TVS Apache RTR 160 4V ABS vs TVS Apache RTR 180 ABS – Sibling Rivalry

TVS has recently updated the Apache RTR 160 4V with single-channel ABS. Resultantly, the motorcycle received a price hike of Rs 6,999. Now, the carburetor version retails at Rs 91,645 while the fuel-injected model costs Rs 98,644 (both prices are ex-showroom). Considering this pricing, the motorcycle faces competition from its stablemate, the TVS Apache RTR 180 ABS which is priced at Rs 95,392. Having said that, in case you are confused between them, we help you in choosing one with this on-paper comparison. 

Looks and features:

The Apache RTR 160 4V gets modern styling that is inspired from its elder sibling, the Apache RTR 200 4V. It looks sporty with the sharp tank extension and underbelly cowl, stubby exhaust canister and hunched-forward stance. The RTR 180, on the other hand, continues to boast of the older, traditional Apache styling. However, the 2019 version has received graphical upgrades to keep it fresh and attractive.

Both the motorcycles get conventional headlamps for illumination accompanied by LED DRLs. The instrumentation on the RTR 180 consists of a semi-analogue unit with a digital speedometer, trip meter, fuel meter and clock along with an analogue tachometer. The RTR 160 4V gets a more modern fully-digital instrument cluster which shows ample information such as lap timer, 0 to 60kmph time recorder and top speed recorded, beside the basic information.

Powerplant:

The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V gets a smaller 159.7cc, oil-cooled engine but it has a four-valve head. The carburetor iteration of this mill generates 16.1bhp of power and 14.8Nm of torque. The fuel-injected variant churns out 16.3bhp while the torque figure remains the same. 

Meanwhile, the TVS Apache RTR 180 ABS is powered by a 177cc, air-cooled mill that is available only in carburetor form. It produces 17.3bhp and 15.5Nm of torque. The gearbox remains the same five-speed unit for the siblings. Although the RTR 180 makes a tad more power, the RTR 160 4V has a more efficient motor due to its four-valve head.

Cycle Parts:

Both the TVS bikes ride on 17-inch wheels that are shod with tubeless tyres. While the telescopic front suspension is common for both, the RTR 160 4V gets monoshock at the rear as opposed to the RTR 180’s twin, gas-charged shock absorbers. Braking hardware is also similar with 270mm disc on the front and 200mm disc at the rear. However, this is where the RTR 180 leads as it incorporates a dual-channel ABS setup while the RTR 160 4V gets a single-channel unit.

Pricing:

Taking the carburetor version of the Apache RTR 160 4V into consideration, the TVS Apache RTR 180 ABS is slightly on the premium side as it costs Rs 95,392 (ex-showroom). Meanwhile, the Apache RTR 160 4V ABS demands Rs 91,645 (ex-showroom) for the carburetor trim. The fuel-injected variant is a tad more expensive with the price tag of Rs 98,644 (ex-showroom). While the Apache RTR 180 boasts of higher power figures, the RTR 160 4V gets more features, comparatively more efficient powerplant and styling similar to the Apache RTR 200 4V.