Rally is a wide-ranging form of motorsport organized as off-road endurance races that follow a route, connecting different locations, rather than going around in a closed loop. The Dakar Rally is one of the most thrilling motorsport tournaments, combining extreme endurance, speed and skill across harsh terrain and unpredictable conditions.
India’s own TVS Racing has been a pioneering force in bringing rally racing culture to Indian soil, and it is part of the larger vision to nurture Indian racing talent. It also symbolizes India’s rising stature in rally racing.
What is Rally Racing?
Rally racing or dirt motorcycle racing is a motorsport spanning over 10-15 days where racers compete with each other over harsh terrain ranging from desert to forests, dirt tracks and rocky landscapes. It is less about who finishes first, and more about endurance, navigation skills and dealing with unpredictable conditions. The recent edition has been held in Saudi Arabia, and the tournament is open to amateurs and professionals, with professionals making up about 80% of the participants.
Dakar Rally
Podium shot of Harith Noah after winning Rally 2 Class & 11th position in the overall Dakar Rally 2024.
It is considered the pinnacle of rally racing tournaments, as it is the world's toughest and most prestigious rally raid, covering several thousand kilometres with a range of off-roading challenges. The participants have to navigate using the roadbook provided prior to or on the race day, making navigation skills as crucial as the top speed.
● Eligibility – any rider who is 18+ with a proper international rally license and with professional experience can enter the tournament.
● Race Format – each day features stages of the tournament that are often hundreds of kilometers with both on and off-roading challenges. The roadbook is the key, as the navigation skills are the deciding factor for which participant has the potential to win.
● Endurance – the Dakar Rally pushes both rider and the machine to the limits. TVS Sherco RTR 450, a purpose-built off-road machine, is engineered and designed to withstand such harsh terrain. Pushing the limits of both rider and the machine, mechanical reliability also plays a key role, as a minor malfunction can be devastating.
Rally Racing in India
The rally racing as a part of broader motorsport culture is constantly evolving in India, with events like SJOBA Rally & Blue Band FMSCI India National Rally Championship gaining traction among enthusiasts.
TVS Racing is a prominent name in Indian rally racing, participating in the Indian National Rally Championship (INRC) and other events.
They field a team of riders on race-tuned TVS Apache bikes, with a track record of high rankings and wins in various categories. TVS Racing division also conducts training sessions and racing academies to nurture talent and promote motorsport culture in the country.
Key Events
● TVS One Make Championship
It is one of the flagship motorcycle racing platforms in the country, with riders competing in different categories like Apache RTR 160, 200 & RR310.
● Monsoon Scooter Rally
A rally-spec version of TVS Ntorq (Ntorq 125 SXR) has seen significant success, including overall wins in the rally. The Ntorq's racing pedigree is also reflected in its design and features, with a racing DNA incorporated into its development, and it has showcased its potential.
● Apache Racing Experience (ARE)
A program for TVS Apache owners to experience racing and improve their riding skills. It aims at providing a platform for aspiring racers to fulfil their racing dreams of a successful racing career.
● Indian National Motorcycle Racing Championship (INMRC)
It is considered another major racing event where the TVS Racing division competes, showcasing their tuned and race-spec motorcycles like the Apache RR 310 & Apache GP 165 R.
Rally is not just for the experts and professionals, as off-road racing brings incredible thrill to enthusiasts who love challenging trails, stretches and rugged landscapes. Whether it’s a dedicated weekend rally or a local event, the thrill of conquering tough terrain is an experience in itself.
The National Championship Pro Stock 200 is a new class within the Indian National Motorcycle Racing Championship (INMRC) for 2025, featuring race-tuned TVS Apache GP 200R motorcycles. TVS Motor Company is the official supplier of these race motorcycles to independent teams. This class aims to elevate competition and support independent racing teams.
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