The TVS Motor Company has launched the 2020 Apache RR 310 at Rs 2.4 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), which is Rs 12,000 over the BS4 Apache RR 310. The new TVS Apache RR 310 gets a BS6-compliant, 312.2cc engine that produces 34hp at 9,700rpm and 27.3Nm at 7,700rpm. But that’s not the only difference between the BS6 and the outgoing BS4 model. TVS has used this opportunity to upgrade its flagship motorcycle significantly, and there are a number of additional features that offer more value for the money. The 2020 RR 310 will come with a five year warranty.
It shares the same body panels as the previous model, but gets a new dual-tone paint scheme that livens up the appearance. A large 'Apache' sticker runs across the fairing and onto the fuel tank, while the RR310 logo sits above it. The rest of the bits, like the dimensions, dual projector LED headlamp, LED tail-lamp and seats are the same as before.
One of the biggest highlights of the 2020 TVS Apache RR310 is the new 5.0-inch, colour TFT instrument panel with Bluetooth. Called the TVS Smart Xconnect, it allows users to pair their smartphone to the screen and run a number of functions via the TVS Connect App. The screen can display turn-by-turn navigation, incoming caller’s details and has the facility to accept or reject the call. Users can also record, view and share ride statistics post the completion of a trip. Besides this, the system also displays vehicle health alerts (fuel level, service due and ABS malfunction), and mobile phone status (battery level, network strength). The screen also has a sensor that automatically adjusts between day/night settings as per the ambient light.
On the technical side, one of the biggest updates is the move to ride-by-wire throttle, and this, in turn, has allowed TVS to introduce four ride modes – Rain, Urban, Sport, and Track. The modes, in essence, alters engine power, throttle response and ABS settings from Rain to Track. The display theme on the TFT screen also changes, according to the mode selected. In Rain and Urban mode, power and torque drops to 25.8hp at 7,600rpm and 25Nm at 6,700rpm, respectively. Top speed also falls to 125kph from 160kph. The previous RR 310's Michelin Pilot Streets weren’t great at the limit and TVS seems to have addressed this by introducing new, Michelin Road 5 tyres.
TVS has also introduced the Glide Through Technology+ feature, similar to what we’ve seen in the BS6 Apache RTR 160 4v and RTR 200 4v. It works like the creep function in an automatic transmission equipped car, allowing the rider to keep moving without the need of feeding any throttle.
The 2020 Apache RR 310 has undergone significant changes but whether they add up to enhance the riding experience is what you can find out in our first ride review that will go up soon.