The TVS Apache RTR 160 has been a favorite among young riders in India for years, blending sporty looks with everyday usability. In 2025, TVS has given it meaningful updates like dual-channel ABS, OBD2B compliance, and stylish red alloy wheels, making it safer and more appealing.
TVS Motor Company, known for its racing heritage, has evolved the Apache series into a lineup that emphasizes performance without compromising on reliability.
The RTR 160, as the entry-level Apache, targets urban riders who want agility and efficiency. For 2025, the focus is on safety enhancements and minor cosmetic tweaks, ensuring it stays competitive in the 160cc segment. This bike isn’t about radical changes but about refining what works, delivering a ride that’s fun, fuel-efficient, and budget-friendly.
Design and Aesthetics
The TVS Apache RTR 160 sports a muscular, street-fighter stance that’s instantly recognizable. Its compact dimensions – 2035 mm long, 790 mm wide, and 1050 mm tall – make it nimble in crowded streets. The wheelbase measures 1300 mm, striking a balance between stability and quick turns, while the 180 mm ground clearance handles rough patches well. At 790 mm, the seat height is accessible for most riders, including shorter ones, promoting confidence from the get-go.
For 2025, the design gets a fresh twist with red alloy wheels that add a sporty flair. The aggressive headlamp cluster features LED DRLs for better visibility and a modern edge. The fuel tank is sculpted for knee grip, flowing into sharp side panels and a split-seat setup with grab rails. The exhaust is a bullpup style, contributing to the bike’s sporty sound and lightweight feel.
Color options are diverse to suit different tastes. You can choose from Pearl White for a clean look, Gloss Black for sophistication, Racing Red for boldness, Matte Blue for a subtle vibe, T Grey for neutrality, Matte Black for stealth, and Glossy Black Black Edition for an all-black theme. These shades are durable, resisting fades from sun exposure. The kerb weight ranges from 137 kg to 140 kg depending on the variant, keeping it light for easy handling. Accessories like tank protectors and crash guards are available, backed by TVS’s warranty for added customization.
Engine and Performance
Powering the 2025 TVS Apache RTR 160 is a 159.7cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine with BS6 Phase 2 compliance and OBD2B updates for cleaner emissions. It produces 15.82 bhp at 8,750 rpm and 13.85 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm, offering peppy acceleration for city overtakes. The Race Tuned Fuel Injection (RT-Fi) system ensures smooth power delivery, and the five-speed gearbox is slick for seamless shifts.
A standout feature is the Glide Through Technology (GTT), which lets you crawl in traffic without throttling, reducing fatigue. The engine’s refinement minimizes vibrations at cruising speeds, though some buzz creeps in above 80 kmph. For 2025, the power output feels optimized for real-world use, with strong low-end torque for quick starts.
Mileage is a strong suit, with ARAI claiming 47 kmpl. In real-world conditions, users report around 45 kmpl in mixed city and highway riding, making it economical for daily commutes. The 12-liter fuel tank provides a decent range of over 500 km on a full tank. Maintenance is straightforward, with air-cooled simplicity and easy access to components.
Features and Technology
TVS has loaded the 2025 Apache RTR 160 with practical tech to enhance the riding experience. The digital instrument cluster is crisp, showing speed, fuel gauge, trip meters, and gear position. Higher variants include SmartXonnect Bluetooth connectivity, pairing with your phone for turn-by-turn navigation, call alerts, and ride telemetry via the TVS app. Voice assist adds convenience for hands-free operation.
Ride modes Urban, Rain, and Sport adjust throttle response and ABS intervention. Urban mode smooths out low-speed rides, Rain enhances braking on wet surfaces, and Sport unleashes full power for spirited runs. A feather-touch electric start is standard, and the bike features a USB charging port for on-the-go device power.
Lighting is all-LED for the headlamp and taillamp, improving energy efficiency and visibility. The 2025 model includes adjustable levers on top variants for better ergonomics. These features make the Apache RTR 160 feel premium, especially at its price point.
Ride and Handling
Riding the TVS Apache RTR 160 in 2025 is a delight for urban environments. The telescopic front forks and twin gas-charged rear shocks absorb bumps effectively, with the updated setup offering better compliance over potholes. The upright posture is comfortable for long hours, and the split seat provides good cushioning for rider and pillion.
In traffic, the bike’s light weight and narrow profile allow easy lane filtering. On highways, it cruises steadily at 80-90 kmph, with a top speed around 107 kmph. Cornering is confident thanks to the double-cradle frame and tubeless tires – 90/90-17 front and 110/80-17 rear on base models, upgrading to 120/70-17 on higher ones for superior grip.
The five-speed gearbox pairs well with the engine, and GTT shines in stop-go situations. Riders note improved stability with the 2025 updates, though high-speed vibrations are still present. Overall, it’s a balanced handler that’s forgiving for beginners yet engaging for experienced users.
Safety Aspects
Safety gets a big boost in the 2025 model with dual-channel ABS on the top variant, preventing wheel lockups during hard braking. The front 270 mm disc and rear 130 mm drum or 200 mm disc provide strong stopping power, with progressive feel. Single-channel ABS is available on mid variants for added security.
The LED lights ensure you’re seen by others, and the sturdy frame offers decent crash protection. Tubeless tires reduce puncture risks, and the low center of gravity aids stability at low speeds. While it lacks traction control, the basics are solid, making it a safe choice for daily riding.
Variants and Pricing in 2025
The TVS Apache RTR 160 offers six variants to cater to different budgets. The base RM Drum Black Edition starts at INR 1,18,142 ex-showroom, with basic features. The RM Drum is INR 1,22,824, followed by RM Disc at INR 1,26,324. The RM Disc Bluetooth adds connectivity for INR 1,29,624. The Racing Edition, with sporty graphics, is INR 1,31,102. The top Dual Channel ABS variant costs INR 1,34,320 ex-showroom.
On-road prices vary: around INR 1,46,564 in Delhi, INR 1,50,000 in Mumbai, and INR 1,48,000 in Bangalore. These prices position it well against rivals, offering great value with the latest safety tech.
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