TVS Max4R

TVS has re-launched their entry level bike, Max and now it’s known as Max 4R. This bike takes on others like Hero HF Dawn and Yamaha Crux. This bike is designed to serve utility purposes also. It’s an initiative to make it popular in rural and urban India where it can be used for commercial transportation.

Design and Style

The design and style of TVS Max 4R is very similar to other entry level bikes. A round shaped headlight, chrome fender and big orange colored side indicators forms the face of this bike. Rear view mirrors and instrument dials are black in color. Its long brake pedal, engine and muffler are also black in color. Its side panel and fuel tank are covered with new scheme of graphics. The heat protector on its silencer is finished with chrome. This bike is available with two kinds of seats, the regular one is a long and broad seat while it’s also available with a split seat which favours its commercial usage. It has a black colored carrier at the back while it features two rear shock absorbers on both sides. It has a short rear fender which displays its number plate and tail light. The bike looks very boring when seen from the back. The overall appearance of this bike has improved than before but the fit and finish is not satisfactory.

Instrument Console

TVS Max 4R features two basic circular pods in its instrument console. One of them has an analogue speedometer and odometer while the second one features analogue fuel gauge and other indicators. The bike is not offered with an electric start but features a mobile charging point. This is the only Indian bike to have this modern feature.

Engine and Gearbox

TVS Max 4R is now equipped with a four-stroke, air-cooled engine. TVS has used their tested and trusted 110cc engine in this bike which is also powering their gearless Jive and Wego. This mono-cylinder engine generates a power output of 8.2 bhp at 7500 rpm while its maximum torque output of 8.5 Nm can be used at 5500 rpm. It has a four-speed gearbox which has all gears down shift pattern.

Acceleration and Performance

TVS Max 4R feels better than any of its competitors thanks to its powerful engine. It has best torque to weight ratio in its class which makes it quick through city traffic. Its early availability of torque helps you to drive it easily even after carrying weight. The gear ratios are kept short intentionally so that it needs less gear shifts and can give you a stress free ride. The gear transitions are very smooth but can’t pass the quality levels set be Hero bikes. The bike only vibrates at high speeds or when you rev it extremely hard. For a city commuter there are no signs of vibrations and you will be pleased with its engine refinement. It will be perfect for you to carry heavy weight on this bike for long distances. It does 0-60 km/hr in less than 8.5 seconds which makes it quicker than any of its rivals. The bike can cross the speed mark of 90km/hr and it does it in a better way than others.

Mileage

Its lightweight helps it to return an impressive fuel economy. TVS Max 4R gives you a mileage of around 60-65km/ltr in city conditions. Its fuel efficiency reaches around 70km/ltr on highways.

Comfort while Driving

Front set foot-pegs, wide handlebar and well stuffed broad seat; these all qualities makes it a perfect commuter bike. The knees find it extremely comfortable around its fuel tank while your feet rest on its foot pegs. The optional detachable seat makes it very comfortable for those who intend to transport luggage on this bike. In fact the quality of plastic buttons used in this bike is better than others.

Storage Space and Safety Features

TVS Max 4R has noticeable storage space. Apart from the rear carrier, you can also mount your stand on the place of its detachable seat which can hold a lot of luggage. The side panel also offers good storage space. Max comes loaded with safety features like front leg guard, rear saree guard, pass button and adjustable bright headlight which confirm you clear visibility at night.

Suspension and Brakes

The front telescopic forks of Max are similar to any other commuter bike but the major difference lies at the back. Max is India’s first bike to have four rear shock absorbers; two on each side. Both wheels of Max are fitted with drum brakes of 130mm.

Ride and Handling

TVS Max 4R is a durable bike which offers convenient ride and handling. The four shockers at the back make sure that you get a comfortable ride despite carrying a lot of luggage. It feels very comfortable when rider is alone on this bike. The bike takes each and every pothole easily and your back enjoys strain free rides. It handles very lightly which gives you freedom to steer quickly through city traffic. Its suspension capably holds it around corners and at high speeds. It feels more secure and grounded than others. The braking system also works effectively and its drum brakes help you to stop this bike precisely. Its high speed stability while turning would have been much better with a longer wheelbase. It has a wheelbase of 1240mm which makes it scary at sharp corners.

Tyre Size, Shades and Variants

The bike has 17inch spoke wheels which are very strong and durable. The two variants of this bike are available in two shades.

Verdict

TVS Max 4R is priced at INR 40.2K (ex-showroom, Delhi (approx., may vary)). The bike is very useful and powerful than others. It’s a good option for daily commuters and can be used for commercial purpose as well. It’s a fuel efficient bike which offers impressive riding comfort. We are only worried about its pricing as it’s costlier than any of its rivals and stands nowhere in terms of resale value as it’s not a popular bike. Had it been priced well then it would have been a complete value for money bike.