TVS Apache RTR 180 facelift review, specifications, pics, top speed, price and details

Ride, Handling and Braking

Suspension duties on the 2013 TVS Apache RTR 180 are courtesy telescopic forks up front and a set of gas charged twin shock absorbers at the rear. The bike runs on 17 inch alloy wheels, which come shod with a 90/90/17 spec tyre at front and a 110/80/17 spec rubber at rear.

As can be expected from a bike which claims to have ‘racing’ in its DNA, the RTR 180’s suspension settings are biased towards bestowing the bike with class-leading handling capabilities. The bike offers average-to-decent ride quality and not once did the ride get too unsettling on the broken roads. However, the RTR’s rider isn’t exactly immune to the discomfort from sharp irregularities on the broken tarmac and we believe that the RTR 180 isn’t at all meant to be taken off the roads. We really do not wish to imply that the excellent handling comes at the price of ride quality but we ask you to look elsewhere if plush ride is your sole requirement.

Speaking of handling characteristics, the Apache RTR 180 scores pretty well here. Thanks to its light weight, stiff suspension settings and longer wheelbase, the RTR 180 is a joy to corner. The bike holds its line pretty well in corners and a competent frame and suspension endows the rider with sufficient confidence.The bike is also immensely flick-able in traffic and certainly masters playing the lane-splitter.

We could have easily awarded more marks to the RTR 180 in handling test had it not been shod with a set of TVS Srichakra radial tires. We need to mention here that unlike what some self-styled aspiring bike experts have to say, these tires are far from being dreadful or pathetic. However, the factory fitted set of tires do limit the grip levels in the corner and also fail to inspire high confidence in the rider. A switch to something cost effective yet sporty, like the Michelin Pilot Sporty, is highly recommended!

The 2013 TVS Apache RTR 180 comes kitted out with a set of petal disc brakes at the front and rear. The brakes are highly effective and the bike is quick to shed speeds even from triple digit figures. The brakes, even without the optional ABS, do not easily lock and are definitely as eager to perform their duty as that tasty motor!

2013 TVS Apache RTR 180 – Ride, Handling and Braking- 7/10 

Go to next page to read about our Verdict