The new 180 in its refreshing white paint scheme, exclusive to this model, looks racy from all angles. Differentiating it from the RTR 160 and RTR 160Fi are the front forks and rear suspension gas reservoir finished in a dull gold shade as well as a bold ‘RTR’ logo emblazoned on the tank and tank extensions. The familiar headlight emits an excellent beam and is easily one of the brighter units in the market. The blue-backlit digital speedometer and white-faced tachometer look snazzy and the brushed finish brake and gear levers too add to the bike’s sporty intent.

Sport runs in this bike’s veins because the 177.4cc engine just loves to be revved. Gearshifts via the toe-only shifter do not require much effort while the well-weighted clutch suits city riding.

The bike returned a mileage of 39kpl in heavy city traffic conditions says the Autocar team (Sept. ’09), which is a fair trade for this TVS’s performance bias.

TVS Apache’s have always been known for their nimble handling and the RTR 180 is no different, being easy to flick thru. What does however take away from its otherwise able handing capability is the RTR’s tyres as the TVS tyres don’t impart much confidence.

Other grouses include slightly oversized palm grips that take some getting used to, as well as the handlebar vibrations that come through them at high engine speeds.

However the RTR 180 more than makes up for these flaws by offering a thoroughly enjoyable riding experience.

At A Glance

Price – Rs. 8.38 lakh (ex-showroom, Pune), Distance Covered – 1,800km, Test Economy –39kpl, Maintenance costs– None