TVS Apache RTX 300 vs Suzuki V-Strom SX: Which ADV Should You Purchase?
The sub-300cc adventure motorcycle segment in India is booming as more riders show interest in touring, bad-road capability, and versatile motorcycles. Capitalising on this growing trend, TVS Motor Company has introduced the Apache RTX 300, its first serious adventure touring motorcycle. The new ADV directly competes with the well-established Suzuki V-Strom SX, a bike that enjoys a strong reputation for reliability, smooth performance, and touring-friendly character.
Both motorcycles are almost similarly priced and aim at a similar customer base but go about it differently. The Apache RTX 300, on one hand, is all about modern technology, more power, and tougher off, road hardware, but the V, Strom SX is more about simplicity, refinement, and the experience of proven long, term ownership.
To make a choice between the two, here is a detailed comparison.
Price & Variants
The TVS Apache RTX 300 comes in three variants, with prices ranging from 1.99 lakh to 2.34 lakh (ex, showroom). The base variant is the cheapest, whereas the top and built, to, order variants offer different colour options, suspension upgrades, and tech features.
On the other hand, the Suzuki V, Strom SX is available in one variant only, priced at 1.98 lakh (ex, showroom). Hence, both bikes are quite competitive at the entry, level stage, however, the RTX 300 gets pricier as you go for higher trims with more features.
In general, those who want a maximum number of features will have to pay more for the TVS, whereas Suzuki provides a single, price option that is simpler.
Engine & Performance
One of the major distinctions between the two ADVs is basically their engines.
The TVS Apache RTX 300 gets its power from a 299.1cc, liquid, cooled, single, cylinder engine that yields 36 bhp and 28.5 Nm of torque. It is accompanied by a 6, speed gearbox and boasts state, of, the, art features like ride, by, wire throttle and an optional bi, directional quickshifter. This configuration results in the RTX having more robust performance on highways, faster overtaking, and a better capability to handle luggage and pillion weight.
Meanwhile, the Suzuki V-Strom SX utilizes a 249cc, oil, cooled, single, cylinder engine that generates 26.13 bhp and 22.2 Nm of torque. Although it is quite obviously lacking in power as compared to the TVS, the Suzuki engine is famed for its smoothness, refinement, and almost effortless cruising. It is geared towards comfortable touring rather than aggressive riding.
When it comes to sheer performance, the Apache RTX 300 undoubtedly has the advantage, more so for riders who love power and spirited highway riding.
Features & Technology
Both motorcycles have great technology and electronic assistants, but the Apache RTX 300 is on the top.
It has a 5, inch TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity with navigation, cruise control, traction control, and various ride modes such as Urban, Rain, Tour, and Rally. It also offers switchable ABS (rear in select modes) and ride, by, wire technology, making it one of the most feature, rich motorcycles in this price range.
The Suzuki V, Strom SX goes with a less complicated design. It has a digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth connectivity, LED lighting, dual, channel ABS, and an adjustable windshield. Although it covers all the basics, it does not have the advanced rider aids like traction control, ride modes, and cruise control.
If you are a buyer who appreciates modern electronics and premium features, the TVS should be your first choice. On the other hand, riders who want fewer electronics may like the Suzuki’s simple setup.
Suspension, Chassis & Off-Road Ability
The Apache RTX 300 is constructed on a steel trellis frame and comes with 41mm USD front forks, each end having around 180mm of suspension travel. The higher spec models even offer adjustable suspension. It also features a ground clearance of 200mm and a bigger 320mm front disc brake, which together make it a more suitable vehicle for rough roads, trails, and even light off, road rides.
The Suzuki V, Strom SX employs conventional telescopic front forks and the suspension travel of the front fork is approximately 120mm. At the back, it has a monoshock with the possibility to adjust the preload. Its configuration is more geared towards the road, and while it can manage poorly maintained roads, it is not as capable as the TVS in terms of rough terrain.
This is why the RTX 300 is a more serious adventure bike, and the V, Strom SX could be described as a soft, roader with a touring focus.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
As far as the dimensions are concerned, the two motorcycles are almost identical. The Apache RTX 300 is a bit taller and wider, which makes it look more like a cornering ADV bike. The V, Strom SX is a little bit longer and has slightly higher ground clearance, but on the whole, the differences are very minor.
Both motorcycles have long, distance touring in their ergonomic DNA: upright body postures, wide handlebars, and comfortable seats. Apache is more of a traditional adventure bike, whereas V, Strom is lighter and therefore easier to use in city traffic and for everyday running.
Reliability & Ownership
Suzuki is well, known for having reliable vehicles and for providing a trouble, free ownership experience in India. The V, Strom SX is built around a familiar engine and chassis, and feedback from owners mostly points to the riding experience being smooth and the bike being a reliable choice in the long run.
The Apache RTX 300, as a first model, carries both excitement and a certain amount of risk. Initial customer responses indicate very long waiting times, as well as questions around the long, term reliability of the bike and the dealers customer service. Just like with any new model, some buyers might want to wait for a while to see how it turns out to be before making a purchase decision.
Verdict
TVS Apache RTX 300 is a more technically sophisticated and thrilling motorcycle. It has a higher, performance level, feature, rich design, and more potent off, road capabilitya perfect combination for riders looking for an authentic adventure touring experience coupled with the latest technology.
On the other hand, the Suzuki V, Strom SX is still the safer and a more proven choice. Even though it lacks in advanced electronics and power, it offers refinement, reliability, and a low, maintenance owner experience, the three components that are very important for many long, distance tourers.
In brief:
Go for the Apache RTX 300 when you need performance, features, and genuine ADV capability.
Go for the V, Strom SX when you want a time, tested, dependable, simple, and worry, free touring machine.
Basically, it is about what you are willing to compromise on, if you want bleeding, edge technology and power, or if you prefer peace of mind and refinement in the long run.
