Ever since the inception of the TVS Apache brand in 2006, It has always been well ahead of its time. As a school kid, it was on the list of motorcycles I wanted to own once I grew up. Incorporating new Petal Disc Brakes for better heat dispersion and also the introduction of the Fuel Injection (FI) system back then, the RTR 160 brought with it quite a list of firsts when launched initially. TVS has updated the 2V version of this motorcycle for 2023, and the latest iteration comes with subtle styling and feature updates.

The changes in styling include an updated LED headlight and tail-light design while the rest of the motorcycle’s silhouette essentially remains the same. It now gets Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation and three ride modes added to its feature list, with the RTR 160 4V’s digital instrument cluster. Along with this, the SmartXConnect app also provides the rider with race telemetry logs and crash alerts. Another development that works in its favour is the TVS Glide Through Technology (GTT) which helps in traffic, not to mention a fairly light clutch.

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The Apache RTR 160 2V continues to use the single-cylinder, air-cooled 159.7cc engine but manages to dish out a little more power, amounting to 15.8 bhp at 8750 rpm. The ride modes are clever on the part of TVS, as the Urban and Rain modes simply limit the revs and thus limit the power output, while the Sport mode lets one push it to its limits. In Sport mode, the throttle response is crisp, and the bike accelerates as one would expect of an Apache, reaching 120kph with ease, keeping in mind the Racing DNA that the brand prides itself upon.

Coming to the RTR 160 2V’s riding ergonomics, one immediately notices that, given the sporty and aggressive riding position, it does feel slightly cramped. Having said that, the bike handles really well and is also very easily manoeuvrable through traffic. The suspension setup is fairly plush and irons out most of the undulations on the road, while also feeling a bit too soft on harsher bumps. TVS has also managed to shave off around 2 kg as compared to the previous iteration. The braking setup feels decently confidence-inducing, featuring single-channel ABS with varying levels depending on the ride mode selected. The Sport mode gives more control to the rider while the Rain mode gives the ABS a tighter hold on the reins.

All in all, the updates given to the Apache RTR 160 2V seem to be good enough to keep the bike as current as possible with a base design spanning about a decade in the market. It is a good motorcycle, easy to ride and also offers decent fuel efficiency, all attributes that the Indian consumer would generally take into consideration while making a purchase. The motorcycle will resonate well with younger buyers who are looking for their first motorcycle. Given the sportiness of the bike, as well as the sheer brand value it has built over time, it can be expected to make itself a decent space in the market.