TVS launched the BS6 Apache RTR 200 4V with single-channel ABS last year and soon after, TVS followed that bike up with the dual-channel ABS variant and added segment first features that included riding modes, preload adjustable front suspension and adjustable clutch and brake levers. The bike also got the blue colour scheme found on the One Make Championship bikes. Now, TVS has launched a single channel ABS variant of the same.
The bike is identical to the dual-channel ABS bike with ride modes, except that it gets single-channel ABS instead. So, powering it is the same 197.75cc single-cylinder, oil cooled engine that is mated to a 5-speed gearbox and slipper clutch. The engine puts out 20.5bhp at 9000rpm and 17.25Nm at 7800rpm, this however is in Sport mode and the bike has a lower output of 17bhp at 7800rpm and 16.5Nm at 5750rpm in Rain and Urban mode with the redline being reduced as well. Suspension duties come courtesy a preload adjustable Showa telescopic front fork setup and a preload adjustable monoshock at the rear.
Read our review of the RTR 200 4V with ride modes in the February issue of the evo India Magazine. Click here to buy.
In terms of features, the Apache RTR 200 4V gets span adjustable clutch and brake levers, LED lighting on both ends, the information rich digital instrument cluster with TVS’s SmartXConnect technology and a feature that was added in the BS6 variant – GTT (glide through technology). The bike can be had in three colours, namely – Gloss Black, Pearl White and Matte Blue.
At Rs 1.28 lakh ex-showroom, the single-channel ABS variant is Rs 5000 more affordable than the dual-channel ABS variant. But what would have been a nice addition would be the option to disengage the rear ABS on the dual-channel variant allowing the rider to have the safety net of dual-channel ABS and the fun of super-moto ABS as and when they desire.
The TVS Apache RTR 200 4V is rivalled by the likes of the Bajaj Pulsar NS 200, the Honda Hornet 2.0 and the more expensive KTM 200 Duke.