TVS lost its third place to Honda in the 2-wheeler segment. Lack of new products or upgrades to existing motorcycles has led to TVS losing market share. With Bajaj Auto planning to launch the Pulsar 200 NS soon, it looked like TVS would be out of contention in the premium motorcycle space. But the folks at TVS are not snoozing. They have been busy developing an updated version of the TVS Apache motorcycle, which is all set to hit roads as soon as next month! While the company has not revealed much details yet, we managed to get hold of a few things.The new TVS Apache could be more powerful than the current version. TVS could either use a 200cc or a 250cc single-cylinder engine, which would produce between 23-25 BHP of power. The company does have a 250cc engine in its fold, which it uses on the RTR-FX off-roader. The styling will be very different and is expected to feature angel lights in the front and LEDs at the rear. A Monoshock suspension and split seats could also be offered. ABS will be available as an option and the new Apache is expected to maintain its sharp handling.
Pricing will remain key and TVS should price the updated Apache below Rs. 1 lakh. The tagline for the motorcycle is ‘New Beast. Same Bloodline’. The new Apache will certainly compete with the Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS and Hero Karizma ZMR. We are yet to get confirmation if the engine will be fuel injected but a full fairing is most likely. The performance motorcycle segment is going to see some competition soon. Looks like we will have to do a comparo shoot out all over again. Are you excited? We sure are!
Update - After getting in touch with a few TVS dealers, we have some disappointing news for you. This new Apache is nothing but a cosmetic job with absolutely no performance enhancements. Sigh!
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