For weekend-only runs, the KTM 390 Duke would edge out the Apache but if I had to ride a motorcycle every day of the week, TVS would be the better choice for me.

BHPian neil.jericho recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Over the past few years, the BMW-TVS partnership which resulted in the latter manufacturing different motorcycles on the shared 312.2 cc platform, has proven to be a fairly successful one for both the German and Indian motorcycle companies. Today, BMW has a faired, naked and adventure version for sale in global markets. Initially, TVS had the faired version and in late 2023, finally got the exciting naked Apache variant that motorcycle enthusiasts have been clamouring for.

But first, a bit of a history lesson. In 2017, TVS launched the fully faired Apache RR 310 at Rs 2.05 L (ex-showroom). A year later, BMW launched the naked G310R and the adventure G310GS at Rs 2.99 L and Rs 3.49 L (ex-showroom) respectively. While the Apache RR 310 did well for itself in the face of stiff competition from the more expensive but powerful KTM RC 390, the BMW offerings had a tough time getting off showroom floors, on account of their steep pricing. In 2020, BMW did the smart thing and dropped the ex-showroom prices to Rs 2.45 L and Rs 2.85 L for the R and GS models. In 2021, to freshen up their sporty Apache RR 310, TVS launched the Build To Order (BTO) program which essentially allowed you to spec up your motorcycle with a Dynamic kit and / or a Race kit and / or a special race livery kit. You can read more about the TVS Apache RR 310 BTO here.

In 2022, BMW launched the faired G310RR which was almost the exact same motorcycle as the Apache RR 310. The question on everyone’s mind was when would TVS return the favour and launch the naked version of the 310? Would it simply be a re-badged G310R or would TVS go all out to make it a genuine successor of the Apache family? We had to wait till late 2023 for the TVS Apache RTR 310 to finally be launched (starting at Rs 2.42 L ex-showroom). Now, it's time to get some of these questions answered.

Earlier this month, I managed to get my hands on the keys to the TVS Apache RTR 310 BTO and rode it for a few hundred kilometers. As I mentioned in my Closer Look of the Triumph Tiger 900 GT, please keep in mind that I'm no reviewer, journalist or even an expert. I'm just a motorcycle enthusiast like all of you, here sharing my riding impressions and general opinions on the bike along with a lot of pictures.

TVS Apache RTR 310 BTO – What Is It

If you look at the website of the TVS Apache RTR 310, you will see that TVS has thrown everything at this motorcycle, except the kitchen sink. Many enthusiasts will incorrectly assume that the RTR 310 is simply a butch version of the RR 310 with no mechanical updates. However, TVS has shortened the gearing and made a bunch of other changes to suit the Freestyler image that their marketing team has latched on to.

Basically, the RTR 310 is the Apache to own if you want to commute to office every day and will do the occasional weekend morning ride with your friends. It also is an excellent choice for experienced riders who want an exciting motorcycle with top of the line components, which can be a royal hoot on any given day. The RTR 310 gets the 312cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that puts out 35.6 PS @ 9700 rpm and 28.7 Nm @ 6650 rpm in the Sport, Track and SuperMoto modes. In the Urban and Rain modes, the figures are 27.1 PS @ 7500 rpm and 27.3 Nm @ 6600 rpm. As for the rest of the specs, here is what the TVS website highlights:

• Bi-LED headlight
• Whole suite of electronics
• 6 speed gearbox with optional bi-directional quickshifter
• Cruise control
• Glide Through Technology (GTT)
• Supermoto mode
• Road 5 tires
• Adjustable levers
• 5 inch TFT screen
• 5 different ride modes – Sport, Track, SuperMoto, Urban and Rain

With the BTO versions, you also get a choice of the Dynamic Kit, the Dynamic Pro Kit and the Color Kit.

Here is what you get in the Dynamic Kit:

• Fully adjustable front and rear suspension
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• Brass chain

The Dynamic Pro Kit gets a full suite of electronics including Dynamic stability control, Cornering ABS, Cornering traction control, Wheelie control, Slope dependent control, rear wheel lift off protection (anti stoppie control) and cornering cruise control. You also get the climate control seat.

The Color Kit is the Sepang Blue variant which incorporates their racing livery.

