Apache RTR 200 vs KTM 200 DUKE – which is a better deal?

Nowadays many riders are aiming for medium displacement bikes, preferably 200cc to 250cc, which can perform majority of tasks, be it city commuting or touring long distances. In the 200cc segment, there is a fierce competition between 3 bikes – KTM 200 Duke, TVS Apache RTR 200 4V  and the Bajaj NS200. (We have already compared the Bajaj NS 200 and the KTM 200 Duke- http://ridersuniverse.com/ktm-200-duke-vs-bajaj-pulsar-ns-200/ ). Today we are comparing the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V and the segment leader KTM 200 Duke. Let’s find out which bike suits you the most in the crispiest manner possible-

1. Looks & Aesthetics- The Apache RTR 200 4V looks exactly the same as its smaller sibling RTR 160. Starting with the physical appearance, the Apache RTR 200 4V is 2,050 mm in length, 790 mm in width and 1,105 mm in height while the KTM 200 Duke is 2,050 mm in length, 730 mm in width and 810 mm in height. The 200 Duke is a super light, weighing only 134 kilograms, mainly due to its ultra-light tubular trellis frame. On the other hand, the Apache RTR 200 weighs 149 kilograms. The Apache RTR 200 has a 12 litres fuel tank while the 200 Duke gets a 11 litres fuel tank. It’s pretty clear that the Apache is slightly bulkier than the Duke. The Apache looks muscular but the 200 Duke is definitely sleeker and coruscating. The build quality of both the bikes is similar. But, we genuinely feel TVS could have worked upon giving the bike a premium feel.

   

2. Digital console & lamps- The instrument cluster of KTM 200 Duke packs in a lot of information which the Apache RTR 200 4V does not. KTM 200 DUKE comes with a Multi-Reflector Type headlamp which has decent illumination and the Apache RTR 200 4V has a halogen bulb setup with led DRLs which resemble eyebrows. The Apache gets a double-barrel exhaust and the exhaust note is burbly. That’s one thing where we would rate Apache better.
   

   

3. Power & Efficiency- The KTM 200 Duke has a 199.5cc fuel injected, single Cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine mated to a 6 speed gearbox. The engine churns out maximum power of 25.1 PS @ 10,000 rpm and peak torque of 19.2 Nm @ 8000 rpm. On the other hand, Apache RTR 200 4V has a carbureted/electronic fuel injection(optional) 197.75 cc single cylinder, SI engine mated to a 5 speed gearbox. It gets Oil Cooler with Ram Air Assist and produces power upto 20.05 PS @ 8500 rpm and peak torque of 18.1 Nm @ 7000 rpm. This simply means the KTM 200 DUKE is faster and has a superior engine. The Apache is unable match the pickup and top speed of the 200 Duke which is 135 kmph. The lack of 6^th gear on Apache can be easily felt and the it struggles to go beyond 127 kmph. The fuel efficiency of both the bikes is in the same ballpark which is 35kmpl, Apache having a slightly high mileage than the 200 Duke.
     

   

4. Comfort & Brakes- The braking duties are handled by 300 mm front and 230 mm rear discs in the 200 Duke as opposed to 270 mm front & 240 mm rear of the Apache but the Apache gets dual-channel ABS with RLP control which makes it a lot safer. Also, the Apache is equipped with A-RT (Anti-Reverse Torque) Slipper Clutch which makes quick gear shifts hassle-free. Here, the Apache RTR 200 4V gets a competitive advantage over the Duke. The KTM 200 Duke gets 110 mm wide front tyre & 150 mm wide rear tyre against the 90 mm wide front tyre and 130 mm rear tyre of the Apache RTR 200. The KTM 200 Duke has a WP Upside Down 43mm fork and a WP Monoshock at the rear. The Apache’s telescopic front suspension tends to dive in during hard braking but the Monotube – Monoshock rear suspension soak the bumps very well as it is very plush. The sitting posture of 200 Duke gives a little more confidence than the Apache’s saddle when it comes to cornering and cutting through traffic. We would rate the Duke’s suspensions slightly better than those on Apache.

   

5. Price- The price could be a major deciding factor for many riders. The KTM 200 Duke is priced at INR 1,49,000 (ex-showroom) whereas the price of Apache RTR 200 4V Race Edition 2.0 is INR 97,000. There’s a large price difference and keeping the above points in mind, you can choose the vehicle which suits you the most!

Our Verdict

Who should buy the Apache? The TVS Apache RTR 200 4V is definitely a value for money product. One who is not speed-crazy and usually rides within the city with a pillion will be happy with the smooth power delivery. This one may not be as fast as the 200 Duke but it does take care of your safety. Also, you are gonna love the exhaust note.
Who should go for the Duke? The KTM 200 Duke is for those who can put in extra cash for mad performance, better build and a better highway machine. This bike is for experienced ones who want a looker, commute swiftly and reach far off destinations without hesitation.

Specifications

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