The premium commuter segment is surely heating up. Recently Bajaj joined the bandwagon with the launch of the Pulsar NS160. And now, a prototype of the new TVS Apache 160 has been spied testing close to its factory in Hosur.
The Apache RTR 200 4V has a good fan following among the masses, so it was obvious for TVS to bring that design language in a more affordable way. So the panel design on the prototype is from the Apache 200, like the fuel tank, side cover, mudguard and exhaust. Things that differentiates the new Apache from its elder sibling is the presence of a single seat, skinnier tyres, flat handlebar and absence of rear disc brake. The alloy wheels are different too and lacks the attractive design like the one on the Apache 200. The test mule was also equipped with a rear tyre hugger. While the 200cc TVS gets golden finish on the fork tubes, the 160cc Apache gets the basic body colour finish.
There will be mechanical changes done on the new Apache 160. The current 159cc single-cylinder motor produces 15.2bhp and 13.1Nm of peak torque. But expect the new Apache 160’s engine to be re-tuned for better performance and fuel efficiency.
The current version of the Apache 160 is the most affordable 160cc motorcycle one can buy in India. The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 is priced close to this TVS, and the other two Japanese bikes , the Honda Hornet 160R and the Suzuki Gixxer demand the most premium.