\

Here is a quick snapshot of the TVS Apache RTR 310

Likes

• Fabulous chassis and suspension
• Easily the best looking motorcycle in its segment
• Engine is a ton of fun in the city and does not disappoint on the highways
• Fit and finish is top notch and matches that of premium imported motorbikes
• TFT dash is crisp and easy to read even in bright sunlight
• Zero heating issues
• Bright bi-led headlight is very impressive

Dislikes

• The initial braking feel could be better
• Understanding the headlight settings isn't easy
• The left and right indicators aren’t easy to operate
• Far too many variants and options on offer

Initial Impressions

5 top thoughts after the first 30 minutes with the TVS Apache RTR 310 BTO

1. This rider’s triangle and ergonomics are perfect for my height. I mentioned this in the Closer Look of the Apache RR 310 – I now seriously believe that there is a team of TVS test riders who share my exact same height and build. How else could the bike feel like it has been perfectly designed and built around a rider like me?
2. The fueling, gearing and power delivery are absolutely spot on. Within 5 seconds of riding the motorcycle, I felt as though I was one with it. It took me less than 300 meters of riding to confidently take a 90 degree turn at full lean and with the throttle wide open.
3. The extremely light kerb weight of 169 kg, the confidence inspiring handling and the strong low and mid range allow you to cut through traffic almost telepathically. Overtaking in the city is so much fun that you will enjoy your daily commute like you never have before. I found myself squeezing through the tightest of gaps in stationary traffic, which is something that I would never be able to do on my Royal Enfield Continental GT 535, for example.
4. While the power and torque figures of the TVS Apache RTR 310 are lower than that of say the explosive KTM Duke 390, in the real world, the Apache RTR 310 brings so much usable performance to the table that you will forget all about your Excel sheet comparisons and endless hours of YouTube drag videos, once you get aboard the motorcycle. Not only is it perfectly tuned for the urban jungle, you also greatly benefit from not having to deal with excess unusable power, lack of low-end torque and heating issues, all of which have traditionally been the weakest links of the Duke 390.
5. Not only is this a perfect upgrade for TVS Apache RTR 150, 160, 180 and 200 owners, but it is also a very pragmatic and fun filled choice for experienced and / or former superbike riders who want to downsize for a variety of reasons.

TVS Apache RTR 310 – A Deep Dive (Part 1)

Now for a closer look at the TVS Apache RTR 310 BTO.

This is a very handsome motorcycle!

A closer look at the front end. You might notice some Italian inspiration here.

Arguably the best angle to view the bike.

Forget the Italians! This screams Yamaha MT09's little brother is here, all day long.

The best OEM headlight this side of Rs 5 L?

Those gold forks add so much substance to the styling.

Tasty!

High quality indicators are bright.

Twin horn setup is really loud.

Not a big fan of this chin out setup.

300 mm petal disc should help in better heat dissipation.

ByBre unit does braking duties.

Everything is neat and tidy.

The adjustable clutch lever.

The really busy switchgear on the left side. Quality is good but the indicators are hard to operate. Also, cruise control!

The BTO kit gets you adjustable suspension. Preload adjustment and rebound adjustment on the left leg.

Wide mirrors are extremely functional.

The key slot.

This TFT display is bright and readable during the day...

... and the night, as well.

The oil check is on the left side.

Most riders will not face any issues with the positioning of the gear lever.

The simple pillion footpeg.

The sari guard is integrated into the rear hugger. Very neat.

The best-looking colour scheme on the Apache RTR 310?

Yes, this is E20 compliant.

Rider seat is extremely comfortable. Large-bottomed riders might wish for a hint more space from the the petrol tank to the base of the pillion seat.

Smart looking pillion seat with large grab handles.

The sculpted tank adds so much visual muscle.

Lovely design elements all around.

Continue reading neil.jericho's review for BHPian comments, insights and more information.

Yes, the additional power on the KTM 390 Duke is more exciting but the TVS is a genuinely good motorcycle that won’t fail to put a big smile on your face.

BHPian neil.jericho recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Recently, I had the opportunity to spend some time with a brand new TVS Apache RTR 310 BTO motorcycle and I’ve been grinning ever since then.

Over a few days, I rode the motorcycle for a couple of hundred kilometers, which included substantial commuting in the city and a short weekend morning ride. This has given me a fair picture of what TVS has done to fine-tune the 310 platform.

