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    2021 TVS Apache 160 Updated – More Torque, Less Weight

    2021 TVS Apache 160
    TVS Apache RTR 160 4V locks its horns with Hero Xtreme 160R and Bajaj Pulsar NS160

    TVS currently seems to be on a spree to update its Apache series of sporty commuter motorcycles. After the updated 2021 Apache RTR 200 4V, the Hosur-based bikemaker has now launched the 2021 Apache RTR 160 4V. Available in two variants- Drum brake and Disc brake variants, the latest iteration of the bike has been priced at Rs 1.07 lakh and Rs 1.10 lakh respectively (both prices ex-showroom).
    This means there is no increase in prices when compared to the older model. It will be offered in three colour schemes namely- Racing Red, Knight Black and Metallic Blue. Apart from a handful of cosmetic updates it also gets a slight tweak in its powertrain output as well.
    TVS Apache Prices March 2021 (Ex-Delhi)
    Cosmetic Updates
    The naked streetfighter now comes with an all-new dual-tone seat with a carbon fiber-styled pattern. It has also managed to shed 2 kilos and now tips the weighing scales at 147 kg for the disc brake variant, while the drum brake variant weighs 145 kg.
    The updated RTR 160 4V comes with a reshaped LED headlamp with claw-styled position lamps that add to its overall premium appeal. The cosmetic changes are limited to these updates only. Take a look at the official TVC of new Apache 160 below.
    [embedded content]
    Boost in Output
    However, the manufacturer has also managed to alter the output from its motor. The updated naked motorcycle is powered by a 159.7 cc, single-cylinder, 4-valve, oil-cooled engine that now kicks out 17 bhp at 9250 rpm and 14.73 Nm torque at 7250 rpm.
    This is a bump of 1 bhp and 1 Nm which makes it the most powerful bike in its segment. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. The bump in the motor’s output plus the reduction in its weight means an increase in power to weight ratio and will be interesting to see the impact created in its riding experience.
    On the occasion of the launch, Meghashyam Dighole, Head – (Marketing) Premium Motorcycles, TVS Motor Company, said, “The new 2021 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V offers best-in-class performance with enhanced power to weight ratio and increased torque, offering our customers better-riding experiences along with advanced technologies.”
    Features on offer
    The equipment list on the bike has not been altered as it continues to offer the same set of features including a fully digital instrument panel compatible with SmartXconnect technology. This feature allows riders to connect their smartphones with the instrument console for functionalities such as turn-by-turn navigation and phone-related operations. It also gets a ‘feather touch’ start for increased convenience. Apache RTR 160 4V competes against Bajaj Pulsar NS160 and Hero Xtreme 160R. More

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    TVS Apache 200 Single ABS Variant Gets Ride Modes – Priced Rs 1k Higher

    Image – The Bengal Rider
    Apache RTR range is among the bestselling performance oriented motorcycles in the country

    Aiming to provide more options to customers, TVS has introduced ride modes for Apache RTR200 4V single-channel ABS variant. Earlier, the ride modes were offered only with dual-channel ABS variant. The 2021 variant is available at a starting price of Rs 1.28 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). That’s Rs 1k more than the outgoing model.
    Ride modes
    New Apache RTR200 4V single-channel ABS gets ride modes of Urban, Rain and Sport. In all these modes, the motorcycle’s top speed and ABS are adjusted to ensure optimal performance in the specific environment.
    In Rain mode, ABS response is maximum whereas top speed is curtailed. Sport mode is the other extreme where top speed is maximum while ABS response is reduced. Urban mode is somewhere in the middle, in which both top speed and ABS response is limited. Apache RTR200 4V is powered by a 197.75 cc, oil cooled, Fi engine. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox with integrated multi-plate slipper clutch. Power and torque output vary based on the ride mode selected.
    In Sport mode, the motorcycle’s max power and torque output of 20.82 PS and 17.25 Nm is available for use. In Urban and Rain mode, power and torque is reduced to 17.32 PS / 16.51 Nm. Talking about top speed, users get 127 kmph in Sport and 105 kmph in Urban and Rain mode.
    TVS Apache 200
    Other updates
    In addition to the ride modes, Apache RTR 200 4V single-channel ABS variant gets adjustable levers and pre-load adjustable front suspension. For customers in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Gujarat, Goa & Puducherry, TVS is offering complimentary TVS XPOD Helmet for its entire RTR range.
    Features that will be the same as earlier include the aggressive LED headlamp with long range and enhanced visibility, race-inspired graphics with decals, aerodynamic claw mirrors, sculpted fuel tank and race-inspired seating profile.
    RTR 2004V is equipped with Bluetooth enabled SmartXConnect technology that allows users to access a range of features. When used with the SmartXConnect app, the system displays all the details of the ride such as total time, top speed, average speed, lean angle, etc. Users can access turn-by-turn navigation as well. SmartXConnect also has a crash alert system that automatically notifies the rider’s location to their emergency contacts in case of a crash.
    In terms of performance, RTR 2004V is equipped with first-in-segment Glide Through Technology. This comes handy when negotiating heavy traffic in an urban environment. Other equipment that are designed to boost performance include race-tuned slipper clutch, racing-spec radial tyre, split cradle chassis for optimal riding dynamics, and race-tuned double barrel exhaust. More

