Amidst all the rumours that were rife on the internet about a 165cc Apache, TVS Motor Company didn’t take too long to launch the Apache RTR 165 RP after a few teasers. Launched at Rs 1.45 lakh, the TVS Apache RTR 165 RP is a lot dearer than the standard Apache RTR 160, and even the Apache RTR 200 4V. If you’re lucky enough, you might be one of the 200 lucky people who will get to own one as this will just be a limited-edition model.
Immediately starting with the important bits of the Apache RTR 165 RP — powered by a 164.9cc single-cylinder four-valve engine, the 165 RP produces 18.9bhp at 10,000rpm and 14.2Nm of torque at 8750rpm, making it the most powerful motorcycle in the 150cc-160cc segment. This engine makes use of a bigger cylinder head that offers a 35 per cent increase in terms of air intake, a larger dome piston for higher compression, and 15 per cent larger valves controlled by ‘Hi-Lift Hi-Duration cams’, and dual spring actuators. It continues to be paired to a five-speed transmission.
The Apache RTR 165 RP is underpinned by a double cradle split synchro stiff chassis, which hangs off of Showa forks up front and a seven-step adjustable monoshock at the rear, again from Showa. In terms of braking, it receives a 270mm petal disc setup at the front and a 240mm petal disc setup at the rear, the latter of which is a first-in-segment offering. The Apache RTR 165 RP sports 17-inch tyres on both ends, shod on Eurogrip ProtorQ SR Racing Spec tyres.
At a passing glance, you might mistake the Apache RTR 165 RP for one of the track-spec Apaches from TVS Racing Diaries (frequent evo India readers will get this), as the livery draws inspiration heavily from the aforementioned motorcycles. The TVS Racing decals sure make the Apache RTR 165 RP look impressive in pictures, but we’ll reserve our judgment until seeing one in the flesh. The alloys are finished in red, and the seat receives red inserts and a TVS Racing logo. The fuel tank flaunts the serial number of the motorcycle, along with the 15th anniversary logo of the Apache. You can also get a customised sticker containing ten alphabetical or numerical characters.
With just 200 units being produced, spending Rs 1.45 lakh on the Apache RTR 165 RP seems like a steal for sure. After all, it produces more power than the Yamaha YZF-R15, and it’s a lot more affordable too. A homologation special in the 160cc class? We couldn’t be more excited!