Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 Expert Review
The Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 occupies a unique position in the Indian
motorcycle market. While most motorcycles around its price range
follow conventional commuter, naked street bike, or sport bike
designs, the Avenger offers a genuine cruiser-style riding experience
at a relatively accessible price. Its low-slung bodywork, large
windscreen, extensive chrome detailing, forward-set foot controls,
long wheelbase, and pillion backrest give it a distinctive identity
that few direct competitors can match.
Comfort is the primary reason to consider the Avenger Cruise 220.
Instead of encouraging aggressive riding, the motorcycle is designed
to settle into a relaxed pace and cover distance comfortably. The low
seat allows riders to place their feet firmly on the ground, while the
raised handlebar and forward-set footpegs create the laid-back riding
posture traditionally associated with cruiser motorcycles.
This character makes the Avenger Cruise 220 particularly attractive
for riders who frequently travel on highways, take weekend road trips,
or simply prefer a motorcycle that feels relaxed rather than
demanding. However, its long wheelbase, cruiser ergonomics, and
relatively heavy steering also mean it is less agile in crowded urban
conditions than conventional street motorcycles.
Engine Performance & Refinement
Powering the Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 is a 220cc single-cylinder,
oil-cooled engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox. The engine is tuned
for usable low-end and mid-range performance rather than aggressive
top-end acceleration, which suits the motorcycle's cruiser-focused
personality. Power delivery is predictable and progressive, making the
bike easy to ride in everyday conditions.
In city traffic, the engine provides sufficient torque to move through
gaps and overtake slower vehicles without requiring constant gear
changes. Once the road opens up, the motorcycle settles into
comfortable cruising speeds and feels more relaxed than smaller
commuter motorcycles when covering longer distances.
The 5-speed transmission offers well-spaced gear ratios for everyday
riding and highway use. Riders looking for explosive acceleration may
find motorcycles such as the
Bajaj Pulsar N250 or
Bajaj Dominar 250 more
engaging, but the Avenger's smoother and more relaxed power delivery
better matches its intended purpose.
Ride Quality & Handling
Straight-line stability is one of the strongest qualities of the
Avenger Cruise 220. The long wheelbase and low centre of gravity help
the motorcycle feel planted on open roads, particularly when
maintaining steady highway speeds. Crosswinds, passing vehicles, and
long sweeping roads are handled with confidence when the motorcycle is
ridden within its intended cruising range.
The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable experience on normal
roads and highways. Minor road imperfections and undulations are
handled reasonably well, although sharp potholes and severely broken
roads can be felt more noticeably because of the cruiser-style riding
posture and limited suspension travel.
Handling is predictable rather than sporty. The motorcycle can
negotiate corners confidently at sensible speeds, but quick direction
changes and tight U-turns require more effort than on lighter street
bikes. Riders upgrading from commuter motorcycles may need some time
to become familiar with the long wheelbase and forward-set foot
controls.
Braking Performance & Safety
The Avenger Cruise 220 uses a front disc brake supported by
single-channel ABS, while braking duties at the rear are handled by a
drum brake. The front brake provides adequate stopping power for
everyday riding and highway cruising, and ABS helps reduce the
possibility of front-wheel lock during sudden or hard braking.
The braking setup is suitable for the motorcycle's performance and
relaxed riding character, but buyers expecting dual-channel ABS or a
rear disc brake may find the hardware basic compared to newer
motorcycles in a similar price range. Using both brakes progressively
provides the best stopping performance, particularly when carrying a
pillion or luggage.
Mileage, Fuel Economy & Riding Range
Fuel efficiency is respectable for a 220cc cruiser motorcycle. Mileage
depends significantly on riding speed, traffic conditions, load, tyre
pressure, and maintenance. Riders maintaining steady speeds on open
roads can generally expect better fuel economy than those frequently
riding in congested traffic or accelerating aggressively.
The 13-litre fuel tank is useful for riders covering longer distances,
reducing the need for frequent fuel stops during highway trips. The
combination of reasonable fuel economy and a relatively large tank
makes the Avenger Cruise 220 practical for weekend rides and intercity
travel, although actual riding range should always be calculated using
real-world mileage rather than ideal test figures.
Comfort & Ergonomics
Comfort is the biggest strength of the Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220. The
low seat height makes the motorcycle approachable for riders of
different heights, while the wide rider seat provides adequate space
for longer journeys. The raised handlebar allows the upper body to
remain relaxed, and the forward-set footpegs create a laid-back riding
posture.
Pillion comfort is another advantage. The rear seat and standard
backrest provide better support than the compact pillion seats found
on many sporty motorcycles. Riders planning frequent trips with a
passenger may find this arrangement particularly useful.
The cruiser riding position will not suit everyone. Because the
rider's feet are positioned forward, large potholes and sharp road
impacts cannot be absorbed by standing slightly on the footpegs as
easily as on a conventional motorcycle. Riders with back discomfort
should take a proper test ride before making a purchase decision.
Features & Everyday Practicality
The Avenger Cruise 220 focuses more on traditional cruiser design than
modern electronics. Buyers get essential instrumentation and safety
equipment, but the motorcycle does not attempt to compete with newer
bikes offering smartphone connectivity, navigation, TFT displays,
riding modes, or advanced rider aids.
Buyers comparing the Avenger Cruise 220 with the
Bajaj Avenger Street 160, Bajaj Dominar 250,
Suzuki V-Strom SX, or
Hero Karizma XMR should
consider their primary use case carefully. The Avenger prioritises
relaxed ergonomics and accessible cruising, while these alternatives
offer different combinations of performance, handling, technology, and
touring capability.
Overall, the Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 remains a distinctive motorcycle
for riders who value comfort, highway stability, low seat height, and
cruiser styling more than outright performance or advanced technology.
It may not be the newest or most feature-rich motorcycle in its price
range, but its clear focus on relaxed riding continues to make it
relevant for buyers looking for an affordable entry into cruiser
motorcycling.
