Bajaj Pulsar 180 vs TVS Apache RTR 180: Number Game
- by Pratik Bhanushali
- Feb 26, 2021
- | Views: 11602
Does the re-launched Pulsar 180 have dominance over the Apache RTR 180?
Bajaj recently launched the 2021 Pulsar 180 with a handful of upgrades. And competing against it in the segment is the TVS Apache RTR 180. So, let’s see how the two 180cc commuter motorcycles stack up against each other in terms of specifications:
Engine
Specifications |
Pulsar 180 |
Apache RTR 180 |
Engine |
178.6cc air-cooled single-cylinder |
177.4cc oil-cooled single-cylinder |
Power |
17.02PS at 8,500rpm |
16.79PS at 8,500rpm |
Torque |
14.52Nm at 6,500rpm |
15.5Nm at 7,000 |
Gearbox |
5-speed |
5-speed |
In terms of displacement, there’s hardly any difference between the two, but both the bikes take a different approach. While the Pulsar 180 aims for more power, the Apache RTR 180 focuses on torque. Since the Apache is lighter than the Pulsar, it should be able to translate the performance better, especially when zipping through the city traffic. Also, the TVS motor gets an oil-cooler, while the Pulsar is air-cooled.
Underpinnings
Specifications |
Pulsar 180 |
Apache RTR 180 |
Frame |
Double Cradle |
Double Cradle |
Front suspension |
Telescopic Fork |
Telescopic Fork |
Rear Suspension |
5-step adjustable gas-charged Shocks |
Monotube inverted gas-charged shocks |
Front Brake |
280mm disc |
270mm petal disc |
Rear Brake |
230mm disc |
200mm petal disc |
Front Tyre |
90/90-17 Tubeless |
90/90-17 Tubeless |
Rear Tyre |
120/80-17 Tubeless |
110/80-17 Tubeless |
As you can see both the bikes are pretty close with respect to underpinnings. However, Bajaj has the advantage of larger brakes and fatter tyres. Both these aspects play their part visually, but more importantly, help in improving the dynamics of the bike. The RTR 180 was the first made-in-India bike to feature ABS and it was a dual-channel unit. However, the current Apache RTR 180 sports a single-channel ABS to keep costs under check.
Also Read: New Bajaj Pulsar NS160 Spotted
Dimensions & Features
Specifications |
Pulsar 180 |
Apache RTR 180 |
Wheelbase |
1345mm |
1300mm |
Ground Clearance |
165mm |
170mm |
Fuel-tank capacity |
15-litre |
12-litre |
Seat height |
790mm |
790mm |
Kerb weight |
151kg |
141kg |
The Apache RTR 180’s smaller wheelbase and lesser weight not only offer it more agility during spirited riding but also makes it easy to manoeuvre in bumper to bumper traffic. Whereas, the Pulsar 180 can be more stable and planted at high speeds, courtesy of its longer wheelbase.
With a 3-litre larger fuel tank, the Bajaj Pulsar 180 also allows you to cover more distance, while saddle height is identical.
Price and Verdict
Pulsar 180 (all prices, ex-showroom Delhi) |
Apache RTR 180 |
Rs 1,07,904 |
Rs 1,08,270 |
When it comes to the price, the Pulsar 180 costs just Rs 366 less than the Apache RTR 180. However, TVS offers a tad bit better features like the oil-cooler and GTT (Glide Through Tech) to help the bike crawl just by using the clutch. Also, the Pulsar design hasn’t been altered for years now, whereas the Apache RTR 180 looks much sportier.
Of TVS’ latest offerings, we’ve ridden the Apache RTR 200 4V BS6 and here’s what we think about it.