TVS Apache RTR 160 2V BS6: Same Price, Other Options

Another TVS bike has gone BS6. But what else can you get for a similar price?

At first glance, nothing seems new on the new Apache RTR 160 2V. And that’s because most of the updates have been made under the surface, to the motor. The only apparent change is the new paint scheme offered on this BS6 update. A closer look will reveal an additional catalytic converter on the exhaust downtube, and this is now accompanied by a fuel-injection system. Which is why prices have gone up by close to Rs 6,000, with the disc brake variant now setting you back by Rs 96,500. So if an ageing Apache isn’t your cup of tea, what else can you pick up for similar money?

Yamaha FZ-Fi

You can get yourself a more modern, more refined Japanese naked instead. The build quality and premiumness will come at the cost of engine displacement and output, though. The FZ-Fi is powered by a 149cc motor producing 12.4PS and 14Nm.

A cheque for Rs 99,200 is what it’ll take to buy yourself a brand-new FZ, and that is a tad more than the RTR. But for that premium, you also get bulletproof Yamaha reliability.

Bajaj Avenger 220 Street/Cruise

If you’re looking for a more laid back (quite literally) riding experience, a cruiser might be more to your liking. One that’s available in this price range is the Bajaj Avenger 220 in its Street and Cruise variants.

The former sports alloy wheels and digital instrumentation while the latter offers a more classic look with its wire-spoke wheels, analogue meters and large front screen. Both are identically priced at Rs 1,05,088.

Honda CB Hornet 160R

Another Japanese naked available in this displacement and price range is the popular Honda CB Hornet 160R. The bike features quite a sporty design with its large, edgy tank extensions.

Power comes from a 162.71cc motor producing 15.1PS and 14.5Nm, so while it is less powerful than the RTR, it does pack in a little more torque. If this sounds like your cup of tea, you can pick up the top-end ABS DLX variant for Rs 95,542.

Hero XPulse

If you want your adventure to continue even once the road ends, then the best tool for the job would be, erm, an adventure bike. The only one available in this price range is the Hero XPulse 200.

It may be the most affordable adventure bike on sale, but it’s still loaded to the brim with equipment. Digital instrumentation, an LED headlight, a 21-inch/19-inch wheel combo and a massive 220mm of ground clearance make it plenty capable. All this can be yours for just Rs 98,500 for the carbureted variant.

Suzuki Gixxer

The Suzuki Gixxer has been one of the most popular models in this displacement range for quite some time now. Recently updated with an LED headlight and neo-retro styling, it's now priced at Rs 1,00,212.

It continues to be powered by the same 155cc motor but is now fuel-injected and produces 14.1PS and 14Nm, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. This being a Suzuki, refinement is a given.

*all prices ex-showroom