Deliberating on buying a TVS Apache? First, know all about different bike models, what sets them apart from the rest, TVS Apache Insurance and things to look for before you avail one!

TVS is currently the third-largest motorcycle manufacturer in India in terms of revenue and boasts of having one of the world’s largest markets for two-wheelers. The company reported total sales of around 41.91 lakh units in FY 2023-24, of which the two-wheeler sales were 40.45 lakh units and the three-wheeler sales were registered at 1.46 lakh units. (1)

TVS Apache is one of the more popular bike models produced by this company. Initially launched in 2005, Apache’s design drew heavily from TVS Motor Company’s factory racing arm – TVS Racing. Apache owners can participate in the annual Apache Racing Experience, to unleash the true power of their bike. In 2018, the Apache line crossed 3 million unit sales.

In 2018, the Apache RTR 180 model was proclaimed the winner under the Most Appealing Premium Motorcycle category in J.D. Power Asia Pacific Awards. (2)

Since this specific two-wheeler model comprises of premium parts, any damage befalling the bike on Indian roads can lead to expensive repairs. A TVS Apache insurance plan can help you deal with such unplanned expenses.

Apart from reducing your financial liability in the event of accidents and damage, purchasing third-party liability for any motorised vehicle is mandated by the Motor Vehicles Act 1988. Failure to do so can lead to hefty fines amounting to Rs. 2000, and Rs. 4000 for repeat offenders.

Although TVS was traditionally known as a manufacturer of two-stroke motorcycles, the Apache range was seen as one of its first forays into the 4-stroke terrain. Launched as a Bajaj Pulsar competitor, the Apache line revolutionised the under 300cc segment in India.

There are 5 different variants of Apache. Each variant offers superior handling, perfect for Indian roads. Since it is modelled after racing bikes, the Apache series boasts of powerful engines.

• The Apache RTR 160 is perfect for riders looking for a daily mode of conveyance. If you reside in Tier 1 or Tier 2 cities, the RTR 160 and RTR 180 are suitable options to consider.
• On the other hand, the RTR 200 4V Race Edition 2.0 is best-suited for speed junkies, who love to undertake long rides on their bikes. These bike models are most suitable for residents of metropolitan cities.
• Even though Apache produces bike models that are equivalent to high-end ones in performance, they have a comparatively low maintenance cost. The maintenance cost for your Apache bike will amount to around Rs. 6000 for 2 years.

Regardless of the Apache model you prefer, you can expect an on-road mileage ranging between 35 and 50 km/l. As of the first quarter of 2020, the most expensive TVS Apache model is RTR 200 F1. 

Features of TVS Apache Bikes

TVS Apache bikes come with industry-first features, with incomparable performance. Over the years, TVS Motors has introduced a series of new features and options to live up to the market expectations and to suit customer interests better.

Take a look at some of its most remarkable features:

• Wide Variety - The Apache family of sports bikes starts with the standard 4-stroke petrol engine and goes all the way to models with a 310cc engine. This makes it a great option for biking enthusiasts.
• Superior Handling and Suspension - All Apache motorcycles are optimised for handling; the ride quality and suspension is thus a bit stiff. However, the RR 310 model, designed in association with BMW, boasts of a softer suspension. It is based on the famous BMW G310 R platform and shares many common design elements.
• Constant Upgradation - TVS also frequently updates its models. For example, in May 2019, a new ‘Phantom Black’ colour variant of the flagship RR 310 was launched. It was a replacement of their ‘Matte Black’ option which was launched earlier.
• Enhanced Comfort - Since TVS is an iconic manufacturer of gearless scooters, it uses the experience gained in this sector to define its heavier motorcycles. Since bikes are more difficult to master, Apache was designed to keep rider comfort in mind. It has certainly succeeded in being the manufacturer of trailblazing models like the RR 310.
• Dedicated Research and Development Wing - There is a great deal of R&D going on behind the scenes when TVS motorcycles are concerned. In 2009, for example, the company responded to complaints that its bikes had decreased wheelbases which helped to take turns at higher speeds but had to sacrifice on stability. It increased the wheelbases across the range, making the bikes safer.
• Increased Safety - TVS was the first brand to introduce ABS in a motorcycle in India. This was in the RTR 160 model. These are some of the reasons why it is the third-largest manufacturer of motorcycles in India.
• More Feature-rich than Competitors - Overall, the Apache range of high-powered bikes has superior aerodynamics, better brakes, better ride quality, a wider palette of colours and better engines than most of its rivals.
• Affordability - Additionally, one of the primary reasons why people prefer TVS bikes over many contemporaries is due to the price factor. TVS has managed to provide quality two-wheelers without necessarily increasing the price range for its models.

Still, even with all of these features, your TVS Apache bike is not really protected from accidental damage. Further, you may end up losing the vehicle due to theft. Therefore, to protect yourself from financial liabilities in such events, opting for an Apache bike insurance policy is vital.

Now, while there are many insurance providers that offer two-wheeler insurance policies for Apache bikes, there are a few that are better than the others.

