TVS Ronin : TVS has been synonymous with sporty commuters and performance bikes ala the Apache series of motorcycles. But out of the blue, the brand has offered its nameplate to the TVS Ronin — a motorcycle that simply refuses to be slotted in any particular category.
It isn’t a cruiser, not a traditional scrambler, yet some way Domenicali & Co. have concocted a heady mix that overlaps both design genres and ends up being very different indeed.
Market positioning as a “modern-retro urban motorcycle” makes it pretty obvious the Ronin is targeted towards the younger age bracket, streetwear inclined, specialized users that are more or less all for some of that individuality, as long as it doesn’t come without practical application.
But does the Ronin manage to establish it’s own niche in the already crowded automobile market? Let’s take a deep dive.
TVS Ronin Design That Stands Apart
The boldest thing about the Ronin, however, is probably its design. At first glance, it appears to be a café racer that’s been on an off-road sojourn.
With a round LED headlamp flanked by T-shaped DRLs, wide handlebar, chunky looking fuel tank, and a good amount of blacked out treatment for the mechanicals go together to create an urban-retro vibe that’s hard to ignore.
There’s an unfinished simplicity to the styling, which mixes classic proportions with modern detailing. It comes in several dual-tone and monotone colors, each of which lends the bike a distinct personality.
(Though it may not suit purists of any of the genres involved, it does hit a singular visual note — and it appears designed to do so.)
Engine and Performance
The Ronin is powered by a 225.9cc single-cylinder oil-cooled engine churning out close to 20.4 PS and 19.93 Nm of torque.
That may not sound impressive, but the beauty is in how the bike responds with power — smoothly, linearly and with a lackadaisical attitude toward the miles speeding beneath you.
The Ronin is not made for speed though, more for cruising comfortably and zipping through the city. Low-end torque is quite good, making for relaxed and easily roll-on acceleration even when in taller gears.
The unit is mated to a 5-speed gearbox and comes with Assits and Slipper Clutch, which helps in making the downshifts considerably smooth and the clutch feel very lite – a boon for when you are stuck in a snarl of traffic.
Ride Comfort and Handling
The ride quality on the Ronin is one of those things that sticks to mind. The suspension (41mm Showa USD forks at the front, 7-step adjustable monoshock at the rear) is set up for comfort, but not so much so that it feels too soft.
Potholes, bad patches or magnets, the Ronin absorbs it all with a plomb, probably one of the bikes built for Indian roads.
The 795mm seat height and neutral riding position, combined with widebars, has the Ronin appealing to both the new and experienced rider, as well as a commuter. Cornering habits are acceptable, too, although you won’t be chasing eye-scraping lean angles on the R7.
It’s more about smooth, pleasurable rides with just enough nimbleness for the urban environment.
Features and Technology
The Ronin gets a fair few to decent features for its segment from TVS. It comes with Bluetooth connectivity through SmartXonnect, turn-by-turn navigation, voice assistance and call/SMS alerts too.
The digital instrument cluster is small and legible.
You also get dual-channel ABS with Urban and Rain riding modes, adjustable levers and all-LED lighting — the little details add up.
But there is no traction control or ride-by-wire throttle systems, which would have brought the tech game up a notch.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Unique design that brings together the classic and the contemporary
Riding is comfortable and the ergos are inviting
Cracking mid-range grunt and punchy low-end torque make the KTM 690 Enduro great for wheelies in the city.
Feature-rich for the segment
Slipper clutch & USD forks : advantage premium.
Cons:
D: No sixth gear; Highway cruising can make the engine feel buzzy
Styling might not be that attractive to cruiser or scrambler traditionalists
Little bit too undernut for those thrill seekers
Not suitable for those who go on long rides on the pillion seat
TVS Ronin Final Verdict
The TVS Ronin isn’t trying to be a typical cruiser, nor does it adhere to the formula of a roadster or scrambler.
Instead, it bravely strides into a hybrid world, creating a motorcycle that’s as much about lifestyle as it is about function.
This isn’t about the pursuit of top-end performance, it’s about a stylish, comfortable and confident ride.
For riders in search of a bike that stands apart from the pack, that rare ride that really is different than the rest, the Ronin is a homebuilt bike that’s simply home for dinner.