Here it is, then. The first shots of the upcoming new-generation TVS Apache 160 – photographed here in prototype guise without a single piece of camouflage.
We take it then that TVS has got nothing to hide with this new-gen Apache 160, even going as far as revealing silver colour side panel on this particular test mule. With that said, we doubt TVS is fooling anyone with a styling cues drawn from the company’s current flagship model, the Apache RTR 200 4V. Rumours about the new-gen Apache 160 and 180 have been doing rounds on the internet, ever since 2014, after that infamous facelift launch.
Since the Apache brands introduction in 2006, the Apaches have been doing pretty well in the markets even now without any significant changes. But now its time for TVS to update their Apache 160 and the 180 with the rising competition from other manufacturers with the launch of new age bikes in its segment in the form of Bajaj Pulsar NS160, Honda CB Hornet 160R, Suzuki Gixxer 155, Yamaha FZ series.
For the first time, the new-gen Apache 160 has been spotted testing by YouTube motovloggers – The Gearhead Bureau. As expected the younger Apaches (160 and 180) will be a downsized version of Apache RTR 200 4V. As the Pulsar NS lineup, the younger sibling Apache 160 snapped here gets kick-start option and small disc brake upfront while the rear disc brake has been omitted.
Though its sports the headlight, instrument console, mug-guard, mono-shock suspension, LED tail-light, tyre hugger and exhaust pipe similar to that of Apache 200 4V. The single piece seat replaces the split seat, side black panel is replaced with a silver ones and, also note the 6-spoke alloy rims like the current ones with skinnier tyres. The motorcycle can be seen using air-cooling whereas a TVS Apache 200 4V uses oil-cooling.
Under the skin, the same 160cc motor should sit with a different setup for more power and torque as compared to the current model. The way the new bike is accelerating in a video, the engine seemed more responsive as well got good throttle response. The new double barrel exhaust tuned to low bass, looks very much like that of the Apache 200 4V.
As of now, there are no reports or whatsoever on the launch of new-gen TVS Apache RTR 160, we expect it to be launched by the end of this-year, or early next year (probably at 2018 Auto Expo in February). Competing head-on with the new Pulsar NS160, we expect it to be price slightly higher than the existing Apache 160 at around Rs. 80,000.
Checkout more pictures and a video, after a jump.
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Also see: SPIED: Next-gen TVS Apache RTR prototype testing
