From off-road power to touring comfort—discover which adventure machine truly dominates the 250cc–300cc motorcycle segment in India
In 2025, India’s mid-capacity adventure motorcycle segment has shifted gears, with TVS entering the arena through the all-new Apache RTX 300. Pitched directly against the KTM Adventure 250 and Suzuki V-Strom SX 250, this showdown determines which bike delivers the best balance of power, touring comfort, features, and value for Indian riders.
TVS has officially entered the adventure scene with the Apache RTX 300, powered by a 299.1 cc liquid-cooled DOHC single-cylinder engine delivering 36 PS at 9,000 rpm and 28.5 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. The engine sits on the brand’s new RT-XD4 platform, offering exceptional refinement and control.
The feature set sets new segment standards — multiple ride modes (Urban, Rain, Tour, Rally), cruise control, adjustable suspension, traction control, a TFT display with smartphone integration, and adjustable windshield. It undercuts its Austrian rival while offering richer technology and great touring comfort.
• Torque-friendly for highways and trail use
• Sharp, aggressive styling inspired by the Draken concept
• Ex-showroom price: ₹1.99–2.34 lakh (introductory)
• Full Spec: See Full Specs of TVS Apache RTX 300
The KTM Adventure 250 remains one of the most balanced and well-known ADVs in the 250cc category. Powered by a 249.07 cc liquid-cooled engine producing 31 PS @ 9,250 rpm and 25 Nm @ 7,250 rpm, it offers phenomenal handling and excellent stability.
The 2025 update brings improved bodywork, lighter components, and a 14.5-liter fuel tank for extended range. Riders also get off-road ABS, slipper clutch, and adjustable windshield—key advantages for adventure purists. Its high seat height (855 mm) and stiffer suspension are trade-offs for trail prowess.
• Benchmark for off-road confidence and build quality
• Slightly premium pricing: ₹2.40 lakh (ex-showroom)
• Mileage: ~38 kmpl in city conditions
• Full Spec: See Full Specs of KTM Adventure 250
Suzuki’s V-Strom SX 250 carries forward its brand’s adventure touring DNA. It features a 249 cc oil-cooled engine making 26.5 PS @ 9,300 rpm and 22.2 Nm @ 7,300 rpm — tuned for everyday usability over peak performance.
The V-Strom feels effortless on highways, offering plush seating, upright posture, and wide handlebars. Its Suzuki Ride Connect with turn-by-turn Bluetooth navigation adds a modern touring edge. However, the lack of traction control or riding modes makes it feel simpler compared to the technologically advanced RTX 300.
• Perfect for beginners and lightweight touring
• Price: ₹1.98 lakh (ex-showroom)
• Full Spec: See Full Specs of Suzuki V-Strom SX 250
• Adventure-Tech Lovers: Choose Apache RTX 300 for features, equipment, and effortless performance.
• Off-Road Purists: The KTM Adventure 250 offers the most capable chassis and suspension for enthusiasts.
• Everyday Tourers or Beginners: The V-Strom SX 250 is perfect for comfort and reliability.
The TVS Apache RTX 300 is the trendsetter of 2025’s adventure segment. It blends modern electronics with real touring practicality and a segment-leading engine at an unbeatable price point. By offering cruise control, traction control, and premium finishes at under ₹2.5 lakh, it sets new expectations for Indian ADVs.
TVS Apache RTX 300: The New Benchmark
TVS has officially entered the adventure scene with the Apache RTX 300, powered by a 299.1 cc liquid-cooled DOHC single-cylinder engine delivering 36 PS at 9,000 rpm and 28.5 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. The engine sits on the brand’s new RT-XD4 platform, offering exceptional refinement and control.
The feature set sets new segment standards — multiple ride modes (Urban, Rain, Tour, Rally), cruise control, adjustable suspension, traction control, a TFT display with smartphone integration, and adjustable windshield. It undercuts its Austrian rival while offering richer technology and great touring comfort.
• Torque-friendly for highways and trail use
• Sharp, aggressive styling inspired by the Draken concept
• Ex-showroom price: ₹1.99–2.34 lakh (introductory)
• Full Spec: See Full Specs of TVS Apache RTX 300
KTM Adventure 250: Proven Off-road Performer
The KTM Adventure 250 remains one of the most balanced and well-known ADVs in the 250cc category. Powered by a 249.07 cc liquid-cooled engine producing 31 PS @ 9,250 rpm and 25 Nm @ 7,250 rpm, it offers phenomenal handling and excellent stability.
