Stylish & Affordable Cruiser Experience

Introduction

The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 is a testament to Bajaj Auto’s commitment to providing riders with a high-quality cruiser experience at an accessible price point. This cruiser bike combines classic styling elements with modern features, making it an appealing choice for riders who seek a balance between nostalgia and contemporary design. The Avenger Cruise 220 aims to deliver a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience, both in the city and on long highway stretches. In this review, we delve into the various aspects of the Avenger Cruise 220, examining its styling, performance, comfort, and overall value proposition.

Styling and Visual Appeal

The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 boasts a captivating design that immediately catches the eye. The bike’s long and low stance, coupled with its sweeping lines, embodies the classic cruiser silhouette. The teardrop-shaped fuel tank, adorned with eye-catching graphics, adds a touch of elegance to the overall aesthetics. The bike’s front end features a round headlamp with a chrome housing, which complements the chrome-finished handlebar and mirrors, enhancing the bike’s premium appeal.

The Avenger Cruise 220’s attention to detail is evident in its well-crafted body panels and high-quality paint finish. The bike’s fenders, both front and rear, are elegantly designed and contribute to its streamlined appearance. The chrome-finished exhaust system adds a touch of sophistication and completes the bike’s classic cruiser look.

Engine and Performance

Powering the Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 is a 220cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine. This fuel-injected powerplant delivers a peak power of 19.03 PS at 8,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 17.55 Nm at 7,000 rpm. The engine is known for its smooth and linear power delivery, making it well-suited for relaxed cruising and effortless highway riding.

The Avenger Cruise 220’s engine is equipped with Bajaj’s DTS-i (Digital Twin Spark Ignition) technology, which ensures efficient combustion and improved fuel efficiency. The fuel injection system provides precise throttle response and contributes to the bike’s refined riding experience. The exhaust note is throaty and adds to the bike’s cruiser character without being overly loud.

Comfort and Ergonomics

The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 prioritizes rider comfort, offering a relaxed and upright seating position. The bike’s low seat height of 737mm ensures easy reach to the ground, making it accessible to riders of various heights. The well-cushioned seat provides ample support for long rides, ensuring a comfortable experience for both the rider and the pillion.

The handlebars are set at a comfortable height, allowing for a natural and relaxed grip. The forward-set footpegs contribute to the bike’s cruiser-style ergonomics, enabling a comfortable riding posture. The suspension setup, consisting of telescopic forks with double anti-friction bush at the front and a 5-step adjustable twin shock absorber at the rear, effectively absorbs road imperfections, providing a smooth and plush ride quality.

Ride Quality and Handling

The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220’s ride quality is commendable, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and stable chassis. The bike feels planted on the road, inspiring confidence in the rider. The Avenger Cruise 220’s lightweight design, with a kerb weight of 163kg, contributes to its agile handling characteristics, making it easy to maneuver through city traffic and tight corners.

The bike comes equipped with a single-channel ABS, enhancing braking safety. The front brake features a 280mm disc, while the rear brake is a 130mm drum. The braking performance is adequate, providing sufficient stopping power in various riding conditions. The bike’s cornering ability is satisfactory, making it a capable cruiser for both city rides and highway journeys.

Customization and Aftermarket Support

The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220’s classic design serves as an excellent canvas for customization. The bike’s simple and clean lines allow owners to personalize it according to their preferences. Bajaj Auto offers a range of official accessories, including windshields, saddlebags, and backrests, enabling riders to enhance the bike’s functionality and touring capabilities.

The availability of aftermarket parts and the presence of a vibrant Avenger community ensure that owners have access to a wide range of customization options. From performance upgrades to aesthetic modifications, the Avenger Cruise 220 can be tailored to suit individual tastes and requirements.

Real-World Riding Experience and Touring Capabilities

The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 excels as a city cruiser, offering a smooth and enjoyable riding experience in urban environments. The bike’s torquey engine and nimble handling make it well-suited for navigating through traffic and congested streets. The comfortable ergonomics and plush suspension ensure a fatigue-free ride, even on longer commutes.

While the Avenger Cruise 220 may not be primarily designed for extensive touring, it can certainly hold its own on occasional long-distance rides. The bike’s 13-liter fuel tank provides a decent range, allowing for comfortable highway cruising without frequent fuel stops. The bike’s stability at higher speeds and its ability to maintain a relaxed cruising pace make it a capable choice for weekend getaways and short tours.

Value and Ownership

The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 offers excellent value for money, with a competitive price tag of Rs. 1,44,346. The bike’s build quality is impressive, with robust components and attention to detail. Bajaj Auto’s extensive network of dealerships and service centers across India ensures easy access to sales, service, and spare parts.

When compared to other cruisers in its segment, the Avenger Cruise 220 stands out as an affordable and feature-packed option. It offers a compelling package that combines classic cruiser styling with modern amenities, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers who desire a stylish and reliable cruiser.

Conclusion

The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 is a stylish and affordable cruiser bike that offers an enticing blend of classic design and modern features. Its eye-catching aesthetics, smooth performance, and comfortable ergonomics make it a compelling choice for riders who seek a cruiser experience without breaking the bank.

While the Avenger Cruise 220 excels in many aspects, there are a few areas where it could be improved. The absence of advanced features like a fully digital instrument cluster or LED lighting may be a drawback for some buyers. Additionally, the bike’s single-channel ABS and drum rear brake setup could be upgraded to enhance braking performance and safety.

Despite these minor limitations, the Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 remains a strong contender in the affordable cruiser segment. It offers a stylish and enjoyable riding experience that appeals to a wide range of riders, from beginners to experienced enthusiasts. For those who prioritize affordability, classic cruiser styling, and a comfortable ride, the Avenger Cruise 220 is a worthy consideration.