In a market flooded with conventional commuters and sport bikes, TVS Motor Company has carved a fresh niche with the TVS Ronin — a motorcycle that doesn’t quite fit into a single category. Instead, it’s a unique blend that TVS refers to as an “uncharted modern-retro”—a crossover motorcycle that appeals to a new generation of riders who want style, substance, and versatility.
Let’s dive into what makes the TVS Ronin a game-changer in the Indian two-wheeler landscape.
Design That Defies Convention
At first glance, the TVS Ronin’s design is both intriguing and bold. It draws influence from multiple genres — with the stance of a cruiser, the upright ergonomics of a scrambler, and the premium touches of a modern classic. The round LED headlamp with a T-shaped DRL gives it a distinctive face, while the short tail, wide handlebars, and teardrop fuel tank hint at a retro DNA.
What stands out is its attention to detail. The bronze-finished engine casing, the chunky 110/70 front and 130/70 rear block-pattern tyres on 17-inch alloy wheels, and the brushed metal elements lend the Ronin a premium, purposeful look. It’s designed not just to ride, but to be seen.
Performance: Power With Practicality
Under the Ronin’s muscular body lies a 225.9cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine producing 20.4 PS of power and 19.93 Nm of torque. It’s mated to a 5-speed gearbox with an assist and slipper clutch — a feature typically found in higher-end motorcycles.
What’s impressive is the engine’s refinement and usability. Power delivery is smooth and predictable, making the Ronin an excellent choice for both urban commutes and weekend getaways. It’s not meant to race but to cruise comfortably at highway speeds while still being agile in city traffic.
TVS has tuned the engine to deliver torque lower in the rev range, which means less gear shifting in traffic and a more relaxed ride experience overall.
Rider-Focused Technology
TVS has packed the Ronin with smart features that enhance the ride. It gets a fully digital LCD instrument cluster with SmartXonnect Bluetooth connectivity. Riders can access turn-by-turn navigation, call and SMS alerts, voice assistance, and even crash alert features — a big plus for tech-savvy riders.
The Ronin also features dual-channel ABS with two modes — Urban and Rain — adjusting the ABS intervention based on road conditions. It adds confidence for new riders and provides an extra layer of safety for seasoned ones.
Lighting is all LED, including the headlamp, indicators, and tail lamp, which not only boosts visibility but also adds to its modern-retro vibe.
Comfort and Ride Quality
One of the Ronin’s biggest strengths is its ride comfort. The bike comes with a well-cushioned seat, wide handlebars, and a neutral riding posture that suits both short city rides and long-distance touring. The suspension setup — 41mm USD forks at the front and a 7-step adjustable mono-shock at the rear — is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and potholes with ease.
Weighing around 160 kg (kerb), it strikes a good balance between being stable on the highway and nimble in city conditions. The ground clearance of 181 mm ensures it tackles rough patches and speed bumps without fuss.
Who Should Buy the TVS Ronin?
The TVS Ronin is aimed at a new generation of riders who value style, comfort, and versatility over outright performance. It appeals to:
- Urban commuters looking for a stylish daily ride.
- Weekend wanderers who want to explore without switching bikes.
- First-time motorcycle buyers who want something different from the sea of commuters and sports bikes.
- Custom culture enthusiasts who see the Ronin as a blank canvas for modifications.
Pricing and Variants
The TVS Ronin is available in multiple variants, starting from around ₹1.49 lakh to ₹1.72 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the color and feature set. It’s competitively priced, especially considering the features and unique positioning it offers.
Final Thoughts: A Bike That Dares to Be Different
The TVS Ronin is not just another motorcycle; it’s a bold statement. In a country where two-wheelers are often boxed into strict categories — commuter, sport, cruiser — the Ronin breaks the mold. It offers a fresh alternative for those who want to stand out, ride comfortably, and enjoy a modern motorcycling experience without breaking the bank.
TVS has taken a calculated risk by launching something so unconventional, but early impressions and rider feedback suggest it’s a risk that’s paying off. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a weekend rider, the TVS Ronin is a motorcycle worth considering — for its design, practicality, and the sheer joy of riding something refreshingly different.