TVS Apache RTR 200 4V 2020 Review - Prices, Specs, Technology, Features and Mileage

What’s at the heart of 2020 TVS Apache RTR 200 4V?

What is the power source of All-new Apache RTR 200 4V?

The Apache series of motorcycles from TVS have always been about accessible performance. The 2020 TVS Apache RTR 200 4V stays true to this ideology and the onslaught of BS6 norms have done very little damage to the performance. Power is very slightly down and so is the torque but that’s just on paper. Once you twist the throttle, there is no variation whatsoever. The oil-cooled engine holds on pretty well and the strong mid-range torque also makes the Apache a very competent touring machine.

The highlighting feature of Apache RTR 200 4V is its bassy exhaust note which has gotten better with the 2020 iteration. Standardisation of fuel injection has made the power delivery linear and precise. The instant response when you twist the throttle is noteworthy and improves the riding experience. There are no vibrations from this motor even at higher RPMs.

The only other competitor that provides such a balanced performance character is the Yamaha FZ 25. Both of them are highly capable machines both for short sprints as well as those long rides. But the added premium and 50 cubic cm of engine volume doesn’t bring about any noticeable bump in performance. Bajaj Pulsar 200NS is more of an excited school kid who wants candies, abrupt in performance. Hero’s offering is the most sober one of the lot.

How quick is the Apache from 0-60?

The fuel injection makes acceleration a pleasing affair. Twist the throttle and you’ll be treated to a soothing symphony of a bassy exhaust note and vanishing tarmac. The MRF Nylogrip tyres help put all of the engine’s power on the road without any loss.

It tops out at 128 kmph which is not class-leading and that is due to the added weight and sober nature of the engine. But the early torque curve helps it achieve 60 kmph much quicker. The 5-Speed gearbox is timed healthily and you won’t feel the need for extra gear. 

The wider torque band gives Apache its linear acceleration which makes the motorcycle more tamable. The Bajaj Pulsar NS200 varies largely in this as the high revving engine demands you to be aggressive. If your touring companion owns a Yamaha FZ 25, then the journey would be very much alike as both the motorcycles showcase similar characteristics.

How bitey are the brakes on this Apache?

You needn’t worry about braking in the Apache RTR 200 4V as it is as sharp as its body lines! The dual-channel ABS makes sure to keep your confidence at 100% and activates when needed, in a linear manner. The rear ABS also comes with anti-lift which helps vastly in case of hard braking.

The unique design of disc rotors helps in better dissipation of heat. This keeps the braking in full form even after a few laps on the track or the backroads. The added kerb weight doesn't fiddle or change the braking performance.

The linear brake action keeps the actuation sober but when it comes to braking distance, it suffers. The difference is not much but can change the rider’s perception. TVS has given its performance offering the smallest front rotors of this lot. Ironically, rear ones are the largest which also helps in better braking at corners.

Does the 2020 Apache provide an efficient ride?

TVS has invested a lot of time and effort to build this sweet machine and they didn’t leave any table unturned, even efficiency. The double-barrel exhaust system was made keeping efficiency in mind as much as its note. Apache RTR 200 4V has a fine blend of performance and efficiency. It returns an overall mileage of almost 40 kmph which is very impressive for the amount of torque it delivers.

The lighter engine components also contribute to the mileage numbers. TVS has coated the cylinders with a layer of Molybdenum disulphide. This particular coating is called nanofriks coating. This reduces dry friction which in turn helps the piston to move freely and thus improve both efficiency and performance.

The Apache has a 12 litres fuel capacity which is cleanly tucked behind that chiselled fuel tank. This sums up for a decent riding range that will be sufficient for your urban needs and a weekend ride is also a no-frills agenda for this TVS.

How well does the Apache tackle our road conditions?

Is the RTR 200 4V as sharp a handler as it looks?

Ten years of development on the race track has fared us with a unique handling motorcycle from TVS. It can change its character at will as the Apache RTR 200 4V can be a hoonigan on the track and when it’s not flexing its muscles, a daily commuter. The wider power band enables it to take situations calmly and thus make it adaptable.

The beefy front forks and rear mono-shock do a good job of detaching imperfections on the road from the rider. This instils confidence for the rider and amplifies it in corners as well, thanks to the radial rear tyre. It helps you build up more speed at corners and doesn’t lose its composure. High speed runs also doesn’t make you feel the jitters and so is an apt companion for touring. You can flick the motorcycle and it will change directions without any hesitation.

We say that the Apache RTR 200 4V is a unique handler because the Yamaha FZ 25 is also a dual-purpose motorcycle which can commute as well as tour. But Yamaha couldn’t find balance in its handling department, as the FZ 25 has a heavy front section which makes riding through thick traffic, tiresome. TVS, on the other hand, can fit in many shoes.

How comfortable will the rider be on the Apache?

TVS has not fiddled much with the already relaxed seating of the Apache RTR 200 4V. However, it is noteworthy that the seat material has improved in quality which helps. You sit upright with a slight tilt towards the front which keeps you relaxed and thrilled at the same time! The clip-on handlebars are wide and don't impose much strain on your hands and shoulders. The footpegs are positioned a bit behind so that the riding triangle is maintained. The seating is apt at 800 mm as riders of varying heights will not find it difficult to hop on.

Many impressive additional bits add to the riding comfort. TVS’s very own Anti-Reverse Torque(AR-T) Slipper Clutch keeps downshifts butter smooth and eliminates the fuss of depressing the clutch lever. This is very useful on racetracks and in quick reaction demanding situations.

