TVS Apache RTR 300 To Be Launched In Mid-2017

The Apache RTR 300 has been TVS’ most anticipated model ever since the debut of its concept, the Akula 310, at the 2016 Indian Auto Expo. With a number of near-production variants of the motorcycle being spied in the country, the launch date certainly seems to be imminent. Ending the speculation, Arun Siddharth, vice president (marketing), motorcycles, TVS Motor Company, has confirmed that a bike in the sub-500cc segment will be launched in July or August, thus hinting at the Apache RTR 300. Also read: TVS Akula 310 Spied Without Camouflage

The Apache RTR 300 (or Akula 310) shares the powerplant with its German cousin, the BMW G 310 R, and the engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox. While technical details of the bike are not revealed, expect the bike’s power delivery to be differently tuned to match its intent. The Akula’s output will be relatively more easygoing than its nearest competitor, the KTM RC 390. For a clearer perspective, the RC390’s 373.3cc engine produces 43.5PS at 9000rpm and 36Nm peak torque at 7000rpm, while the BMW G 310 R’s 313cc engine puts out 33.9PS at 9500rpm and 28Nm of torque at 7500rpm. It is also expected that the Akula’s refinement will be better than KTM.

Being the flagship, TVS has not cut corners when it comes to equipping the bike with top-spec parts. The Apache RTR 300 gets a steel trellis frame, all-LED lights, digital instrument cluster, split seats, and full-fairing with a large windscreen. Suspension duties are taken care by inverted forks with gold finish at the front and a monoshock at the rear. The alloys and exhaust design seem to have been borrowed from the G 310 R. When it comes to brakes, the bike is equipped with petal discs at both ends and ABS is likely to be standard. The wheels are wrapped with Michelins, so expect good grip and balanced handling.

When launched, the bike will compete with the KTM RC 390, Kawasaki Ninja 300 and the upcoming Benelli Tornado 302R. The pricing is expected to be competitive, considering the technology-sharing between TVS and the German marque BMW Motorrad. It is speculated that the motorcycle will be priced in the region of Rs 2-2.5 lakh, ex-showroom.

Source: ET Auto