Take a look!  

There are several reasons why TVS Apache Insurance offered by Digit makes for one of the most beneficial ones available in the market. Some of them are as follows:

• A Large Number of Network Garages Across the Country - Digit Insurance will provide you with cashless servicing and repair facilities across most major cities in India. Using our network of more than 1000 network garages, you can easily avail hassle-free cashless repair services for accidental damage to your bike.
• Types of Apache Bike Insurance Plans - You can choose from the following covers offered by Digit:
• a) Third-Party Two-Wheeler Insurance: The Motor Vehicles Act 1988 mandates third-party cover for all bikes. With such a policy, if your bike meets with an accident, the insurer offers financial coverage for damages to a third party individual, property or vehicle involved in the accident. The policyholder cannot claim for own damage.
• b) Comprehensive Two-Wheeler Insurance: This refers to a form of insurance, where the insurer covers the financial liability of the third-party involved in the accident, along with providing own damage cover to policyholders. Such a policy also provides assistance, in the event of damages occurring from natural calamities, riots and much more.

Now, if you have purchased a new Apache motorcycle after September 2018, you can also purchase a standalone own damage insurance plan. Under this policy, you will have access to all insurance protection features barring third-party liabilities. Keep in mind that only new bike owners can purchase this form of protection. If you buy a used bike, you cannot opt for a standalone own damage plan.

• Online Purchase and Renewal - Digit has an array of insurance plans you can buy online, where you can also compare them. You can simply visit the company website, pick the plan you want, enter a few personal details, choose any necessary add-ons, apply for no-claim bonus (if eligible) and pay the premiums. That’s it! You can follow a similar online, hassle-free process for policy renewal.
• Superfast Digital Claim Settlement Procedure - Digit does away with complicated claim settlement process. With a superfast online claim filing and settlement process, equipped with smartphone enabled self inspection facilities, you no longer need to endure a complex procedure every time you need assistance. Further, Digit’s high claim settlement ratio also reduces the chances of your claim getting rejected.
• No Claim Bonus Benefits - Digit is one of the insurance companies that extend this No Claim Bonus to policyholders under their insurance policy. Under this benefit you will be able  to avail up to 50% discount on your premium payment while renewing your policy. This benefit is also available if you are changing your insurance provider from one company to Digit. Since the premium payment for your Apache bike’s insurance policy is quite high, the discount under NCB can be particularly advantageous!
• Superior Customer Service - Several people have complaints regarding their insurance company’s customer service quality. You will not face any difficulties with Digit on this front. The customer service team is always online and reachable, 24x7. You can contact them at any point of the day and expect immediate services and advice.
• A Variety of Add-Ons - While a comprehensive insurance cover can provide well-rounded financial protection for your Apache bike, the add-ons available enhance the plan’s coverage further. Some of the add-ons that you can avail with Digit include:
• a) Return to invoice cover
• b) Zero depreciation cover
• c) Breakdown assistance
• d) Engine and gear protection cover
• e) Consumable cover
• Ability to Customise Insured Declared Value - Insured Declared Value is the sum insured that you can avail against the total loss or damage to your vehicle. The IDV of your vehicle is calculated by subtracting your bike’s depreciation against the manufacturer’s selling price. If you are looking for complete financial protection, try to opt for higher IDV for your bike. Note, however, this leads to an increase in the premium payable. Lowering the IDV, on the other hand, will reduce your premium payment for the insurance policy.

Here are some of the most apache models which are covered under Digit Insurance:

• TVS RTR 160 - The RTR 160 remains one of the most popular entry-level sports bikes in India. The model has a 160cc single-cylinder, 4-stroke engine which has mileage delivery of more than 60 km for every litre. The RTR 160 was one of the first models to have an ABS variant available in India. Experts and automobile enthusiasts have routinely hailed the model as being among the very best currently available in the market. You can avail Digit’s TVS Apache 160 insurance plans for better protection.
• TVS Apache RTR 160 4V - Given the company’s history of always delivering on quality, the RTR 160 was re-introduced in 2018 with a sportier and more ergonomic look, better stance and engine, higher speeds and a fully digital instrument console. The 4V is currently leading the race in acquiring customers in the lucrative segment of the market- people who are looking for a peppier ride but without the substantially higher price tag.
• TVS Apache RTR 180 - The RTR 180 is a marked improvement on the 160cc models. This motorcycle was launched in 2009 with dual-channel standard ABS features. The TVS Apache RTR 180 insurance is designed to take superior care of your treasured motorcycle. The model itself has been redesigned several times and has 5 gears with an all-electric instrument panel.
• TVS Apache RTR 200 - Currently one of the most widely sold models in the country, the TVS Apache RTR 200 is also more powerful than most budget motorcycles and also has a higher price tag. Digit’s TVS Apache RTR 200 insurance plans are some of the most well-known products in the country. The RTR 200 is heavier and more powerful than most of its rivals even if they have the same engine capacity. That is because the engine has more torque output.

Trust Digit to provide the best-suited insurance plans for your TVS Apache motorcycles across India.