TVS Apache RR 310 review – The TVS bike Indians love

Racing a motorcycle obviously results in a lot of learning, and if 35 years of racing isn’t enough, we don’t know what is. TVS has been at it for that long and the brand wants to project that expertise in its newest motorcycle – the Apache RR 310. When we rode the updated BS6 model, we understood that the updates aren’t only limited to emission norms. TVS has addressed the issues on the older bike by focusing more on the tech whilst working on some of the older bike’s shortcomings. We take it for a spin to see if the new bike is now a better product.

We want sharpness

This bike was initially unveiled way back in 2016 as the Akula at the Auto Expo. And we’re happy to note that not much has changed. The overall silhouette remains the same, but the production bike loses some of the concept’s aggressive styling. It looks edgy and sporty, without trying too hard. At the front, it features bi-LED projector headlamps neatly fitted into the fairing whilst being underlined by a smoked-out split beak design. The windscreen sits nice and flush and there’s an Indian tri-colour decal above. The fender up-front is neatly done and the design credit goes to the endless hours of wind tunnel testing. It apparently sets the benchmark in aerodynamics in India – and looking at it – we can tell it’s true. The body panels look contemporary, and thank fully, there are no sharp creases; it looks best the way it is. There’s matte-black on the lower half of the fairing and the bike somehow looks big enough to take on a 600cc sportsbike. It has a nicely designed 11-litre fuel tank, but our favourite bit is the tail section – it looks inspired by Ducatis. At the back, it features Omega-shaped LED tail lights, giving the bike a modern look. By and large, this is a bike that will appeal to many, simply for the way it looks.


The ergonomics

The TVS Apache RR 310 can at first, appeal like something you’re not going to be comfortable seated on. But you’re wrong, because the riding position is surprisingly not as committed as a supersport. TVS Bikes have been able to gauge the pulse of Indian customers with fully-faired bikes while also keeping in mind that not everyone is privileged enough to race on track. The TVS Apache RR 310 is fun to ride and comes with great ergonomics. When it comes to the rider’s triangle, you can be seated comfortably. There’s lots of space for both, rider and pillion, further helping deal with long rides and leaning around corners. Adding to the comfort is the 810mm seat height. We also liked the visibility and adjustability provided for the mirrors.

For the road too?

Usually, race bikes are made strictly for the track. If you add grippier tyes, lighter bodywork and aftermarket exhaust, the RR 310 will be deal you won’t be able to resist. Throw in some lowered clip-ons and you’ll have yourself a race-ready motorcycle. However, it isn’t a hooligan around the track, which helps to an extent, making it potentially capable and fun to ride within the city.

Time to ride

The TVS Apache RR 310 comes with a few riding modes, and the tech brings with it a new ride-by-wire throttle system. It features four riding modes: Rain, Urban, Sport and Track. All modes offer various setups, depending on the response of the engine and ABS. Throttle response isn’t great in Rain and Urban modes, while power and torque are not restricted in Sport and track modes. Throttle response is fantastic in the powerful modes, but we found it to be a bit too much for the city. Rain and Urban modes cut down the sharpness of the throttle, further calming down the bike quite a bit. The bike accelerates rather quickly, but in Sport, it feels just that bit slower than the previous-gen BS4 model. However, it isn’t a difference that stares you in the face. When it comes to performance, the Apache RR 310 from TVS Bikes does exceedingly well. Thanks to the 312.2cc engine, power is delivered in a linear fashion and keeps up its pace all the way to the redline. Even the low kerb weight of 174kgs plays a part in bike’s excellent performance. This TVS is also lighter than the Bajaj Dominor 250. TVS Bikes have worked to ensure vibrations are at a minimum; there are enhancements, no doubt – but there’s no denying the fact this not as refined as you would’ve liked. Vibrations don’t filter through much, but you do feel some of it through the footpegs and seat. Also, read the latest bike comparisons, only at autoX.