TVS Apache RTX Named Indian Motorcycle of the Year 2026
The Indian two-wheeler industry has a new benchmark for excellence as the TVS Apache RTX 300 has been officially crowned the Indian Motorcycle of the Year (IMOTY) 2026. This prestigious award, decided by a panel of the country’s most experienced automotive journalists, recognizes the motorcycle that offers the best balance of performance, innovation, and value for Indian riders.
A Comprehensive Evaluation Process
The TVS Apache RTX emerged victorious after a rigorous evaluation of eight shortlisted finalists. These finalists represented a diverse cross-section of the market, including sporty commuters, modern classics, adventure motorcycles, and electric bikes.
The jury evaluated each contender across several critical parameters:
- Design and Quality: Aesthetic appeal and build excellence.
- Engineering and Performance: Mechanical refinement and power delivery.
- Technology and Features: Integration of modern rider aids and equipment.
- Practicality and Value: Suitability for daily use and overall “value for money” quotient.
The Apache RTX stood out for its well-rounded package and its potential to be a game-changer in its segment.
The Expert IMOTY 2026 Jury
The IMOTY award is highly regarded due to the credibility of its jury, which consists of senior editors and journalists from India’s leading automotive publications. The 2026 jury included:
- Vikrant Singh and Rishabh Bhaskar from BikeWale.
- Karan Mathur and Shivank Bhatt from autoX.
- Aspi Bathena and Saeed Akthar from Bike India.
- Sirish Chandran and Karan Ramgopal from Evo India.
- Kartik Ware and Manaal Mahatme from Motoring World.
- Rohit Paradkar and Kranti Sambhav from Overdrive.
- Abhay Verma from Turbocharged.
- Arpit Mahendra from TOI Auto.
- Abhinav Jakhar from Auto Today.
Performance and Specifications at a Glance
The TVS Apache RTX won over the judges not just with its feature-rich cockpit but also with its refined performance. It is designed to cater to enthusiasts looking for a versatile machine that can handle both city commutes and spirited weekend rides.
- Power Output: 35.5 bhp @ 9000 rpm.
- Weight: 180 kg.
- Top Speed: 140 kmph.
- Price: Starting from approximately Rs. 2,34,431 (On-road Karjat).
The motorcycle’s competitive pricing significantly enhanced its “value for money” score during the final rounds of judging.
Also check: TVS Apache RTX 300 Color Options
IMOTY 2026: Winners and Runners-up
The TVS Apache RTX (specifically the RTX 300) emerged as the winner, marking TVS Motor Company’s third IMOTY title.
| Position | Contender | Segment |
| Winner | TVS Apache RTX 300 | Performance Naked |
| First Runner-up | KTM 390 Adventure | Adventure Tourer |
| Second Runner-up | Ultraviolette X47 | Electric Crossover |
List of Finalists / Contenders
The shortlist for 2026 featured eight motorcycles representing various segments, from sporty commuters to modern classics. To be eligible, these models had to be all-new, manufactured or assembled in India, and available in showrooms before November 30, 2025.
- Honda CB125 Hornet: A 124cc air-cooled streetfighter known for its lightweight 124kg frame.
- Kawasaki KLX230: A 233cc dual-sport motorcycle designed for off-road capability.
- KTM 390 Adventure: The high-performance adventure tourer that ultimately finished on the podium.
- KTM Enduro R: A performance-oriented off-road machine.
- Royal Enfield Classic 650: A modern classic flagship with a 650cc twin-cylinder engine.
- TVS Apache RTX: The eventually crowned winner, featuring a 299cc liquid-cooled engine.
- Ultraviolette X47: The first electric motorcycle to reach the IMOTY top three.
- Yamaha XSR 155: A cafe racer-style motorcycle powered by a 155cc liquid-cooled engine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which bike won the IMOTY 2026 award? The TVS Apache RTX was declared the winner of the Indian Motorcycle of the Year (IMOTY) 2026.
What are the key performance specs of the TVS Apache RTX? The bike produces 35.5 bhp at 9000 rpm, weighs 180 kg, and has a top speed of 140 kmph.
Who decides the IMOTY award winner? The award is judged by a panel of senior automotive journalists from leading Indian publications such as BikeWale, autoX, Overdrive, and Evo India.
What criteria are used to select the winner? The jury assesses motorcycles based on design, engineering, performance, technology, practicality, and value for money.
What is the starting price of the TVS Apache RTX? The TVS Apache RTX is priced starting from approximately Rs. 2,34,431 (on-road price in select cities).
You can add more to this story by commenting below.