The 2025 update brings improved bodywork, lighter components, and a 14.5-liter fuel tank for extended range. Riders also get off-road ABS, slipper clutch, and adjustable windshield—key advantages for adventure purists. Its high seat height (855 mm) and stiffer suspension are trade-offs for trail prowess.
• Benchmark for off-road confidence and build quality
• Slightly premium pricing: ₹2.40 lakh (ex-showroom)
• Mileage: ~38 kmpl in city conditions
• Full Spec: See Full Specs of KTM Adventure 250
Suzuki V-Strom SX 250: Reliable and Rider-friendly
Suzuki’s V-Strom SX 250 carries forward its brand’s adventure touring DNA. It features a 249 cc oil-cooled engine making 26.5 PS @ 9,300 rpm and 22.2 Nm @ 7,300 rpm — tuned for everyday usability over peak performance.
The V-Strom feels effortless on highways, offering plush seating, upright posture, and wide handlebars. Its Suzuki Ride Connect with turn-by-turn Bluetooth navigation adds a modern touring edge. However, the lack of traction control or riding modes makes it feel simpler compared to the technologically advanced RTX 300.
• Perfect for beginners and lightweight touring
• Price: ₹1.98 lakh (ex-showroom)
• Full Spec: See Full Specs of Suzuki V-Strom SX 250
Specification Comparison Table
| Specification | TVS Apache RTX 300 | KTM Adventure 250 | Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 299.1 cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled | 249.07 cc, SOHC, liquid-cooled | 249 cc, SOHC, oil-cooled |
| Power | 36 PS @ 9,000 rpm | 31 PS @ 9,250 rpm | 26.5 PS @ 9,300 rpm |
| Torque | 28.5 Nm @ 7,000 rpm | 25 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 22.2 Nm @ 7,300 rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed | 6-speed | 6-speed |
| Fuel Tank | 12.5 L | 14.5 L | 12 L |
| Weight (Kerb) | 180 kg | 177 kg | 167 kg |
| Seat Height | 835 mm | 855 mm | 835 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 200 mm | 228 mm | 205 mm |
| Suspension | USD (front), monoshock (rear) | WP Apex adjustable | Telescopic + monoshock |
| ABS | Dual-channel with ride modes | Dual-channel, off-road mode | Dual-channel |
| Key Features | Ride modes, traction/cruise control, TFT display | Off-road ABS, slipper clutch, TFT screen | Navigation, LED lights, connectivity |
| Price Range | ₹1.99–2.34 lakh | ₹2.40 lakh | ₹1.98 lakh |
Pros and Cons
| Model | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| TVS Apache RTX 300 | Best-in-class technology, cruise/traction control, smooth power and price advantage | Smaller fuel tank, slightly heavy |
| KTM Adventure 250 | Superb off-road handling, durable suspension, brand cachet | Pricey, high seat height, firm ride on city roads |
| Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 | Easy ergonomics, reliable motor, efficient for daily riding | Modest power, lacks electronic aids |
How to Choose
• Adventure-Tech Lovers: Choose Apache RTX 300 for features, equipment, and effortless performance.
• Off-Road Purists: The KTM Adventure 250 offers the most capable chassis and suspension for enthusiasts.
• Everyday Tourers or Beginners: The V-Strom SX 250 is perfect for comfort and reliability.
Why Apache RTX 300 Stands Out
The TVS Apache RTX 300 is the trendsetter of 2025’s adventure segment. It blends modern electronics with real touring practicality and a segment-leading engine at an unbeatable price point. By offering cruise control, traction control, and premium finishes at under ₹2.5 lakh, it sets new expectations for Indian ADVs.
FAQ
| 1. Which adventure bike is best under ₹2.5 lakh in 2025? |
| The TVS Apache RTX 300 offers the best mix of performance, technology, and price. |
| 2. Which one suits off-roading the most? |
| The KTM Adventure 250 has superior suspension and balance for pure off-road use. |
| 3. Which is more comfortable for long-distance touring? |
| The V-Strom SX 250 and Apache RTX 300 offer excellent highway manners and fatigue-free ergonomics. |
| 4. Does the Apache RTX 300 have traction control? |
| Yes, it features switchable traction control and multiple ride modes for different road conditions. |
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