a 5-speed gearbox, and the fuel tank can hold up to 12 litres of fuel.

The Apache RTR 160 gets a telescopic fork and twin shock absorbers. The suspension is a bit on the firm side and this helps the Apache handle  very well. So be it cutting through traffic or cornering on a twisty road, it’s a lot of fun. For braking duties, it has a 270mm front disc brake and a 130mm drum brake in the rear (or you can choose an optional 200mm disc). That said, the brakes might feel like their initial bite is a bit lacking and you will have to grab the lever more to get adequate braking.   

It rolls on 17-inch wheels with 90-section front tubeless tyres on all variants. For the rear, the drum and disc variants have a 110-section tubeless tyre, while the top-end disc with Bluetooth version gets a wider 120-section tubeless tyre. The bike is quite light, weighing 137kg for the drum version and 139kg for the disc version. With a 790mm seat height, it's reasonably easy to access for shorter riders. The 180mm ground clearance is generous enough for Indian roads.

Comfort wise, the Apache RTR 160 offers a mixed experience overall. It has clip-on handlebars and footpegs that are rearset, which is good for aggressive riding but isn’t the most ideal for daily commutes. Taller riders will probably not mind the upright upper body ergonomics, but their lower half may feel cramped due to the footpegs and might not be comfortable for long rides.

The Apache RTR 160 has a fully digital instrument cluster, similar to the Apache RTR 160 4V. If you go for the Bluetooth-equipped version, you get smartphone connectivity with turn-by-turn navigation, telemetry data (like acceleration time and top speed), Call/SMS alerts, crash alert, low fuel warning, and help finding the nearest petrol pump. It's the first in its class to get riding modes, explained in the performance section. Another cool feature is the Glide Through Technology, allowing you to move at low speeds with just the clutch, no throttle needed. This works at different speeds for each gear.

The bike also has an LED headlight and taillights, but the indicators use bulbs. For safety, it comes with a single-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

It's worth noting that both the drum and the base disc versions have a fully digital instrument cluster, but without smartphone connectivity. The disc version with Bluetooth, however, gets all the smartphone features.. Fortunately, riding modes are available on all versions.

Over time, the TVS Apache RTR 160 2V had started to seem a bit old compared to newer bikes. But with the latest update, the Apache 160 is now loaded with more features, narrowing the difference with its sportier sibling, the Apache 160 4V. Summing up, if you're looking for a sporty commuter with plenty of smart features, the Apache RTR 160 2V is a solid choice.