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    2021 TVS Star City Plus Launch Price Rs 68k – Gets Disc Brake Option

    2021 TVS Star City+
    The new disc brake variant on Star City Plus comes in a solitary colour option

    A few days ago TVS had teased a new variant of its entry-level commuter motorcycle Star City Plus. Turns out, the homegrown two-wheeler manufacturer has launched a new disc brake variant of Star City Plus. Priced at Rs 68,465 (ex-showroom), this new variant of the bike comes equipped with ‘Roto Petal Disc brakes’.
    2021 TVS Star City Plus disc brake variant is Rs 2,600 costlier than the standard variant and it comes wrapped in a red-black dual-tone colour scheme. This makes Star City Plus one of the most affordable motorcycles to be offered with a disc brake option. One of the most popular commuters in its segment, TVS claims that Star City enjoys a consumer base of 3 million.
    Features on offer
    The bike has been on sale for over 15 years now and competes against the likes of Bajaj Platina 110 H-Gear, Hero Passion Pro and Honda Livo. Other segment highlights offered in Star City Plus include an LED headlamp, a USB mobile charger and a semi-digital instrument cluster.
    The instrument console consists of an analogue speedometer and a digital display for information like odometer, clock, fuel gauge, etc. Equipped with ET-Fi technology (Ecothrust Fuel Injection), it is claimed to offer fifteen percent better fuel economy.
    2021 TVS Star City+
    Mechanical Specs
    Star City Plus is powered by a 110cc, single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine that produces 8.08 bhp at 7,350 rpm and a peak torque of 8.7 Nm at 4,500 rpm. It is paired to a 4-speed gearbox and can clock a top speed of 90 kmph.
    Suspension setup comprises telescopic forks at front and 5-step adjustable shock absorbers at the rear. It rides on 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped by dura grip tubeless tyres. Anchorage is handled by a petal disc brake at front and a 110mm drum brake at rear with a combi-braking system.
    In Other News
    For Feb 2021, TVS reported a growth in sales. TVS recently hikes prices on almost all its models including the flagship offering in its lineup Apache RR 310. The supersport tourer is now offered at a price of Rs 2.5 lakh (ex-showroom). It comes with features on offer such as a new 5.0-inch TFT colour instrument panel that houses a new integrated Bluetooth connectivity system called TVS Smart Xconnect. It allows riders to access a host of features via TVS Connect App on one’s smartphone.
    The faired sports bike draws its power from a 312.2cc, liquid-cooled, reverse inclined, single-cylinder motor which is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Output figures differ depending on the mode the rider is riding the motorcycle. For Sport and Track mode, output figures stand at 34 PS of power and 27.3 Nm of peak torque. In Urban and Rain mode, figures drop to 25.8 ps and 25 Nm of torque. More

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    TVS Motor Sales Feb 2021 Grow By 15% – Jupiter, Ntorq, Apache, XL 100

    Image – Parra M.V.P
    TVS two-wheeler domestic wholesales and exports drives growth in February 2021

