The 225.9cc oil cooled four valve engine delivers 20.4 PS at 7750 rpm and 19.93 Nm at 3750 rpm, with tuning focused on strong low and mid range torque. This makes city riding effortless, reducing the need for frequent gear changes while offering confident overtakes. Fuel injection ensures clean throttle response and consistent performance in varied conditions. The five speed gearbox shifts smoothly and supports relaxed cruising up to around 120 kmph. Two ride modes are offered, with Urban mode prioritizing smoothness and efficiency, and Sport mode sharpening throttle response for more engaging rides. Engine vibrations are well controlled, making longer journeys comfortable. With real world mileage close to 42 kmpl, the Ronin delivers a balance of character, efficiency, and easy performance suited to everyday use.

The Ronin prioritizes rider comfort, particularly for city commutes. The ergonomics are neutral and upright, with a wide, raised handlebar and mid-set footpegs that create a relaxed riding posture. This prevents fatigue during long hours in traffic. The single-piece seat is well-padded and spacious for the rider, and its 795mm height makes it accessible to a wide range of riders. However, pillion comfort is a significant compromise. The rear portion of the seat is narrow and short, and the grab rail is merely a token strap, making it unsuitable for long journeys with a passenger. 

For solo riders, the 14-litre fuel tank provides a practical range of over 500 kilometres. Heat management from the oil-cooled engine is effective, with no excessive heat directed towards the rider’s legs in slow-moving traffic. While the Ronin lacks dedicated luggage mounting points as standard, its conventional chassis design allows for the fitment of aftermarket saddlebags and tail racks for occasional touring. The overall package is that of a highly practical solo commuter, but those who frequently ride with a pillion should carefully consider its limitations.

The Ronin is built on a double-cradle split-synchro frame, suspended by a premium 41mm Showa Big Piston upside-down (USD) fork at the front and a 7-step preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear. This hardware translates into a ride quality that is heavily biased towards comfort. The suspension setup is adept at absorbing the inconsistencies of Indian city roads, filtering out potholes and undulations with commendable poise. This soft tuning makes it an excellent machine for daily commuting. In terms of handling, the Ronin is agile and easy to manoeuvre in traffic, thanks to its 160 kg kerb weight and a relatively low 795mm seat height. However, it is not a motorcycle designed for aggressive cornering. 

The block-pattern TVS Remora tyres, while contributing to the scrambler aesthetic, do not inspire the same level of confidence as dedicated road tyres during spirited riding. High-speed stability is adequate in a straight line, but the chassis does not communicate the feedback of a purpose-built naked streetfighter. The braking system, comprising a 300mm front disc and a 240mm rear disc with dual-channel ABS (on the top variant), provides strong and predictable stopping power. The brake feel is progressive rather than sharp, which aligns well with the bike's relaxed character and prevents unsettling the chassis under hard braking.

Safety equipment on the Ronin includes single or dual channel ABS depending on the variant, with Rain and Road modes to adapt braking behavior to surface conditions. Braking hardware consists of a 300 mm front petal disc and a 240 mm rear disc, offering progressive and predictable stopping power.

 The double cradle frame provides good rigidity during cornering, while the suspension setup includes conventional or upside down front forks and a preload adjustable rear monoshock for stable ride quality. Full LED lighting improves night time visibility, and hazard lights add an extra layer of safety. Block pattern tubeless tires deliver reliable grip on dry roads, wet surfaces, and rough patches, while the wide handlebar and high ground clearance improve low speed balance and rider confidence.

The TVS Ronin operates in a crowded space, with three key rivals offering distinct alternatives.

Royal Enfield Hunter 350:

The Hunter 350 is the Ronin's most direct competitor in terms of positioning. Its primary differentiator is the iconic Royal Enfield brand appeal and the character of its 349cc J-series engine. It offers a more authentic classic roadster experience with a relaxed, thumping motor, prioritizing feel over features.

Bajaj Pulsar N250:

The Pulsar N250 targets a different user entirely. Its key differentiator is outright performance. With a more powerful 24.5 PS engine, aggressive streetfighter ergonomics, and a chassis tuned for sharper handling, it appeals to the enthusiast rider seeking better top-end speed and a more engaging, sporty ride.

Keeway SR250:

The Keeway SR250 competes on the basis of its design. It offers a more faithful neo-retro scrambler aesthetic with its spoke wheels, ribbed seat, and minimalist styling. However, its primary differentiator is its visual purity, as it lacks the Ronin's extensive feature list and is backed by a considerably smaller service network.

The Ronin is designed with everyday practicality in mind. Its 14 liter fuel tank offers a long riding range, while the wide and well cushioned seat keeps both rider and pillion comfortable, supported by sturdy grab rails. Two ABS modes are available, with Rain mode offering gentler intervention and Road mode delivering sharper braking response. Glide Through Technology allows the bike to crawl at low speeds without throttle input, which is especially useful in heavy traffic.

 Higher variants feature TVS SmartXonnect Bluetooth connectivity with turn by turn navigation, call and message alerts, and ride data displayed on an offset digital cluster. Full LED lighting improves visibility, and a USB charging port keeps devices powered on longer rides. Optional accessories such as windscreens and luggage mounts extend its touring ability, while the center stand simplifies parking and maintenance. Overall, the Ronin feels well suited to daily commuting, errands, and short weekend trips with minimal effort.

Who should buy it?

The ideal Ronin buyer is an urban commuter who prioritizes daily comfort, modern technology, and a feature-rich package. They value tractable performance and a comfortable ride over outright speed or classic branding, and they appreciate the motorcycle's unique and unconventional design.

Who should skip it?

Enthusiasts seeking sharp handling and strong highway performance should look elsewhere. Similarly, buyers who desire the authentic retro appeal and brand legacy of Royal Enfield or the minimalist aesthetic of a true scrambler will likely find the Ronin's blended design unconvincing.