2025 TVS Apache RTR 310 ride review: Small changes, big impact?
The RTR 310 was already the king of features. For 2025, it’s gotten even more loaded – but is that enough to justify the price?
- Engine performance, handling, equipment on offer
- Design is not to everyone's taste, price
The TVS Apache RTR 310 came out swinging in 2023. With its sharp streetfighter stance and an electronics suite that outclassed anything in its segment, it made a strong first impression. Lean-sensitive electronics, adjustable suspension and even heated seats are still not something we would call basic in the class. But refinement issues and a buzzy engine meant it wasn’t quite the all-rounder we expected.
Two years later, TVS has returned with a refreshed version of the RTR 310, and while it looks very similar on the outside, there are a few key updates aimed at making it even more tech-packed – and possibly more liveable too.
So, what’s new? Is it better? Or are we just getting more flash with the same core issues? I rode the 2025 RTR 310 – on a soaking wet track at the CoASTT High Performance Centre – to find out.
2025 Apache RTR 310: What’s new?
There’s now launch control, which works exactly the way you’d expect. Pull the clutch, pin the throttle, and just let go – the system manages power delivery for a clean, fuss-free launch. Alongside that, there’s a new drag torque control system, which essentially acts as engine braking management. Under heavy braking or sudden downshifts – even mid-corner – it prevents the rear from skipping or locking up. In theory, it’s a small thing, but in practice, it will make life much easier.
TVS has also added some bling. The transparent clutch cover immediately catches your eye – a small touch, but one that adds a nice layer of mechanical theatre to the design. There are new sequential turn indicators, keyless ignition, and a revised TFT cluster that now displays information more cleanly and intuitively. Knuckle guards are part of the update, too, although I personally don’t think they work too well on a naked bike. Visually, they clash with the overall design, and functionally, too, I don’t see a lot of use for them. But hey, if you like them, you like them.
Together, these additions make an already well-equipped motorcycle feel even more upmarket. Whether you actually need all of these is subjective. But in terms of showroom appeal and spec sheet bragging rights, the RTR 310 remains unmatched.
2025 Apache RTR 310 design
The RTR 310 hasn’t changed much in terms of overall design, and that's no bad thing. It remains an aggressive, sharp-looking streetfighter, full of visual muscle and plenty of street presence. The new add-ons – especially the transparent clutch cover and sequential indicators – do elevate the vibe.
That said, there are elements that might be a bit too much like the headlight. It’s a visually busy motorcycle, and while it’s bound to attract younger riders, some might find the styling a touch overdone. Still, credit where due – TVS knows how to make a bike look expensive, and the RTR 310 continues to punch above its price tag on that front. The build quality also remains solid, with tight panel gaps and premium finishes all around. The new paint schemes go well with the bike’s personality.
2025 Apache RTR 310 engine and chassis
This is going to be brief because I didn’t get to ride it all that much. I rode it on track, in conditions that could only be described as punishment. The rain was coming down hard, standing water was forming, and the session was eventually red-flagged. But I still got enough seat time to get a feel for the bike’s behaviour in low-grip conditions. And it didn’t disappoint.
Mechanically, the RTR 310’s engine remains unchanged. It’s still powered by the same 312.12cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled motor, producing 35bhp and 28.7Nm. The gearbox is still a 6-speed unit with a slipper clutch and a bi-directional quickshifter, and performance-wise, it’s familiar territory. However, TVS has worked on the tuning, and the biggest improvement is in how the torque is delivered. The updated map makes power delivery more linear, and in real-world riding – even in bad weather – this made a noticeable difference.
Even in the wet, I found myself able to get into a rhythm quickly. The smoother torque helped with confidence, and the Michelin Road 5 tyres – still standard – gave excellent grip in standing water. I didn’t once feel like I was riding on eggshells. In fact, I managed to get into triple-digit speeds without the bike ever feeling nervous or edgy.
The 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310 gets launch control - Shot by Avdhoot A Kolhe
The vibrations that were a big complaint on the 2023 model seem to have reduced as well. I wouldn’t say they’re gone, but they’re certainly more tolerable. The throttle response, too, feels cleaner and more progressive. This was the BTO2 variant with adjustable suspension, though I didn’t feel the need to tweak anything. The base setup felt good enough even on a drenched, patchy racetrack.
Braking continues to be solid, with ByBre callipers offering plenty of feedback and bite. The chassis feels as taut and responsive as ever. Combine that with the sporty ergonomics and feature suite, and what you get is a motorcycle that’s confidence-inspiring in less-than-ideal conditions.
2025 Apache RTR 310 price and verdict
What I can’t tell you right now is if it leans towards more of a tourer or a track bike, or maybe even none of those things. I’ll wait to ride it on Indian roads for the full picture – but so far, I’m satisfied with what I could test.
With all these updates, the Apache RTR 310 now starts at ₹2.40 lakh for the base variant. The top variant, with more features but without BTO options, is priced at ₹2.57 lakh. The BTO1 and BTO2 variants come in at ₹2.75 lakh and ₹2.85 lakh, respectively. All prices are ex-showroom.
For what you get, the pricing doesn’t seem unfair. Yes, it’s a premium motorcycle, and yes, the top-spec version demands a bit of a wallet stretch. But even the lower variants are well-equipped, and the overall mechanical package – engine, chassis, suspension, tyres – is strong enough to hold its own even without the fancier electronics.
It’s also worth considering what you want from your bike. If you’re someone who appreciates tech and is willing to pay a little extra for features you might only use once in a while, the RTR 310 makes sense. But if you want a simpler, more focused machine, there are other options to look at – including the Triumph Speed 400 or even the newly updated KTM Duke 390. That said, the RTR 310 still feels like the most unique offering in the segment.
