The BS6 TVS Apache RTR 180 comes at a premium of Rs 6,700 over the BS4 model
TVS Motor Company has rather silently launched the new 2020 Apache RTR 180 BS6 at Rs 1.01 lakh ex-showroom. Compared to the outgoing BS4 avatar, the BS6 version carries a premium of Rs 6,700 and is the final Apache model to comply with the higher emission norms. The Hosur-based two-wheeler manufacturer has launched multiple BS6 products in a short span of time. This includes the more desirable Apache RTR 160 4V and 200 4V range of sports commuters as well.
Prior to the BS6 model, the TVS Apache RTR 180 received its last update in late 2018. The changes mainly comprised of new colour schemes, improved seat material, redesigned crash guards and a revised instrument console. The motorcycle continues to sport LED DRLs, single-channel ABS and split-handlebars (which are not really necessary for a mid-segment single-cylinder sports commuter). Braking duties are handled by 270mm and 200mm petal discs at the front and rear, respectively.
Coming to the engine department, the new Apache RTR 180 BS6 employs the same 177.4cc ‘two-valve’ single-cylinder engine but with the addition of oil-cooling and fuel-injection (dubbed as Race Tuned Fuel Injection or RT-Fi in TVS’s books). To check the emissions from crossing a certain limit stated in the BS6 norms, the 2020 Apache RTR 180 gets a new catalytic converter. Another highlight is that the motorcycle has gained a slight power hike.
The power output now stands at 16.5bhp @ 8,500rpm (compared to 16.3bhp @ 6,500rpm) while peak torque remains the same at 15.5Nm, but comes in 500rpm earlier, at 7,000rpm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
The 2020 TVS Apache RTR BS6 also boasts of the brand’s Glide Through Traffic (GTT) technology which essentially lets the rider creep through heavy traffic without touching the throttle but with minimal usage of the clutch lever. Consider it as an electronic assist to the regular half-clutch motion. The additional components have raised the kerb weight from 139kg to 141kg in the BS6 model. The wheelbase and ground clearance see a slight increase at 4mm and 5mm, respectively.
The TVS Apache RTR 180 primarily locks horns with the Bajaj Pulsar 180F while the Yamaha FZ V3.0, Suzuki Gixxer and Honda Unicorn 160 are some popular alternatives. It also offers some internal competition to the lesser Apache RTR 160 (not to be confused with the Apache RTR 160 4V model), which was launched earlier in the year at Rs 93,500 ex-showroom.
