TVS Ronin

The TVS Ronin is a unique neo-retro motorcycle that combines the design attributes and riding characteristics of both cruisers and roadsters. Creating a niche of its own, the TVS Ronin is a good choice of motorcycle for those who want something different from the usual sporty commuters in the 150-250cc category.

The TVS Ronin is a mix of design elements from different bike types, giving it a unique appearance. The Ronin has a rounded all-LED headlamp with a T-shaped LED DRL in the middle and a minimalist curved tail section with an LED tail light. The motorcycle features a muscular fuel tank, boxy side panels, sleek triangular LED turn indicators, rearview mirrors, and machined alloy wheels. The fuel tank of the Ronin looks bulky, and is the most muscular-looking element of the motorcycle.

Powering the TVS Ronin is an all-new single-cylinder, air-cooled, 225.9cc engine, which produces 20.4PS @ 7,750rpm of maximum power and 19.93Nm @ 3,750rpm of maximum torque. This engine has ample power in the lower RPMs, which allows the rider to ride the motorcycle in higher gears at lower speeds. However, vibrations do creep in while riding at higher speeds.

This newly developed engine by TVS has a feature called 'Glide Through Traffic' that assists at low rpm in all gears. This feature allows the motorcycle to move forward without throttle input in slow traffic with the right control of the clutch. Riding in 5th gear feels effortless, as even at speeds as low as 30kmph, it doesn't require frequent gear changes.

The TVS Ronin seems less powerful on open roads or highways and shows strain and vibrations when pushed hard at higher speeds. The slow high-end performance limits its cruising abilities. Though, the Ronin offers a comfortable ride at around 80-90kmph, providing a relaxed riding experience with reduced vibrations. However, the bike's power delivery when it is cruising at triple-digit speeds feels less exciting and requires significant effort to maintain those speeds. In terms of mileage, you can expect about 42.95kmpl in city riding conditions and around 40.77kmpl on highways from the TVS Ronin.

Despite a relaxed rake angle inspired by cruisers, the TVS Ronin handles well around corners like a roadster. Thanks to a wide handlebar and upright riding posture, navigating through traffic is quite comfortable on the Ronin. The brakes - 300mm disc at the front and 240mm disc at the rear - are decent but a rider needs to apply more pressure on the lever for aggressive braking. After an initial strong bite, the brakes tend to feel spongy.

The 41mm inverted fork and monoshock with 7-step preload adjustability on the TVS Ronin are well-tuned to manage both gentle and low-speed undulations. It absorbs the most harsh bumps effectively, making the ride more comfortable.

The TVS Ronin comes loaded with contemporary features, with the highlight being the single-pod LCD instrument console. It offers standard information and smartphone connectivity (exclusive to the TD variant), although getting used to the compact digital instrument cluster can take time.

The Ronin's fit and finish levels are impressive. The switchgear feels robust, the body panels are well-assembled and the wiring is neatly concealed. The all-LED illumination for the headlamp, tail lamp and turn indicators makes this motorcycle look modern. Along with a slip-and-assist clutch, the TVS Ronin also gets two ABS modes - Road and Rain.

The TVS Ronin is a well-equipped city commuter motorcycle priced between Rs 1,49,200 and Rs 1,72,700 (ex-showroom Delhi). While it lacks the sportiness factor, it offers solid features, robustness and performance for its price range. The Ronin is for those who want something unique to look at while being decently comfortable and powerful for daily city riding and occasional highway rides.