TVS Apache RTX 300 has officially been crowned the Indian Motorcycle of the Year (IMOTY) 2026.
The announcement, which took place in late December 2025, saw the TVS Apache RTX 300 edge out some seriously heavy hitters. We’re talking about beating the legendary KTM 390 Adventure and the futuristic Ultraviolette X47. To win this award, a bike doesn’t just need a shiny coat of paint; it needs to survive a gauntlet of 16-27 expert jurors who treat motorcycles with the scrutiny of a diamond appraiser.
But why did the TVS Apache RTX 300 win? Is it just hype, or has TVS actually built the “Swiss Army Knife” of the 300cc segment? Let’s dive into the logic, the specs, and the soul of this machine.
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The IMOTY isn’t your average “Participation Trophy.” It is the most prestigious automotive award in India, backed by JK Tyre and audited by Deloitte. This year, the shortlist was a literal “Who’s Who” of the biking world:
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The raw power of the KTM 390 Adventure (the runner-up).
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The electric torque of the Ultraviolette X47.
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The classic soul of the Royal Enfield Classic 650.
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The nimble Yamaha XSR 155.
The TVS Apache RTX 300 didn’t just win; it dominated the scoring parameters. The jury look at price, fuel efficiency, styling, comfort, and technical innovation. By offering a legitimate adventure-tourer package at a starting price of ₹1.99 Lakh, TVS basically walked into the room and dropped the mic.
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At the center of the TVS Apache RTX 300 lies the all-new RT-XD4 platform. If you’re a tech nerd, this is where the bike gets interesting. This isn’t just a re-tuned 310cc engine from the RR. It’s a 299.1cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC powerhouse.
TVS engineers clearly spent some late nights in the lab. The “XD4” stands for four “Dual Technologies” that make this motor a standout:
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Dual Cooling: It uses both liquid and oil cooling to manage heat during grueling trail rides.
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Dual Oil Pumps: This ensures the engine stays lubricated even at extreme inclines (essential for a bike with “Rally” in its name).
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Dual Overhead Cams (DOHC): Paired with a downdraft port for a crisp, immediate throttle response.
Power Figures by the Numbers
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Max Power: 36 PS @ 9,000 rpm.
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Max Torque: 28.5 Nm @ 7,000 rpm.
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Transmission: A slick 6-speed gearbox with a bi-directional quickshifter.
Logic dictates that a 300cc bike shouldn’t feel this punchy, but the torque curve is surprisingly flat. Whether you’re crawling through a Bangalore traffic jam or climbing a mountain pass, the TVS Apache RTX 300 always seems to have a bit of “get-up-and-go” left in the tank.
The “RTX” moniker stands for Rally Touring Extreme, and the bike looks the part. It follows a semi-faired design with a tall windscreen and a “beak” that practically screams “take me to the Himalayas.”
With a seat height of 835 mm and ground clearance of 200 mm, this bike has presence. However, TVS kept the kerb weight at 180 kg, making it significantly lighter and more manageable than the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450.
One of the most impressive (and slightly terrifying) specs is the 500 mm water wading limit. You can literally ride this through a small pond, provided you don’t stall. The suspension travel is a generous 180 mm at both ends, handled by 41mm USD forks up front and a monoshock at the back.
If you think a budget-friendly 300cc bike should have basic dials, TVS would like a word. The TVS Apache RTX 300 comes packed with features usually found on bikes costing twice as much.
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5-inch TFT Display: This isn’t just a screen; it’s a command center. It features map mirroring, Bluetooth connectivity, and ride analytics via the TVS SmartXonnect app.
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Cruise Control: Yes, you read that right. Cruise control on a 300cc bike. Your right wrist will thank you on those 500km highway stretches.
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Ride Modes: You get four dedicated modes—Urban, Rain, Tour, and Rally. These don’t just change the screen color; they actively adjust the ABS sensitivity and traction control.
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Switchable ABS: In “Rally” mode, you can turn off the rear ABS to slide the tail out on gravel. It’s childish, it’s fun, and it’s exactly why we ride motorcycles.
Pricing and Variants
TVS has mastered the art of the “Built To Order” (BTO) platform. You can buy the base version or go full-spec with the Anniversary Edition.
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price (Approx.) | Key Features |
| Base Variant | ₹1.99 Lakh | Dual Channel ABS, Ride Modes |
| Top Variant | ₹2.14 Lakh | Bluetooth, Map Navigation, Cruise Control |
| BTO / Anniversary | ₹2.34 Lakh | Traction Control, Black-Gold Livery, Adjustable Suspension |
Why did the TVS Apache RTX 300 win IMOTY 2026? It won because it’s balanced. It isn’t as heavy as a Himalayan, it isn’t as expensive as a KTM, and it isn’t as restricted as an electric bike. It bridges the gap between a daily commuter and a serious weekend explorer.
TVS has proven that “Made in India” doesn’t just mean assembly; it means world-class engineering. The TVS Apache RTX 300 is a symbol of how far the Apache brand has come over the last 20 years.