With its host of BS6 updates, the flagship Apache now offers better bang for the buck
At launch, the TVS Apache RR 310 was a head turner and came across as a value-for-money sportsbike, but it also had a few flaws. The BS6 update had TVS Motor’s R&D team do everything they could to make it better. In typical TVS fashion most issues we had, especially the ones pertaining to engine refinement have been addressed, besides the bike getting additional features. It’s been a few months since the BS6 Apache RR 310 went on sale, yes, but it’s never too late to get seat time on a good motorcycle, no?
Visually not much has changed save for the new paint scheme and it makes the bike look more premium, almost looks like a larger, middleweight supersport machine. Well, it also has an array of electronics now to go with that. The instrument cluster is mounted vertically as before but is a full-colour TFT display now. It gets four display modes, Bluetooth connectivity and shows call alerts and turn-by-turn navigation too. An important update under the skin is the switch to ride by wire, which besides making throttle response crisper brings with it four riding modes – Urban, Rain, Sport and Track. These alter engine mapping, power output, throttle response and ABS calibration. This is something only seen on bikes costing more than twice as much!
The RR 310 has gained 4kg now and outputs are the same at 34PS and 27Nm but the aforementioned updates make it crisper, sharper and more fun. And yes, the modes do make a difference to the riding experience. Track and Sport feel similar with the sharpest engine response and stronger midrange punch, while Urban and Rain provide offer milder responses and better low-speed tractability. The motor still sounds a bit gruff and there’s some vibration from the handlebar and footpegs around 7,000rpm but overall refinement levels are vastly better. The RR also gets TVS Motor’s ‘Glide Through Traffic Plus’ that allows you to ride at crawling speeds without needing the throttle.
The bike is now shod with grippier Michelin Road 5 radials which complement the taut chassis better. ABS has been recalibrated and is less intrusive, allowing better brake modulation and better feedback. In my books, despite its power deficit the updated RR 310 should be able to keep up the now-ageing KTM RC 390 in its sights around twisties. Each motorcycle enthuses riders for a variety of reasons – some prefer outright performance, some prioritise a good chassis while some like drooling over gizmos. In its updated avatar, the Apache RR 310 is sure to appeal to a wider spectrum of riders. It now feels comfortable and friendly while offering a more engaging feel now. And at Rs 2.48 lakh ex-showroom, the bike offers even better value-for-money. If you think about it, the Apache RR 310 is the OnePlus Nord in the world of entry-level sportsbikes!
Technical Specifications
Engine: 312.2cc, 4-stroke, 4-valve, liquid-cooled
Power: 34PS @ 9,700rpm
Torque: 27.3Nm @ 7,700rpm
Weight: 174kg
0-100kmph: 7.17 seconds (claimed)
Price: Rs 2.48 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi)
