Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220: In the diverse landscape of Indian motorcycling, where commuters jostle for space with sports bikes and retro-styled machines, the Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 carves out a unique niche for itself.
This isn’t just another motorcycle; it’s a rolling invitation to hit the open road, a two-wheeled embodiment of the laid-back cruiser lifestyle that’s accessible to the average Indian rider. Let’s dive deep into what makes the Avenger Cruise 220 a beloved choice for those who believe that the journey is just as important as the destination.
A Legacy of Cruising
The Avenger lineage traces its roots back to 2005 when Bajaj first introduced the concept of an affordable cruiser to the Indian market. The Cruise 220, as we know it today, is the culmination of years of refinement and evolution.
It carries forward the spirit of its predecessors while incorporating modern touches that make it relevant in today’s competitive motorcycle landscape.
What sets the Avenger Cruise 220 apart is its commitment to the cruiser ethos in a market dominated by sport and commuter bikes. It’s a bike that doesn’t try to be everything to everyone; instead, it focuses on delivering a pure, unadulterated cruising experience.
Design: American Inspiration, Indian Sensibility
One glance at the Avenger Cruise 220, and it’s clear where its design inspiration comes from. The long, low-slung profile, pulled-back handlebars, and forward-set
footpegs are all classic cruiser elements that evoke images of riding down endless American highways. However, Bajaj has done more than just copy a formula; they’ve adapted it for Indian conditions and sensibilities.
The chrome-heavy front end, with its large, circular headlamp and wide handlebars, gives the bike a commanding presence on the road. The teardrop-shaped fuel tank flows seamlessly into the split seat,
creating a cohesive silhouette that’s both stylish and functional. At the rear, the LED tail lamp and indicators add a modern touch to the otherwise classic design.
One of the most striking features of the Cruise 220 is its attention to detail. From the sculpted side panels to the elegantly designed exhaust, every element feels thoughtfully crafted.
The liberal use of chrome accents throughout the bike – on the exhaust, engine covers, and rear-view mirrors – adds a premium feel that belies its affordable price tag.
The riding position is quintessentially cruiser – laid-back and comfortable. The wide, padded seat is designed for long hours in the saddle, while the forward-set footpegs allow riders to stretch out their legs. It’s a posture that encourages relaxation and makes covering long distances a joy rather than a chore.
Heart of the Matter: The 220cc Powerhouse
Nestled within the Avenger’s frame is a 220cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine that’s been tuned specifically for cruising duties. This isn’t an engine designed for outright performance or blistering acceleration. Instead, it’s all about smooth, effortless power delivery that’s perfect for eating up miles on the highway.
The engine produces a modest 19.03 PS at 8,500 rpm and 17.5 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. While these numbers might not set the world on fire,
they’re more than adequate for the Avenger’s intended purpose. The real magic lies in how this power is delivered – smooth, linear, and with a satisfying surge of torque in the mid-range.
One of the most appealing aspects of this engine is its refinement. Bajaj has done an excellent job of taming vibrations, resulting in a smooth riding experience that’s crucial for a cruiser. The engine note, while not as thunderous as some larger cruisers, has a pleasant thrum that’s music to the ears on long rides.
The 5-speed gearbox is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics. The ratios are spaced to provide strong acceleration in the lower gears, while the top gear allows for relaxed cruising at highway speeds.
It’s not uncommon to see Avenger riders comfortably maintaining 90-100 km/h on the highway, with plenty in reserve for overtaking maneuvers.
Fuel efficiency, a crucial factor for Indian riders, is another strong point of the Avenger Cruise 220. With claimed figures of around 45 km/l,
it strikes a good balance between performance and economy. The 13-liter fuel tank provides a decent range, allowing for long stretches between fuel stops – perfect for those weekend getaways.
The Riding Experience: Born for the Open Road
Swing a leg over the Avenger Cruise 220, and you’re immediately struck by how accessible it feels. The low seat height of 725mm means that even shorter
riders can comfortably plant both feet on the ground. Fire up the engine, and you’re greeted by a muted thump that promises miles of effortless cruising.
In city traffic, the Avenger is surprisingly manageable. The wide handlebars provide good leverage for low-speed maneuvers, while the tractable engine means
you’re not constantly dancing on the gearshift in stop-and-go traffic. The upright riding position offers excellent visibility, a boon when navigating through India’s often chaotic urban roads.
But it’s on the open highway where the Avenger Cruise 220 truly comes into its own. The relaxed ergonomics, smooth engine, and well-tuned suspension create a riding experience that’s tailor-made for covering long distances. The bike feels planted and stable at highway speeds, inspiring confidence in the rider.
The suspension setup – telescopic forks up front and twin shocks at the rear – is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling. It soaks up road imperfections with aplomb, providing a plush ride that keeps fatigue at bay even on long journeys.
However, it’s worth noting that the soft setup means the Avenger isn’t the sharpest tool in the shed when it comes to cornering. But then again, that’s not what this bike is about – it’s designed for cruising, not carving canyons.
Braking duties are handled by a 260mm disc up front and a 130mm drum at the rear. While not the most powerful setup in its class, it provides adequate stopping power for the bike’s intended use.
