TVS Motor Company, a leading Indian manufacturer of two-wheeler and three-wheeler vehicles, has injected a dose of darkness into its popular Apache RTR 160 lineup with the launch of the new Black Edition. This special edition caters to riders seeking a more menacing and sophisticated aesthetic for their 160cc streetfighter.
Black is Beautiful: A Shrouded in Sophistication
The Black Edition treatment is a clear winner in the looks department. It surpasses the existing color options, including T-Grey, Matte Blue, Racing Red, Gloss Black (standard), Pearl White, and the previous Glossy Black iteration. This new Black Edition ditches the stickers that adorned the earlier Gloss Black model, resulting in a cleaner and stealthier overall appearance.
The application of black throughout the motorcycle amplifies its visual appeal. It exudes an air of sophistication and aggression in equal measure, transforming the Apache RTR 160 into a more menacing presence on the road.
Beyond the Surface: A Look Under the Black Hood
While the Black Edition boasts a significant aesthetic upgrade, the mechanical underpinnings remain unchanged. Both the Apache RTR 160 2V and 160 4V Black Edition retain their original engines and specifications.
TVS Apache RTR 160 2V Black Edition: Power and Affordability
The TVS Apache RTR 160 2V Black Edition serves as the most affordable option within the Black Edition range. Its 159.7cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled SOHC 2-valve engine continues to deliver a healthy 15.82 bhp of power and 13.85 Nm of torque. This potent mill is paired with a 5-speed gearbox for smooth and efficient power delivery.
However, it’s important to note that the Black Edition is only available for the base model of the Apache RTR 160 2V. This means it misses out on features like Bluetooth connectivity and a wider rear tire compared to the higher variants. Additionally, the Black Edition utilizes rear drum brakes, a setup present on the base model.
The TVS Apache RTR 160 2V Black Edition carries a starting price tag of Rs. 1.2 lakh (ex-showroom), making it an attractive proposition for budget-conscious riders seeking a stylish and powerful 160cc motorcycle.
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V Black Edition: Performance Refined
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V Black Edition follows a similar approach as its 2V counterpart. The Black Edition treatment is offered exclusively on the base variant, meaning features like adjustable levers and colored alloy wheels found in the Special Edition are absent.
The core of the Apache RTR 160 4V Black Edition remains the same – a potent 159.7cc, single-cylinder, SOHC 4-valve, oil-cooled engine churning out 17.31 bhp of power and 14.73 Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox for a thrilling riding experience.
The Black Edition adds a new Glossy Black color option to the existing palette of Lightning Blue, Matte Black, Knight Black, Metallic Blue, and Racing Red. Similar to the 2V Black Edition, this new shade ditches the stickers, resulting in a cleaner and more sophisticated aesthetic.
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V Black Edition is priced slightly higher than the 2V version, starting at Rs. 1.25 lakh (ex-showroom). This price tag reflects the slightly higher performance of the 4-valve engine.
A Calculated Move: The Black Edition’s Strategic Advantage
The launch of the Black Edition is a strategic move by TVS Motor Company. It caters to a growing segment of riders who prioritize aesthetics and desire a motorcycle that reflects their personality. The Black Edition’s aggressive and sophisticated styling, coupled with its competitive pricing, positions it as a compelling choice for riders seeking to stand out on the road.
Beyond Black: A Look at the Competition
The TVS Apache RTR 160 Black Edition directly competes with other stylish offerings in the 160cc segment, such as the Bajaj Pulsar and Yamaha FZ. With its unique blacked-out treatment and focus on visual appeal, the Apache RTR 160 Black Edition has the potential to steal the spotlight from its rivals.
