Akula, which won the best concept bike award during the 2016 Delhi auto expo, had pulled in youth in big numbers to the TVS pavilion. Within two years, TVS breathed life into Akula and named it Apache RTR 310 RR. In Russian, Akula means shark, and Apache 310 design is inspired by the shape of shark. The most powerful bike from TVS stable has hit the market with a slew of features.
Top quality
TVS has benefited a lot from the partnership with BMW Motorrad. The results are impressive; the quality is top level; fit and finish and painting are superb. The TVS logo on the tank itself gives a great first impression of quality that you can expect from Apache. Don't ask if it's the fully faired model of BMW G 310 R and be a killjoy!
Though Apache shares its engine and some other parts with BMW 310 R, it is at an altogether different level. Apache 310 has been developed from the 35-year racing heritage of TVS Racing. Extensive tests including a 300-hour wind tunnel aerodynamic test has been done on Apache 310, the first fully faired bike from TVS.
Super looks
With its exciting red racing stripes graphics, Apache 310 R can rival foreign bikes in looks. One can see some design elements of Ducati Panigale and Triumph Daytona in Apache too. From the front fender to the tail light, the bike is sculpted in a sporty theme. The double LED project lamp, big wind screen, ram-air intake and thick gold-coloured USD forks give a super-bike feel to Apache.
The air vents on the side fender is inspired by shark fin. They have been made in such a way that maximum heat from the engine will be diffused soon. The high tail end, again with a shark-fin look, is a sight to behold. The 'devil's horn' LED taillamp too is a beauty.
Mini computer
Apache features a vertical instrumentation console, which provides a slew of information such as speed and revs, distance to empty, lap timer, 0-60 kmph time, two trip meters, average speed, fuel consumption, top speed touched, over speed, gear shift indicator, and engine heat, among others.
Engine
Apache 310 is equipped with the same trellis frame engine used in BMW G 310 R. There are minor changes such as a higher subframe in the rear. The single-cylinder engine is reverse inclined, which means the engine head is inclined towards the rear, a first in India. This has helped in moving the swingarm pivot a little forward and increasing the swingarm without stretching the wheelbase. Results can be seen in both straight line and cornering stability, and control.
Though Apache gets BMW G 310 R's 312.2 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, there are big differences in both the engines. TVS says that the Apache engine has been tuned differently and it makes use of a custom ICU. High rev range is a hallmark of this engine and it has been tuned to perform well on minimum throttle inputs too.
The engine is good enough for 34 bhp at 9700 rpm and 27.3 Nm torque at 7700 rpm. It is highly refined, and the power delivery is smooth. The clutch is light, and the six-speed gearbox changes are spot on.
Superb control
The seat is 810 mm high (KTM RC 390 - 820 mm). It is well cushioned and wide enough to provide a comfortable ride. The ratio between clip-on handle bar and the foot peg is equally good for shorter and longer trips as well as race tracks. Though it weighs about 170 kg, it is easy to handle (KTM RC 390 is 170 kg). Stability is superb, with the rider in full control at turns and twists. The bike hits three-digit speeds in no time. The top speed is 160 kmph. It can reach 0-60 in 2.93 seconds. The suspension set up features Kayaba's USD fork and mono shock. The Pirelli tyres on both wheels offer superb grip. Dual-channel ABS provides good braking.
Tester's note
The build quality is world class. Superb design, great stability, refined engine... Apache 310 RR is sure to raise the bar in the 300 cc segment. Apache could benefit from its lower costs compared to its rivals. Mileage 26 km per litre.
Rivals
Kawasaki Ninja 300, KTM RC 390, Yamaha R3
