TVS has surely impressed everyone with the all-new Apache RR 310. However, it started out by producing commuter motorcycles and has not forgotten its roots. Enter the TVS Radeon, a new commuter from TVS based on the Star City+.
Styling - While the TVS Radeon might look like any other commuter, it has certain elements to differentiate itself from the competition. To start with, TVS has used chrome everywhere possible. The headlight cover, crash guard, the whole exhaust, suspension cover, luggage holder and even the grab rail is finished in chrome. The engine is finished in matte black and there is a golden cover for the oil sump. It also gets a day time running light at the front along with 3D TVS Radeon logo. All in all the TVS Radeon is a handsome motorcycle.
Instrument Cluster and Switchgear - The instrument cluster is a very simple analogue unit. There are two pods, the left pod houses the speedometer and the two modes. The right pod houses the fuel gauge and a side stand indicator. The centre area consists of some tell-tale lights along with a TVS logo. Despite being simple, the cluster looks smart. The switchgear has a piano black finish and looks neat. There is also a segment first USB charger next to the headlight. The Radeon gets a switch to alter the headlights however it misses out on an engine kill switch.
Ergonomics - The TVS Radeon sports of good ergonomics. The seating position is upright with a slightly raised handlebar. The seat is wide and the cushioning is very comfortable. Both the footpegs are comfortable. The pillion also gets a conventional grabrail which can also be used as a tiny luggage holder. Speaking of luggage, there is also a luggage hook over the right suspension. While the second luggage hook might come in handy for some users, it might bother the pillion. The small mirrors offer a decent view of what's behind.
Performance - The TVS Radeon is powered by a 109.7cc petrol motor producing 8.2 BHP and 8.7 Nm of torque. The power delivery in the mid-range is very strong. While it does lack a top-end, the low-end is sufficient enough for daily city duties. The pickup is great and the throttle response is also very good. One can expect a fuel efficiency of close to 70 km/l provided they ride at 40-45 km/hr. The sweet spot is 60 km/hr where the engine is peppy.
The engine is mated to a 4-speed gearbox. The gearbox is smooth and slick shifting. Except for the first gear, the rest of the gears are very tall. The engine feels smooth and refined. NVH levels are also very good. There are no vibrations except when the engine is pushed hard. The exhaust note is also very deep, similar to one found on the Apache series. One can monitor his driving performance by the two modes displayed on the instrument cluster - Economy and Power.
Riding Dynamics - The TVS Radeon shares its suspension setup from the TVS Star City+. The suspension is set up to be on the stiffer side for maximum luggage carrying capacity, a feature which is well appreciated in the rural areas. Due to the stiff suspension, the TVS Radeon handles very good and also remains glued to the road. The bike feels nimble and easy to ride in the city. The 18-inch CEAT alloy wheels offer adequate grip. The Radeon also gets TVS' SBT i.e. Sync Brake Technology. This safety technology automatically applies the front brakes when the rider applies the rear brake. However, the Radeon only gets drum brakes which have decent stopping power.
Verdict - The Radeon is specially made for rural and semi-urban markets. The bike has a very competent engine along with decent ride quality. It is priced well and also performs well. Pair that with the attractive looks and the Radeon is a compelling commuter motorcycle from TVS.
