The flagship cruiser from Bajaj is a beast which refuses to die and rises as a Phoenix in every couple of months. The most recent update of the motorcycle brings along a lot of necessary changes to the equipment and overall design of the motorcycle. The upgrades are not groundbreaking but enough to justify the 2018 update of Avenger as “New”. Let’s dive in and see what all has changed and how much value of your money will you be getting with the new version.Engine:
The engine is the same 220 cc 4-stroke 2-valve engine, it produces 18.8 BHP of power @ 8400 RPM and 17.5 NM of torque @ 7000 RPM. The specification of the motorcycle remains same but the power delivery is different. The earlier model prioritised the refinement over top end power but in this model, the top end power takes over and delivers a blistering rush after 85 km/h in 4th gear. Thanks to the air+oil cooler, the bike can cruise all day at triple-digit speeds. Fuel economy of this bike is around 40 km/l due to reduced strain on the engine which is due to less power being produced. The bike is paired with a 5-speed gearbox which is super smooth and works well. Chassis and Suspension:
The bike uses a traditional cradle frame which is reinforced for improved performance. It is a flex-free design and keeps the bike stable at high speeds. At the front, we have telescopic forks with anti-friction bush and twin shock absorbers at the rear. The bike still uses spoke wheels but the rear wheel is wider on this model. Bringing the bike to a stop is a 260 mm disc at the front and a 130 mm drum at the rear. The wheelbase and ground clearance on this model is increased to 1490 mm and 169 mm respectively. The overall weight of the bike is also increased by 5 kg.Comfort and Design:
For seamless cruising, we have a big chrome Handlebar, which is raised pretty high. A windshield protects the rider from the oncoming high-speed air. The seat is a single piece unit and is perforated for maximum comfort. A pillion backrest masquerading as rubber grab rail is also present, it can be used for support and installing your luggage bags.Electrical:
The new Avenger gets an LED DRL at the front and a Halo effect rear light. Although the bike is AHO compliant it still gets a headlamp on/off switch, courtesy of the DRL’s. The instrument console deserves a special mention because it seamlessly integrates with the design of the handlebar. It contains a fuel metre, odometer, trip metre and low battery indicator.Price and Mileage:
The 2018 version of the bike is a definite improvement over its last iteration. Still, there are a couple of things which are amiss in this model, a rear disc for example. Even the Pulsar 150 is getting a Rear disc so it only makes sense to equip the more powerful motorcycle with the same as well. An ABS can also make the deal pretty sweet.
If you are in the market for a modern Cruiser with good performance and mileage then the Avenger 220 Cruise will definitely win you over. The chrome gives the bike a proper retro look while the 220 cc engine gives it modern day performance. Bajaj Avenger 220 Cruise carries a price tag of Rs 94,464 ex-showroom.
