Subtle hints were provided by K. N. Radhakrishnan, President, CEO & Additional Whole-Time Director, TVS Motor Company when he mentioned in a recent interview that a new motorcycle based on the existing 310 cc platform could be launched in 2021.
With growing popularity of adventure motorcycles in the country, it is expected that TVS could enter this space with a new product based on Apache RR310. There is no official confirmation from TVS, but it’s probable that the new 310 cc motorcycle will be an adventure tourer.
Apache 310 has been developed through a joint collaboration between TVS Motor Company and BMW Motorrad. While BMW focuses on engineering and tech, TVS looks after production needs. Other products that are part of this collaboration include BMW G310GS and G310R. All these motorcycles have emerged as popular choices in this segment, so the possibility of a new product launch certainly exists. These bikes have also been successful in capturing international markets.
Ahead of its potential launch, a rendering by Bikers Community Nepal, of Apache RR310 based adventure motorcycle reveals how it may look in its production format. Some key features that are clearly evident include increased ground clearance and seat height, dual-purpose tyres, tall windscreen, sporty alloy wheels, blacked-out components including the engine, USD front forks with longer travel, monoshock rear suspension and upswept Akrapovic exhaust system.
Key features that TVS could offer with the 310 cc adventure motorcycle include a full-colour TFT instrument console, close ratio gearbox, multiple riding modes, ride-by-wire technology, slipper clutch, Glide Thru Technology Plus and switchable ABS.
The SmartXonnect connected tech from TVS is also expected to be offered as standard. SmartXonnect allows users to pair their smartphones with the instrument console to access a range of features such as caller ID, navigation assist, and last parked location.
When launched, TVS 310cc adventure motorcycle will take on rivals such as KTM 390 Adventure and Royal Enfield Himalayan. This segment is expected to witness increased competition in the near future. TVS can benefit if it can move faster than its rivals. There are indications that new adventure motorcycles such as KTM 250 Adv and Hero XPulse 300 could be launched next year.
TVS had launched BS-VI Apache RR 310 in January at Rs 2.4 lakh. If the adventure version becomes a reality, it would be priced a bit higher, somewhere around Rs 2.60 lakh. It will utilize the same BS6 engine as that of its faired sibling. The 312.2 cc engine generates 34 bhp of max power and 27.3 Nm of max torque. Engine is mated to a 6-speed, track-tuned transmission. It is possible that power and torque may undergo some adjustments for the adventure model.
Source: Bike - rushlane.com
