TVS Apache RTR 180 Race Edition vs Bajaj Pulsar 180 – Competition Check

The Apache RTR 180 is the latest TVS motorcycle to get the Race Edition treatment. It is targeted at those who want a commuter bike with more power than the herd of 150cc street bikes. We take a look at how the Apache RTR 180 Race Edition stacks up against its direct competitor – the Bajaj Pulsar 180. 

Design and Features

The Apache RTR 180 gets sharp design language with edgy tank extensions and engine cowl. The fuel tank gets a muscular shape and the headlamp features trademark LED DRLs on either side of the headlamp. The Race Edition benefits from a white paint scheme with black and red decals. It even gets the new 3D TVS logo on the fuel tank and red rim tapes with TVS Racing branding on the wheels.

The Pulsar 180 on the other hand, gets a slightly conservative design, which has remained unchanged for quite a few years now. After all, why fix it if it ain’t broke. The headlamp gets position lights, although these aren’t LED units. Earlier this year, Bajaj introduced new dual-tone paint schemes and racy decals for the Pulsar 180, along with a rear disc brake. 

Both the motorcycles feature an analogue tachometer with a digital display. While the Apache gets a single-piece seat, the Pulsar gets a sportier split seat setup. The Pulsar also gets a bigger 15-litre fuel tank as opposed to the Apache’s 12-litre tank. Both get clip-on handlebars. 

Engine

The Apache RTR 180 uses a 177cc single-cylinder engine, delivering 16.5bhp and 15.5Nm of torque. The Pulsar 180 on the other hand gets a 178cc single-cylinder DTS-i mill, which is slightly more powerful, delivering 17bhp and 14Nm of torque. However, the Apache engine has to propel a lighter bike. The Apache tips the scales at 137 kilograms, while the Pulsar is slightly heavier at 145 kilograms. Both the bikes are offered with five-speed transmissions.

Cycle parts

Given that these essentially are cost-effective commuter bike, both the Apache RTR 180 Race Edition and the Pulsar 180 get conventional cycle parts. Up front are telescopic forks, while the rear gets dual spring shock absorbers. The rear suspension on both bikes is adjustable preload. They ride on 17-inch wheels with tubeless tyres.

The Apache gets a 270mm disc up front, while the Pulsar has to make do with a 260mm. At the rear however, the Pulsar benefits from a bigger 230mm disc as opposed to the Apache’s 200mm unit.

Pricing

At Rs 83,233, the Apache RTR 180 Race Edition is just Rs 550 pricier than the standard variant. Even so, it is slightly more affordable than the Pulsar 180, which retails at Rs 83,347. All prices are ex-showroom.