Meta Title: TVS Apache RTX 300 vs Himalayan 450, KTM 250 ADV — Full Comparison (India 2025)
Meta Description: Compare the upcoming TVS Apache RTX 300 with Himalayan 450, KTM 250 Adventure, V-Strom SX, and Yezdi Adventure. Full specs, features, pricing, and verdict for Indian riders.
🚀 Introduction
Adventure bikes have become the new “do-it-all” machines in India. Whether you’re commuting through city chaos or exploring Ladakh, the 300–400cc ADV segment is now the sweet spot for Indian riders.
TVS, known for its sharp, performance-oriented Apache series, is ready to enter this territory with the Apache RTX 300, launching on October 15, 2025.
But can it truly compete with segment leaders like the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 250 Adventure?
Let’s break it down.
📊 Specification Comparison: TVS Apache RTX 300 vs Rivals
| Feature / Model | TVS Apache RTX 300 (expected) | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | KTM 250 Adventure | Suzuki V-Strom SX | Yezdi Adventure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 299 cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder | 452 cc, liquid-cooled | 248 cc, liquid-cooled | 249 cc, oil-cooled | 334 cc, liquid-cooled |
| Power | ~35 PS @ 9,000 rpm | 40 PS @ 8,000 rpm | 30 PS @ 9,000 rpm | 26.5 PS @ 9,300 rpm | 30 PS @ 8,000 rpm |
| Torque | ~28.5 Nm @ 7,000 rpm | 40 Nm @ 5,500 rpm | 24 Nm @ 7,500 rpm | 22.2 Nm @ 7,300 rpm | 29.8 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed | 6-speed | 6-speed | 6-speed | 6-speed |
| Kerb Weight (approx.) | 165–175 kg | 196 kg | 177 kg | 167 kg | 188 kg |
| Front Suspension | USD Forks | USD Forks | WP Apex USD | Telescopic | Telescopic |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock (preload adj.) | Monoshock | WP Apex Monoshock | Monoshock | Monoshock |
| Wheels | 19” Front / 17” Rear Alloy | 21” Front / 17” Rear Spoke | 19” / 17” Alloy | 19” / 17” Alloy | 21” / 17” Spoke |
| Brakes & ABS | Dual-channel ABS (switchable) | Dual-channel ABS (off-road mode) | Dual-channel ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual-channel ABS |
| Seat Height | ~830 mm | 825 mm (adjustable) | 855 mm | 835 mm | 815 mm |
| Fuel Tank | ~14 L | 17 L | 14.5 L | 12 L | 15.5 L |
| Expected Price (ex-showroom) | ₹2.5 L | ₹2.85 L | ₹2.47 L | ₹2.15 L | ₹2.20 L |
| Launch Status | Oct 2025 | On sale | On sale | On sale | On sale |
🧩 Engine & Performance
TVS’s 299cc liquid-cooled motor is derived from its Apache RR 310 engine (co-developed with BMW), tuned for better torque delivery and smoother touring.
With ~35 PS power, it sits right between the KTM 250 Adventure and the Himalayan 450, offering a perfect blend of punch and usability.
- Himalayan 450: The most powerful of the lot, ideal for serious touring and off-road.
- KTM 250 Adventure: The sportiest rev-happy engine, great for fast riders.
- V-Strom SX: Smooth and refined, but lacks high-end power.
- Yezdi Adventure: Good torque, but slightly heavier and less refined.
👉 Verdict: Apache RTX 300 likely offers the best balance between performance, smoothness, and everyday usability.
⚙️ Ride & Handling
TVS has proven its chassis tuning expertise with the Apache series, and the RTX 300 will carry that DNA forward.
- Ride Modes, Traction Control, and Switchable ABS are expected.
- The 19/17-inch wheel setup makes it comfortable for both highway and mild off-road use.
- Its lighter kerb weight (≈170 kg) gives it an edge in maneuverability compared to the heavier Himalayan or Yezdi.
KTM still leads in agility, but RTX could beat it in comfort and long-ride ergonomics.
💡 Features & Technology
TVS is expected to offer one of the most tech-loaded ADVs in its segment.
| Feature | RTX 300 | Himalayan 450 | KTM 250 Adv | V-Strom SX | Yezdi Adv |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TFT Display | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Bluetooth / Navigation | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ride Modes | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Traction Control | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Switchable ABS | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| LED Lighting | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
👉 Verdict: In terms of digital features, RTX 300 could be the most modern ADV below ₹3 lakh.
🧱 Build & Design
- The RTX’s design feels inspired by bigger ADVs — tall stance, wide handlebar, split seat, and front “beak.”
- The Himalayan still dominates the rugged aesthetic, while KTM and V-Strom aim for a sleeker, urban look.
- RTX 300’s LED headlamps, sharp tank design, and bold lines make it stand out as a stylish yet practical machine.
💰 Pricing & Value (India 2025)
| Model | Ex-showroom Price (₹ Lakh) | Segment Position |
|---|---|---|
| TVS Apache RTX 300 | 2.50 (expected) | Mid-premium ADV |
| Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | 2.85 | Flagship Adventure |
| KTM 250 Adventure | 2.47 | Sporty Compact ADV |
| Suzuki V-Strom SX | 2.15 | Affordable Tourer |
| Yezdi Adventure | 2.20 | Value Off-Roader |
👉 Verdict: TVS hits the sweet spot — competitive pricing with more features and comparable performance.
🌍 Global Relevance
TVS may export the RTX 300 to Southeast Asia, South America, and Africa, where 300cc bikes are seen as both commuter and adventure machines.
In India, it fills a much-needed void between the V-Strom SX (urban tourer) and Himalayan 450 (hardcore ADV) — offering a bike that’s light, tech-rich, and affordable.
✅ Overall Verdict: Should You Wait for the TVS Apache RTX 300?
Why It’s Worth the Hype
- Perfect 300cc engine size for Indian roads
- Tech-loaded with TFT, traction control, and ride modes
- Balanced design — not too heavy, not too sporty
- Expected competitive pricing and wide TVS service network
Potential Limitations
- Alloy wheels instead of spokes may limit off-road toughness
- Will need proven reliability over long-distance use
- Real-world comfort and refinement TBD until launch
The TVS Apache RTX 300 is shaping up to be India’s next great “all-rounder adventure bike” — built for riders who want technology, performance, and touring comfort without breaking the ₹3 lakh barrier.