GTT is another in-house segment-first feature which stands for Glide Through Traffic. (Pretty straightforward!). This piece of tech allows you to crawl the motorcycle without using the throttle. It works till the third gear and up to speed of 38 kmph. This is a very needy and useful feature for your daily traffic nightmare and also helps you extend the clutch life.

How sharp does the Apache RTR 200 4V look?

What are the Cosmetic upgrades in the 2020 Apache?

The minimal changes that the 2020 Apache RTR 200 4V has endorsed is heavily focused on emissions and aesthetics. The visual changes are limited to the graphics and redesigned headlamps. But these two changes hugely vary the outlook.

It now flaunts a full LED headlamp set up with a vertical split design. This unit is housed in an aggressive cowl which is highlighted byLED DRLs at the top corners. Another subtle change is the slightly wider engine cowl due to the addition of a pre-catalytic converter which has increased the downpipe’s diameter as well. The rearview mirrors are redesigned and have an edgy appeal. The graphics are now more dramatic with sharp lines and a lot of carbon fibre texture. Even the rearview mirrors have it on its cover. The rear tyre now gets a hugger to keep that dirt off your beautiful motorcycle. Other than that, it is mostly carried forward from 2019.

Aesthetic Features

• Unique LED DRLs

• Wide rear tyre

• Blacked out engine

• Alloy wheels

• Underbelly cowl

• Semi-cowled tank shrouds

• Unique looking and sounding double-barrel exhaust

• Split LED headlights

• Split seats

TVS has designed the Apache with sharpness in mind and “TVS Racing” on front fender reminds you of the Apache RTR 200 4V’s breeding grounds and the heritage it carries.

The other edgy looking motorcycle in this lot is the Bajaj Pulsar NS200. But even the Pulsar fails to bring the amount of drama present in Apache. TVS has kept the wheelbase short for quick and better manoeuvrability. The low kerb weight despite BS6 modifications is impressive and kudos to TVS for sticking to its base formula of a thrilling ride.

What are the distinguishing technology features on the Apache?

TVS won’t let the extra Rs. 10,000 go in vain as the amount of upgrades just keeps getting interesting. TVS has bundled the Apache RTR 200 4V with all the essentials needed for a modern sports motorcycle, but there is more. You get a full LED headlight unit which flaunts the trending split setup, TVS’s in-house GTT technology for ease of riding and a very quick Slipper clutch.

It also gets a very intuitive and modern TFT instrument Cluster that also houses a DOT MAtrix screen. This screen is the communication mode for Smart Xonnect. This feature was first introduced in TVS Ntorq 125 and now is slowly making it to all the other models. This helps the rider to seamlessly connect a smartphone to the system via an application. It then allows you to use maps, get notifications and some impressive features like lean angle and crash alert. It is a very smart move from TVS to include this piece of tech to its line-up.  

As visible from above, TVS has induced Apache RTR 200 4V with a host of segment-first and rather unique features that make it tough for the competition to hold up. The amount of features it provides us with is well worth the explanation for the added premium of Rs. 10,000.

What are the Safety features at your disposal?

Safety features are plentiful in this race machine. TVS has equipped it with a dual-channel ABS which also has Anti-Lift off. This system makes sure to control those surprise wheelies. The slipper clutch also helps you maintain the line and not lose control in corners.

The Smart Xonnect system also has a few safety features in it. The Crash Alert system is one which sends an SOS message to three of your contacts listed in the application in case of a crash. The LED DRLs and headlight will make your presence known from afar for oncoming traffic. The features are summed up below.

Safety Features

• Daytime Running LED DRLs and headlight

• Dual-Channel ABS with Anti-lift off

• Crash Alert System

• Slipper Clutch

• Gear Position Indicator

How does the Competition add up?

TVS Apache RTR 200 4V vs Bajaj Pulsar NS200

Bajaj Pulsar NS200 is the direct competitor to the Apache in terms of pricing and performance. The pulsar does have a few extra horses but that doesn’t outclass Apaches’s riding dynamics and dual personality. TVS has also loaded its offering with a host of features that throws the NS200 out of picture. Bajaj has a lot of catching up to do and TVS has nailed it again this time. We would take the sharp and potent RTR 200 4V over the pulsar.

TVS Apache RTR 200 4V vs Yamaha FZ 25

The FZ 25 syncs with Apache RTR 200 4V in character. This is the only competitor of the lot that can showcase both urban and touring capabilities without any compromise. Performance figures are also similar but the Apache RTR 200 4V provides a much more involving experience because of its meaty exhaust note and meaty mid-range. The FZ 25 is potent for sure but the Apache does it better and is cheaper as well.

TVS Apache RTR 200 4V vs Hero Xtreme 200R

Hero has also pitched in their choice of poison with the Xtreme 200R. It is a very energetic ride for the price point. But for a 200cc motor, the 200R is mediocre in performance and driving dynamics. It's high time that Hero accepted that the Indian Biking Community has come a long way. They are still in the dilemma that greater fuel efficiency figures can win people over. It surely would, for sub-150cc motorcycles, but is not so true for 200cc and above. TVS offers exploitable power along with a well-balanced riding character that isn’t down on efficiency. We choose the TVS here for its well-rounded offering.

Should you buy the Apache RTR 200 4V?

The Apache RTR 200 4V is TVS’s most pampered child. It got all of the care and love and in return surely paid off with an irresistible bundle of performance, riding dynamics, modern technology and that unmistakable exhaust note. The BS6 onslaught bought about a challenge for TVS and they overcame it with no-sweat. The 2020 Apache RTR 200 4V is as powerful as ever and provides the same thrill in a revamped avatar.