Quick Analysis
Hero PASSION+
9.0 pts
Unweighted: 7 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TVS Apache RTR 165 RP
21.5 pts
Unweighted: 16 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air Cooled | Oil-cooled |
| Displacement | 97.2 cc | 164.9 cc |
| Engine Type | Air cooled, 4 stroke | Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, 4-valve, SOHC |
| Power | 5.9 kW @ 8,000 rpm | 19.2 PS @ 10,000 rpm |
| Torque | 8.05 Nm @ 6,000 rpm | 14.2 Nm @ 8,750 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11 litres | 12 litres |
| Mileage | 84 Kmpl | 45 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 115 | 148 |
| Seat Height | 790 | 800 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | No, IBS | Single-channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Drum 130 mm | 270 mm Disc |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic | Showa Race-Tuned Telescopic Fork |
| Rear Brake | Drum 130 mm with IBS | 240 mm Disc |
| Rear Suspension | Twin Tube | Showa Race-Tuned Monoshock |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 80/100 - 18 | 90/90 – 17 (Tubeless) |
| Rear Tyre | 80/100 - 18 | 130/70 – 17 (Tubeless, Radial) |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED Headlamp w/ DRL | LED with DRL |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12V-3Ah MF Battery | 12V, 8Ah MF |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Brown.png | — |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Grey.png | — |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Red.png | — |
| Cluster | Semi-Digital Instrument Cluster | Fully digital |
| Color Options | Sports Red Black | #C51F2F, #1C1C1C Black Nexus Blue | #1F4E8C, #1C1C1C Black Heavy Grey | #4F5458, #1C1C1C Black Brown Stripes | #6A4A3C, #1C1C1C | Racing White | #F2F2EE, #C40000 |
| Cons | Limited Performance: The 97.2cc engine is designed for efficiency rather than speed, so acceleration and highway performance are modest. Basic Feature List: Compared to modern commuters, the Passion Plus offers fewer technology features and convenience additions. Not Ideal for Frequent Highway Use: The motorcycle is most comfortable in city and semi-urban conditions, while sustained highway speeds can feel demanding for the engine. Conventional Styling: The design follows a traditional commuter-bike approach and may not appeal to riders looking for a more modern or sporty appearance. Drum Brake Setup: The braking package remains basic and lacks the stronger stopping power offered by front disc brake-equipped rivals. Instrument Cluster Feels Dated: The semi-digital console is functional but does not offer the information or visual appeal found on newer commuter motorcycles. Pillion Comfort on Long Trips: While suitable for daily use, extended two-up journeys can become tiring due to the compact dimensions of the motorcycle. | The aggressive tuning also means vibrations become more noticeable at higher RPMs and highway cruising speeds. The suspension setup is firmer than regular commuter motorcycles, so rough roads and potholes can feel harsher during everyday riding. Long-distance comfort is not one of the strongest areas because the riding posture and sporty seat setup can feel tiring after extended hours. Since it was launched as a limited-production model, availability of specific body parts and graphics may be more difficult compared to standard Apache variants. Fuel efficiency is lower than the regular RTR 160 because of the performance-oriented tuning and shorter gearing. The motorcycle focuses more on sporty riding than relaxed commuting, so riders looking mainly for comfort and refinement may find it slightly too aggressive for daily use. Some riders expected even more power considering the “Race Performance” branding, especially when compared to larger 200cc motorcycles. |
| Detailed Overview | The Hero Passion Plus is a motorcycle that has been a familiar sight on Indian roads for many years. Designed primarily for daily commuting, it focuses on the needs of riders who spend most of their time traveling between home, work, markets, and nearby towns. The motorcycle follows a straightforward approach, combining a simple mechanical setup with features that are intended to make everyday transportation convenient and economical. While many motorcycles today are moving towards larger engines and more advanced technology, the Passion Plus continues to serve riders who prioritize practicality and ease of use in their daily routine. At the heart of the motorcycle is a 97.2cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. Producing around 8 PS of power and 8.05 Nm of torque, the engine is tuned for smooth operation at everyday speeds rather than rapid acceleration. In city traffic, the motorcycle feels comfortable moving through congestion without requiring constant gear changes. The engine’s character suits stop-and-go conditions, where riders spend more time dealing with traffic signals, crowded roads, and short-distance travel than high-speed highway riding. The four-speed gearbox is simple to operate and works in a manner that most commuter riders will find familiar. One of the key aspects of the Passion Plus is its focus on fuel efficiency. The engine uses Hero’s i3S technology, which automatically switches off the engine when the motorcycle remains idle for a few