TVS finally enters the adventure segment with the Apache RTX 300 — and it’s a winner. A new 299cc engine pumps out 36 BHP, paired with a smooth 6-speed quickshifter. You get four ride modes, cruise control, a bright 5-inch TFT, and 180 mm suspension travel. At ₹1.99–2.29 lakh, it’s loaded with LED lights, traction control, and Givi-ready mounts. The 835 mm seat and 180 kg weight suit taller riders best. It’s refined, fun on twisties, and capable on light trails — an 80:20 road/off-road machine. Not for hardcore off-roading, but perfect for weekend tours and first-time ADV buyers.
“TVS didn’t rush. They built a motorcycle that feels premium, rides sharp, and costs less than the competition.”
We spent a full day in Shimla — on highways, mountain roads, and gravel — to see if the RTX 300 lives up to the hype.
A Long-Awaited Debut in the Adventure World
For years, Indian riders kept asking: “When will TVS launch an adventure bike?”
The segment was growing fast. Hero Xpulse ruled the budget end. KTM 250 Adventure and BMW G310 GS owned the mid-range. Royal Enfield Himalayan became the default tourer. But TVS? Silent.
They were busy perfecting the Apache RTR series and the RR 310. They didn’t want to enter the ADV space with something half-baked. And in 2025, they finally delivered — the Apache RTX 300.
This isn’t a lazy rebadge. It’s a completely new motorcycle with a new engine, new frame, and a clear purpose: to offer a sporty, refined, and practical adventure bike under ₹2.5 lakh.
We rode it hard in Shimla — over 100 km of mixed terrain — to find out: Is it too late? Or is TVS right on time?
Design & Styling — Bold, Modern, and Ready to Stand Out
The Apache RTX 300 doesn’t look like a budget bike. It looks expensive.
From the front, the twin LED headlamps with sharp DRL lines give it a predatory, modern face — similar to the Triumph Tiger Sport 660, but with TVS’ own aggressive twist. The beak-style fender, muscular fuel tank, and exposed red trellis frame scream adventure-ready.
The Wiper Green color we tested is a matte military shade that looks stunning in sunlight. It hides dust well and gives the bike a rugged, premium vibe. TVS offers six colors in total — from Lava Red to Stealth Black — so there’s something for every rider.
The 19-inch front and 17-inch rear alloy wheels tell you this isn’t a hardcore off-roader. It’s built for roads first, with light trail capability. The wide handlebar, knuckle guards, and pannier mounts make it touring-ready right out of the box.
Switchgear feels high-quality — borrowed from the RR 310 — and the fit and finish is excellent. The dual-barrel exhaust adds a meaty growl and a unique visual touch.
At 180 kg and 835 mm seat height, it has presence. It doesn’t feel small or cheap. It feels substantial — like a bike that costs ₹3 lakh, not ₹2 lakh.
Engine & Performance — A Rev-Happy Heart That Loves to Be Worked
The 299cc liquid-cooled engine is brand new — and it’s the star of the show.
It makes 36 BHP at 9,000 RPM and 28.5 Nm at 7,000 RPM — the most powerful in its class. But this isn’t a lazy, low-revving motor. It’s sporty. You have to rev it to get the best out of it.
The 6-speed gearbox is slick, and the bidirectional quickshifter (on mid and top models) works beautifully — smooth upshifts, clean downshifts, no clutch needed above 3rd gear.
There are four ride modes:
- Rain → soft power, full ABS
- Urban → balanced
- Tour → full power, road-focused
- Rally → sharp throttle, rear ABS off
We used Tour mode most of the time. It gives instant response and full power without being twitchy. Rally mode is fun on gravel — it lets the rear step out just enough to feel playful.
The engine is smooth. Even at 9,000 RPM, there’s barely any vibration. Cruising at 100–120 km/h feels effortless, and the exhaust note turns into a deep, satisfying growl.
It’s not a torque monster like the Himalayan. But it’s more fun than the BMW G310 GS and punchier than the KTM 250. If you love twisty roads, this engine will put a smile on your face.
Ride & Handling — Confident on Tarmac, Capable on Gravel
TVS knows how to tune a chassis — and the RTX 300 proves it.
The steel trellis frame and aluminum swingarm create a rigid yet compliant structure. The 41 mm USD forks and monoshock offer 180 mm travel front and rear — perfect for road touring, good enough for light off-roading.
