Suzuki Inazuma 250 vs TVS Apache RTR 310

We are the world’s largest motorcycle market, but in those numbers hides a disappointing fact: most of the two-wheelers that go on sale are clones of each other. Of course, this is driven by the market’s need, and the market is driven by need alone. We want fuel efficient motorcycles that are inexpensive, both to buy and run, can carry two hundred-kilo riders, and maybe a sack of potatoes or five milk cans, depending on the requirement. Motorcycling as a leisure activity has not really entered the mass-market’s consciousness, so when a motorcycle like the Inazuma is launched, the first question that comes to mind isn’t “Is this motorcycle ready for India?” but instead, “Is India ready for this motorcycle?”  

The new TVS Apache RTR 310 is not just a stripped-down RR 310. It boasts enough changes to have its distinctive personality. Besides all the mechanical changes, if you look at the number of features it has, it can clearly put much bigger bikes to shame in terms of technology.

We tested the TVS Apache RTR 310 in the urban jungle of Bangkok and at the Thailand Circuit Motorsport Complex, and here’s what we found out.