TVS Apache RTR 160 4V
It has been approximately 6 months riding the RTR 160 4V and it is nearing 4,000km on the clocks this month. I am more than happy to report that there is not a single major problem since the long-term test started. With each passing kilometre and days being spent ridi9ng the motorcycle, I am getting addicted to it, so much so that I would consider replacing my own commuter workhorse with it. Its performance and handling is remarkable whether it involves tackling daily commutes in extremely heavy traffic or on a long ride. The 160 is light, agile and easily flickable as it responds swiftly to handlebar inputs. The suspension also contributes majorly in making the ride comfortable while not being soft enough to hinder its handling around corners. It’s stable, sure-footed and neutral in its handling and these traits undoubtedly trickle from the years of TVS’ racing experience. That and the fact that the suspension never crashes or hit the bump stop for most obstacles, proves the suspension to be extremely pliant over rough surfaces. Gearbox operation had been very smooth and changing gears frequently in heavy traffic hasn’t ever been tiring. I have had to travel 130-150km a day through merciless traffic and parts of a highway thus have gotten opportunities to gauge engine heating but never once did the Apache display any signs of stress. Moreover, I haven’t been left tired or stressed myself thanks to the comfortable low seat height and the right amount of softness in the padding.
With morning temperatures dropping, the carb needs to be reset to adjust idling and fuelling as the engine now idles at higher revs when its warmer.
I AM GETTING ADDICTED TO IT, SO MUCH SO THAT I WOULD CONSIDER REPLACING MY OWN COMMUTER