seconds and restarts it when the clutch is engaged. This feature is particularly useful in urban environments where riders frequently encounter traffic lights and long waiting periods. Combined with the lightweight nature of the motorcycle, the system helps reduce unnecessary fuel consumption during daily use. The design of the Passion Plus follows the traditional commuter motorcycle formula. The bodywork includes a neatly shaped fuel tank, practical side panels, and graphics that add some visual appeal without being overly aggressive. Chrome touches around certain components and a conventional headlamp design help maintain the motorcycle’s familiar appearance. Unlike sport-oriented motorcycles that prioritize sharp styling, the Passion Plus focuses on a layout that is functional and easy to live with. Comfort plays an important role in the overall riding experience. The motorcycle features an upright seating position that places minimal strain on the rider’s wrists and shoulders. The seat is long enough to accommodate both rider and pillion comfortably during routine journeys. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers. This setup is designed to absorb common road imperfections such as potholes, speed breakers, and uneven surfaces that are often encountered during daily commuting. Braking is managed through drum brakes at both ends, supported by Hero’s Integrated Braking System (IBS). The system distributes braking force between the front and rear wheels when the rear brake is applied, helping maintain balance during braking. The motorcycle rides on alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres, which provide added convenience in the event of a puncture. The instrument console combines analogue and digital elements, displaying essential information such as speed, fuel level, and odometer readings. The controls remain simple and easy to understand, reflecting the motorcycle’s focus on practicality rather than complexity. An 11-litre fuel tank further supports its commuting role by reducing the need for frequent fuel stops. The Hero Passion Plus is built around the everyday requirements of riders who need dependable transportation for regular use. Its engine, riding position, suspension setup, and fuel-saving features are all aimed at making daily travel straightforward and uncomplicated. Rather than focusing on performance or advanced technology, the motorcycle concentrates on delivering a familiar riding experience suited to the demands of everyday commuting. | Some motorcycles are designed mainly for broad mass-market appeal, while others are built to showcase what a platform can do when performance becomes the priority. The TVS Apache RTR 165 RP belongs to the second category. Developed under the company’s “Race Performance” program, the motorcycle takes the familiar Apache RTR formula and pushes it toward a more aggressive and track-inspired direction. Although it shares its foundation with the RTR 160 4V, several mechanical and cosmetic changes give the 165 RP a noticeably sharper personality on the road. The motorcycle is powered by a 164.9cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox. TVS revised the engine tuning to increase output to around 19.2 bhp, which made it one of the most powerful motorcycles in its segment during its launch period. The engine feels noticeably more responsive than the standard RTR 160 4V, especially in the mid and top-end range where acceleration becomes quicker and more energetic. Throttle response feels immediate, and the shorter gearing further adds to the bike’s aggressive nature during city riding and overtakes. The oil-cooling system helps maintain performance consistency during longer rides and high-RPM usage. The RTR 165 RP also includes three riding modes — Sport, Urban, and Rain. These modes change throttle sensitivity and ABS calibration depending on riding conditions. Sport mode allows the motorcycle to deliver its sharpest response and full performance output, while Urban and Rain modes make acceleration smoother for everyday traffic or slippery roads. This feature gives the bike more adaptability while still maintaining its performance-focused identity. One of the biggest differences between the 165 RP and regular Apache models lies in the chassis setup. The motorcycle feels more focused and sharper while cornering, partly because of the revised suspension tuning. The front uses telescopic forks, while the rear receives a preload-adjustable monoshock setup tuned for more aggressive riding. The suspension feels firmer than standard commuter motorcycles, helping the bike remain stable during quick direction changes and fast cornering. However, rough roads and potholes are felt more clearly because comfort is not the primary focus of the setup. Braking hardware includes petal disc brakes at both ends supported by dual-channel ABS. The braking feel remains progressive and confidence-inspiring, especially during spirited riding. The motorcycle rides on alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres, while red wheel accents and race-inspired graphics add to its distinctive appearance. TVS also added several visual upgrades including sporty decals, contrasting body graphics, and golden fork detailing that separate the bike from the standard Apache lineup. Technology and features are