The Apache RR 310 has entered the 250cc-400cc segment and the motorcycle is essentially a rival to the KTM RC 390.
The KTM RC 390 was launched in the Indian market back in 2014 and until yesterday had no proper single-cylinder and full-faired rival. Today is the 6th of December and enter the TVS Apache RR (Race Replica) 310. Finally a single-cylinder full-faired rival to the RC 390. Unlike the KTM RC 390 which is a thoroughbred committed supersport machine, the full-faired Apache promises to be not just a tool that you can take to the racetrack but also go cruising places with long hours on its saddle. Will the newest kid on the block give a strong blow to the RC 390’s success in India, read on to find out.
Design and Looks – Both the motorcycles don a full fairing and look sporty. However, it is the Apache RR 310 which gets a much bigger fairing that makes it stand out. The Apache, particularly, in the red paint scheme looks flashy while the trellis frame and wheels finished in the orange paint in the RC 390 make it look no less. The RC 390 comes across as a quirky design while the Apache 310 is anything but quirky. The slightly high-set handlebar and the tall windscreen make the Apache a proper sports tourer.
Dimensions – Both the Apache RR 310 and KTM RC 390 are closely matched when it comes to dimensions but it is the Apache that is longer, wider and taller than the KTM RC 390. Also, the Apache has a lower seat of 810 mm as opposed to 820 mm of the RC 390, thus making it more accessible to shorter riders.
The flagship Apache has a slightly higher ground clearance of 180 mm as opposed to 178.5 mm on the RC 390 but the latter has a shorter wheelbase when compared to the former which translates into better flickability in the city. Wheelbase in the RC 390 is 1340 mm and in the Apache 310 is 1365 mm. But remember, due to the backward titled engine, TVS has been able to give a longer swingarm to the Apache 310 which also results in improved high-speed stability.
Features – The Apache RR 310 marginally loses to the RC 390 when it comes to features. Both the motorcycles get dual projector headlights (Apache gets LEDs), LED DRLs, fully digital instrument cluster, LED tail-light and turn indicators, front and rear disc brakes with ABS (the Apache uses petal discs), up-side-down front forks and monoshock at the rear.
However, the KTM also gets slipper clutch, ride-by-wire and adjustable clutch and brake levers, which the Apache 310 misses out on. While both bikes have the same tyre size, the ones on the KTM offer better grip while the Michelins on the 310 will last longer.
Powertrain – The Apache 310 borrows its powertrain from the BMW G310R. The 313cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled and fuel-injected engine puts out 33.5 HP of power and 27.3 Nm of torque. The RC in comparison is high on power and torque. The 373.3cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled and fuel-injected motor produces 43.5 HP of power and 36 Nm of torque. Both the motorcycles’ engines are mated to a 6-speed gearbox. While the RC is a weapon of outright performance, the Apache is a sedate performer.
Verdict – At Rs. 2.05 lakhs (ex-showroom, Chennai), the Apache RR 310 is slightly expensive for what it brings to the table. For an extra premium of Rs. 20,000/- you can get the RC 390 but it all boils down to what are your expectations from the motorcycle. If you ride in the city and occasionally on the highways (long-tours) the Apache is your only choice here.
Where the Apache 310 is a proper sports tourer, the RC 390 is an absolute supersport hooligan. The comfortable riding position of the Apache makes it an easier bike to live with. It remains to be seen if TVS can offer the same levels of after sales and part availability as KTM which currently leads with the most number of outlets for a premium motorcycle brand in India.
Apache RR 310 vs KTM RC 390
