The allure of long-distance motorcycle touring in India is undeniable. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-drenched coasts of Kanyakumari, the open road calls to the adventurer in all of us. For decades, TVS Motor Company has been a trusted name, building reliable, innovative, and performance-oriented machines. If you're looking to answer the call of the highway on a TVS motorcycle, you're in the right place.
Here’s a breakdown of the best TVS bikes for long-distance touring, catering to different riders and budgets.
1. The Apex Predator: TVS Apache RR 310
The flagship of the TVS stable, the Apache RR 310 is a track-bred machine with surprising touring capabilities. It’s a sport-tourer that perfectly blends aggressive performance with features that make long hours on the saddle manageable.
Why it's great for touring:
Things to consider:
The riding posture, while more relaxed than a pure supersport, is still committed. Riders looking for a completely upright stance might find it a bit demanding on very long, multi-day trips.
Best for: The enthusiast who wants thrilling performance and a sporty feel without sacrificing essential touring features.
2. The Street Dominator: TVS Apache RTR 310
The newest beast from the TVS stable, the Apache RTR 310, takes the powerful engine of the RR 310 and puts it in a hyper-naked streetfighter package. This bike is all about raw power, cutting-edge tech, and surprisingly, comfort.
Why it's great for touring:
Things to consider:
Being a naked bike, windblast at high speeds will be more pronounced than on the RR 310. An aftermarket windscreen is a highly recommended accessory for serious tourers.
Best for: The tech-savvy rider who wants top-tier performance, advanced features, and a comfortable, upright riding position.
3. The Modern Classic: TVS Ronin 225
The TVS Ronin is a breath of fresh air. It’s not a sportbike or a cruiser; it’s an "unscripted" modern-retro that prioritizes comfort, style, and a relaxed riding experience.
Why it's great for touring:
Things to consider:
While it can handle highways, the engine might feel a bit strained during sustained speeds above 100 km/h. It’s more of a relaxed cruiser than a high-speed mile-muncher.
Best for: The rider who values comfort and style above all else. Perfect for relaxed state highway cruises and exploring B-roads. #TVSRonin #UnscriptedLife
4. The Versatile All-Rounder: TVS Apache RTR 200 4V
The Apache RTR 200 4V has been a fan favorite for years, and for good reason. It’s a perfectly balanced package that offers a bit of everything: performance, features, and comfort, all at an accessible price point.
Why it's great for touring:
Things to consider:
Like the Ronin, it's not a high-speed king. Pillion comfort is decent for short rides but might be a bit cramped for long-distance two-up touring.
Best for: The budget-conscious tourer who wants a reliable, feature-packed, and fun-to-ride motorcycle that can do it all.
Conclusion
TVS has successfully built a portfolio that caters to a wide spectrum of touring enthusiasts. Whether you crave the high-speed thrill of a sport-tourer (Apache RR 310), the tech-rich comfort of a hyper-naked (Apache RTR 310), the relaxed vibe of a modern-retro (Ronin), or the do-it-all nature of a versatile all-rounder (Apache RTR 200 4V), there is a TVS bike ready to take you on your next great Indian road trip.