TVS Apache RR 310

In its 7th year of production, the Apache RR 310 has finally undergone a few changes since its launch back in 2017. I’ve ridden it extensively in the city as a long termer, and taken it on weekend tours. But this time around I had the opportunity to test TVS’s flagship model on track. 

Ever since its inception, it has seen some timely updates ranging from feature additions, new paint schemes and better hardware. But, with this year's update TVS took a slightly bigger leap by working on the bikes performance, adding some design bits and of course, more tech. But the core package still remains the same. 

The biggest question I had before heading to test the bike was: does the RR 310 still make the heart race in today’s competitive sub-400 motorcycle market.

Now visually, the 2025 TVS Apache RR 310 is pretty similar to the original model. And this has its own positives and negatives. Positive, because the overall design still turns heads, and negative, because some parts feel dated.

What’s new for 2025 is the addition of some aero, a pair of winglets up front. TVS claims the new winglets generate up to 3kg of downforce – which, to be fair, isn’t a game-changer on a bike that tops out around 160 kmph. That said, they still serve a visual purpose, giving the front end a meaner, more race-bred look. Think of them more as form over function, unless you’re genuinely trying to cut lap times at the track.

Adding to the drama is a transparent clutch cover, an almost Ducati-ish touch that I personally love. It’s not only eye-catching, but adds a bit of flair to the bike. The cherry on the cake is the new 8-spoke alloy wheels – a long overdue update that gives the bike a fresher look. What’s more, is the new colour scheme – Sepang Blue Race Replica (exclusive to the BTO variant), which is absolutely stunning and makes the bike look like a proper track weapon.

That said, I really feel TVS should have reworked the bodywork, just enough to keep things visually appealing.

Colours

The Sepang Blue Race Replica along with the previously added Bomber Grey paint scheme look fantastic in person and definitely stands out. That said, TVS still retains the flashy Racing Red livery which should have at least received a sticker update in my opinion.

Wheels

You now get new 8-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in premium 110/70 front and 150/60 rear Michelin Road 5 tyres, which I’ll get to in the handling section because they genuinely elevate the riding experience.

Quality

Thanks to TVS’ partnership with BMW, its high-quality standards are hard to beat, and this is where the RR 310 truly shines. The plastic quality, paint finish, and panel gaps are segment-leading. The tactile feel of the switchgear feels premium, and even after some aggressive track sessions and city riding, nothing felt flimsy or out of place.

Safety features

Staying true to its sportbike pedigree, the RR 310 doesn’t skimp on safety. You get a host of safety features like cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control, launch control, and cornering engine braking control as part of the new optional Dynamic Pro Kit. These features were active during my track session, and I could feel the electronics doing its job without making it overly intrusive, especially when trail braking or leaning hard into bends.

Convenience features

There’s a lot to talk about here so I’ll try to make it simple. You get the following as standard but you can add a bunch of hardware and software features for some extra moolah.

Base variant with QS and above: 

• TFT display: Still one of the best in this price range. Now more refined in layout, supports multiple languages, and dual theme UI (black/white).

• Quickshifter: Works well, especially at higher revs.

• Adjustable levers: Offered as standard across variants, they add a touch of customization and comfort.

• Cruise control: A godsend during my short touring stint.

• Riding modes: Urban, Rain, Sport, and Track – each noticeably alters the bike’s behavior.

• Voice Assist: Now available through SmartXonnect app integration.

• Sequential LED turn indicators: New for 2025, and look sharp and premium.

Optional kits

Dynamic kit (additional ?18,000):

• Adjustable suspension (front and rear)

• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

• Brass-coated drive chain

Dynamic pro kit (additional ?16,000):

• Cornering ABS

• Cornering traction control

• Wheelie control

• Launch control

• Cornering cruise control

• Engine braking control

If you're into weekend rides or the occasional track day, I'd say both kits are worth considering.

Rider Comfort

At 810mm, the seat height is manageable for most average-sized riders. I’m 5’10” and could flat-foot it easily. The ergonomics feel sporty but aren’t overly committed. On the racetrack, it felt just right – supportive, engaging, and confidence-inspiring.

In the city, however, that committed posture makes it less forgiving. My wrists began to feel the strain during slow-moving traffic, and I also started feeling the heat from the engine. I’d say the heat dissipation was decent, but not great. 

On a recent 300km weekend ride, I noticed that cruising between 80-100 kmph is where the bike feels happiest. The seat foam is firm, and it does get a bit tiring after 2 hours of continuous riding, but nothing unbearable.

Pillion Comfort

Let’s be honest, the pillion seat is more of an emergency accommodation than anything else. It’s compact, and the lack of grab rails doesn’t help either. While it's okay for shorter stints, I wouldn't subject anyone to it on a highway run.

Here’s where TVS went all out for 2025. The updated Apache RR 310 is powered by a reworked 312.2cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, with internal upgrades like forged pistons, a larger airbox, and a bigger throttle body. 

