Celebrating 20 years of Apache legacy, TVS Motor Company has rolled out the 2025 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, one of its bestselling sporty commuters in the 150-160cc segment. With a refreshed design, upgraded technology, and refined features, this motorcycle aims to strengthen its position in India’s competitive commuter market. Drawing insights from a YouTube walkaround by Dino’s Vault, this detailed review explores what’s new in the 2025 Apache RTR 160 4V, covering design, tech, performance, pros, cons, and whether it’s the right bike for you in 2025.
Design & Styling Overhaul 🎨
The 2025 Apache RTR 160 4V sports a striking design refresh, making it look more aggressive and modern:
- New Front Face: A multifunctional LED projector headlamp integrates both high and low beams, improving light throw, reducing weight, and saving battery. The design feels premium and efficient.
- LED DRLs: Inspired by Yamaha’s MT-series but with a unique TVS flair, the DRLs give the bike a “superhero face” vibe, especially in the Blue-Black dual-tone scheme.
- LED Turn Indicators: A new addition, replacing older halogen units for a modern, sleek look.
- Dual-Tone Paint Schemes: The Blue-Black variant is the standout, with vibrant blue up front and black at the rear. Other options include Matte Black and Racing Red.
- Graphics: Checkered flag graphics and GT stripes enhance the sporty appeal, with RTR 160 4V badging prominently displayed.
- Front Fender: Dual-layer layout adds a rugged aesthetic.
- Tail Lamp: Unchanged from the previous model, which feels like a missed opportunity for a full design overhaul.
The updated design makes the 2025 RTR 160 4V look sinister and sporty, appealing to young riders and Apache enthusiasts.
Build Quality & Ergonomics 🏍️
- Fuel Tank: Muscular 12L tank with a premium finish, balancing style and practicality.
- Seat Height: Accessible for most riders (exact height not specified but noted as comfortable in the video), ideal for Indian roads.
- Weight Distribution: Balanced for agility in city traffic and stability on highways.
- Adjustable Levers: Both clutch and brake levers are adjustable, a premium feature in this segment.
- Riding Position: Upright with a slight forward lean, perfect for daily commutes and weekend rides.
The build quality feels robust, with high-quality plastics and a sturdy frame, ensuring durability on varied terrains.
Instrument Cluster & Tech Updates 📱
The 2025 model introduces a 5-inch color TFT display, a significant upgrade:
- Key Features:
- Displays speedometer, tachometer, gear position, trip meters, odometer, clock, average speed, and traction control status.
- Bluetooth-enabled SmartXonnect offers turn-by-turn navigation, call/SMS alerts, and ride analytics.
- UI Design: Modern, colorful, and easy to read, even in bright sunlight.
- Additional Tech: Low battery indicator and mode switch for seamless toggling between riding modes.
The TFT console elevates the RTR 160 4V’s premium appeal, making it tech-savvy and user-friendly.
Riding Modes & Electronics ⚡
The 2025 Apache RTR 160 4V retains its versatile three riding modes, fine-tuned for different conditions:
- Urban: Balanced for city traffic, offering smooth power delivery and fuel efficiency.
- Rain: Enhanced traction and gentler throttle response for wet roads.
- Sport: Unleashes full engine potential for spirited riding.
Electronics:
- Single-channel ABS: Standard for safe braking on the front wheel.
- Traction Indication: Displayed on the TFT screen for better rider awareness.
- Engine Kill Switch: Conveniently placed for quick access.
These features make the bike adaptable to various riding scenarios, from congested cities to open highways.
Engine & Performance ⚙️
- Engine: Same 159.7cc, oil-cooled, 4-valve, single-cylinder engine as the previous model.
- Power: 17.5 PS @ 9250 RPM.
- Torque: 14.7 Nm @ 7250 RPM.
- Transmission: 5-speed gearbox. The absence of a 6th gear is a minor drawback for highway cruising.
- Slipper Clutch: A new addition, ensuring smoother and safer downshifts, especially during aggressive riding.
- Bullpup Exhaust: Delivers a throaty, bass-heavy exhaust note, enhancing the bike’s sporty character.
The engine remains a strong performer, offering a balance of power for city sprints and highway stability, though a 6th gear would have added versatility.
Suspension, Tyres & Brakes 🛞
- Suspension:
- Front: USD forks with a gold finish, providing precise handling and a premium look.
- Rear: Monoshock, tuned for comfort and stability on Indian roads.
- Tyres: Wide-profile tubeless tyres ensure excellent grip for both city and highway riding.
- Brakes:
- Front: Disc brake with single-channel ABS for confident stopping.
- Rear: Variant-dependent (drum or disc), with disc preferred for better braking performance.
