In what is a shocking development, a leaked document containing the prices of updated TVS lineup suggests that, in its BS6 avatar, the TVS Apache RR 310 will be dearer than the current BS4 version by a good INR 38,870.
While a considerable price hike was expected across the two wheeler industry during the BS4 to BS6 transition, a near 20% increase on a motorcycle in this price segment is peculiar case.
The revised price is reported to come into effect from January 1, 2020, suggesting that the company is set to launch its BS6 lineup at the beginning of new year. The document also reveals that the entire Apache lineup will have a bigger inflating in prices (ranging from INR 15,957 to INR 38,870) compared to the rest of TVS’ lineup.
Considering that the Apache RR 310 is already equipped with electronic fuel injection, one wonders where exactly the addition money is spent. The fact that the flagship fully faired motorcycle derives its engine from BMW could be one of the reasons for the steeper price hike. Changes could come in the form of revised engine mapping, enhanced exhaust system and possibly even improved combustion chamber but we will know better in a few days’ time.
To recap, the TVS Apache RR 310 is powered by a 313 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine which is also employed by the BMW G 310 R and G 310 GS motorcycles. The fuel-injected 4V DOHC unit is tuned to deliver 34 bhp and 28 Nm of torque in its BS4 guise. It is possible that the output figures could vary slightly in the BS6 version. The motor is paired to a 6-speed gearbox by means of a slipper clutch.
In terms of equipment, the TVS Apache 310 is equipped with projector headlights, LED taillights, fully digital instrument console, dual-channel ABS, trellis frame, inverted telescopic front fork and monoshock rear suspension.
At INR 2.98 lakh (on-road), the TVS Apache RR 310 BS6 is likely to end up significantly more expensive than its primary rival, the KTM RC 390 when it receives its BS6 update. The sudden and steep change in prices of medium displacement motorcycles is expected to make a dent in the growth rate of this promising segment.