Back in 2021, when I had the chance to test ride the TVS Apache RR 310 BTO in the Nilgiris, I came away very impressed by the motorcycle.

At that time, I had mentioned the following:

A few years ago, TVS and BMW tied up to jointly develop a 312.2 cc platform for motorcycles. To ensure that there was no direct competition between the two partnering companies, they split the offerings based on styling and positioning. BMW got the adventure (GS310) and naked (G310R) variants, while TVS got the faired version. In my books, TVS should have got the naked variant of the 310 platform as it would have built on their successful RTR pedigree. A naked RTR 310 would have been a logical upgrade for the scores of RTR 150, 160, 180 and 200 owners. But history was scripted differently.

Now that the long-awaited RTR 310 is finally starting to trickle into the hands of owners (in its confusing combination of paint schemes and BTO avatars), is this the perfect motorcycle upgrade that existing TVS enthusiasts have been yearning for? In my books, it is a resounding yes!

To summarize my time with the TVS Apache RTR 310 BTO

1. This is an attractively styled, loaded to the gills, thoroughly enjoy spanking it on weekdays, plus twice on Sundays and / or public holidays, type of motorcycle. I can’t remember the last time that I had this combination of playful and explosive fun while riding a motorcycle in our mixed real-world, Indian riding conditions.
2. The number of conversations that this motorcycle started, with an unimaginably wide section of enthusiasts and regular bikers, was mind-boggling. I’ve never had this many people come up to me and talk about the motorcycle that I was riding. Ever.
3. Based on the 310 platform’s reputation and TVS’ focus on the Freestyler concept for the RTR 310, I fully expected the motorcycle to be really nice to ride in the city, with the trade-off being the lack of highway performance. Oh boy, was I wrong? The motorcycle is an absolute riot in the city and the highway performance is impressive. The best part is that this is a motorcycle which you can enjoy while riding calmly if that is the sort of rider that you are or the mood that you are in. It certainly isn’t a motorcycle that is always looking to race (ahem), while punishing you for not keeping it on the boil at all times.
4. I’m a fairly sedate rider, often to the chagrin of the motorcyclists who I ride with. Whatever motorcycle I am riding, I’ve always been Mr Calm and Composed on our roads. However, the Apache RTR 310 has done the unthinkable and unlocked the dormant hooligan in me. Thanks to the motorcycle’s cat-like agility, I’ve been darting in and out of Bangalore’s infamous traffic like the squid that I am (not?). Even on the highways, I found myself comfortably carrying speeds that were 10 to 15 kmph higher than my usual speeds. There are so many factors which contributed to this, including the excellent chassis, grippy tires, weight centralization and so on.
5. While there is so much that I enjoyed about the motorcycle, what is not to like, you ask? Honestly, I really had to scratch my head on this one. The initial feel is that the front brake isn’t the best, though the bite is good. The feel from the rear brake was noticeably vague. Besides that, I believe TVS has erred by offering too many options for the Apache RTR 310. That’s it. Out of the box, this is a genuinely good motorcycle.

In the past, I’ve posted on the forum that in the minds of Indian motorcycle enthusiasts, the 310 platform was always half a step behind the other exciting motorcycles because of the lack of horsepower and torque. In the real world, the Apache RTR 310 does an unbelievable job of masking this deficiency, while doing what it does best – be a fun all rounded motorcycle which won’t fail to put a big smile on your face.

Yes, the additional horses on the KTM Duke 390 will make it more exciting than the Apache RTR 310 on weekend rides and for most buyers, the value-for-money comparisons between the two are inevitable. I haven’t ridden the latest Duke 390, so I cannot offer an honest opinion at this point in time, but I wouldn’t be surprised if the Apache RTR 310 is actually the better do-it-all motorcycle for the majority of unbiased Indian enthusiasts who can only have one motorcycle in their garage.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

It has all the bells and whistles but lacks smoothness. The NVH levels aren't as good as on the Triumph Speed 400 / Scrambler 400X.

BHPian vinbex recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

A bit late to the party, but I decided to check out the RTR 310 just to see how good it was. Have been riding twin-cylinder bikes since 2011, so my comparisons may be a bit biased.

