Spec Comparison: TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Honda CB Hornet 160R

Tuhin Guha Updated: March 27, 2018, 04:39 PM IST

We recently rode the new for 2018 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and in light of the new competition, Honda has also announced a refreshed CB Hornet 160R. We think the Apache RTR 160 4V feels sportier and more confident while not trading its friendly, forgiving feel.The bike is a huge upgrade over its predecessor that promises to up the performance and dynamics game in the 160cc segment. The Honda CB Hornet 160R, on the other hand, has all the Honda traits of reliability, impressive fit and finish levels offering a nice blend of performance and economy. However, the riding experience was not the most exciting. The CB Hornet's muscular styling also helps it stand out from its peers but at the same time makes it look bigger than its competition. This spec comparison will provide a better understanding of how these two bikes add up on paper.

Engine

The Apache RTR 160 4V is powered by a 160cc, single cylinder, oil-cooled, 4-valve motor which puts out 16.5PS for the carbureted version and 16.8PS for the fuel injected version. Maximum torque is now 14.8Nm. The Honda CB Hornet 160R uses a 162.7cc, single cylinder, air cooled engine which makes 15.9PS at 8,500rpm and a peak torque of 14.76Nm at 6,500rpm. Both motorcycles are evenly matched in terms of torque figures while the Apache has a roughly 1PS power advantage. Both engines in this spec comparison are fed by a carburettor, however, as mentioned the Apache is also available in a fuel injected variant.

Frame

The new RTR 160's chassis is inspired by its race bike, the 165cc GP Proto and is equipped with the RTR 200's swingarm. CB Hornet 160R gets a diamond type frame with the engine as a stressed member.The TVS' 147kg kerb weight versus the Hornet's 141kg is possibly due to the double cradle frame that the RTR 160R uses. During our tests, the Apache was easier to tip into corners and carried good speeds through them. The Hornet feels very nimble to manoeuvre and changes direction easily without requiring much effort but the TVS is noticeably sportier.

Suspension and brakes

Both motorcycles use a telescopic fork in the front and a monoshock at the rear. Both have front and rear disc brakes but the Hornet has a larger 276mm front disc and a 220mm rear disc. This is against the Apache's 270mm fronts and 200mm rears.

Dimensions

At 2,041mm, the CB Hornet 160R is longer and taller than the Apache, however, the TVS is wider by 7mm. The Apache's wheelbase too is a tad longer by 11mm. When it comes to tackling bad roads, the Apache should also be better off, thanks to the 180mm ground clearance, 16mm more than the Hornet.