Hero Mavrick 440 vs TVS Apache RTR 310 Comparison Review: Which Is The Best Premium Indian Motorcycle?

With all the buzz around the rise in the popularity of 300 – 400cc motorcycles in India, such as the Triumph Speed 400, Harley Davidson X440, and the KTM Duke 390, two very capable motorcycles often miss the spotlight. Both bikes have two things in common. First, both share mechanical components with a sister product from a foreign brand (coincidentally launched before them), and second, they also happen to be the most premium model made by their respective homegrown manufacturers. Need another hint? Manufacturers of these bikes are also the only two mass-market motorcycle makers in the country to have participated in the world-famous and gruelling Dakar off-road rally. Have you guessed their names yet? Well, of course, you have! This a magazine after all and they are plastered across these six pages. I am talking about the TVS Apache RTR 310 and the Hero Mavrick 440. So, the question I pose is quite simple – if you’re looking for a premium 300-400cc motorcycle by a homegrown manufacturer, which is the best choice for you? Let’s find out!

Hero Mavrick 440 vs TVS Apache RTR 310 Comparison Review: Which Design Suits You?

If you’re someone who wants to stand out from the crowd, the TVS Apache RTR 310 is a surefire choice. It has an extremely sharp design, with cuts and creases spread across every inch of its surface. Plus, it’s available in three multi-colour paint options, each of which adds to its edgy appeal. I am a fan of sharp and edgy designs, and the Apache RTR 310 ticks all the right boxes for me in this department. That said, one problem with its entire design is the way that the TFT screen sticks out like a sore thumb when viewed head-on.

The Hero Mavrick 440, on the other hand, appears more sedate but is undeniably handsome in its own right. The mass-forward design and muscular proportions give it a quintessential middle-weight cruiser appearance. However, the Mavrick 440 is definitely a good-looking bike, but you can’t help but feel a sense of familiarity as if you have seen this design in the past. That said, the bike does have three standout features – neo-retro LED headlamps, a contoured fuel tank, and a stubby tail section.

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Hero Mavrick 440 vs TVS Apache RTR 310 Comparison Review: What About Features & Quality?

There is no doubt that the TVS Apache RTR 310 is the clear winner in terms of features. It is simply the most well-loaded machine in its class, let alone this comparison. It comes with a 5-inch colour TFT screen, heated / cooled seats, SmartXonnect smartphone connectivity, five ride modes, cruise control, a 6-axis IMU, which helps with cornering ABS, traction control, cruise control, wheelie control, rear wheel lift-off control, and hill descent control. While the RTR 310 demands a premium over the Mavrick 440, it has features to justify its steep asking price. Moreover, it also comes with switchable traction control and ABS setting. From the materials used in its construction to the fit-and-finish of components, the Apache RTR 310 truly feels like it belongs to a higher segment.

However, the Mavrick 440 isn’t completely bare-bones and does have the stock features you’d expect from a motorcycle in its class. The most disappointing aspect of the bike, however, is its uninspiring instrument cluster – well, for me, at least. I think, Hero’s execution could have been much better – while it’s a straightforward design, the cluster appears to be much more cluttered than it actually is. The overall quality also has room for improvement. While nothing seemed to rattle, or come loose, during our ride, the final fit-and-finish needs work. 

Hero Mavrick 440 vs TVS Apache RTR 310 Comparison Review: Is There a Difference in Ergonomics?

Well, yes, of course. The TVS Apache RTR 310 has been built for a much younger audience, which is evident in its design and features. In fact, its riding postures can be classified as sporty in comparison to the Mavrick 440. It’s great while enjoying a twisty section of the road or those weekend track days, but it can get a bit tiring in peak city traffic.

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The Hero Mavrick 440, on the other hand, has a more balanced riding position of the two – in fact, I think it has the most balanced riding position in the 300 – 400cc class. It feels just right for extended highway usage, daily commutes, and even occasional rides on ghat roads. Its long, wide, and cushiony seat further adds to the overall comfort.

Hero Mavrick 440 vs TVS Apache RTR 310 Comparison Review: Let’s Talk Performance

The Apache RTR 310 produces 35bhp and 28.7Nm of peak torque. From the get-go, the RTR appears to be eager and spirited – a machine that likes to be pushed as much as one can. The engine is mated to a short-ratio 6-speed gearbox, and shifting it to keep the bike in the right power band is quite fun, although it can be a bit taxing when in congested city traffic.

The Hero Mavrick 440, on the other hand, makes 27bhp and 26Nm of peak torque. From the outset, the Maverick stands out with its torquey nature. The moment you twist the throttle, you are instantly hit by a wave of torque, which makes the motor feel tractable in every condition – be it traffic, twisty roads, slow-speed overtaking, or even conserving fuel. The Mavrick’s engine characteristics make it much more useable and practical for everyday conditions.

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Hero Mavrick 440 vs TVS Apache RTR 310 Comparison Review: What About Handling?

In terms of pure dynamics and confidence-inspiring handling, both the RTR 310 and Mavrick 440 excel but in different ways. Equipped with adjustable USD forks up front and KYB-tuned mono-shock at the rear, along with 110-section front and 150-section rear Michelin Road 5 tyres, it offers razor-sharp handling. However, in pursuit of agility, it seems to compromise its stability at higher speeds – its short wheelbase and sharp front rake angle amplify the effects of speed bumps, occasionally causing the bike to shimmy.

While I preferred the Hero Mavrick for slow-speed riding in urban settings, I found it to be bulkier and less agile compared to the RTR 310. This is partly down to its weight, longer wheelbase, telescopic non-adjustable forks, and even the tyres to some extent. That said, what it lacks in agility, it makes up for in stability. During our extensive road tests and review, the Mavrick 440 proved exceptionally capable, soaking up everything in its stride.

Hero Mavrick 440 vs TVS Apache RTR 310 Comparison Review: So, What’s the Verdict?

While this is technically a head-to-head comparison, it’s quite clear that both motorcycles will appeal to two very different sets of customers. If you want a fast, agile motorcycle for everyday use, the RTR 310 is your best bet, but just keep in mind that it’s not best suited for slow-speed usage. On the other hand, the Hero Mavrick 440 is more affordable, grunty, and extremely stable for extended highway usage. Personally, I would choose the Mavrick, primarily because of its advantage for city riding.