The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 stands as a testament to the growing popularity of cruiser motorcycles in India, blending affordability with the quintessential laid-back riding style that defines this segment. Introduced by Bajaj Auto, one of India’s leading two-wheeler manufacturers, the Avenger Cruise 220 caters to riders who crave the charm of open-road cruising without breaking the bank. Launched as part of the Avenger lineup, this bike has carved a niche for itself in the Indian market since its inception, appealing to enthusiasts who value comfort, style, and performance in equal measure. With its low-slung stance, classic cruiser aesthetics, and a reliable engine, it offers a compelling option for both highway cruising and occasional city commuting. Over the years, the Avenger Cruise 220 has evolved subtly, adapting to stricter emission norms like BS6 Phase 2 while retaining its core appeal. As of April 10, 2025, this motorcycle continues to be a popular choice among riders seeking an affordable yet stylish cruiser experience.
The Avenger Cruise 220 is designed with a focus on delivering a relaxed riding posture, making it ideal for long rides across India’s diverse terrains. Its distinctive features, such as the large windshield, chrome accents, and spoke wheels, evoke the spirit of classic American cruisers while being tailored to suit Indian riding conditions. Priced competitively, it competes with other entry-level cruisers and semi-premium bikes in the 200-350cc segment, offering a unique blend of affordability and character. This detailed product overview will explore the technical specifications, variants, pricing in metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of the bike, alongside a comparison with its close competitors.
Technical Specifications
The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 is powered by a tried-and-tested 220cc engine that balances power and efficiency. Below is a comprehensive table of its technical specifications, sourced from reliable platforms like BikeDekho and BikeWale, ensuring accuracy as of April 2025.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single-cylinder, Oil-cooled, Twin Spark DTS-i, Fuel-Injected, BS6 Phase 2 |
| Displacement | 220 cc |
| Max Power | 18.76 bhp @ 8500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 17.55 Nm @ 7000 rpm |
| Cooling System | Oil-cooled |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 40 kmpl |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13 liters (3.8 liters reserve) |
| Length | 2210 mm |
| Width | 806 mm |
| Height | 1321 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 169 mm |
| Seat Height | 737 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 163 kg |
| Frame | Tubular Double Cradle Type |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic with Anti-friction Bush |
| Rear Suspension | Twin Shock Absorbers |
| Front Brake | 280 mm Disc with Single-channel ABS |
| Rear Brake | 130 mm Drum |
| Tyre Type | Tube |
| Front Tyre | 90/90-17 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/90-15 |
| Wheels | Spoke |
| Battery | 12V, 9Ah |
| Headlamp | Halogen with LED DRLs |
| Tail Lamp | Bulb |
| Instrument Cluster | Digital with Analog Speedometer |
These specifications highlight the bike’s capability to deliver a smooth and controlled ride, with features like fuel injection and single-channel ABS enhancing its modern appeal.
Variants
The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 is available in a single variant, keeping things straightforward for buyers. Below is a table summarizing its variant details:
| Variant | Description |
|---|---|
| Avenger Cruise 220 STD | Single variant with 2 color options: Moon White, Auburn Black |
Unlike some competitors that offer multiple trims, Bajaj keeps the Avenger Cruise 220 simple, focusing on delivering a consistent cruiser experience across its lineup.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 varies across metro cities in India due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table reflecting the on-road prices as of April 2025, based on data from BikeWale and BikeDekho:
| City | Ex-Showroom Price (INR) | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 1,46,893 | 1,75,323 |
| Mumbai | 1,46,221 | 1,80,074 |
| Bangalore | 1,46,221 | 1,94,628 |
| Hyderabad | 1,46,221 | 1,77,439 |
| Chennai | 1,46,221 | 1,76,381 |
These prices include ex-showroom costs, RTO charges, and insurance, making the Avenger Cruise 220 an affordable option in the cruiser segment across India’s major cities.
About the Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220
Design and Exteriors
The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 embodies the essence of a classic cruiser with its low-slung design and elongated profile. The bike features a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a scooped single-piece seat, and a raked-out front end that ensures stability on highways. Its large windshield is a standout feature, offering wind protection during long rides and adding to the bike’s retro charm. Chrome accents adorn the spoke wheels, exhaust, and engine components, giving it a premium look that appeals to riders who appreciate timeless aesthetics. The 17-inch front wheel and 15-inch rear wheel, wrapped in tubeless tires, complement the cruiser stance, while the 169 mm ground clearance ensures it can handle India’s varied road conditions with ease.