    TVS Motor reports total sales growth at 17.57 percent. This includes domestic sales and exports of its two-wheelers and three-wheelers. TVS’ 3W market is relatively small when compared to its 2W market. Of this, TVS puts on its strongest show in the domestic 2W market.
    In February 2021, domestic two-wheeler wholesales was reported at 1,95,145 units at 15 percent growth, up from 1,69,684 units. Volume gain stood at over 25k units. Domestic 2W wholesales accounts for over 65 percent of all of TVS sales.
    Of this, motorcycles sales contributed to the bulk at 1,37,259 units sold. Wholesales grew at 15.82 percent, up from 1,18,514 units at 18,745 volume gain. It accounted for 46 percent of all TVS sales.
    TVS scooter and moped sales
    Scooter sales were within arm’s distance of a lakh units. Domestic scooter sales is reported at 95,525 units. Growth was reported at 57.55 percent, up from 60,633 units at volume gain of 34,892 units.
    TVS Sales Feb 2021
    Moped sales was reported at 51,797 units. Sales declined by 8.72 percent, down from 56,744 units. Volume loss stood at just under 5k units. 2W exports too improved. Growth was reported at just over 35 percent.
    Exports stood at 89,436 units, up from 66,207 units at volume gain of 23,229 units. 2W exports accounted for about 30 percent of TVS’ total business last month. Together, 2W total (domestic and exports) sales grew by 20.64 percent. Sales was up at 2,84,581 units, up from 2,35,891 units at volume gain of under 50k units. Business improvement of 48,890 units means 95.58 percent of TVS’ business revolves around two-wheelers.
    TVS three wheeler sales decline
    The remainder 4.42 percent is attributed to total (domestic and exports) three-wheeler sales. Despite growth, domestic 3W sales volume is under a 1,000 units. At 813 units, sales growth stood at 16.14 percent, up from 700 units sold in Feb 20.
    3W exports declined by a quarter. Exports fell to 12,353 units, down from 16,670 units at 35.90 percent decline. Volume loss stood at 4,317 units. Total 3W sales is reported at 13,166 units, down 24.20 percent from 17,370 units. Volume loss stood at 4,204 units.
    Of total sales, domestic sales accounts for almost two-thirds of all TVS sales. Domestic (2W and 3W) in February 2021 is reported at 1,95,958 units. Sales grew 15 percent, up from 1,70,384 units at 25,574 units volume gain. Exports (2W and 3W) grew by 22.82 percent. Exports rose to 1,01,789 units, up from 82,877 units at volume gain of 18,912 units. More

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    TVS Sales, Exports Break Up Jan 2021 – Jupiter, Apache, XL 100, Ntorq

    Image – Bengal Rider
    TVS Motor Company is currently the third-largest two-wheeler manufacturer in India behind Hero MotoCorp and Honda Two Wheelers

    With the coming of the new year, the automotive market has continued its surge for growth since the last two quarters of 2020. This was evident at the start of 2021 with automotive sales reaching new heights. In the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, demand for personal mobility has grown rapidly, especially in the two-wheeler segment.
    Domestic Sales- XL, Jupiter Lead Charts
    TVS, one of the major players in the two-wheeler segment in the Indian market, has been raking in good sales volumes in 2021. The Hosur-based manufacturer posted some strong numbers for January this year as it registered a cumulative domestic sales of 2,05,216 two-wheelers which are 42,209 units higher than January 2020.
    In other words, it recorded YoY growth of 25.89 percent. The highest contributor to its domestic sales volume was the brand’s moped offering- XL. It registered sales of 59,007 units last month against last year’s 52,525 units. This translates to YoY growth of 12.34 percent.
    It is followed by the company’s most popular scooter Jupiter with a cumulative sales of 51,852 units. In comparison, the company sold 38,689 units of Jupiter in January 2020 thus ensuring growth of 34.28 percent.
    TVS Motor Sales Jan 2021
    Apache, Ntorq, others show strong numbers
    Taking the third spot was the brand’s popular range of sporty commuter motorcycles Apache which recorded sales of 28,456 units against last year January’s figures of 23,157 units. This translated to a YoY growth of 22.88 percent. The company’s flagship scooter Ntorq raked in 27,766 units in January 2021. In comparison, the company dispatched 20,638 units of Ntorq to dealerships across the country thus registering a YoY growth of 34.54 percent.
    Ntorq was followed by Radeon to take the fifth spot after the brand retailed 9,857 units of the entry-level motorcycle. In comparison, TVS dispatched 6,055 units of Radeon to dealerships in January 2020 translating to YoY growth of 62.79 percent. The sixth spot was occupied by TVS Sport after it recorded cumulative sales of 8,174 units in January 2021. This is way more than last year’s 2,882 units, thus commanding a greater YoY growth of 183.62 percent.
    At seventh place was the brand’s entry-level offering Scooty Pep+ with a sales volume of 8,076 units. In January 2020, the underbone scooter registered sales of 5,1136 units, therefore, making YoY growth of 57.24 percent. It was followed by Star City which raked in 6,529 units last month in comparison to 10,476 units in January 2020. It was one of the few products which recorded negative growth of 37.68 percent.
    TVS Motor Exports Jan 2021
    Exports
    As far as exports are concerned, TVS shipped 88,284 two-wheelers last month to various overseas markets. In comparison, last year in January, the figures stood at 56,016 units thereby recording YoY growth of 57.60 percent. The chart was led by Star City 125 which registered disbursement of 30,070 units last month against 17,249 units dispatched in January last year. It recorded a positive growth of 74.33 percent.
    It was followed by the regular Star City at 26,488 units registered last month instead of 23,883 units last year. Thus, it recorded a growth of 10.91 percent. Next in line were Apache and Sport with exports of 16,192 units and 8,292 units respectively. Both motorcycles recorded healthy YoY growth of 227 percent and 222 percent respectively. TVS dispatched 4,556 units of Ntorq against last January’s 3,696 units which translated to a YoY growth of 23.27 percent. More