This translates to a bump in power, 4PS and 2Nm more than the previous-gen model. That unleashes the full 38PS and 39Nm in Track Mode. These changes make the engine feel more lively, especially in the mid-to-top range. I also noticed that the throttle response improved to a decent extent. The bike pulls more freely towards its redline.

City performance

Throttle inputs are clean, and gearshifts are even crisper. Even without shifting often, the bike feels tractable at low speeds thanks to GTT+. It essentially lets the bike gently move forward when you ease off the clutch – no throttle needed. It’s smooth, stalls less, and makes crawling through traffic feel almost effortless. It’s especially useful in bumper-to-bumper situations or for newer riders still getting used to clutch control.

That said, you’ll feel some vibration in lower gears at crawling speeds. But I’d say it’s still better than the older RR and definitely more refined than the RTR 310.

Highway performance

Cruising at 100 – 110kmph is effortless with oodles of power left in reserve for quick overtakes. As for the windblast, it’s well-managed until 120 kmph. Above that though, you start fighting the elements, but it isn’t too bad.

Gearbox

The shifts are slick and well-spaced through the rev-range. The clutch action is light, making stop-and-go traffic manageable. And with the quickshifter engaged in Sport or Track mode, upshifts feel seamless. That said, it occasionally did feel a bit clunky in the lower gears, especially while downshifting in city traffic.

Mileage 

Considering the RR 310 sits in the sub-400cc category, its real-world numbers are pretty decent for a bike of this size and performance level.

The stock setup with USD forks and a monoshock is definitely on the firmer side. It holds up well in the city but really comes into its own on smooth, open roads. I got to try the optional adjustable suspension (part of the Dynamic Kit), and with a bit of tweaking, found a sweet spot that soaked up bumps without going soft or wallowy. 

For most riders, the standard suspension will do just fine. But if you're particular about damping or plan to tour often, the Dynamic Kit is well worth considering.

Underpinnings

The split trellis frame, combined with its aggressive geometry, gives the RR 310 a sharp, agile feel. It doesn’t just tip into corners, it flows through them with confidence. The adjustable suspension adds another level of control, letting me fine-tune the ride to match my style and the road conditions.

Brakes

The RR 310 is equipped with a 300mm petal disc up front and a 240mm disc at the rear, offering strong and progressive braking performance. Even under hard, late braking into corners, the bike stayed composed and held its line confidently without any drama. The lever feel is reassuring, though I did find myself wishing for a bit more initial bite to really round off the experience.

City handling

In traffic, the bike feels a little wide, and the sporty riding position isn’t the most comfortable. But thanks to the light clutch and smooth engine, it’s still manageable. It does feel a bit heavy when squeezing through tight gaps.

Highway handling

Straight-line stability is solid. The RR 310 stays planted even near 130kmph, and crosswinds don’t unsettle it much.

Cornering

This is where the RR 310 truly shines. The Michelin Road 5 tyres are fantastic – they warm up quickly and offer excellent grip, giving you loads of confidence in corners. Even if you get your line slightly wrong, the bike settles in fast. The only downside? The footpegs tend to scrape a bit too early. A little more cornering clearance would’ve made the experience even better.

So, does the Apache RR 310 still make sense in 2025? After spending a good chunk of time with it, on the track and off, I’d say yes. It’s one of those bikes that grows on you the more you ride it. City commutes feel manageable thanks to its smooth throttle and light clutch. On the highway, it’s stable, comfortable, and can cruise all day. And when you open it up on a fast set of corners, it reminds you that it was built with performance in mind.

That said, it’s not perfect. The design hasn’t changed much in years, and if you’re a taller rider, you might find the riding triangle a bit tight. And if your weekends are all about shaving seconds off lap times, the KTM RC 390 still feels like the sharper scalpel.

But for everyone else, for riders who want a good-looking, feature-rich sportbike that can tour, commute, and still make you smile on a twisty road, the RR 310 still hits a sweet spot.

Variants

My pick: Dynamic kit – Since it offers the best balance of price and equipment.

The RC 390 was designed for the track with lightweight components, razor-sharp handling, and hair-raising performance for the price. Then there's the R15 V4 -- perfect for intermediate to pro riders looking to hone their skills. It's razor sharp, has an aggressive riding posture, and a peppy engine that pulls all the way to the red line thanks to VVA. 

The Kawasaki Ninja 300, though old, packs a parallel twin engine, which stands out for its ultra-smooth refinement. Meanwhile, the BMW G 310 RR shares its platform with the Apache RR 310 but makes less power and offers basic equipment. The only positive, so to speak, is that it's slightly more polished and offers an upmarket experience thanks to the Bavarian badge. Overall, the RR 310 still holds its own as a well-rounded machine. Its only real rival in terms of outright performance and dynamics is the KTM RC 390.