another important part of the package. The fully digital instrument console supports TVS SmartXonnect connectivity with Bluetooth pairing, navigation assist, call alerts, ride analytics, and race-oriented information. Adjustable clutch and brake levers, a slipper clutch, and LED lighting further add to the premium and performance-focused nature of the motorcycle. The riding posture remains sporty but manageable enough for regular road use. The split-seat layout, rear-set footpegs, and slightly forward-leaning ergonomics help the bike feel more engaging without becoming too extreme for daily riding. Fuel efficiency usually stays around 35–45 km/l depending on riding style and traffic conditions. Unlike regular Apache models, the RTR 165 RP was launched as a limited-production motorcycle in India and was never intended to become a permanent mass-market offering. Overall, the motorcycle combines sharper engine tuning, race-inspired upgrades, sporty handling, and modern electronic features into a street bike designed primarily around rider engagement and performance-oriented road riding. |
| Expert Review | The Hero Passion Plus stays true to the formula that has made commuter motorcycles popular in India for decades. Its 97.2cc engine is tuned with a clear focus on fuel efficiency, smooth everyday performance, and ease of ownership rather than outright speed. In daily traffic, the motorcycle feels light, easy to maneuver, and unintimidating for riders of all experience levels. The upright riding position, comfortable seat, and simple controls make it well suited to routine commuting, while the suspension is set up to deal with typical urban roads and speed breakers without feeling overly stiff. Features remain straightforward and functional, reflecting the motorcycle's practical nature. Rather than trying to stand out through performance or technology, the Passion Plus focuses on delivering a familiar riding experience built around affordability, efficiency, and day-to-day usability, qualities that continue to be important for a large section of commuter motorcycle buyers., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team | The TVS Apache RTR 165 RP feels more like a factory-tuned special edition than just a slightly upgraded Apache. The engine responds sharply, the gearing feels shorter and more aggressive, and the motorcycle reacts quickly to throttle inputs in a way that immediately feels sportier than the standard RTR 160 4V. What stands out most is how light and eager the bike feels while cornering — the chassis remains agile, and the suspension setup gives the motorcycle a much more focused riding character. TVS also added several race-inspired touches like adjustable suspension, slipper clutch, riding modes, and cosmetic upgrades that make the motorcycle feel closer to a track-oriented street bike rather than a regular commuter. At the same time, the firmer setup and aggressive tuning also mean vibrations and ride stiffness are more noticeable during longer rides or rough roads. The RTR 165 RP mainly appeals to riders who enjoy sharp handling and a more energetic riding feel rather than relaxed commuting comfort., 4.6, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the engine capacity of the Hero Passion Plus? A: The Hero Passion Plus is powered by a 97.2cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces around 8 PS of power and 8.05 Nm of torque. Q: What is the real-world mileage of the Hero Passion Plus? A: Most Hero Passion Plus owners report real-world fuel efficiency between 60 and 70 km/l, depending on riding conditions and maintenance. Q: What is the top speed of the Hero Passion Plus? A: The Hero Passion Plus can reach a top speed of approximately 85-90 km/h under suitable riding conditions. Q: Is the Hero Passion Plus good for daily commuting? A: Yes, the Hero Passion Plus is designed primarily for daily commuting and focuses on fuel efficiency, comfort, and low running costs. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Hero Passion Plus? A: The Hero Passion Plus comes with an 11-litre fuel tank. Q: What is the seat height of the Hero Passion Plus? A: The Hero Passion Plus has a seat height of approximately 790 mm, making it accessible for riders of different heights. Q: Does the Hero Passion Plus have a front disc brake? A: No, the Hero Passion Plus uses drum brakes at both ends with Hero's Integrated Braking System (IBS). Q: What is the kerb weight of the Hero Passion Plus? A: The Hero Passion Plus has a kerb weight of approximately 115 kg. Q: Is the Hero Passion Plus suitable for long rides? A: The Hero Passion Plus can handle occasional long rides, but it is primarily designed for city commuting and everyday transportation. Q: What is the ground clearance of the Hero Passion Plus? A: The Hero Passion Plus offers approximately 168 mm of ground clearance. Q: How is the Hero Passion Plus different from the Hero Splendor Plus? A: While both motorcycles share a similar commuter-focused philosophy, the Hero Passion Plus features different styling, graphics, and body panels, whereas the Hero Splendor Plus follows a more traditional design approach. Q: Why is the Hero Passion Plus popular among commuters? A: The Hero Passion Plus is popular because it offers strong fuel efficiency, affordable maintenance, comfortable ergonomics, and a