The Hero XPulse 200T was recently launched in India, with a more sophisticated 199cc engine and a few cosmetic upgrades. It now costs Rs 1,25,726 (ex-showroom Mumbai), demanding a premium of Rs 1,036 over its 2V model. But still, it is pretty affordable when compared to its key rival, the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V. So, here we’ve compared these two bikes to see which offers better value.
Engine Specifications
| Hero XPulse 200T 4V | TVS Apache RTR 200 4V | |
| Engine Displacement | 199.6cc | 197.7cc |
| No of Cylinders | 1 | 1 |
| No of Valves | 4 | 4 |
| Cooling Tech | Oil-cooled | Oil cooled |
| Max Power | 19.1PS at 8500rpm | 20.82PS at 9,000rpm |
| Peak Torque | 17.3Nm at 6500rpm | 17.25Nm at 7,250rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed | 5-speed |
As far as engine output is concerned, both bikes appear to be closely matched. However, Apache’s RTR 200 4V has a few more horsepower. In addition, it comes with a slipper clutch and Glide Through Technology (GTT). The former allows for safer hard braking, while the latter lets the bike crawl in city traffic effortlessly without using the throttle.
Underpinnings
| Hero XPulse 200T 4V | TVS Apache RTR 200 4V | |
| Chassis | – | Double Cradle Split Synchro Stiff Frame |
| Front Suspension | 37mm telescopic front fork | Showa Preload-Adjustable Telescopic Front Fork (first-in-segment) |
| Rear Suspension | 7-step preload adjustable monoshock | Showa monoshock |
| Wheel Type | Alloys | Alloys |
| Tyre Size | 100/80-17 (Front)130/70-17 (Rear) | 90/90-17 (Front) 130/70 R17 (Rear) |
| Front Brakes | 276mm disc | 270mm disc |
| Rear Brakes | 220mm disc | 240mm disc |
| ABS | Single-Channel | Single / Dual-Channel |
| Ground Clearance | 175mm | 180mm |
TVS has underpinned the Apache RTR 200 4V on the double cradle split frame which should help in delivering better cornering confidence. The bike also features the segment’s first pre-load adjustable Showa telescopic fork upfront for a sportier riding experience. Furthermore, Apache’s extra 5mm ground clearance should help the bike go over poor routes unscathed.
Features
| Hero XPulse 200T 4V | TVS Apache RTR 200 4V |
| LED Lighting SystemDigital Instrument ClusterBluetooth ConnectivityCall AlertsTurn-by-turn Navigation SupportUSB mobile chargerFork Gaiters | LED Lighting SystemDigital Rider’s DisplaySlipper ClutchBluetooth Connectivity Call / SMS AlertsTurn-by-turn Navigation SupportLean Angle ModeCrash AlertsRace TelemetryThree Riding Modes: Urban, Rain, Sports3 step adjustable brake & clutch leversGlide-Through Technology (GTT) |
In terms of features, the Apache RTR 200 4V again has an advantage. The bike has a slipper clutch, adjustable levers, race telemetry, riding modes, GTT, etc., over the XPulse 200T 4V.
Price
| Hero XPulse 200T 4V | TVS Apache RTR 200 4V |
| Rs 1,25,726 | Rs 1,36,190 – Rs 1,41,190 |
*Ex-Showroom Mumbai.
Verdict
Depending on the variant, the Hero XPulse 200T 4V undercuts the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V by Rs 10,464 and Rs 15,464. The result is fewer features as well. Overall, the Hero XPulse 200T 4V is a great tourer motorcycle if you’re looking for a no-frills 200cc. For lovers of sportier, feature-packed naked bikes, the TVS Apache RTR 200V offers the perfect solution.
