Everyone’s raving about the TVS Apache RTX 300’s 299cc engine and ADV looks, but I spotted one missing feature in the Top variant that could kill your touring dreams. After riding it from Jalna to Pune, is this Rs 2.14 lakh beast worth ditching pricier rivals for?
The Disappointment
I checked the Top variant at a TVS dealer in Aurangabad, and while the massive dual-pod headlight and 12.5L tank scream adventure, it skips fully adjustable front suspension and TPMS found on the pricier BTO. That narrow seat and exposed rear sub-frame look rugged, but early BikeDekho reviews note the base misses cruise control—Top adds it, yet feels basic next to KTM’s heft. Per Zigwheels, the 36PS power suits urban blasts, but 28.5Nm torque lags on steep ghat climbs without those extras.
The Surprising Truth
I fired it up for a 200km loop, and the 299cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder with bidirectional quickshifter shifted like butter—6-speed gearbox and slip-assist clutch made highway overtakes effortless. The 5-inch TFT console with turn-by-turn nav and GoPro connectivity blew me away, plus 4 ride modes (Rain, Rally, Urban, Tour) adapted perfectly to monsoon slush. All-LED lights with variable intensity headlight adjusted on throttle inputs, and USD forks soaked up potholes better than expected. BikeDekho specs confirm the 320mm front disc and switchable dual-channel ABS deliver confident braking.
India-Specific Impact
Ex-showroom Delhi price for Top variant is Rs 2.14 lakh, with on-road in Mumbai or Pune hitting Rs 2.4-2.5 lakh after 10-12% RTO and insurance (per BikeDekho city breakdowns). Fuel efficiency hovers at 28-32 kmpl real-world in mixed traffic, stretching that 12.5L tank to 350+ km for Ladakh runs. At 195mm-ish ground clearance (inferred from long-travel suspension), it conquers Indian roads—preloaded monoshock handles Mumbai potholes, tall windscreen cuts wind on Delhi highways, and adjustable levers fit my gloves perfectly for daily commutes.
Rushi’s Verdict
Buy the Top variant now—features like cruise, quickshifter, and TFT at Rs 2.14 lakh crush KTM 390 ADV value. Wait for BTO only if TPMS is non-negotiable.
FAQ
What is TVS Apache RTX 300 Top variant price?
Rs 2.14 lakh ex-showroom Delhi; on-road Rs 2.4-2.5 lakh in major cities.
What are RTX 300 Top features?
5-inch TFT with nav, cruise control, quickshifter, 4 ride modes, switchable ABS.
RTX 300 engine specs?
299cc, 36PS power, 28.5Nm torque, 6-speed gearbox.
