TVS Motor Company, one of India’s most innovative motorcycle manufacturers, has officially stepped into the adventure touring segment with the launch of the Apache RTX 300. Drawing inspiration from its experience in international rally events like the Dakar Rally, the brand has used that expertise to develop a motorcycle designed to conquer both highways and rugged trails.
The question remains—does the Apache RTX 300 live up to the legendary Apache name? Can it offer the perfect balance between adventure, comfort, and everyday practicality? After spending quality time with the bike, here’s a detailed look at what the RTX 300 has to offer.
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Engine and Performance: Smooth Power Meets Real-World Practicality
At the heart of the TVS Apache RTX 300 lies an all-new 299.1cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder DOHC engine, developed entirely in-house by TVS. Unlike the older BMW co-developed 310cc engine seen in previous models, this one marks a fresh start. It produces 35 hp at 9,000 rpm and 28.5 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm—numbers that put it squarely in competition with the likes of the KTM 250 Adventure and BMW G 310 GS.
Power delivery is impressively linear and smooth, making the bike easy to handle both in the city and on long highway stretches. The engine feels tractable and forgiving at low speeds, while offering enough punch when you open the throttle.
When the road disappears into dirt, the Apache RTX 300 doesn’t hesitate. You may need to downshift more often while tackling steep trails, but the lower gear ratios help maintain control and confidence in tricky terrain.
The 6-speed gearbox is slick and supported by a slipper clutch, offering smoother downshifts and preventing rear-wheel hop during sudden deceleration. Higher variants also get a bi-directional quickshifter, ensuring crisp, clutchless gear changes in both directions—a rare feature in this price segment.
Despite its performance focus, TVS has ensured refinement. The rubber-mounted handlebar cuts vibrations, and the deep, throaty exhaust note adds a touring character. The cooling system, which uses both oil and water, does an excellent job of keeping the bike’s temperature under control in stop-and-go traffic.
You also get four riding modes—Urban, Rain, Tour, and Rally—each adjusting throttle response, traction control, and ABS sensitivity. While the difference between the first three modes is subtle, the Rally mode completely disables rear ABS, allowing full control on dirt or gravel paths.
Comfort and Ergonomics: Built for the Long Haul
The TVS Apache RTX 300 is designed to take on long distances, and that’s evident from its ergonomics. The seat height of 835 mm might be slightly tall for shorter riders but offers generous space and comfort once seated.
The riding triangle—thanks to the upright handlebar and neutral footpeg position—creates a commanding stance suitable for long hours in the saddle. Taller riders will find the setup especially comfortable, while shorter ones might take some time getting used to the height.
The seat cushioning could be slightly thicker; after a few hours, it starts to feel firm. However, this is a small trade-off for the amount of space and freedom of movement it offers on long rides.
Where the RTX 300 really shines is in its suspension setup. The WP upside-down front forks and mono-shock rear unit with 180mm of travel do an excellent job of absorbing potholes and undulating terrain. Whether you’re gliding over gravel or broken tarmac, the bike stays planted and composed.
If you prefer staying seated even on bumpy trails, the RTX 300’s suspension will make life easy—it’s tuned for comfort, not aggression.
Ride and Handling: Confident, Composed, and Predictable
The Apache RTX 300’s steel trellis frame paired with a die-cast aluminum swingarm offers an ideal balance of strength and flexibility. The chassis tuning leans more toward stability than outright agility, making the bike an excellent long-distance tourer.
Cornering performance is steady, and while it’s not razor-sharp like a sportbike, it inspires confidence. The Eurogrip dual-purpose tires offer decent grip on both paved and unpaved roads, ensuring a secure feel across changing surfaces.
Braking duties are handled by dual disc brakes with switchable dual-channel ABS. In Rally mode, the rear ABS can be turned off, a handy feature when navigating through loose terrain or steep descents.
Overall, the bike’s ride quality is plush yet composed. It’s not the most nimble adventure bike in tight switchbacks, but its stability on straights and predictability through corners make it a joy to ride on long journeys.
Features and Technology: Loaded and Thoughtful
TVS has packed the Apache RTX 300 with features that make it one of the most tech-rich offerings in its class.
Highlight Features:
- 5-inch TFT full-color display with smartphone connectivity
- Google Maps integration and turn-by-turn navigation
- Bluetooth connectivity for calls and notifications
- Dynamic lighting system that auto-adjusts brightness
- Cruise control (available on higher variants)
- Traction control and ABS with customizable settings
- USB charging port and service reminder indicator
- TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) and bi-directional quickshifter on top trims
The TFT display is crisp and user-friendly, keeping the rider connected without distractions. The inclusion of dynamic lighting—which automatically adjusts beam intensity based on conditions—is an especially innovative touch for the segment.
TVS also offers optional accessories to enhance touring capability, including crash guards, knuckle protectors, raised beak, and luggage mounts—ideal for those who plan long expeditions.
Design and Styling: Muscular Yet Purposeful
The TVS Apache RTX 300 blends aggression with elegance. Its twin LED headlamps with sharp detailing give it a fierce face, while the semi-faired front and tall windscreen lend it authentic adventure touring vibes.
The muscular fuel tank merges smoothly into a sculpted side profile, and the twin outlet exhaust design gives it a sporty yet rugged rear appearance.
With 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels, wrapped in thick dual-purpose tires, the bike’s stance looks both commanding and balanced. It strikes the perfect visual equilibrium between sportiness and adventure-readiness, turning heads wherever it goes.
Verdict: A Well-Rounded Adventure Companion
The TVS Apache RTX 300 is more than just another motorcycle in the Apache lineup—it’s a statement of TVS’s growing engineering prowess. It doesn’t try to outdo rivals by brute force; instead, it focuses on getting the fundamentals right: balance, comfort, and refinement.
The in-house engine delivers a polished performance, the suspension offers composure across diverse terrains, and the premium features add immense value for touring riders.
While it may not be the most extreme off-roader in its class, the RTX 300 excels as a balanced adventure tourer that’s equally at home in the city and on long open roads. At a starting price of ₹1.99 lakh (ex-showroom), it offers remarkable value, especially considering its features and build quality.
For riders who crave exploration without compromising everyday usability, the TVS Apache RTX 300 hits a sweet spot—refined, practical, and ready for adventure.
FAQs
What is the engine capacity of the TVS Apache RTX 300?
The Apache RTX 300 is powered by a 299.1cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder DOHC engine producing 35 hp and 28.5 Nm of torque.
Is the Apache RTX 300 suitable for off-roading?
Yes, the RTX 300 offers excellent suspension travel, switchable ABS, and dedicated Rally mode for mild to moderate off-roading.
Does the Apache RTX 300 have ride modes?
Yes, it comes with four riding modes—Urban, Rain, Tour, and Rally—customizing throttle response and traction settings.