TVS Apache RTR 160 – The Perfect Balance of Style, Mileage, and Fun
The TVS Apache RTR 160 is one of the most popular bikes in India for middle-class riders who want style, comfort, and performance all in one package. This bike is not just about looks—it also gives excellent mileage, making it practical for daily commuting.
I personally rode the Apache RTR 160 and was impressed with its mileage. I consistently got around 55 kilometers per liter, which is very high for a 160cc bike. This makes it one of the most fuel-efficient bikes in its category. Even though the bike is a normal commuter, it has a sports-type design that makes it look stylish and aggressive on the road.
TVS has designed this bike keeping in mind middle-class buyers who want both performance and value. The bike has a smooth engine, powerful pickup, and fun handling, which makes it enjoyable for city rides and short highway trips.
Before buying, it is important to understand the complete specifications of this bike. Here are the 7 major specifications of the TVS Apache RTR 160, explained in very simple English.
TVS APACHE RTR 160 BIKE SPECIFICATION
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 159.7cc, SI, 4 stroke, oil cooled SOHC' fuel injected, single cylinder |
| Max power | 17.55 PS @ 9250 rpm |
| Max torque | 14.73 Nm @ 7250 rpm |
| Transmission | 5 speed manual |
| Clutch | Slipper clutch |
| Cooling system | Oil cooled with ram air assist |
| Ride modes | Sport, Urban, Rain |
| ABS | Dual channel ABS |
| Front suspension | 37 mm upside down forks |
| Rear suspension | Monoshock |
| Front Brake | 270 mm disc |
| Rear Brake | 200 mm disc |
| Front tyre | 90/90-17 |
| Rear tyre | 130/79-17 |
| Seat height | 800 mm |
| Ground clearance | 180 mm |
| Curb weight | 146 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity | 12 liters |
| Top speed | 130 km/h |
| Mileage | 45 to 55 km/l |
| Extra features | Glide through technology, adjustable levers, bullpup exhaust design, hazard warning lights |
| Ex showroom price | 1.40 lakh in delhi |
1. Engine
The heart of the Apache RTR 160 is its 159.7cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. This engine is capable of producing around 13 horsepower at 8000 RPM and 13.9 Nm of torque at 6500 RPM.
In simple words, the engine is powerful enough for city rides, daily commutes, and occasional highway speeds. It gives smooth acceleration, so overtaking slower vehicles is easy. Even at full load, the engine feels stable and responsive.
The best part is that the engine is very fuel-efficient, which is why I managed to get 55 km per liter while riding. For riders who want a combination of mileage and moderate power, this engine is perfect.
2. Mileage
Mileage is one of the strongest points of the Apache RTR 160. With a claimed mileage of 50-55 km/l, it is very economical for daily use.
In simple English, this means you can travel long distances without worrying about fuel costs. For example, a full tank of 12 liters can take you more than 600 kilometers. This makes it ideal for students, office goers, and anyone who commutes daily.
Even though the bike has a sports-style design, it does not compromise on fuel efficiency. This is why many riders consider it the best value-for-money bike in its category.
3. Design and Styling
The TVS Apache RTR 160 looks aggressive and modern. It has sharp lines, a muscular fuel tank, a stylish headlamp, and a digital instrument console. The bike looks like a proper sports bike, but it is actually designed for commuter use.
The front headlamp is a halogen projector type, giving clear visibility during night rides. The body panels are sculpted to make the bike look sporty, and the alloy wheels enhance its premium appearance.
In simple terms, this bike stands out in traffic. People will notice its sharp design, and it gives a sense of pride to the rider. Even though it is not a full-fledged race bike, it gives a sporty feeling while riding.
4. Transmission
The Apache RTR 160 comes with a 5-speed manual gearbox. This gearbox is smooth and easy to handle, making gear shifts comfortable for beginners and experienced riders alike.
In simple English, this means you can ride smoothly in city traffic or shift gears quickly on highways. The gear ratios are designed to balance power and fuel efficiency. Whether you are riding at 40 km/h in the city or pushing the bike to 100 km/h on highways, the transmission feels precise and responsive.
The clutch is light, so even beginners can handle the bike without tiring their hands.
5. Braking and Safety
Safety is an important factor, and the Apache RTR 160 comes with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Some variants also offer rear disc brakes. Additionally, the bike is equipped with single-channel ABS, which helps prevent wheel lock during sudden braking.
In simple words, the brakes are reliable and give confidence during city traffic or rainy conditions. The bike stops smoothly and quickly, and the ABS provides extra safety for beginners and daily riders.
The braking setup makes the bike suitable for both city roads and short highway rides.
6. Suspension and Ride Comfort
The suspension system of the Apache RTR 160 is tuned for both comfort and stability. It comes with telescopic front forks and monoshock rear suspension.
In simple English, this means the bike absorbs bumps and potholes well. You can ride comfortably on rough city roads or broken streets. The rear monoshock ensures that the bike stays stable even when riding with a passenger or luggage.
Overall, the ride quality is balanced. It is not too stiff like a racing bike, and it is not too soft like a cruiser. It is perfect for daily commuting and occasional weekend rides.
7. Features and Instrument Console
The Apache RTR 160 comes with modern features for convenience and style. The digital instrument cluster displays speed, RPM, fuel level, trip meter, and gear position. Some variants even have a fully digital console with additional features like lap timer and economy indicator.
The bike also has stylish LED indicators, a sporty handlebar design, and comfortable seating for both rider and pillion.
In simple words, the bike is not just powerful and fuel-efficient; it also offers convenience features that make riding enjoyable. The digital console helps you monitor the bike’s performance and plan rides efficiently.
Why Apache RTR 160 is Perfect for Middle-Class Riders
The Apache RTR 160 is designed keeping in mind the needs of middle-class riders in India. It is stylish, powerful, fuel-efficient, and affordable. It offers a sporty feel without the high maintenance cost of a premium sports bike.
The bike is light, weighing around 138 kg, which makes it easy to handle in city traffic. Its top speed is around 110-115 km/h, which is sufficient for highway rides. The combination of power, mileage, and style makes it a great daily rider.
Personal Riding Experience
Riding the Apache RTR 160 is fun and comfortable. The bike handles corners well and feels stable even at higher speeds. The engine pickup is smooth, and the gear shifts are precise.
I also noticed that the bike performs well even in stop-and-go traffic. The fuel efficiency stays high, and the suspension makes long rides comfortable. The sports-style design gives a sense of excitement every time you ride.
Even though it is not a full-fledged racing bike, it gives a sporty experience for everyday riding.
MY OPINION
The TVS Apache RTR 160 is a perfect choice for those looking for a commuter bike with a sporty feel. It is beautiful, reliable, and economical, making it suitable for students, office goers, and middle-class riders.
The 7 specifications—engine, mileage, design, transmission, braking, suspension, and features—show that this bike provides a balance of power, comfort, and value for money.
In very simple words: if you want a bike that looks stylish, gives excellent mileage, and is fun to ride every day, the Apache RTR 160 is one of the best options under 160cc in India.
It may not compete with high-end sports bikes, but it is designed for practical riders who want a mix of style, mileage, and performance.
Whether you are commuting in the city, riding on highways, or just enjoying weekend rides, the Apache RTR 160 will not disappoint.
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