A Modern take on Classics

The TVS Ronin is on a mission to create a segment of its own. We got to ride the motorcycle recently on a rainy day in Goa to bring you our first impression

- Azaman Chothia

A "RONIN" WAS A SAMURAI warrior without a master during the Feudal age in Japan. With the new Ronin, TVS are aiming to create a segment of their own as this bike doesn't fall under any one type of motorcycle category; just as its name suggests. We initially expected to see the TVS Zeppelin cruiser, a concept model showcased at the 2018 Auto Expo, but TVS seem to have taken a different direction. At first glance, there is a lot going on with the new design. The TVS Ronin looks like a blend between a retro cruiser and a scrambler with some modern street bike elements. There is a round headlight unit at the front that encases the unique T-shaped daytime light signature. Like many scramblers, the bike sports an offset instrument cluster that offers a lot of information and, like all TVS motorcycles, gets smartphone connectivity via the SmartXonnect application. Below this is a 14.5-litre teardrop-shaped tank that very closely resembles the tank on the erstwhile Bajaj V15. The rectangular side panels have a retro look and get "Ronin" branding.

There is a long exhaust unit that is slightly upswept with a large bash-plate covering the bend pipe. The rear end sports a sleek tail-light running under the seat, although, the distinctive mud-guard design looks an afterthought. The modern street bike elements come in the form of sharp indicator units and a set of good-looking mirrors. While they might look great, they are difficult to adjust. TVS also wanted to mimic large-capacity cruisers so they added an enormous chain cover that looks like a belt-drive system from afar. Chain lubing and maintenance would be easier if there was a window incorporated into this component.