The 2020 Honda CBR400R was launched in Japan recently. The motorcycle is unlikely to be introduced in India anytime soon. However, considering its body style and purpose, it would lock horns with the TVS Apache RR310 BS6 in our country. Now, in order to find out which one’s better on paper, we compare them for our curious readers.
Styling
The design of both motorcycles is a depiction of a supersport in the truest sense with aggressive fully-faired styling. However, the CBR400R looks sportier with a sharp nose and angular fairing, as opposed to the slightly curvy body panels of the Apache RR 310. What’s common is the presence of a split headlamp setup, muscular fuel tank, sleek tail, chunky exhaust and edgy graphics.
Talking about the ergonomics, both bikes come equipped with clip-on handlebars and split seat which seem to offer a very committed, track-focused riding stance. However, the overall seating triangle is comfortable enough for long-distance riding as well.
Features
For illumination, both bikes get full-LED lighting. The only difference is that the Apache gets LED projectors for the headlamp while the CBR gets conventional LEDs. Although the instrumentation is common with a full-colour TFT console, the one in the Apache is much more advanced with a host of information on display, Bluetooth connectivity and varying themes depending on the selected riding mode. What the Apache misses out on are the auto hazard light and anti-theft ignition system available on the CBR.
Engine
This is where the Honda outdoes the TVS. Powering the CBR400R is a 399cc, parallel twin engine which churns out 45.5bhp and 38Nm. On the other hand, the Apache RR 310 is propelled by a 312.2cc, single-cylinder motor pumping out 33bhp and 27.3Nm. Although the Apache gets one cylinder less and makes lesser horses, it offers four riding modes (Sport, Track, Urban and Rain) for different conditions. For each mode, the amount of power delivery and ABS intervention differ while the throttle response is also tweaked. As for the gearbox, both bikes feature six cogs along with assist and slipper clutch.
Cycle parts
The Honda CBR400R is underpinned by a steel pipe diamond-type frame which is suspended by telescopic forks and a monoshock. Braking is handled by petal disc at both ends supported by dual-channel ABS. Meanwhile, the TVS Apache RR 310 is based on a trellis frame accompanied by more premium upside down forks and a monoshock. Braking hardware is nearly identical to the CBR400R. Notably, the new 2020 edition of the Apache is shod with new Michelin Pilot Sport rubbers which are usually seen in higher-end motorcycles.
Pricing
The TVS Apache RR 310 is one of the most value-for-money products in its segment. And with the long list of updates in the 2020 edition, the Rs 2.45 lakh price tag seems much more justifiable. As for the 2020 Honda CBR400R, the motorcycle costs JPY 8,08,500 in Japan which converts to Rs 5,60,685 (both prices are ex-showroom).
