Spec comparison: Hero Xtreme 200R vs TVS Apache RTR 200 4V

Team OD Updated: January 30, 2018, 04:25 PM IST

Hero MotoCorp has just taken the wraps off the 2018 Xtreme 200R, its new entrant in the growing 200cc motorcycle segment. The 200cc motorcycle has been in the works since the concept motorcycle was shown at 2016 Auto Expo, and prospective customers will have a wait a little more as the price of the motorcycle will be announced in April 2018. We expect Hero to price the Xtreme 200R at a competitive price point to take on the likes of the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V. In our books, the Apache is a well-rounded motorcycle with adequate performance to satiate the needs of the enthusiast and it is the 200cc motorcycle that the Hero Xtreme 200R needs to challenge. Let's see how they stack up against each other, on paper.

Engine
The Xtreme 200R has an all-new 200cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that develops 18.4PS at 8,000rpm and 17.1Nm at 6,500rpm. The Apache's oil-cooled motor, on the other hand, displaces 197.75cc and makes 20.5PS at 8,500rpm and 18.1Nm at 7,000rpm.

The Apache makes about 2PS and 1Nm more than the Xtreme, and from our experience, it's a motor that's quite rev happy. The Xtreme's motor, we suspect, should be a little calmer than the Apache's motor, but we'll reserve judgment for the first ride.

Both engines in this spec comparison are fed by a carburetor, however, the Apache is also available in a fuel injected variant.

Frame
The Hero Xtreme uses a Diamond frame, which Hero suggests is light but stiff. Diamond frames use the engine as a stressed member and is known to be highly cost effective and lend motorcycles with good handling. The Apache RTR 200 uses a Double Cradle frame, which is a heavier and stiffer than a Diamond frame, which explains the Apache's 3kg weight disadvantage over the Xtreme. The Apache is really good handler and it certainly is one of the USPs of the motorcycle.

Suspension and brakes

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles employ telescopic forks and a monoshock at the rear. The Xtreme 200R has a bigger front disc at 276mm and both bike are available with ABS as an option.

Dimensions
At 2062mm, the Xtreme 200R is longer than the Apache, however, the TVS is both wider and taller. The Apache's wheelbase too is a tad longer by 15mm. When it comes to tackling bad roads, the Apache should also be better off, thanks to the 180mm ground clearance, 13mm more than the Xtreme.