TVS has filed a trademark for 'TVS Apache RTR 165 RP’ and ‘TVS RP Race Performance’ on 16th August and is awaited for further examination by the trademark office. This could a sportier and race oriented version of the Apache RTR 160 4v already on sale. TVS recently updated its Apache RR 310 and launched new racing colours, dynamic kit and race kit for the same, the race kit includes racing handlebars, which are set lower than standard clip-on handlebars and a tad more rear set foot pegs to offer committed riding position. The Race Kit is priced at Rs 5,000 above the standard variant. Hence we think, the TVS may be planning to give a more race oriented 160cc version of Apache 160 4v, which could be 1-2 bhp more powerful with 0.5 -1 Nm more torque, committed riding position with lower set handle bar and more rear set foot could be offered as well.
This would allow them to cater a larger audience, who wants more performance from 150-160 cc machines; let's not forget TVS RTR 160 4v is already the most powerful in its segment. TVS could bless it with some of the features of the 200cc variant of Apache like riding modes, adjustable front fork and a lot more. Everything is possible in case of TVS looking at how they are offering class leading features to all the models, even its 125cc scooter Ntorq has a race oriented version (Ntorq Race XP) which has riding modes.
TVS may not launch this version in recent times but may be working on it, TVS wants to create a sub-brand for its race oriented models, only time will tell us what TVS is thinking. We believe Apache 165 RP will be costlier by Rs 8000-10000 than the Apache RTR 160 4v (which is on sale for about 1.12 lakh ex showroom).
By: Shafqat Khan.