ZigOpinion: Upcoming TVS 450cc Bike Could Be The TVS Apache RR 450

8 years – that’s how long it has been since the TVS Apache RR 310 was launched. Ever since, it has gone through a number of updates – probably the most in its class. With each and every one of them, it has gotten better - be it in terms of refinement or the equipment on offer. It has now reached a point where it offers riding aids, features, and personalisation not seen in bikes a few segments higher.

With the glass ceiling already broken, the only upgrade it really needs is a more powerful engine. That is where its evolution to the “Apache RR 450” comes into the picture. Bet you didn’t see that one coming.

Now, we aren’t talking out from our rear ends here. TVS’ bossman, Sudarshan Venu, has confirmed in an interview with a news outlet, that the brand will have a bike based on the BMW’s 450cc twin-cylinder platform. While the Germans are focussing on the F 450 GS, it would make sense for TVS to work on the Apache RR, especially considering the fact that TVS’ first ADV bike will be based on its own 300cc platform. On that note, it has also been confirmed that there’s an entry-level Norton bike in works, based on the same platform. 

TVS Motors has always banked on its racing heritage, and with the introduction of the RR 310,  it was then used to build the heritage further. The one-make championship series and few others where the 310 was eligible, has seen the bike prove its mettle.

However, out on the streets, the 310 felt inadequate considering what the likes of the KTM RC 390 and others were packing. That said, the ace up RR’s sleeve has been its touring capabilities, comfort, and overall versatility - something not a lot of its rivals have managed to come close to. If you want a proper 300cc sport tourer, look no further than the Apache RR 310. Period. 

We think the upcoming TVS Apache RR 450 will have a similar persona. It will not only help TVS bring the heat to 450cc twin-cylinder bikes like the Aprilia RS 457 and the Kawasaki Ninja 500, but should also give enthusiasts a worthwhile mid/entry-level sport tourer. If our guesstimate is true, the upcoming bike will also be the second made-in-India parallel-twin faired bike after the Aprilia RS457. 

Also, it could make some orange fans green with envy. No more will TVS have to bring a knife to a gunfight. But to really inflict some serious damage, we hope TVS ups its service and support game. It’s still not as consistent as we have seen with a lot of other brands, and shooting blanks won’t get TVS anywhere. But that said, we are quite excited to see the RR 450, as much we were when the Akula was first showcased. We hope we can see TVS Akula v2.0 at this year’s MotoSoul event. If you are wondering why not EICMA, that is where we expect the Norton counterpart to debut. 

Interview Source