On mountain roads, the RTX carves corners with ease. It holds its line, absorbs bumps mid-corner, and feels planted at speed. The supple suspension soaks up potholes without upsetting the bike.
On gravel and fire roads, the 200 mm ground clearance gives confidence. Rally mode lets you slide the rear predictably. The 19-inch front wheel makes it easier to control than a 21-inch setup.
Braking is sharp — 320 mm front disc, 240 mm rear, with dual-channel ABS (rear switchable). It stops quickly and predictably, even under hard use.
The 180 kg weight is noticeable at low speeds or on steep inclines, but once moving, it feels balanced and light. The weight distribution is excellent.
Compared to rivals, it’s more composed than the Xpulse, smoother than the KTM, and nearly as plush as the BMW — but way more fun
Comfort & Ergonomics — Made for Long Rides, Not Short Riders
The RTX 300 is built for comfort — if you can reach the ground.
The riding position is upright and relaxed. The wide handlebar gives great leverage. The footpegs are neutral — not too rear-set, not too forward. The seat is firm but supportive, with good thigh grip.
After 100+ km, we felt no fatigue — no back pain, no sore wrists, no numb legs. The seat contouring works. The wind protection is decent up to 120 km/h.
But the 835 mm seat height is tall. If you’re under 5’7”, you’ll be on your toes at stops. The 180 kg weight makes low-speed balance tricky on uneven ground. TVS doesn’t offer a low-seat option yet — a missed chance.
For riders 5’8” and taller, it’s a touring dream. Add panniers, and you’re ready for multi-day trips.
Features & Tech — Surprisingly Loaded for the Price
TVS didn’t hold back.
The 5-inch TFT display is bright and clear, showing speed, gear, fuel, ride mode, and Bluetooth alerts. Mid and top models get phone connectivity — calls, messages, navigation.
You get:
- Cruise control (even on base model!)
- Traction control
- Four ride modes
- LED lights with DRL
- Quickshifter (mid & top)
- Adjustable suspension (BTO)
- TPMS (BTO)
TVS partners with Givi for panniers, top boxes, crash guards, and fog lamps — all bolt-on ready.
In a segment where rivals cut corners, the RTX 300 feels premium and future-proof.
Fuel Efficiency & Range — Tour-Ready
TVS claims 30 km/l. We saw:
- 32–35 km/l on highway
- 28–30 km/l mixed
- ~25 km/l hard riding
With a 12.5-liter tank, that’s 350–375 km per fill-up — enough for Delhi to Jaipur on one tank.
Price & Variants — Excellent Value
| Variant | Price (ex-showroom) | Must-Have Features |
|---|---|---|
| Base | ₹1.99 lakh | Cruise, TC, ABS, 4 Modes |
| Mid | ₹2.14 lakh | + TFT, Quickshifter, LED |
| BTO | ₹2.29 lakh | + Adjustable susp., TPMS |
The ₹2.14 lakh mid variant is the best buy.
It beats:
- KTM 250 Adv (₹2.45L, fewer features)
- BMW G310 GS (₹3.05L)
- Xpulse 200 (₹1.5L, less power)
Final Verdict — A Strong Debut Worth Celebrating
TVS waited. And it paid off.
The Apache RTX 300 isn’t perfect. It’s tall. It’s not a low-end grunter. It’s not for extreme off-roading.
But for road-focused adventure riders — those who want fun on twisties, comfort on tours, and just enough gravel capability — it’s brilliant.
It’s refined, feature-packed, and excellent value. TVS has built a motorcycle that feels premium and rides sharp — all while undercutting the competition.
Final Score: 9.3/10
“Better late than never? Absolutely. The RTX 300 isn’t just TVS’ first ADV — it’s one of the best in its class.”
Top 10 Reasons to Buy TVS Apache RTX 300
The TVS Apache RTX 300 starts at ₹2 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base variant, with the top model priced at around ₹2.23 lakh, offering great value for a 300cc ADV.
It features a 36 PS liquid-cooled RTX D4 engine, 5-inch TFT display with Google Maps, cruise control, traction control, dual-channel ABS, and a 19-inch front wheel.
Yes, with an 835mm seat height, 180kg weight, and stable handling, it’s accessible for beginners while offering advanced electronics for experienced tourers.
Source: TVS Apache RTX 300 : India’s First 300cc ADV Motorcycle | Detailed Walkaround Review
[…] launch of the TVS Apache RTX 300 in October 2025 marks a pivotal moment for India’s two-wheeler industry, introducing the […]