2017 TVS Akula 310 spied in its production ready form
The TVS Akula 310 is clearly one of the most anticipated motorcycles in India for two main reasons. Firstly, it marks TVS' debut in the bigger displacement motorcycle segment. Secondly, the Akula 310 shares its underpinnings with the BMW G310R that has been jointly developed by TVS and BMW Motorrad.
TVS had showcased the Akula 310 concept at the 2016 Auto Expo where the motorcycle had generated a huge interest, especially among the enthusiasts. The highlight of the bike then was the carbon fibre body work and the aluminum trellis sub frame underneath. While it was obvious that the carbon fibre body might be chucked for a more conventional option, the trellis sub frame is expected to feature in the production ready motorcycle. Given that TVS has produced bikes with impressive handling characteristics, like the Apache series, the Akula 310 is also expected to excel in this department. There have been numerous occasions in the past where the Akula 310 was spotted testing but it was under an heavy camouflage, barely revealing any details about TVS' first fully faired motorcycle. However, the present images that have surfaced online have revealed its production-ready avatar.
The fairing of the TVS Akula 310 retains the design theme of  the concept. However, in its road legal guise, it gets twin projector lights with LED DRLs. There's also an air scoop under the headlights, which could either be a cosmetic add-on or may play a functional role by channeling the air flow to the engine for better cooling. It gets a fairly large front screen which should offer good wind protection as well as improve the aerodynamics at high speeds. The Akula's clip-on handlebars are not too low-set, which should translate to a fairly relaxed riding position.
The upside down front forks seem to be similar to the one in the BMW G310R - 41mm diameter with a suspension travel of 140mm. Interestingly, the 17-inch wheels too have been carried over from the G310R, shod with 110/70 section front and 150/60 rear tyres. Since this will be the flagship model, TVS might offer ABS as standard on the Akula 310. The exhaust unit too looks identical to that of the G310R and the bike will comply to current BSIV norms. The other eye- catching bit of the Akula is the sinister looking LED taillight, that resembles the Devil's Horn.
We believe the TVS Akula 310 will share its 313cc powertrain with the G310R roadster. This unit makes 34PS at 9,500rpm and generates 28Nm at 7,500 rpm. The fuel injected motor is paired to a 6-speed gearbox. BMW claims that the G310R can reach a maximum speed of 145kmph. This figure for the Akula may drop slightly, owing to an increase in overall weight.
Looking at the images, it is evident that the launch of the TVS Akula 310 will happen in the next couple of months. The concept was called Akula however it is not sure if the production model would carry the same branding. It is said that TVS might name it Apache 310. We believe, if priced right, the TVS Akula 310 (Apache 310) has the right ingredients to be a strong rival to the KTM series in India.
Image source: xBhp