TVS Has Dropped A Bombshell In The 200cc Segment

TVS’ Apache range of products recently crossed the 4 million sales mark, and to help reach the next landmark, the bikemaker has today launched the updated 2021 Apache RTR 200 4V. Now, we were expecting this to be a sticker job special edition to commemorate the occasion but boy did TVS surprise us! First of all, the new RTR 200 4V comes with ride modes, three of them to be precise.

The Sport mode sees the engine producing maximum power (20.82PS, 17.25Nm) and tuned for a sharp throttle response, and these output figures are actually 0.32PS and 0.45Nm better than the current BS6 bike. Meanwhile, the ABS is dialled back to its least intrusive setting so that it doesn't become a hindrance on track. Urban mode gets a slightly lower state of tune for the engine (17.32PS, 16.51Nm) which offers more linear delivery and better fuel efficiency, at the cost of a lower top speed of 105kmph, compared to the Sport modes claimed 127kmph. Meanwhile, the ABS is more intrusive than Sport mode, to provide greater safety on the street. Rain mode sees the same engine mode as Urban but with the ABS configured to be even more intrusive, to prevent lock-ups in wet conditions. Switching between the various modes also alters the RPM at which the shift light comes on. Ride-by-wire doesn’t seem to be present on the RTR, so TVS has managed to implement ride modes even with a cable-operated throttle, which is why the 2021 RTR 200 4V is the most affordable petrol-powered bike in India with ride modes.

It is also the most affordable bike in India with adjustable front suspension because surprisingly (a very, very pleasant surprise, of course), TVS has equipped the updated RTR with a front fork from Showa that is adjustable for preload. This is a segment-first feature and, in fact, something that is hard to find even in a few segments higher. To round things off, TVS has thrown in adjustable levers on the RTR, another segment-first, and introduced a matte blue colour option.

And the biggest surprise of them all? The price. At Rs 1.31 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), this 2021 RTR 200 4V is just Rs 1,000 more expensive than the current dual-channel ABS variant with no rides and no adjustable suspension! Kudos, TVS! The existing dual-channel ABS variant will now be replaced by this updated bike.