Chennai-based TVS Motor Company, has launched the 2020 Apache RR 310 with BS VI engine at Rs 240,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi), which is Rs 12,000 over the BS IV Apache RR 310. The new TVS Apache RR 310 gets a BS VI-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 BS VI and the outgoing BS IV 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.

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.

Commenting on the launch, Meghashyam Dighole, Head - Marketing Premium Motorcycles, TVS Motor Company said: “We are delighted to introduce the new generation of our TVS Apache RR310 BS VI 2020 motorcycle. This super-premium motorcycle has been a favourite amongst motorcycle enthusiast and is considered an ultimate track machine, since its launch in 2017. The newly launched machine will further move the needle by creating a technological benchmark with many segment first features, thereby strengthening its status of being the best in class vehicle. With the transition to BS VI, the motorcycle offers further refinement that are in line with the current emission norms, with optimum performance.”

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 BS VI 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.