TVS Apache RTR 200 4V FI Long Term Wrap Up

TVS Apache RTR 200 4V FI Long Term Wrap Up

Motorcycles are more than just machines, they are almost human in some aspects. They have their strengths and weaknesses, a few assets and a few flaws. And just like humans, when it comes to deciding whether you like a motorcycle or not, all that matters is whether the compromises you have to make are worth the happiness you derive out of it. At the end of the day, it’s simple arithmetic.

It has been a year and 17,000 kilometres since the fuel injected TVS Apache RTR 200 4V first joined our long term fleet. In this long term report, we are going to take a look at the running and maintenance costs of the Apache. We will also take a look at the slew of updates that TVS has introduced over the past year since the bike first rolled out of the production lines.

First, let’s answer our country’s favourite question – ‘kitna deti hai?’ The worst that the Apache returned in the past year was 32.4kmpl, while the best it could manage was 44.9kmpl. On an average highway run with a steady 80kmph to 90kmph, the Apache will return around 43kmpl. Keep it in triple digit speeds and the efficiency straightaway drops to 37kmpl. In city traffic, the Apache manages to return around 38kmpl, which is on par with other 150cc commuter bikes. 

Since the Apache was handed to us, TVS has been hard at work tinkering and improving bits and pieces of the motorcycle. Bits like new chain bracket, different fork oil seals, gear sensor for the gearbox, a cover for the air box under the seat, a plastic heat shield for the exhaust bend pipe and the rear tyre hugger were added later on. It even got a new cushier seat which has made it more comfortable for the rider as well as the pillion.

Moving on to the maintenance bit. The front and rear brake pads were worn out after the first 12,000 kilometres, prompting a replacement worth Rs 275 and Rs 316 respectively. Around the same time, the cone set on the Apache gave up, and the replacement cost Rs 498. The chain sprocket set was due for replacement after 15,000 kilometres, and costs Rs 2,609. Apart from these, a regular 1.2-litre oil change during every service costs Rs 685.

The front tyre developed a few bubbles recently, which called for a replacement. While I have always had a grudge with the spongy front brake on the Apache, the Pirelli Sport Demon radial compensates with its impressive grip levels in both dry and wet conditions. However, it demands a premium over the regular TVS Remora tyres. The front Sport Demon radial will set you back by a whopping Rs 7,645!

A major chunk of the 17,000 kilometre odometer reading on the Apache was accumulated touring through different parts of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Goa and Gujarat. The Apache also helped me improve my cornering technique and gave me my first taste of wheelies. It spent some time at the Aamby Valley air strip, enabling Charles to get his first taste of drag racing. I even spent a few weekends riding other Apache RTR 200 4Vs on the MMRT and Kari Motor Speedway race tracks. All of these have left me in no doubt of the Apache’s capabilities.

So, it is quite obvious that I like the Apache. I like it a lot. It has even made me look at the lack of top-end, the mushy gearbox, spongy front brake and the erratic instrument cluster as acceptable compromises.

Photography by Kapil Angane