TVS APACHE RTR 180CC THE MENACE

Just got to know that TVS is all set to launch the much awaited "Apache RTR Menace" the latest offering from TVS in the 180cc segment by late Oct or early Nov 2008.

The Menace on two wheels is arriving and it looks hot too. Considering the sexiness that exists in the current RTR 160 beating all in that exist in its class and a few above too. Even if it manages to keep up with it predecessor it’ll be up there with the best… need I say more.

Design:
The bike will retain the basic lines of the current RTR, retaining the basic look of a naked sports bike. But with no front scoop this time. And for a good reason too, the front is now going to house a semi-full faring that will expose part of the engine and give it that naked bike look too.
The bike will have a digital speedometer with top speed, 0-60 timer, trips, and other extra functionality plus stunning looks.

Engine and Gearbox:
The race developed high reving180cc mill will be one of a kind, developing 18bhp and refined further, more than it is in the current RTR. The engine is expected to have a high compression ratio to deliver more power and will be powered by a fuel injection system.

Ride and Handling:
The current RTR handles like a charm with loads of feedback from both the front and rear end. TVS won’t make a mistake in the handling department, although the company is looking to keep the setup to a slightly sportier side. With front and rear disk brakes and a proposed mono-shock we have a new dream bike in development here.
Rumours are that TVS might be going overboard with the weight distribution and balancing and we might have a surprise exhaust this time.

Price and Competition:
Expect the price to be around 80,000+INR. This is a real good deal, considering the finish and performance of previous TVS products. The bike will compete with bikes above its segment like the pulsar 200 as the RTR is already taking care of the bikes in the 180cc segment.

The bike is a bargain for what TVS is offering with the “Menace”. I’m sure TVS will break benchmarks with this 180cc. The bike is due this Oct-Nov (2008) - Those planning for a performance bike any time soon, do try this first.

*The apache 180 is expected to launch this diwali. althogh the release might be postponed to pongal to make it an attraction at the next autoshow!

** You could expect a longer wheelbase, a mono shock or a slightly different suspension layout. They have also been experimenting with a lot of speedo layouts so a fully digital display can be expected. Fuel injection too will be standard.

*** The basic layout will continue to be an air cooled 4 stroke single. The reliability quotient will have to upped however.

**** Apache Menace will come with some cosmetic upgrades too.The company reportedly is also working on 200cc version of the Apache and that might come in the market with ABS!