The TVS showroom staff was extremely friendly and explained each and every detail. I knew most of it but allowed him to go on about the bike. First look and it looks drop-dead gorgeous! Absolutely stunning in black from the front. I fell for it then and there. Loaded with tech as we all know, took the test ride.

I came away pretty disappointed, to be honest.

First the pros:

1. The seating is comfortable with nice wide handlebars.
2. Good view of the console.
3. I am 6' tall and did not feel cramped at all.
4. Very nimble and agile moving through traffic. It did not get heated up.
5. Quickshifter is fabulous, just WOW!
6. Good fit and finish, compared to the first gen RR310's
7. Good short gearbox
8. A great-looking bike of course.

Now the cons

1. Felt out of breath at around 80- 90kmph. It would definitely go beyond that, but the ease was missing.
2. A bit vibey
3. Engine and exhaust character is on the rougher side.
4. At almost 3.5 lakhs on road, it has all the bells and whistles but lacks the smoothness and good NVH levels when compared to the Triumph Speed/Scrambler.
5. It could be a great second bike, but I wouldn't have it as the only bike.

Just my perspectives after a test ride. Attaching a few pics from my side.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The Apache RTR 310 is the first in its segment to get a climate control seat and dynamic lights.

TVS has launched a streetfighter version of the Apache RR 310. The new naked bike is called the Apache RTR 310 and is priced at Rs 2.43 lakh (ex-showroom).

The Apache RTR 310 can be seen as TVS' version of the BMW G 310 R. While it shares the same architecture, the RTR 310 boasts a unique look. It has sporty dual LED headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights, an exposed frame and a chin fairing. The bike gets a short tail section with twin LED tail lights.

The Apache RTR 310 features a 5-inch digital instrument console, cruise control, GoPro control and 5 riding modes. It is also the first bike in the segment to get a climate control seat and dynamic lights that change their intensity depending on the speed.

The RTR 310 is loaded with a host of safety features as well. It gets Cornering ABS, Cornering Cruise Control, Cornering Traction Control, Rear Lift Off Control, Front Lift Off Control, Slope Dependent Control and Tyre Pressure Monitor.

The Apache RTR 310 is powered by a 312.12cc, single-cylinder engine that gets all-new forged aluminium pistons that are said to be 5% lighter, throttle-by-wire and a 46 mm throttle body. It generates 35.11 BHP @ 9,700 rpm and 28.7 Nm @ 6,650 rpm. The engine is mated with a 6-speed gearbox via a bi-directional quick-shifter. TVS claims a 0-60 km/h time of 2.81 seconds and a top speed of 150 km/h.

The bike is suspended by an upside-down KYB fork at the front and a mono-shock at the rear. It rides on lightweight 8-spoke alloy wheels.

TVS Apache RTR 310 ex-showroom prices:

• Arsenal Black (w/o Quickshifter) – Rs 2,42,990
• Arsenal Black -Rs 2,57,990
• Fury Yellow – Rs 2,63,990

Built to Order:

• Dynamic Kit – Rs 18,000
• Dynamic Pro Kit – Rs 22,000
• Sepang Blue – Rs 10,000

TVS' new street bike could be called Apache RTR 310 or Apache 310 Street.

TVS recently opened bookings for the naked version of the Apache RR 310. Sudarshan Venu, MD, TVS Motor, has been riding the new model ahead of its formal launch scheduled for September 6, 2023.

The new street bike could be called Apache RTR 310 or Apache 310 Street. It will share its underpinnings with the BMW G 310 R. As you can see in these images, the bike is expected to feature a unique look with an aggressive headlamp cowl, a chin fairing, and a stepped seat.

The test bike is equipped with an upside-down front fork finished in gold, alloy wheels, petal-type disc brakes and a digital instrument console.

The Apache 310 Street / RTR 310 will be powered by the same 313cc single-cylinder engine co-developed with BMW Motorrad. It produces 33.5 BHP and 27.3 Nm. However, TVS could re-tune the engine for a better mid-range grunt.

The TVS Apache RTR 310 / Apache 310 Street will share its underpinnings with the BMW G 310 R.

TVS has started accepting pre-bookings for the naked version of the Apache RR 310. The company announced this through a new teaser video that also provides a glimpse of the new model. The bike will be officially launched on September 6, 2023.

