TVS Apache RR 310

Another key highlight on the Apache RR 310 is the 312.2cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that has been derived from the BMW G 310 R. While power and torque figures are the same. They are developed 200rpm earlier in the rev range. As a result, 34PS comes in at 9700rpm and 27.3 Nm of torque is produced at 7700rpm. Additionally, the bike now features a slipper clutch which provides lighter clutch actuation and prevents wheels hops during hard downshifts. TVS also claims a top speed of 160kmph and a 0-60kmph time of 2.93 seconds. Weighing at 169.5kg (kerb), the dual-channel ABS-equipped Apache RR 310 gets 300mm petal disc up front and a 240mm petal disc at the rear.

The Apache RR 310 looks striking with its track focussed design and on the road looks more like a 600cc motorcycle. It's offered in three different paint schemes - matte black, gloss black and gloss red. Fit and finish and switchgear quality is top notch. Despite its sporty design, it has fairly comfortable ergonomics. Coupled with the torquey and tractable motor, riding the RR 310 is an effortless affair. Ride quality despite being set on the stiffer side is plush. Headlamp focus is good but could have done well with a wider spread. Mirrors offer fantastic visibility. It handles quite well and feels light-footed in the city. Brakes lack initial feel but offer good bite. Tyres grip well in dry conditions. The downsides are vibrations, especially around the 6000rpm range. TVS have been working to reduce them, the latest improvement being the addition of new, larger bar-end weights.

KTM RC 390: While the KTM RC 390 is priced higher than the Apache RR 310, it’s a pure track-focused machine which packs in a lot more punch. It has remained a go-to option for riders looking for a dedicated track tool owing to its ergonomics, suspension setup and handling characteristics.

Kawasaki Ninja 300: The Kawasaki hasn't garnered a lot of fame in India, owing to its price tag. It does come across as a very potent track tool with not so sharp ergonomics as the KTM. Making it a more approachable machine for riders to use it for their daily stints as well. Plus the additional money gets you an extra cylinder and a reliable brand name. Power though is still not at par with the KTM and the option of ABS to is sorely missed.

Benelli 302R: This Italian offering doesn’t have the performance to match either the KTM or the Ninja 300. But what it does offer is a big bike feel, an addictive sounding in-line two motor that is immensely tractable. The ergonomics and comfort offered are also a lot more relaxed in comparison to the above two. But the cost is a bit too demanding for the overall quality and for what you get as a package.

The Apache RR 310, despite being designed as a track focussed bike, is quite usable in the city thanks to its torquey and tractable motor. It offers a good balance between ride and handling as well. While brakes lack initial feel, they offer good bite. Another issue is vibrations around the 6000rpm range, which TVS has reduced to a fair degree. It is a good option to the focussed KTM RC 390, trading a bit of performance for everyday usability.