The bike’s design prioritizes comfort over agility, which is evident in its wide handlebars and forward-set footpegs. These elements create a relaxed riding posture, ideal for cruising on highways but slightly less nimble in tight city traffic. The two available color options—Moon White and Auburn Black—enhance its visual appeal, with the former offering a clean, elegant look and the latter exuding a bold, rugged vibe. However, the Avenger Cruise 220 hasn’t seen significant design updates in recent years, making it feel somewhat dated compared to more modern competitors.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Avenger Cruise 220 lies a 220cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine equipped with Bajaj’s Twin Spark DTS-i technology and fuel injection. This powerplant produces 18.76 bhp at 8500 rpm and 17.55 Nm of torque at 7000 rpm, delivering a balance of power and efficiency suited for leisurely rides. The 5-speed gearbox is smooth on highways but requires frequent shifts in city conditions due to the short gear ratios. The engine’s refinement is decent, though it can feel slightly noisy at higher revs, a trait common in Bajaj’s older engine designs.
The bike’s fuel injection system ensures consistent performance and better throttle response compared to its carbureted predecessors, while compliance with BS6 Phase 2 norms makes it eco-friendlier. With an ARAI-claimed mileage of 40 kmpl, the Avenger Cruise 220 is reasonably fuel-efficient for its class, though real-world figures often hover around 35-38 kmpl depending on riding conditions. The 13-liter fuel tank, including a 3.8-liter reserve, provides a decent range of approximately 450-500 km, making it a reliable companion for long-distance cruising.
Ride and Handling
The Avenger Cruise 220 excels in providing a comfortable riding experience, thanks to its ergonomic design and suspension setup. The telescopic front suspension with anti-friction bushes and twin rear shock absorbers absorb road imperfections effectively, ensuring a plush ride on highways. However, the suspension can feel a bit soft in sharp corners, and the bike’s 163 kg kerb weight combined with a long 1490 mm wheelbase makes it less agile in urban environments. The 737 mm seat height is one of the lowest in its segment, offering excellent accessibility for riders of varying statures.
Braking is handled by a 280 mm front disc with single-channel ABS and a 130 mm rear drum, providing adequate stopping power for a cruiser of this size. The ABS enhances safety, especially on slippery surfaces, though the rear drum brake feels underwhelming compared to disc-equipped competitors. The bike’s turning radius is relatively wide due to its cruiser geometry, which can be a challenge in congested city traffic, but it shines on open roads where stability and comfort take precedence.
Interiors and Features
While motorcycles don’t have “interiors” in the traditional sense, the Avenger Cruise 220’s rider interface and features contribute to its overall experience. The instrument cluster combines a digital display with an analog speedometer, offering readouts for speed, fuel level, odometer, trip meter, clock, and a service reminder. However, it lacks modern amenities like smartphone connectivity or a gear position indicator, which are increasingly common in bikes of this price range. The halogen headlamp with LED DRLs provides decent illumination, though the bulb-based tail lamp and indicators feel outdated.
The wide seat is a highlight, offering excellent cushioning for both rider and pillion, complemented by a cushioned backrest for the latter. This makes the Avenger Cruise 220 one of the more pillion-friendly options in its class. The bike’s self-start-only mechanism (no kick starter) relies on a 12V, 9Ah battery, which has been a point of contention for some users, as it can drain if the bike is left unused for long periods.
Advanced Features
The Avenger Cruise 220 is relatively basic in terms of advanced features, focusing on functionality over tech-heavy gimmicks. The inclusion of single-channel ABS is a significant safety upgrade, ensuring controlled braking on the front wheel. The fuel injection system enhances reliability and efficiency, while LED DRLs add a modern touch to the lighting setup. However, the absence of features like dual-channel ABS, disc brakes on both ends, or connectivity options puts it at a disadvantage against newer rivals. Bajaj has kept the Avenger Cruise 220 true to its roots as an affordable, no-frills cruiser, which is both its strength and limitation.
