2019 TVS Apache RR 310 First Ride Review

The Visuals

There are no major changes in terms of how it looks. The 2019 Apache RR310 continues to flaunt the wildly successful design that has been derived from the Akula concept. It has the twin-projector LEDs, sharp lines on the beefy-looking bodywork, the edgy tail section and a stepped-seat. 

Further accentuating the styling is the new ‘Phantom Black’ paint which, essentially, is a glossy black colour theme with a white stripe running down the centre of the bike. It is also offered in the ‘Racing Red’ colour scheme.

The Package

Apart from the new paint, the most substantial upgrade to the bike comes in the form of an assist and slipper clutch, similar to that on the race-bike. TVS also claims to have addressed the biggest issue that came with the earlier bike - its vibe-y nature. So the bike now comes with heavier bar ends and a rubber lining on the redesigned windscreen to curb vibrations. 

The Ride

We’ve always liked how the Apache RR 310 performed. Whether it was in the city, on the highway or even on the race track, the bike seemed to do it all with credibility. Now, it seems to have taken its likeable nature a notch higher, courtesy the upgrades. 

Once on the move, you immediately notice the difference in gear shifts. The clutch lever pull is lighter and engaging and the gear shifts are smoother. TVS says that the assist function has reduced the clutch force by up to 20 per cent. Speaking of which, the new slipper clutch is a big improvement.

It instils confidence even when going hot into a corner like C2 or C10 on the MMRT as you know the rear won’t be skipping about under aggressive downshifting and braking. The bike does fishtail a bit, but that just adds to the fun quotient. 

TVS has also remapped the ECU on the 2019 Apache RR 310. This hasn’t made it any quicker or bumped up the power output but has smoothened the throttle response at the lower end making it slightly more tractable for city riding.

As for vibrations, there is the tingling sensation emanating from the tank and under the seat, although the vibrations on the handlebar are much lesser than before. In terms of braking, the Apache RR 310’s hardware does not disappoint. It offered good bite and progression despite putting in consecutive hot laps. 

Conclusion

Priced at Rs 2.27 lakh (ex-showroom), the 2019 Apache RR 310 is pricier than its predecessor by Rs 3,000. But with upgrades, TVS has added more value to the motorcycle. It has tried to fix the shortcomings of the previous version and has done so to a great extent by making the Apache RR 310 much smoother and less vibe-y than its predecessor.

Photography by Ajinkya Lad