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    TVS iQube Sales Higher Than Bajaj Chetak Electric Scooter – For 1st Time

    Bajaj Chetak Electric Scooter
    Electric two-wheeler sales are rising, but are still a small fraction of their petrol powered counterparts

    With growing consumer interest in electric two-wheelers, a number of startups and tech companies have launched their products in the market. Some of the leading companies in this segment include the likes of Hero Electric, Okinawa, Ampere, Ather and Revolt. However, for folks who prefer buying from established auto companies, the options are fairly limited to Bajaj Chetak and TVS iQube.
    Bajaj Chetak vs. TVS iQube Jan 2021 sales
    Both Chetak and iQube were launched last year in January. While Chetak was launched in Pune, iQube was launched in Bengaluru. Bajaj later introduced Chetak in Bengaluru, whereas iQube has expanded operations to Delhi.
    In terms of overall sales, Chetak currently has the lead. However, in monthly sales, iQube was ahead in December 2020 and January 2021. In January, Chetak sales were 30 units as compared to 211 units of iQube. These numbers may seem positive for iQube, but in reality, Chetak’s low sales in recent months is due to production constraints and not due to lack of demand.
    As may be recalled, auto companies are currently facing shortage of semiconductors at the global level. A number of parts used in Chetak are imported, which is why the company hasn’t been able to meet its production timelines. Bajaj currently has pending orders for Chetak in access of 1,500 units. Due to the backlog and production constraints, Bajaj is currently not taking fresh bookings for Chetak.
    Month
    Chetak
    iQube
    Jan-20
    21
    0
    Feb-20
    100
    0
    Mar-20
    91
    18
    Apr-20
    0
    0
    May-20
    0
    0
    Jun-20
    0
    30
    Jul-20
    120
    23
    Aug-20
    192
    23
    Sep-20
    288
    7
    Oct-20
    258
    101
    Nov-20
    264
    99
    Dec-20
    3
    58
    Jan-21
    30
    211
    Total
    1,367
    577
    As and when the supply chain improves and production normalizes, Bajaj Chetak sales are expected to increase rapidly. The company is currently working to increase localization for Chetak and streamline its supply chain network. Bajaj has plans to introduce Chetak in 24 cities by end of next fiscal.
    Chetak vs. iQube – Features, specs and pricing
    Both Chetak and iQube have elegant design, with the former carrying a potent retro flavour. In terms of features, both scooters are not very different from each other. Both have water and dust resistant IP67 rated lithium-ion batteries that come with 50k/3 years warranty.
    In terms of range, Chetak can travel 95 km on a full charge in Eco mode. iQube has 75 km range in Eco mode. In speed, iQube is ahead with a top speed of 78 kmph. Chetak top speed is around 70 kmph, as per user reviews.
    TVS iQube
    Talking about pricing, Chetak Urbane variant is offered at Rs 1.15 lakh in Pune and Bengaluru. Chetak Premium variant costs Rs 1.20 lakh. In comparison, TVS iQube is priced at Rs 1.15 lakh in Bengaluru and Rs 1.08 lakh in Delhi. More

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    TVS Apache 310 Price Increased Yet Again – New Price Rs 2.5 Lakh

    Image – Aniket Sharma
    A popular track-ready motorcycle, TVS Apache 310 competes with the likes of KTM RC390

