How TVS’ new RTX 300 stacks up against the KTM 250 Adventure in specs, features, performance and value.
Table of Contents
The TVS Apache RTX 300 has officially launched in India at an introductory ex-showroom price of ₹1.99 lakh, directly challenging the KTM 250 Adventure, which is priced around ₹2.40 lakh. (NDTV Auto) In this head-to-head comparison, we examine engine performance, features, ergonomics, off-road potential, and real-world tradeoffs to help buyers choose wisely.
Background & Positioning
Until now, KTM’s 250 Adventure has been a benchmark in the entry-level adventure (ADV) segment in India, known for its off-road credentials, brand support and dependable performance. (NDTV Auto) TVS enters with the RTX 300, a new platform with a 299 cc engine and a rich feature set, offering aggressive pricing to shake up the segment. (NDTV Auto) The question: does RTX 300 deliver all the promise, or are there compromises?
Specification Comparison Table
| Parameter | TVS Apache RTX 300 | KTM 250 Adventure |
|---|---|---|
| Engine / Displacement | 299.1 cc, liquid + oil cooled, DOHC (NDTV Auto) | 249 cc, liquid cooled (SOHC) (KTM India) |
| Max Power | 35.5 PS @ 9,000 rpm (NDTV Auto) | 30.5 PS @ 9,250 rpm (KTM India) |
| Max Torque | 28.5 Nm @ 7,000 rpm (NDTV Auto) | 25 Nm @ 7,250 rpm (KTM India) |
| Transmission / Clutch / QS | 6-speed, bi-directional quickshifter, assist & slipper clutch (TVS Motor Company) | 6-speed, quickshifter+, assist & slipper clutch (KTM India) |
| Frame / Chassis | Steel trellis frame with aluminum swingarm (TVS Motor Company) | Steel trellis frame with bolt-on subframe (KTM India) |
| Front Suspension | 41 mm USD fork (adjustable) (TVS Motor Company) | 43 mm WP Apex USD fork, 170 mm travel (KTM India) |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock, preload adjustable (TVS Motor Company) | WP Apex monoshock, 177 mm travel (KTM India) |
| Ground Clearance | 200 mm (TVS Motor Company) | 200 mm (KTM India) |
| Seat Height | 835 mm (TVS Motor Company) | 855 mm (KTM India) |
| Kerb Weight | 180 kg (TVS Motor Company) | 177 kg (KTM India) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12.5 litres (TVS Motor Company) | 14.5 litres (KTM India) |
| Brakes / ABS | 320 mm front, 240 mm rear, dual-channel ABS (switchable modes) (TVS Motor Company) | 320 mm front, 230 mm rear, dual-channel ABS with off-road ABS (KTM India) |
| Tyres | 110/80-19 (front) + 150/70-17 (rear) (TVS Motor Company) | 100/90-19 (front) + 130/80-17 (rear) (KTM India) |
| Features & Rider Aids | Ride modes (Tour, Rally, Urban, Rain), traction control, cruise control, TPMS, 5-inch TFT with navigation (TVS Motor Company) | Dual-channel ABS + off-road ABS, TFT display, USB-C charging (KTM India) |
| Price (Ex-showroom, Delhi) | ₹1,99,000 (Base) / ₹2,14,000 (Top) / ₹2,29,000 (BTO) (NDTV Auto) | ₹2,40,000+ (KTM India) |
Performance & Usability Insights
Power & Engine Character
The RTX 300 leads in output with 35.5 PS and 28.5 Nm, giving stronger mid-range pull and smoother top-end. It uses TVS’ new liquid-cooled RT-XD4 engine that aims at refined power delivery and reduced vibration. (TVS Motor Company) The KTM’s 249 cc engine remains proven and reliable, with slightly lower figures but excellent throttle feedback and response. (KTM India)
Suspension & Off-road Capability
KTM offers superior suspension travel and a slightly lighter frame, enhancing off-road composure. Its WP Apex units are globally recognized for performance. (KTM India) TVS counters with adjustable damping, making it versatile for Indian highways and mild trails. (TVS Motor Company)
Weight, Fuel Range & Comfort
The RTX weighs around 180 kg with a 12.5-litre tank, while KTM tips at ~177 kg and 14.5 litres. The latter offers a longer riding range, but RTX compensates with rider aids and ergonomics tuned for comfort. (TVS Motor Company)
Electronics & Features
TVS brings segment-first rider aids: cruise control, traction control, four ride modes, and real-time TPMS. (TVS Motor Company) KTM’s tech remains focused on performance and simplicity with off-road ABS, TFT display, and ride-by-wire controls. (KTM India)
Ergonomics & Ride Experience
Both machines use upright posture setups. The RTX is slightly more road-touring oriented, while KTM stays adventure-biased. Seat height on RTX is 835 mm, approachable for average riders; KTM’s 855 mm favors taller users. (TVS Motor Company, KTM India) Long-ride comfort depends on suspension tuning, which both companies claim has been optimized for mixed Indian conditions.
Pricing & Value Proposition
TVS undercuts KTM sharply—its top-end BTO variant is still priced below KTM’s base. (NDTV Auto) This gives RTX a strong cost-to-feature advantage, especially for riders prioritizing electronics and touring comfort. KTM maintains its value in proven durability, brand cachet, and wider service network. (KTM India)
Buyer Considerations
- Reliability: KTM’s platform is field-tested; RTX’s long-term reliability will be clearer after a year of usage feedback.
- Usage Profile: RTX favors highway and comfort; KTM remains superior for tougher terrain.
- Network: KTM has a dedicated Adventure community and service chain; TVS, though large, is new to the ADV niche.
- Resale: KTM’s brand recognition could translate to higher resale in used markets.
Verdict (2025 Outlook)
The TVS Apache RTX 300 is a confident and value-driven debut in India’s adventure motorcycling space. It outshines KTM’s 250 Adventure on paper in power, electronics, and pricing. However, KTM 250 Adventure continues to appeal through refined dynamics, mature engineering, and off-road pedigree.
Choose RTX 300 if you want features, touring convenience, and modern tech at a lower entry price. Choose KTM 250 Adventure if your riding involves rough terrain and you value established reliability. Both motorcycles redefine sub-300 cc touring choices for Indian riders.
Sources: TVS Motor Company, KTM India