TVS is gearing up to shake up India’s adventure tourer segment with the upcoming Apache RTX 300, spotted testing and slated for an August 2025 launch. Priced around Rs. 2.60 lakh (ex-showroom), this road-biased adventure tourer will go head-to-head with KTM’s popular 250 Adventure and 390 Adventure. With its bold design and tech-packed features, the RTX 300 aims to challenge KTM’s dominance. Here’s how TVS’s new contender stacks up against its KTM rivals.
Design and Styling
The Apache RTX 300 brings a fresh, aggressive look to the adventure tourer space, while KTM’s bikes lean into their signature sharp, rally-inspired aesthetics.
TVS Apache RTX 300: Bold and Modern
The RTX 300 sports a muscular stance with a high ground clearance, LED headlights, and knuckle guards. Its design draws inspiration from TVS’s Apache series, blending streetfighter aggression with adventure-ready elements like spoked wheels and a tall windscreen. Expected colors include vibrant options like Fury Yellow and Arsenal Black, aligning with TVS’s sporty vibe.
KTM 250 and 390 Adventure: Rally-Bred Looks
The KTM 250 Adventure and 390 Adventure feature angular designs with halogen headlights (250) or LED units (390), paired with rugged bodywork. The 390 Adventure’s 21/17-inch wheel setup and higher ground clearance give it a more off-road-focused appearance compared to the RTX 300’s road-biased stance. Both KTMs come in bold shades like Orange and White.
Performance and Powertrain
The RTX 300’s engine is derived from the Apache RTR 310, but how does it compare to KTM’s proven powerplants?
TVS Apache RTX 300: Punchy and Efficient
Powered by a 299cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled RTX D4 engine, the RTX 300 is expected to produce 35 bhp at 9,700 rpm and 28.5 Nm at 6,650 rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox and quickshifter. Its claimed mileage of 35 kmpl makes it ideal for long hauls, balancing performance and efficiency.
KTM 250 and 390 Adventure: Raw Power
The KTM 250 Adventure’s 248.76cc engine delivers 30 PS and 24 Nm, while the 390 Adventure’s 398.63cc engine pumps out 46 PS and 39 Nm. Both use a 6-speed gearbox, with the 390 offering a quickshifter. The 250 Adventure matches the RTX 300’s 30 kmpl mileage, but the 390’s larger engine sacrifices fuel efficiency for power.
Features and Technology
The RTX 300 aims to outshine KTM with a feature-rich package tailored for modern riders.
TVS Apache RTX 300: Tech-Savvy
Expect a 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth, turn-by-turn navigation, and ride modes (Urban, Sport, Rain). Features like cruise control, traction control, and dual-channel ABS make it a tech leader. The BTO Dynamic Pro Kit could add adjustable suspension and TPMS, rivaling premium offerings.
KTM 250 and 390 Adventure: Functional Tech
The 250 Adventure has a basic LCD display and single-channel ABS, lacking advanced electronics. The 390 Adventure steps up with a TFT display, traction control, dual-channel ABS, and ride modes, but misses cruise control. The 390’s tech is robust but not as feature-packed as the RTX 300’s expected kit.
Pricing and Competition
The RTX 300 is priced at Rs. 2.60 lakh, undercutting the KTM 390 Adventure (Rs. 3.68 lakh) but slightly above the 250 Adventure (Rs. 2.60 lakh). It also rivals the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 (Rs. 2.85 lakh).
| Feature | TVS Apache RTX 300 | KTM 250 Adventure | KTM 390 Adventure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (ex-showroom) | Rs. 2.60 lakh | Rs. 2.60 lakh | Rs. 3.68 lakh |
| Engine | 299cc, liquid-cooled | 248.76cc, liquid-cooled | 398.63cc, liquid-cooled |
| Power | 35 bhp @ 9,700 rpm | 30 PS @ 9,000 rpm | 46 PS @ 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | 28.5 Nm @ 6,650 rpm | 24 Nm @ 7,500 rpm | 39 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
| Mileage | 35 kmpl | 30 kmpl | 30 kmpl |
| Key Features | TFT display, cruise control, quickshifter | LCD display, single-channel ABS | TFT display, dual-channel ABS |
| Weight | ~170 kg | 177 kg | 177 kg |
Why Choose the RTX 300?
The TVS Apache RTX 300 offers a compelling mix of power, tech, and value, challenging the KTM 250 Adventure’s affordability and the 390 Adventure’s performance. Its modern features and road-focused design make it a versatile choice for urban and highway riders. Test rides will confirm its edge, so stay tuned for its August 2025 launch!