When it comes to the kind of motorcycle that the TVS Apache RTR 310 is, it was already near-perfect. RR 310’s pedigree, with a more approachable riding position and tons of street cred, we can have something of that sort all day long. And if so, why change it? Well, that has been TVS’s mantra for all their motorcycles. They make one and then they hone it… continually and consistently. They did it for the Apache RR 310, and so, it would be unwise to expect anything different when it comes to the Apache RTR 310. 

The new TVS Apache RTR 310 is essentially the same motorcycle with some refinements and some additions as well. There are some additions to the already comprehensive electronics suite and some meaningful changes to the power delivery. We rode the first one in Thailand, and it was mighty impressive. So much so that we added it to the xBhp Garage and did a lot with it, too. From writing songs about it to a stunt ride to some creative shoots, it has been a mainstay in the xBhp Garage in a very meaningful way. 

Anyway, coming back to the new Apache RTR 310, we got to ride it in India this time… on India’s first anti-clockwise circuit- the CoASTT racetrack in Coimbatore. Despite TVS calling it the Ultimate Street Weapon, it felt more or less at home even on the racetrack. In addition to the racetrack, we also rode the new Apache RTR 310 on the open roads, including dealing with traffic. So, we have got a decent idea of what the new TVS Apache RTR 310 is all about. 

Since the design remains more or less the same, except for the new colourways that we will talk about later, let us start with the engine. On second thought, the engine remains the same as well. There are some minor tweaks, though. TVS has recalibrated the engine and has made some other changes as well. So let us talk about that. 

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First of all, the previous RTR 310 was a very aggressive motorcycle. We like an aggressive motorcycle, but the older one was a little too eager all the time. So TVS made a clever tweak to the throttle in the sense that it now not only registers how much the throttle is opened but also the speed at which it is opened. That means that if you are gentle with it, the engine reciprocates. Give it the beans, though, and it is still just as manic. This makes the Apache RTR 310 more street-friendly than ever. 

Another change is the rear sprocket, which now has the same size as the RR 310. So, despite still being quite short-geared, the new Apache RTR 310 is much more manageable for even newer riders. Overall, the new Apache RTR 310 will still throw wheelies; it won’t do it on a whim, but only when the rider demands. But then again, it is so much fun that a rider might demand just that more often than not. 

Overall, the new Apache RTR 310 is a more usable and friendlier motorcycle on the streets and just as much fun, if not more, on the racetrack. Let us move on to the dynamics, then. 

Dynamically, the Apache RTR 310 remains the same. The same sporty yet comfortable ergonomics, the same supportive yet pliant suspension, the same leverage from the wide handlebars, the same confidence-inspiring braking, and of course, the same reverse-inclined engine that keeps the wheelbase short for quick handling and swingarm long for stability. So no changes here… not that any were needed. 

Now, we will come back to the design before talking about electronics, the department where the new Apache RTR 310 has changed the most. The new Apache RTR 310 gets knuckle guards, a transparent clutch cover, and sequential LEDs for the turn signals. Other than that, we have the new colourways: Arsenal Black, Fury yellow, Fiery Red, and Sepang Blue. The latter two are going to cost more, and you can find more details on the official website. 

Now, let us talk about the new stuff. First, we have Launch Control. It is the first motorcycle to have this feature in the class, but then again, it is the TVS we are talking about… this is the norm. So, you simply put the motorcycle in Track Mode, activate launch control, hold the throttle wide open and dump the clutch. What you get is a blast off the line, and it does not get old, no matter how many times you do it. 

Then we have Drag Torque Control. So even with the slip-and-assist clutch, rapid downshifts on the racetrack can make wheel hop a little and destabilise the motorcycle. With this addition, no matter how rapid the downshift, the motorcycle remains composed, making corner entry and rapid deceleration a breeze.

In this iteration of the TVS Apache RTR 310, you also get Keyless Ride. More or less self-explanatory and a bit gimmicky, maybe… but for people like us who are always on the move with a camera taking pictures, this feature is more than just a gimmick. However, it may not be the same for everyone.

Finally, the Apache RTR 310 also comes with TVS’ BTO option as well. Now, let us talk about the price. The base variant has an introductory price of INR 2,39,990, and the top variant will cost you INR 2,57,000. The BTO 1 kit (Dynamic) will cost INR 2,75,000, and the BTO 2 kit (Dynamic Pro) will set you back by INR 2,85,000. 

To us, the base variant of the Apache RTR 310 is a fantastic deal. You still get most of the electronics (non-cornering versions) and at just INR 2.4 lakhs, making this variant an absolute steal. The higher-spec variants are for enthusiasts and still a bang for buck for the people who want those features. Overall, it seems like TVS is going in the same direction with the Apache RTR 310 as they did with the Apache RR 310… continual and consistent improvements!