Hero Xtreme 160R vs TVS Apache RTR 160 4V: Image Comparison

Two of the hottest 160cc motorcycles compared via detailed images

Hero MotoCorp has launched the Xtreme 160R. This all-new bike is Hero's answer to the highly competitive 160cc segment and will directly compete with the segment leader, the Apache RTR 160 4V. Both bikes offer segment-leading features and fantastic performance. We compare both motorcycles with the help of detailed images:

Both motorcycles get sharp bodywork but the Xtreme 160R looks more sporty and compact. It also gets a more scooped out seat and grab rails integrated into the bodywork. 

Both motorcycles get LED headlamps and LED DRL's. The Xtreme goes one step further by featuring LED turn indicators instead of conventional bulb type units. 

Also read: BS6 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Apache RTR 200 4V: First Ride Review

The Xtreme 160R has a narrower tail section compared to the Apache 160 4V. Both motorcycles get an LED tail lamp. We feel that the Xtreme 160R's W-shaped tail lamp looks better than the Apache's unit. 

Both motorcycles feature digital instrument consoles. The Xtreme 160R's console gets blue backlighting and its large fonts are easier to read while the one on the Apache RTR 160 is white backlit and more comprehensive. The Xtreme 160R gets a side stand cutoff switch which it claims is a segment first feature. 

The Hero Xtreme 160R gets an all-new 163cc air-cooled and fuel-injected motor that delivers 15.2PS at 8500rpm and 14Nm at 6500rpm. The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V comes with a 159.7cc air-cooled and fuel-injected motor that puts out 16.8PS @ 8,000rpm and 14.8Nm @ 6500rpm. Hero claims the Xtreme 160R will accelerate to 60kmph from standstill in 4.7 seconds and is the quickest bike in its segment. We have yet to test both BS6 motorcycles but for reference, the BS4 Apache RTR 160 4V Carb variant under our tests did the 0-60kmph run in 5.04 seconds. The Xtreme 160R's motor gets a 2-valve head while the Apache RTR 160 gets a 4-valve head. We expect the Xtreme 160R to offer better bottom end performance and the Apache RTR 160 4V to offer better top-end performance. Both motorcycles get a 5-speed gearbox. 

The Xtreme 160R gets an all-new diamond-type single downtube frame that uses the motor as a stressed member. It gets 37mm forks and a 7-step adjustable monoshock. Braking is via a 276mm front disc and a 130mm drum with single-channel ABS. The top-spec variant gets a 220mm petal disc at the back. It gets 100/80-17 front and a radial 130/70-R17 tyre at the back. 

The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V gets a double-cradle frame and suspension in the form of telescopic forks and a monoshock. Braking is via a 270mm front disc and 130mm rear drum with the top-spec variant getting a 200mm rear disc. It too gets single-channel ABS. The RTR 160 4V gets 90/90-17 front and 110/80-17 rear (130/70-17 for rear disc variant). The Xtreme 160R gets larger brakes, so expect the Hero to be better at braking than the TVS.

Both motorcycles get a fairly upright riding stance. At 790mm the Xtreme 160R's seat height is 10mm lower than that of the Apache RTR 160 4V. The Apache, however, has 13mm more ground clearance than the Xtreme. Both get a 12-litre fuel tank. At 139.5kg, the Xtreme 150R is a substantial 9.5kg lighter than the Apache RTR 160 4V. 

The Hero Xtreme 160R comes in two variants -- Single disc (Rs 99,950) and dual disc (Rs 1,03,500). Similarly, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4v is available in two variants --  Single disc (Rs 1,02,950) and dual disc (Rs 1,06,000)(both prices ex-showroom Delhi). The Xtreme 160R is Rs 3,000 more affordable than the Apache RTR 1604V. it offers better brake components and even looks better. The Apache though gets a more sophisticated motor. On paper, the two motorcycles are evenly matched. We will be riding both bikes soon to get a clearer verdict. Stay tuned for the comparison road test review.