widespread service network, making it practical for everyday use. Q: Does the Hero Passion Plus require frequent maintenance? A: No, the Hero Passion Plus is generally known for low maintenance requirements when serviced according to Hero MotoCorp's recommended schedule. | Q: Is the TVS Apache RTR 165 RP discontinued in India? A: Yes, the TVS Apache RTR 165 RP was launched as a limited-production “Race Performance” model and is no longer part of the regular TVS lineup in India. TVS produced the motorcycle in limited numbers, which is why it was available only for a short period. Q: Can the TVS Apache RTR 165 RP still be purchased in India? A: New units are generally unavailable through official dealerships now, but used models may still be found in the pre-owned motorcycle market. Q: What is the engine capacity of the TVS Apache RTR 165 RP? A: The motorcycle is powered by a 164.9cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine. Q: What is the power output of the RTR 165 RP? A: The bike produces around 19.2 bhp and approximately 14.2 Nm of torque. Q: What makes the RTR 165 RP different from the RTR 160 4V? A: The RTR 165 RP gets a more powerful engine tune, slipper clutch, adjustable suspension, red alloy wheels, race-inspired styling, and performance-focused upgrades. Q: What mileage does the TVS Apache RTR 165 RP give? A: Real-world mileage generally stays around 35–45 km/l depending on riding style and traffic conditions. Q: What is the top speed of the RTR 165 RP? A: The motorcycle has an approximate top speed of around 125 km/h. Q: Does the Apache RTR 165 RP have riding modes? A: Yes, the bike offers Sport, Urban, and Rain riding modes. Q: Does the RTR 165 RP get Bluetooth connectivity? A: Yes, it supports TVS SmartXonnect with navigation, call alerts, and ride analytics. Q: What type of brakes does the RTR 165 RP use? A: The motorcycle uses petal disc brakes at both ends along with dual-channel ABS. Q: What suspension setup does the RTR 165 RP use? A: It gets telescopic front forks and preload-adjustable rear monoshock suspension. Q: Does the RTR 165 RP have a slipper clutch? A: Yes, the motorcycle comes with a slipper clutch for smoother downshifts during aggressive riding. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the RTR 165 RP? A: The motorcycle comes with a fuel tank capacity of around 12 litres. Q: What is the kerb weight of the RTR 165 RP? A: The kerb weight of the bike is approximately 145 kg. Q: Was the RTR 165 RP a limited edition motorcycle? A: Yes, TVS launched the RTR 165 RP as a limited-production Race Performance model. Q: Is the RTR 165 RP suitable for highway riding? A: Yes, the strong acceleration and sporty chassis make it suitable for highway use and spirited riding. Q: What type of tyres does the RTR 165 RP use? A: The motorcycle uses tubeless tyres mounted on alloy wheels. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 80328 | STD | 145000 |
| Pros | Excellent Fuel Efficiency: One of the biggest reasons people buy the Hero Passion Plus is its ability to deliver impressive mileage, helping keep daily running costs low. Simple and Reliable Engine: The 97.2cc engine is designed for everyday commuting and is known for its smooth and predictable power delivery. Comfortable for Daily Use: The upright riding posture, long seat, and commuter-focused ergonomics make it comfortable for city rides and regular office commutes. Lightweight and Easy to Handle: The motorcycle feels manageable in traffic, making it suitable for new riders as well as experienced commuters. Low Maintenance Costs: Spare parts are widely available, and routine servicing is generally affordable compared to larger motorcycles. Good Ground Clearance: The bike handles speed breakers and uneven roads without much difficulty, which is useful in everyday riding conditions. Proven Platform: The Passion name has been around for many years, and the motorcycle continues to use a simple and familiar mechanical package. Hero Service Network: Owners benefit from Hero MotoCorp's extensive dealership and service presence across urban and rural areas. | The biggest highlight of the RTR 165 RP is its engine tuning. The motorcycle feels noticeably more aggressive and quicker than the standard RTR 160 4V, especially in the mid and top-end range where acceleration feels sharp and immediate. The bike feels very light and responsive while cornering. Direction changes happen quickly, and the chassis gives the rider a confident and sporty feel during fast riding. TVS added several race-inspired upgrades like adjustable suspension, red alloy wheels, racing graphics, and a slipper clutch, which make the motorcycle feel more performance-focused than a regular commuter bike. The exhaust note sounds deeper and sportier compared to the standard Apache models, adding more character to the riding experience. Ride modes, Bluetooth connectivity, adjustable levers, and the fully digital display give the bike a feature-rich setup for its segment. The shorter gearing and aggressive throttle response make the motorcycle especially enjoyable in city riding and quick overtakes. Braking performance feels strong and predictable, with dual-channel ABS improving confidence during hard braking situations. |
| Starter | Kick and Self Start | Electric |
| Transmission | Constant mesh, 4 speed | 5-speed manual |
