Launched back in 2018, the TVS Apache has steadily gained fame and respect among enthusiasts. It may not have been the fastest or sharpest track weapon out there but it certainly was a value for money appeal when it comes to performance. Since then, TVS has been slowly chipping away at the seams, trying to give us the perfect 300cc, single-cylinder, super-sport motorcycle. This time, with the aim of making it even sportier than before, TVS has launched a new mid-life facelift for the TVS Apache RR 310, which brings in subtle changes spread across different aspects. This includes styling, features, suspension and engine upgrades. In order to help us gauge what these changes have done for the Apache RR 310, TVS has invited us down to India’s latest race track, the CoASTT High Performance Centre.
2024 TVS Apache RR 310 First Ride Review: Design and Features
The design of the Apache RR 310 is a bit of a sensitive topic, akin to the debate you might have about the Porsche 911. A bit far fetched but stick with me here. While some criticise it for remaining untouched since its inception, fans of the motorcycle argue not to fix what isn't broken. In my opinion, I agree with the fan boys on this one. The Apache RR 310 may be getting long in the tooth but only compared to itself. It still looks fresh and the new design updates only add to the sporty appeal.
First and foremost, you now have a new colour option called Bomber Gray. While I was a bit hesitant seeing the bike on paper, it certainly grew on me when I saw it in person. To add to that, you also have a newly designed Apache livery splattered across the side which certainly sets off the entire tone.
Moving forward (literally), the new Apache also gets winglets on either side. These TVS claims, add three kilograms of downforce and help the bike to gain better traction. Finally, the last styling addition to the new Apache RR 310 is a clear clutch cover with the clutch spring retainer finished red, too.
Over the styling updates, the 2024 RR 310 adds a new electronics suite for safety and comfort, too. Similar to the package we got with the RTR 310, its faired sibling offers the Race Tuned Dynamic Stability Control feature with a 6-axis IMU. This brings in the addition of Cruise Control, Cornering ABS, Cornering Traction Control, Wheelie Control and Rear-Wheel Lift Off Control. I'll touch upon these features when I tell you how it performs. So, to sum up, you get a good-look but familiar looking motorcycle with styling tweaks which, if nothing, will definitely raise interest among the true enthusiasts.
2024 TVS Apache RR 310 First Ride Review: Performance and Handling
To start with, the new RR now gets a revised 312.2cc engine which makes 38PS @ 9,800rpm and 29Nm @ 7,900rpm. How TVS has managed to achieve these gains is with multiple revisions to its internals. This includes a 13 percent increase in airbox volume, complemented by a revised snorkel length and larger throttle body. Over that, you have 10 percent lighter, forged pistons, improved piston rings and optimized valve timing. The result of all this mumbo-jumbo is a motorcycle that isn't wildly different but it definitely did feel a lot more tractable across the rev band and in each gear.
TVS not only claims faster 0-60kmph and 0-100kmph acceleration times but faster roll-on acceleration, too. For me, around the fast and flowing CoASTT race track, the motorcycle felt more rev happy and I could maintain higher gears through corners which, I feel, would have required a downshift in the outgoing model. One thing was for sure, I was having fun and lots of it.
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It might just be a 300cc unit but it was coming alive around a racetrack meant for high engine-capacity four-wheelers. The only niggle is the vibrations which still plague this motorcycle.
To add to the handling package, TVS is now offering a Dynamic Kit which brings in adjustable suspension to the mix. However, if you ask whether the winglets make a difference with dynamics? I really couldn't tell, but through a fast triple left-handed section of the track I was able to carry speeds up to 160kmph while upshifting through 4th, 5th and 6th gear. It remained stable and never got out of shape. However, while it's light, agile and predictable on a brilliantly paved road, it remains to be seen how it tackles the real-world issues.
2024 TVS Apache RR 310 First Ride Review: Verdict
Despite the small list of changes which you get with the 2024 TVS Apache RR 310, it definitely feels upgraded. Especially, if you go for the top-of-the-line variant in Bomber Gray. If you were in the market for a 300cc sportbike and you had your eye on the Apache RR 310, you should definitely be glad you waited.
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