Practicality and Maintenance
For daily commuters and highway enthusiasts alike, the Avenger Cruise 220 offers a practical package. Its 13-liter fuel tank and decent mileage make it suitable for long rides, while the low maintenance costs—typically around INR 2500-3000 per service—appeal to budget-conscious buyers. However, some owners report issues like chain noise and the need for frequent lubrication, suggesting that maintenance can increase in city-heavy usage. The bike’s spoke wheels and tube tires are cost-effective but less convenient than alloy wheels and tubeless tires found on competitors. Spare parts are widely available due to Bajaj’s extensive service network, though some users have criticized the quality of service at certain dealerships.
Ownership Experience
Riders of the Avenger Cruise 220 often praise its comfort and style, describing it as a bike that turns heads wherever it goes. Long-term owners have clocked impressive distances—some exceeding 80,000 km—with minimal major issues, provided regular maintenance is followed. The bike’s ability to handle long rides of 400-500 km in a day without causing fatigue is a recurring highlight in user reviews. However, complaints about the rear braking system, engine refinement, and lack of modern features suggest there’s room for improvement. Overall, it’s a reliable and enjoyable cruiser for those who prioritize leisure riding over aggressive performance.
Close Competitors
The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 faces stiff competition in India’s entry-level cruiser and semi-premium motorcycle segment. Here’s an in-depth comparison with its closest rivals:
Royal Enfield Hunter 350
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is a modern retro roadster that competes with the Avenger Cruise 220 in terms of price and appeal. Priced between INR 1.50-1.75 lakh (ex-showroom), it offers a 349cc air-cooled engine producing 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of torque, outclassing the Avenger in power and refinement. Its dual-channel ABS, tubeless tires, and alloy wheels give it a technological edge, while the retro-modern design appeals to a broader audience. However, the Hunter’s higher price and upright riding posture contrast with the Avenger’s laid-back cruiser ergonomics and affordability.
Royal Enfield Bullet 350
The Royal Enfield Bullet 350, priced at INR 1.74-2.16 lakh (ex-showroom), is an iconic cruiser with a 349cc engine delivering 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm. Its timeless design, superior build quality, and brand legacy make it a premium alternative to the Avenger Cruise 220. Features like dual-channel ABS and a more refined engine give it an advantage, but the higher cost and maintenance expenses make it less accessible than the Bajaj offering. The Bullet’s upright stance also differs from the Avenger’s relaxed cruiser feel.
TVS Ronin
The TVS Ronin, priced between INR 1.35-1.73 lakh (ex-showroom), is a neo-retro scrambler that blends style and modernity. Its 225.9cc engine produces 20.1 bhp and 19.93 Nm, paired with advanced features like dual-channel ABS, Bluetooth connectivity, and a fully digital cluster. The Ronin’s versatility for city and highway use, along with tubeless tires and a slipper clutch, makes it a strong contender. However, its scrambler styling and higher price point set it apart from the Avenger’s pure cruiser identity.
Bajaj Avenger Street 220
Within the Avenger family, the Bajaj Avenger Street 220 (INR 1,44,014 ex-showroom) shares the same 220cc engine but opts for a street-focused design with minimal chrome, no windshield, and a sleeker look. Priced slightly lower, it targets urban riders while offering similar performance and comfort. The key difference lies in aesthetics and intent—the Cruise 220 is built for highway cruising, while the Street 220 leans toward city usability.
Final Thoughts!
The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 remains a compelling choice in India’s cruiser motorcycle market, offering a blend of style, comfort, and affordability that’s hard to beat. Its 220cc engine, relaxed ergonomics, and classic design make it a favorite for riders who dream of cruising down highways without the hefty price tag of premium brands. While it lacks the modern features and refinement of competitors like the Royal Enfield Hunter 350, Bullet 350, or TVS Ronin, its value-for-money proposition and low maintenance costs keep it relevant. The single variant and competitive pricing across metro cities further enhance its accessibility.
For those seeking an entry-level cruiser with a focus on leisurely rides, the Avenger Cruise 220 delivers a satisfying experience, albeit with some compromises in agility and tech. Its close competitors offer more power and features but at a higher cost, making the Avenger a standout for budget-conscious cruiser enthusiasts. As of April 2025, it continues to hold its ground as one of India’s most affordable and iconic cruisers, embodying the spirit of freedom on two wheels.