    In a development that could probably be attributed to rising input costs, TVS has increased price of Apache RR310 yet again. From Rs 2.48 lakh earlier, price has been increased to Rs 2,49,990. That’s almost Rs 2k costlier. TVS has increased prices of its Apache range in January as well. At that time, price of RR310 was increased from Rs 2.45 lakh to Rs 2.48 lakh. All prices are ex-showroom.
    RR310 vs. KTM RC390 pricing
    With the latest price hike, Apache 310 has further reduced the pricing gap with its primary rival – KTM RC390. The latter currently retails at Rs 2.60 lakh. KTM has also been increasing prices of its motorcycles at regular intervals. As may be recalled, KTM had increased prices in December 2020 as well as in January 2021. In January, KTM RC390 price was increased from 2.57 lakh to Rs 2.60 lakh.
    TVS Apache 310 2020 BS6 model – key updates
    TVS had launched BS6 Apache RR310 last year in January. At that time, it was priced at Rs 2.40 lakh. As compared to BS4 model, BS6 RR310 had become costlier by around Rs 12k. Apart from the BS6 upgrade, TVS had introduced several other improvements in 2020 RR310.
    One of the key additions was a new 5.0-inch TFT colour instrument panel that had integrated Bluetooth connectivity system called TVS Smart Xconnect. Once paired with the user’s smartphone, it allows users to access a range of features. These can be accessed via TVS Connect App.
    Month
    Apache 310 Price
    Feb-21
    2,49,990
    Jan-21
    2,48,000
    Dec-20
    2,45,000
    Some of the supported features include ride statistics, incoming call management, turn-by-turn navigation, vehicle health reports, and mobile signal and battery level display. The instrument panel comes with Day Mode and Night Mode backlit options to provide better visibility based on light conditions.
    Another key update was ride-by-wire throttle system, which is a segment-first feature. Users have the option to choose from four ride modes of Sport, Urban, Track and Rain. The automated system adjusts things like torque and ABS based on the ride mode selected. This allows optimal performance in varying ride conditions.
    RR310 engine
    Powering TVS Apache RR310 is a 312.2cc, liquid cooled, reverse inclined, single cylinder motor. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Power and torque varies depending on the ride mode selected. Max power (34 ps) and torque (27.3 Nm) output is available in Sport and Track mode. The numbers get reduced to 25.8 ps and 25 Nm in Urban and Rain mode. Apache RR310 top speed is rated at 160 kmph. It can reach 0 to 60 kmph in less than three seconds.
    In the current fiscal year, cumulative production of the RR310 has been around 2,500 units. Based on this engine, a new motorcycle is expected to launch later this year. More

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    TVS iQube Electric Scooter Arrives In Delhi Before Bajaj Chetak – Ather 450x Rival

    Image for reference. Credit – PRN Motors, Bangalore.
    Bajaj Chetak electric scooter is only on sale in Pune and Bangalore as of now

    After almost a year of launching its first electric scooter iQube in Bengaluru, TVS has launched iQube in Delhi. The electric scooter is priced cheaper in Delhi at Rs 1.08 lakh, as compared to Rs 1.15 lakh in Bengaluru. Customers can book their iQube online for Rs 5k.
    Cheaper pricing in Delhi is likely due to concessions for electric vehicles announced by Delhi government such as waiver of registration charges and road tax. Delhi is among the most polluted cities and the government is doing everything it can to promote use of electric vehicles.
    TVS iQube design and features
    TVS iQube features a trendy design, as is evident in dual tone front fascia, crystal-clear LED headlamp, rectangular turn indicators, body coloured rear view mirrors, sculpted side panels, contrast stitching on the seat, and all LED tail lamps. The entire body panelling has smooth curves, which makes it quite pleasing to the eyes.
    In terms of convenience, iQube offers ample storage space under the seat. A helmet can easily fit inside with room to spare for other things. A USB charging port with lights is also located in the under seat storage compartment.
    TVS iQube electric Delhi Launch
    TVS iQube has been equipped with SmartXonnect intuitive connectivity platform powered by integrated Bluetooth. When paired with TVS iQube app, users can access a range of features such as navigation assist, remote charge status, geofencing, and incoming call alerts. Users can also see a range of stats about their rides and scooter such as top speed, total distance, average speed, battery status, etc.
    TVS iQube powertrain
    Powering TVS iQube is a 4.4kW hub-mounted motor, connected to a 3 Li-ion battery pack. The battery is wrapped in high strength aluminium, making it resistant to dust and water. Battery warranty is for 3 years / 50k km. Talking about range, iQube can travel 75 km in eco mode. Range will be less when Power Mode is engaged. iQube has top speed of 78 kmph and it can reach 0 to 40 kmph in 4.2 seconds.
    TVS iQube competes with other premium electric scooters such as Ather 450X and Bajaj Chetak. Ather has been launched in Delhi, but deliveries are yet to start. Bookings for Ather in Delhi are now open via online payment. Bajaj has plans to launch Chetak in Delhi in coming months.
    In the future, iQube will also take on upcoming Suzuki Burgman Street Electric. As of now, iQube trails behind 450X and Chetak in terms of sale volumes. Things could improve in the future, as iQube is made available in more cities. Ather and Bajaj are also working to expand operational base for their electric scooters. So, competition is likely to intensify in this segment in the coming years. More