Apache RTR 160 vs. Hero Honda Hunk 150 cc - The war ends in a result

Choosing between a two leading bike brands with a stipulated budget in my mind might raise many doubts and questions for the buyer. And when the bikes in question are TVS Apache RTR 160 and Hero Honda Hunk 150 cc then the confusion obviously increases. All-in-one package with power, style, performance and best price would be the ideal bike. Let us see which is that surprise package that you can bet your money on!

Looks: Design and styling
The Apache RTR 160 belongs to the TVS racing series and it truly looks like a racer in every sense of the word. While the Hero Honda Hunk 150 cc in many ways seems to be inspired with Apache's looks, there is nothing to beat Apache's aerodynamic air scoop, which is the appealing factor of the bike. It gives the bike a bigger and a muscular look, which fits perfectly to the sporty image of the bike and the racing stripes run through the length of the bike adds to the glamour. And where does Apache get the masculine effect from? Well that comes loud and clear from the front fairing and the side panels, so the makers of Apache have smartly provided both sporty and muscular looks to the bike. The handlebar stands apart from the rest of Apache's competitors and the naked chain in the rear are simply outstanding.



Talking of Hero Honda Hunk, this one too looks majestic with side skirt tank and a butterfly shaped headlight, the 3-dimensional logo, front forks with gold finish, silver color for the central part and the solid rear cowl serves the macho look for Hunk. Despite its uniqueness Hunk does not equal with Apache, which scores higher in the looks department.

Engine and performance
The Apache RTR comes with a 159.7 cc, 4-stroke engine that delivers power of 15.7 Bhp @ 8500 rpm and one can expect a maximum torque of about 13.1 Nm @ 6500 rpm. Apart from the style quotient that Apache exudes, it is also a clear winner in delivering superb power and this not only compared to Hunk but it even beats CBZ and Pulsar in this regard.

With a 150 cc engine Hunk gives a power of 14.4 PS @ 8500 rpm and torque of 12.8 Nm @ 6500 rpm. Hunk is not an under performer too but for that adrenaline rush you can always swear by Apache; it will not disappoint you. Apache is a power packed performer. And this obviously had to go right for TVS, as Apache is a racer.

Handling and comfort
The Apache RTR gets full marks for handling; the front disc brake is 270mm and the optional rear disc brake offer great confidence to the rider. In fact braking in Apache is rated one of the best in the segment and handling Apache in the corners is super cool. But the tyres, at least the rear one should have been wider and long drives on the Apache will be hurting to the back for sure.



HH Hunk 150 is not bad when it comes to handling, but a 240mm disc brakes rate low in efficiency on any day than the 270mm disc brakes. But still to compensate on the low efficient brakes Hunk runs on wide rear tyre. With straight handle and nicely positioned foot pegs and wider rear tyre it offers good ride.

Coming to gear shift it is smoother in Apache RTR 160cc as compared to tighter and stiffer gear shift offered by the Hunk 150cc.

Fuel economy
The Hero Honda Hunk gives a mileage of an average 50-60 kmpl while Apache RTR gives about 50-55 kmpl depending on riding conditions.

Colors and Price
The Apache RTR 160 cc is available in three variants with following prices: Apache RTR - Rs 66,500, Apache RTR Refresh - Rs 67,300, Apache RTR Efi - Rs 72,900. The choices of colors for Apache are yellow, red, black and silver.

The Hero Honda Hunk is available in silver, red, sports red, brown, black and grey with a price tag of Rs 65,000 on road.



Last word
Do you still need to know which bike to go for? Of course it is Apache RTR 160 cc, as the bike is way ahead in terms of power besides sporty looks, power, and great handling comfort and performance in comparison to the Hunk although the New HUNK comes with muscular look and overall good performance. And Hero Honda is known for reliability and easy maintenance. Come to think of this Hunk spares are 20% cheaper than the TVS' and TVS service and the bike maintenance a persistent problem still. The rear of the Apache RTR 160 can be bettered, can't it?

Anyway this boils down to - if you should be looking for power and sporty looks don't hesitate but go for the Apache RTR 160cc, but if you look for cheaper maintenance even with a compromise on power it should be Hero Honda Hunk 150cc.