Yamaha FZS-Fi Version 3.0 vs TVS Apache RTR 160 4V: Comparison Image Gallery

The Apache RTR 160 4V has been the undisputed king of the 150-160cc segment for quite some time now. Can the Yamaha's FZS-Fi Version 3.0 usurp its throne?

The Apache RTR 160 4V has been the undisputed king of the 150-160cc segment for quite some time now. It's the most powerful bike in its segment with features second to none. That said, can Yamaha question its rule with the 2019 FZS-Fi Version 3.0?

Also Read: Yamaha FZS-Fi vs TVS Apache RTR 160 4V: Road Test Comparison

Design And Build Quality:

The new FZS-Fi gets an even more front-heavy design with a new split LED headlight setup, and beefier tank shrouds.  

On the contrary, the Apache RTR 160 4V features a sharp and edgy design language compared to the FZ’s bulky proportions.

In terms of build quality, it's the Apache RTR 160 that takes the cake with its superior fit and finish levels. 

The FZ’s build quality isn’t up to the mark. Inconsistent panel gaps, low-quality switchgear and out of place chrome accents will leave you scratching your head. 

The FZ’s split LED headlight offers decent throw and spread which is an improvement over the FZ25 and the R15 V3.0. But it still lacks intensity, thus forcing you to strain your eyes.

While the headlight on the Apache is a conventional halogen unit, it offers better throw and spread. 

The FZ’s TFT screen is quite small and has a cramped layout, making it difficult to read at a quick glance. It gets readouts like an odometer, dual trip metres, fuel gauge, a clock along with tell-tale lights.

On the contrary, the Apache’s larger full digital instrument console comes packed with features and is a lot easier to read. It displays a lap timer, 0-60kmph timer, a top speed recorder and service indicator above the conventional readouts. 

Engine And Performance:

The FZS-Fi packs a smaller 149cc motor that’s tuned to produce less power in order to extract more fuel-efficiency. As a result, it manages a slower 0-60kmph time of 5.97 seconds and 0-100kmph time of 20.10seconds.

The meat of the power lies between 4000rpm to 7000rpm, post which the engine starts to feel strained. However, it’s the Yamaha’s meaty mid-range paired with short gear ratios which makes it a good urban commuter. 

The Apache RTR 160 4V (Carb) being the quicker of the two, shaves off almost a second off the FZ’s 0-60kmph time and a whole 5.74 seconds quicker to 100kmph. The power is delivered in a linear fashion and there’s plenty of mid-range grunt. 

It’s the tractability of the Apache’s engine that really impresses us. Be it chugging along in city traffic or pinning it on the highway, the engine always has enough power on tap. 

Interestingly, the FZ is the second-most fuel efficient bike in the 150-160cc segment we’ve tested so far. It returned a fuel-efficiency figure of 49.31kmpl in the city and 55.42kmpl out on the highway. That said, the Apache RTR 160 4V (carb) still managed to outdo the Yamaha by delivering 50.94kmpl and 56.1kmpl, respectively. 

Ergonomics:

The FZ uses a slightly taller set, easier to reach handlebar paired with somewhat rear-set footpegs. The result is a comfortable and upright riding posture. 

Besides this, the single-piece seat is well-cushioned, which means you could spend hours on the saddle without any fatigue. It's also set lower at 790mm, which is better suited for shorter riders. 

The Apache RTR 160 4V gets a sportier riding posture with slightly lower-set handlebars and higher set footpegs. Compared to the FZ, its seat is a tad on the harder side. Moreover, at 800mm it's tailored more towards the average bloke.

Ride And Handling:

The chassis and suspension setup on the RTR 160 4V offers high levels of confidence when pushing hard into corners. Despite being on the heavier side and having a longer wheelbase, it’s quick to change directions and feels stable while doing so. 

Its suspension setup soaks in bumps equally well and irons out most jolts on sharp bumps otherwise felt on the FZ.

Having said that, the FZ, with its shorter wheelbase, feels quite nimble and turns in just as quickly as the Apache RTR 160 4V. The suspension setup feels well-balanced and adds to the bike’s handling prowess. It’s chassis, however, doesn’t inspire the same confidence as the RTR 160 4V.

The brakes on the Yammie perform exceptionally well. They are progressive and offer good bite, while its single-channel ABS setup makes sure you don’t lock the front end even in slippery conditions. On the flipside, the brakes on the RTR 160 4V sans ABS lacked bite and felt quite spongy.

Verdict: 

So does the 2019 Yamaha FZS-Fi pack enough kit to hold its own against the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V in real-world conditions? The answer is, it simply doesn’t. The RTR 160 4V offers more performance, better features, is more engaging to ride, and easier on the pocket as well. A better value for money proposition we’d say. 

Even though the Apache RTR 160 4V Fi (Rs 99,101) is on par with the Yamaha offering (Rs 98,180), we still believe that the TVS is the clear winner here when it comes to offering better value while being more fun at the same time.