TVS Apache RTX 300: TVS has officially entered the adventure-tourer / adventure rally bike segment with the launch of the Apache RTX 300. Priced at ₹1,99,000 ex-showroom, it’s positioned to compete with other mid-capacity adventure bikes in India.
Key Specifications
Here are the important technical specs of the Apache RTX 300:
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 299.1 cc – single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC |
| Power | ~ 36 PS at ~ 9,000 rpm |
| Torque | ~ 28.5 Nm at ~ 7,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed gearbox, with assist-and-slipper clutch |
| Chassis & Suspension | Steel trellis frame; upside-down (USD) front fork; rear monoshock |
| Wheels | 19-inch front / 17-inch rear setup |
| Braking & Safety | Disc brakes, dual-channel ABS; traction control; multiple ride modes; tyres suited for mixed surfaces. |
Features and Design Highlights
- Adventure-Touring Styling: The RTX 300 gets a tall windscreen, a muscular fuel tank, LED lighting all around (headlamp, tail lamp, indicators), split pillion seating, a luggage rack, and upswept exhaust. These contribute to a purposeful, rally-look.
- Ergonomics: The riding position is more upright than street-Apaches, designed for comfort during longer rides. The handlebar positioning, step-up seat, etc., all reflect that.
- Tech & Connectivity: Features include a TFT instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity, map mirroring, ride-by-wire throttle, multiple ride-modes (Urban, Rain, Tour, Rally), tyre pressure monitoring, linear traction control, cruise control etc.
- Build and Hardware: Long-travel WP (or similar) USD forks up front for better absorption of rough patches. A monoshock at rear; frame is a trellis style to balance rigidity and weight.
Price and Variants
- Starting Price: ₹1,99,000 (ex-showroom) for the base variant.
- Higher Variants: Top variants and “build-to-order” (BTO) versions are priced higher — approx. ₹2,14,000 and ₹2,29,000 respectively.
Competition & Market Positioning
The Apache RTX 300 enters a growing and competitive adventure bike market in India. Key rivals include:
- KTM 250 Adventure
- Yezdi Adventure
- Royal Enfield Scram and Himalayan (though the Himalayan is of slightly different orientation)
What TVS has done here is attempt to combine the performance credentials of Apache (with racing/rally heritage) with the touring comfort and off-road capability expected of an ADV tourer. The RT-XD4 engine is entirely developed in-house, which gives TVS more control on tuning, features, and cost.
What Makes It Stand Out
Here are several aspects where the Apache RTX 300 could distinguish itself:
- New Engine Platform: RT-XD4 is TVS’ own 300cc liquid-cooled motor, moving away from reliance on partner engines. This helps with performance, maintenance, and brand identity.
- Feature Rich: Many features such as ride modes, traction control, quick shifter, map mirroring etc., which were earlier seen only in higher-end models, are now making their way into this segment.
- Value for Money: Given the combination of performance, features, and off-road capable hardware (wheels, suspension), the pricing seems aggressive, which could make the RTX 300 a strong contender for buyers wanting an all-round adventure motorcycle without going into premium pricing.
Potential Weaknesses / Things to Watch Out For
- While it is more “adventure” than many street bikes, it’s not built for hardcore off-road usage (e.g., extreme trails) out-of-the-box — tyres, ground clearance, protection parts etc. will matter, especially for buyers who want serious off-road.
- In the mid-capacity ADV segment, service network, spares, and reliability become big differentiators. TVS will need to ensure good after-sales support.
- Weight and how they have balanced it (versus power) will be critical for rideability on twisty roads and long distances.
Conclusion
The TVS Apache RTX 300 marks a significant move by TVS into the adventure rally-tourer space. With its strong spec sheet, modern features, and competitive pricing, it has the potential to shake up the segment and attract riders who want a do-everything bike: commuting, highway touring, and light adventure.
Of course, real world performance (comfort, reliability, service, fuel efficiency etc.) will determine how well it is received — but as of now, it looks like a promising addition to the offerings in the 300cc class.