Rumours suggest that the naked version of the Apache RR 310 could be called the RTR 310 or Apache 310 Street. It will share most of its components with the BMW G 310 R but appears to have a different design.

The teaser reveals the silhouette of the RTR 310 featuring a sporty streetfighter look. It has an aggressive-looking headlamp cowl with dual LEDs and a short tail section.

The Apache 310 Street / RTR 310 will be powered by the same 313cc, single-cylinder engine co-developed with BMW Motorrad. It produces 33.5 BHP and 27.3 Nm, however, TVS could re-tune the engine for a better mid-range grunt.

TVS' new naked streetfighter could be called Apache RTX or Apache RTR 310.

TVS has sent out invitations for a launch event that is scheduled for September 6, 2023. Now, the company hasn't revealed the details of the product it plans to launch, but rumours suggest that it could be the naked version of the Apache RR 310.

The roadster version of the Apache RR310 was first spotted in July this year. The bike could be called Apache RTX or RTR 310.

According to the leaked images, the RTR 310 is likely to receive a tweaked geometry along with sporty styling inspired by the Draken concept. The bike could also feature an upside-down front fork and a rear mono-shock, while the wheels and brakes could be carried over from the RR 310.

Reports suggest that the RTR 310 will use the same 313cc, single-cylinder that powers the BMW G 310 R. This unit develops 33.5 BHP and 27.3 Nm and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox via a slipper clutch. The RTR 310 could be tuned for a stronger mid-range.

The RTR 310 will use the same 313cc, single-cylinder that powers the BMW G 310 R.

TVS is working on a naked version of the Apache RR 310. The new model is likely to be called 'Apache RTR 310'. Here are some more images of the upcoming streetfighter.

The latest set of spy images reveals the RTR 310's tail section. The bike has a unique taillight design and split grabrails at the back. The number plate and turn indicators are mounted on the tyre hugger.

The chassis geometry of the Apache RTR 310 is noticeably different from the RR 310. The bike has raised handlebars and a suspension setup that allows for a more upright riding posture.

Reports suggest that the RTR 310 will use the same 313cc, single-cylinder that powers the BMW G 310 R. This unit develops 33.5 BHP and 27.3 Nm and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox via a slipper clutch. That being said, TVS is likely to retune the engine for a better mid-range grunt. The bike's top speed is rumoured to be 158 km/h.

Source: @nadeemalvivlogs

The RTR 310 will use the same 313cc, single-cylinder that powers the BMW G 310 R.

TVS is reportedly working on the Apache RTR 310. Now, leaked images have revealed what is believed to be the upcoming streetfighter.

The RTR 310 will be a naked version of the Apache RR 310. The images reveal a sporty street bike with a tweaked geometry. The bike has raised handlebars offering an upright riding position.

The styling of the Apache RTR 310 looks similar to the Draken concept that was showcased at Auto Expo 2014. The upside-down front fork, rear monoshock, wheels and brakes are from the Apache RR 310.

Reports suggest that the RTR 310 will use the same 313cc, single-cylinder that powers the BMW G 310 R. This unit develops 33.5 BHP and 27.3 Nm and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox via a slipper clutch. That being said, TVS is likely to retune the engine for a better mid-range grunt. The bike's top speed is rumoured to be 158 km/h.

Source: @iamabikerdotcom

The Apache RTR 310 is expected to be rebadged BMW G 310 R, with styling inspired by the Draken concept.

The TVS Apache RR 310 could soon get a streetfighter version. Dubbed the Apache RTR 310, the new model is expected to be a rebadged BMW G 310 R and could be launched by the end of this month.

According to a media report, the styling of the RTR 310 is likely to be inspired by the Draken concept that was showcased at Auto Expo 2014. So, we can expect to see an aggressive-looking naked motorcycle with a sporty LED headlamp up front, an exposed frame and a narrow tail section. 

The report states that the RTR 310 will use the same 313cc, single-cylinder that powers the BMW G 310 R. This unit develops 33.5 BHP and 27.3 Nm and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox via a slipper clutch. That being said, TVS is likely to retune the engine for a better mid-range grunt. The bike's top speed is rumoured to be 158 km/h.

Coming to the features and equipment, the new model may not get the RR 310’s vertical instrument console. Instead, the RTR 310 could get a horizontal TFT screen offering Bluetooth connectivity. 

Source: Bikewale