The suspension and tyre setup make the RTR 160 4V agile yet stable, ideal for sporty commuters.
Colors & Variants 🎨
- Blue-Black Dual Tone: Flagship color scheme, vibrant and sporty.
- Matte Black: Sleek and understated, ideal for a stealthy look.
- Racing Red: Bold and classic, appealing to Apache fans.
- Graphics: Updated with checkered flags and RTR branding, reinforcing the bike’s racing DNA.
Multiple variants are available, differing in braking setup (drum vs disc) and connectivity features.
Exhaust Note & Feel 🔊
The bullpup exhaust delivers a deep, throaty note with a satisfying “thump,” as showcased in the video. This sporty sound enhances the bike’s aggressive persona, making every ride feel engaging and dynamic.
Practicality & Everyday Usability 🚦
- Ground Clearance: Adequate for Indian roads, handling speed bumps and potholes with ease.
- Fuel Efficiency: Expected 40–45 kmpl in mixed conditions, based on previous models and TVS’s tuning (exact figures to be confirmed).
- Fuel Tank: 12L capacity, offering a decent range for daily commutes and short weekend trips.
- Usability: Comfortable for city traffic and weekend rides, with adjustable levers and an upright riding position enhancing rider comfort.
The Apache RTR 160 4V remains a practical choice for young riders and daily commuters who crave sportiness.
Price & Rivals 💰
- Expected Price Range: ₹1.3–1.4 lakh (ex-showroom), a slight hike due to new features and design updates. [Exact pricing to be confirmed in the video description]
- Rivals:
- Bajaj Pulsar N160: Slightly more powerful (164.82cc, 47 kmpl), priced at ~₹1.23 lakh.
- Yamaha FZ-S FI: Stylish and reliable, but less feature-rich, priced around ₹1.2–1.3 lakh.
- Honda Hornet 2.0: Comparable power, priced at ~₹1.39 lakh, but lacks a TFT display.
The Apache RTR 160 4V stands out with its tech and design updates, though the Pulsar N160 remains a strong competitor in performance.
Pros ✅
- Refreshed Design: LED projector headlamp and DRLs give a modern, menacing look.
- 5-Inch TFT Display: Colorful, feature-packed, and Bluetooth-enabled.
- Slipper Clutch: Adds premium functionality for smoother downshifts.
- Riding Modes: Versatile for city, rain, and sporty rides.
- Balanced Performance: Strong power delivery with decent fuel efficiency.
- Exhaust Note: Throaty and engaging, enhancing the riding experience.
Cons ❌
- No 6th Gear: Limits highway cruising efficiency.
- Unchanged Tail Lamp: Missed opportunity for a complete design refresh.
- Single-Channel ABS: Dual-channel ABS would have been safer.
- Competitive Segment: Faces tough competition from Pulsar N160’s power and pricing.
Who Should Buy the Apache RTR 160 4V? 🏍️
The 2025 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is perfect for:
- Riders Upgrading from 125cc: Those seeking more power and premium features.
- College Students & Young Professionals: Style-conscious riders who want a sporty commuter.
- Daily Commuters: Those needing a balance of efficiency and performance.
- Apache Fans: Enthusiasts who love TVS’s racing DNA and bold design.
Final Verdict 🏁
The 2025 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V isn’t a complete overhaul but delivers smart, meaningful updates that keep it competitive in the 160cc segment. The LED projector headlamp, 5-inch TFT display, slipper clutch, and refined riding modes enhance its appeal, while the iconic bullpup exhaust adds character. Despite minor drawbacks like the unchanged tail lamp and lack of a 6th gear, it remains a value-packed sporty commuter under ₹1.5 lakh. For riders seeking style, tech, and performance, the 2025 Apache RTR 160 4V is a compelling choice that carries forward TVS’s racing legacy with pride.
FAQ (SEO Boost) 🔍
- What’s new in the 2025 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V?
The 2025 model features a new LED projector headlamp, LED DRLs, LED turn indicators, a 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth, a slipper clutch, and updated dual-tone color schemes. - Does the Apache RTR 160 4V have a slipper clutch?
Yes, the 2025 model includes a slipper clutch for smoother and safer downshifts. - What is the mileage of the new Apache RTR 160 4V?
Expected mileage is 40–45 kmpl in mixed conditions, though exact figures are pending confirmation. - Which colors are available in the 2025 RTR 160 4V?
Available colors include Blue-Black Dual Tone, Matte Black, and Racing Red. - Apache RTR 160 4V vs Pulsar N160 – which is better?
The Apache RTR 160 4V offers superior tech (TFT display, slipper clutch), while the Pulsar N160 has a slight edge in power and price. Choose based on tech vs performance needs.
