The TVS has introduced its first adventure bike after a long time, marking a shift from their previous rally-focused bikes. Unlike the hardcore off-road rally bikes, this TVS Apache RTX 300 is designed differently. The motive behind developing the all-new 300cc bike, despite they are having a 310cc model, stems from the 310 being co-developed with BMW nearly 10 years ago. With BMW moving on to a 450cc engine, TVS decided to create its own 300cc engine to target a valuable market segment, leading to the debut of the Apache RTX 300.
Design and Styling Details
The TVS Apache RTX 300 is described as an adventure tour bike with versatile capabilities, though not a hardcore off-roader if you’re looking into. The Highlights of this motorcycle is its storng visual presence, especially due to the bodywork and large twin LED headlamps, which produce a clean and even light spread. The LED details add a unique identity to the bike. Optional accessories include a beak, handguards, crash guards, and a solid metal bash plate. The side profile features smoothly flowing bodywork into the fuel tank without large gaps.
The rear tail light resembles that of the Tiger 900 but with subtle differences in shape. My opinion is overall the bike is praised for its handsome, cohesive design that blends familiar elements from other models into an attractive and well-integrated look.
Riding Position and Ergonomics
So the riding position of the TVS Apache RTX 300 with an 835 mm seat height, which is relatively tall for its segment but comfortable for taller riders, especially for those who are over 6 feet. The seat offers ample room and a good interface between the knee and thigh, making it spacious and accommodating. The handlebars are wide but not too tall, providing a comfortable sitting posture. However, the foot pegs are widely spaced, which can make standing riding less comfortable due to a lack of grip and knee support.
New 300cc Engine Specs and Performance
The engine is entirely different from TVS 310, with a different crankcase design and orientation, unlike the reverse street engine from BMW. Despite differing bore and stroke, the power and torque figures are very similar to RTR 310, delivering 36 horsepower with a slightly lower peak RPM of 9,000 compared to 9,700 on the RTR.
The engine needs to be revved and performs well from 4,000 RPM onwards and offering more tractability and linear power delivery than the 310. Peak torque of 28.5 appears @ 7,000 RPM, which is higher than the RTR. Riding in the hilly terrains, downshifting into second or first gear for better drive. So overall, the engine feels similar to the RTR but with a smoother pull in the higher rev range. The sound of the engine is clean and deep, consistent with TVS’s typical quality, fitting well with the bike’s character.
Chassis and Suspension Overview
The chassis of this bike is similar to the BMW G310 GS with features like 19-inch front and 17-inch rear alloy wheels, and comparable suspension travel and ground clearance is actually quite different. TVS developed a new steel frame and subframe with a diecast aluminium swingarm to accommodate its engine. The bike handles well, offering confidence and stability, making it a competent compared to bike like KTM 250 Adventure. The suspension performs admirably on rough terrain, soaking up bumps effectively without requiring the rider to stand up, and is notably better balanced and composed than the BMW G310 GS’s rear shock, despite not being a premium brand like Kayaba.
Features, Pricing, and Market Positioning
The bike features a screen mirroring system that projects Google Maps from your phone into the display. And the phone screen must remain on. Bluetooth functionality and document storage are also integrated. From a rider’s perspective, there are four riding modes affecting power delivery, engine modes, ABS, and traction control Settings.
The base model includes essentials like LED headlamps, TFT display, cruise control, and adjustable levers, offering a good value for budget-consious buyers. For about more 15,000 Rupees more, the top variant adds screen mirroring and a bi-directional quick shifter, though the gearbox and quick shifter feel less refined compared to RTR 310. The BTO variant offers adjustable front and rear suspestion settings and a brass-coated chain. Additionaly the seat height may challenge shorter riders, and the 12.5-litre fuel tank is smaller than expected, thought it should still provide a range of 200 to 250 km per tank.
Pricing for the TVS Apache RTX 300 starts at ₹1.99 lakh for the base variant, while the version with screen mirroring and a quick shifter comes in at ₹2.14 lakh. The top-spec BTO version is priced at ₹2.29 lakh. These are introductory prices, and honestly, they make the bike a pretty strong contender in its segment. When you compare it to rivals like the Royal Enfield Himalayan, KTM 390 Adventure, KTM 250 Adventure, Suzuki V-Strom 250, and RE Classic 350, it’s clear that this one offers a lot of value for the money. It’s safe to say this TVS Apache RTX 300 is going to shake up the adventure segment and grab a lot of attention from enthusiasts.
What do you think about this new adventure bike from TVS? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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