TVS Motor Company has made a bold entry into the retro-modern motorcycle segment with the TVS Ronin a unique machine that combines cruiser comfort, scrambler stance, and urban practicality. Positioned in the 200-250cc segment, the Ronin is a lifestyle motorcycle that doesn’t fit into a single category, and that’s exactly its strength. It’s designed to attract both new-age riders looking for a stylish commuter and weekend adventurers who want a relaxed yet capable motorcycle.
In this article, we dive deep into the design, performance, features, and real-world usability of the TVS Ronin 225, making it easier for you to decide if it’s the right motorcycle for your riding style.
Retro-Inspired Design with a Contemporary Twist
The TVS Ronin is a head-turner from every angle. It borrows inspiration from retro cruisers while incorporating modern touches that give it a unique identity on the road. The round LED headlamp with a T-shaped DRL gives the front a distinctive look, while the thick fuel tank with chunky shrouds adds muscle to the design.
The blacked-out engine casing, exposed frame elements, and off-set digital console give it a rugged and industrial appeal. A large seat with dual textures ensures both the rider and pillion are comfortable during long commutes or weekend rides. With metal fenders, golden USD forks, and 17-inch alloy wheels, the Ronin manages to look premium and purposeful at the same time.
Available in attractive dual-tone and monotone shades, the bike appeals to riders who want something different from the typical commuter or naked street bikes.
Engine and Performance for Real-World Fun
At the heart of the TVS Ronin is a 225.9cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine that produces 20.4 PS of power at 7,750 rpm and 19.93 Nm of torque at 3,750 rpm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch for smooth and effortless gear shifts.
While the power figures may not seem aggressive on paper, the Ronin is tuned for low-end torque and city-friendly performance. The torque kicks in early, making it perfect for urban stop-go traffic and relaxed cruising. The engine feels refined and offers a linear power delivery, which builds confidence for beginner riders and delivers enough punch for experienced ones.
The gearing is short, helping you stay in the powerband with minimal effort. Whether you’re climbing inclines, overtaking on city roads, or cruising at 80–90 km/h, the Ronin handles it with ease and grace.
Comfortable Ride and Agile Handling
The Ronin is built on a double cradle split frame and features 41 mm USD forks at the front and a 7-step preload adjustable monoshock at the rear. The suspension is tuned for comfort without compromising on stability. This setup ensures that the bike glides over potholes, speed breakers, and rough patches with composure.
The seat height is 795 mm, which makes it accessible for most riders. The upright handlebar and slightly forward-set footpegs offer a neutral and commanding riding position. Weighing just 160 kg, the Ronin feels light on its feet and is surprisingly nimble in city traffic.
It rides on 110/70 front and 130/70 rear tyres mounted on 17-inch wheels, providing a confident grip in dry and wet conditions. The bike’s low center of gravity and wide handlebars make cornering enjoyable and city navigation effortless.
Braking and Safety Features
Braking duties are handled by a 300 mm disc at the front and a 240 mm disc at the rear. The Ronin is offered in three variants SS, DS, and TD with single-channel and dual-channel ABS options depending on the variant.
The dual-channel ABS version offers better braking stability, especially under emergency stops. The braking feel is progressive, and the lever feedback is reassuring, giving riders more confidence while commuting or riding on twisty roads.
A unique feature is the Urban and Rain ABS modes in the top variant, which fine-tunes the braking response based on riding conditions, adding a layer of safety in varied environments.
Tech-Savvy Console and SmartXonnect Features
The Ronin features an off-set digital instrument cluster that displays a wide range of information including speed, gear position, trip meters, fuel efficiency, distance to empty, and more. It looks futuristic while maintaining simplicity and is easy to read even under direct sunlight.
One of the highlights is the inclusion of TVS’s SmartXonnect Bluetooth system in the higher variants. This enables features like:
- Turn-by-turn navigation
- Call and SMS alerts
- Ride analytics
- Voice assist via smartphone
- Crash alert and tow alert
- Over-speeding alert
This tech integration makes the Ronin stand out in its segment, offering a connected riding experience that many modern buyers expect.
Fuel Efficiency and Practicality
The TVS Ronin, despite being a 225cc bike, delivers respectable fuel efficiency. In city conditions, the mileage hovers around 35–40 km/l, while on highways with relaxed cruising, you can expect 40–45 km/l depending on riding habits.
The 14-liter fuel tank offers a healthy riding range, making it suitable for long-distance rides without frequent fuel stops. The bike also comes with a USB charger, hazard lights, and engine kill switch, enhancing its daily usability.
With its comfortable ergonomics, practical fuel economy, and commuter-friendly power delivery, the Ronin is one of the most versatile bikes in its class.
Variants and Pricing
The TVS Ronin is available in three variants:
- Ronin SS – Single-tone color, single-channel ABS
- Ronin DS – Dual-tone color, single-channel ABS
- Ronin TD – Triple-tone, dual-channel ABS with SmartXonnect tech
Prices start around ₹1.49 lakh for the base variant and go up to ₹1.72 lakh (ex-showroom) for the top-end model. At this price, the Ronin offers excellent value considering the features, build quality, and unique identity it brings to the table.
Who Should Buy the TVS Ronin?
The TVS Ronin is for riders who want more than just a commuter. It’s for those who seek individuality, enjoy weekend rides, and appreciate modern tech without going overboard. It’s an excellent choice for:
- New riders looking for a stylish and manageable bike
- Professionals seeking a comfortable yet premium-looking daily ride
- Enthusiasts wanting a practical bike with scrambler-cruiser looks
- Riders exploring their first long-distance journeys
With its comfort-focused setup and stylish personality, the Ronin strikes the perfect balance between performance and usability.
Final Verdict
The TVS Ronin isn’t trying to be a traditional cruiser or a full-on performance machine. Instead, it finds its own niche a lifestyle motorcycle that brings together comfort, technology, retro-modern looks, and real-world practicality.
It’s easy to ride, well-equipped, attractively priced, and offers a unique charm that sets it apart from the crowd. If you’re ready to ride something different yet dependable, the TVS Ronin 225 could very well be your ideal partner for both daily duties and weekend escapes.
