The new Apache RTR 180 carries the same hooligan character of the old Apache RTR 160, but makes it more tractable for the street without losing its track focus. Varad More straddles it to find out if it has the go to match its show

Intro: RTR Resurrection!

The Hosur-based TVS Motor Company is back with a bang this time with a better-equipped and all-round motorcycle in the form of the new Apache RTR 180. Since the days of the Fiero, TVS has been churning out products developed on the race-tracks and incorporating fundamentals gained from the Company's active participation in racing.

And though the Apache has always enjoyed decent fan-following and race-credentials, somehow its track lessons have failed to deliver on the street and the company has been unsuccessful in challenging the might of its arch rival, Bajaj Auto. Let's see if the new Apache RTR 180 delivers all that it promises and lives upto the expectations of its followers.

Design and style: A Devil in Angel's guise

Never has the Apache RTR appealed to my eyes as much as the bike in white. Very few street-spec bikes can really carry off the angelic-look with panache and elan. While the fuel efficiency test runs, a couple of times she was parked by the side of the road, and as I admired her beauty under the overcast weather, I could see every passerby turn around to give the bike a second look. The big 'RTR' logo on the Apache's flanks adds a lot of spunk to the bike and goes well with its belligerent stance. The front fork barrels and disc calipers doused in golden paint adds a sophisticated touch to the Apache RTR. An RTR 180 exclusive touch is a sporty rear mud-guard holding the number-plate in place and also aluminium foot pegs which are available as an option. 

Ergonomics: Sit Fit!

Ergonomics is one thing which TVS really needs to pay attention to the Apache series. The foot-forward riding posture of the Apache has always played a major spoilsport in enjoying spirited riding. It has been prevalent ever since the first model rolled out of the factory. While the clip-on handlebars and sporty seat feel just right for city as well as highway and track use, the foot pegs are just too forward and fail to substantiate the sporty character of the bike.

We understand the efforts going in to strike a balance between sporty feel and city comfort, but why is it taking so long for TVS to achieve something that has been mastered by its competition and bettered with time like the new Pulsars and the new Yamahas? Maybe it is TVS Company's track-focused outlook which is restricting them from getting the right balance. We all know that strong sales numbers come from the street and not from the track, not just in India but even abroad.