The inclusion of single-channel ABS for the front wheel adds an extra layer of safety, especially useful on long rides where changing road conditions can catch you off guard.
Features: Blending Classic and Modern
Bajaj has done a commendable job of incorporating modern features into the Avenger Cruise 220 without compromising its classic cruiser aesthetic. The instrument cluster is a perfect example of this balance.
A large, analog speedometer dominates the view, flanked by a digital display that shows essential information like fuel level, odometer, and trip meter.
The lighting system is another area where modern technology meets classic design. The large, circular headlamp houses a powerful halogen bulb, providing excellent illumination for night riding.
LED daytime running lights add a contemporary touch and enhance visibility during the day. At the rear, the LED tail lamp not only looks good but also improves safety by making the bike more visible to other road users.
One of the standout features of the Avenger Cruise 220 is its comfortable seat. The wide, well-padded seat is designed for long hours in the saddle, and it does its job admirably. The pillion seat, while not as generously sized, is still comfortable enough for short to medium-distance rides.
For those who like to stay connected on the go, Bajaj offers a USB charging port as an optional accessory. It’s a small but thoughtful addition that can be a lifesaver on long trips.
Customization: Making It Your Own
Understanding that cruiser owners often like to personalize their rides, Bajaj offers a range of genuine accessories for the Avenger Cruise 220. From practical add-ons like
windshields and luggage racks to cosmetic enhancements like different seat options and chrome accessories, there’s plenty of scope to make your Avenger truly unique.
The aftermarket scene for the Avenger is also quite vibrant, with numerous options available for those who want to take customization to the next level. From performance exhausts to custom paint jobs, the possibilities are limited only by your imagination (and budget).
The Avenger Community: More Than Just a Bike
One of the most appealing aspects of Avenger ownership is the sense of community it fosters. Avenger Clubs have sprung up across India, bringing together riders who share a passion for cruising.
These clubs organize regular rides, from short breakfast runs to multi-day tours, providing opportunities for riders to explore new places and forge lasting friendships.
Bajaj actively supports this community spirit by organizing events like the Avenger Cruise Control, a series of curated rides that take participants through some of
India’s most scenic routes. These events not only showcase the capabilities of the Avenger but also promote the cruiser lifestyle that the bike embodies.
Challenges and Criticisms: Room for Improvement
While the Avenger Cruise 220 has a lot going for it, it’s not without its criticisms. Some riders find the seat, while comfortable for short to medium distances,
lacking in support for truly long-distance touring. The lack of a sixth gear is another point of contention, with some feeling it would make highway cruising even more relaxed.
The braking setup, particularly the rear drum brake, has been a point of criticism. While adequate for normal riding, some feel that a rear disc brake would provide better stopping power and feel, especially when fully loaded for touring.
There have also been some grumbles about the quality of certain components, particularly some of the plastic parts and switchgear. However, it’s worth noting that Bajaj has been continuously improving the build quality with each update to the model.
The Competition: Standing Tall in a Niche Segment
The Avenger Cruise 220 occupies a unique position in the Indian motorcycle market. While there are other cruiser-style bikes available, few offer the same combination of classic styling, comfortable ergonomics, and affordable pricing.
Its closest competitors include the Suzuki Intruder, which offers a more modern take on the cruiser aesthetic, and Royal Enfield’s Bullet range,
which appeals to those looking for a more retro riding experience. However, the Avenger holds its own with its focus on comfortable cruising and value for money.
Looking to the Future: The Avenger’s Evolution
As emission norms tighten and consumer preferences evolve, it will be interesting to see how Bajaj adapts the Avenger platform. There are already rumors of a larger displacement version in the works, which could appeal to riders looking for more power for long-distance touring.
The possibility of an electric Avenger is also an intriguing prospect. As India pushes towards electrification, a silent, smooth electric cruiser could be an interesting addition to the lineup, offering a new twist on the cruising experience.
Conclusion: The Affordable Ticket to the Cruiser Lifestyle
The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a gateway to a different way of experiencing the road. In a market dominated by high-strung performance bikes and utilitarian commuters, the Avenger offers a refreshing alternative – a bike that encourages you to slow down, relax, and enjoy the journey.
It’s not the fastest, the most technologically advanced, or the most premium bike out there. But that’s not what the Avenger Cruise 220 is about.
It’s about providing an authentic cruiser experience at a price point that’s accessible to a wide range of Indian riders. It’s about the feeling of freedom that comes from pointing your front wheel towards the horizon and just riding.
For many, the Avenger Cruise 220 is their first taste of the cruiser lifestyle, a stepping stone to larger, more expensive machines. For others, it’s all the cruiser they ever need – a reliable, comfortable companion for weekend escapes and the occasional long-distance tour.
In the end, the Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220’s greatest strength is its ability to deliver on its promises. It doesn’t try to be all things to all riders. Instead, it focuses on doing one thing well – providing a comfortable, enjoyable cruising experience. And in that, it succeeds admirably.
As the sun sets on another long day of riding, with the Avenger’s engine thrumming contentedly beneath you and miles of open road ahead, you can’t help but smile.
This, you realize, is what motorcycling is all about. The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 – your affordable ticket to the cruiser lifestyle, and a reminder that sometimes, the journey truly is the destination.