Bottom Line: Bajaj Auto has completed homologation for the Avenger Street 220, signaling an imminent re-launch of this popular cruiser motorcycle in India. Expected to be priced around ₹1.4 lakh, it will bridge the gap between the 160cc Street and 220cc Cruise variants.
Bajaj Auto, India’s prominent two-wheeler and three-wheeler manufacturer, is preparing to strengthen its position in the domestic cruiser motorcycle segment with the strategic re-introduction of the Avenger Street 220. This move comes as the company seeks to revitalize its Avenger sub-brand, which has witnessed declining sales figures in recent months.
The homologation documents for the Bajaj Avenger Street 220 have surfaced online, revealing crucial specifications and positioning details for this eagerly anticipated cruiser motorcycle. This development marks a significant step in Bajaj’s strategy to offer comprehensive options across different engine capacities within the Avenger lineup.
Current Avenger Lineup and Market Gap
Currently, Bajaj’s Avenger portfolio consists of only two distinct models: the Avenger Street with a 160cc engine and the Avenger Cruise featuring a 220cc powerplant. This limited offering has created a notable gap in the market, particularly for customers seeking the larger engine’s performance benefits without the touring-oriented features of the Cruise variant.
Current Avenger Model Comparison
| Model | Engine Capacity | Price (Ex-showroom) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avenger Street 160 | 160cc | ₹1.12 lakh | Basic cruiser, minimal chrome |
| Avenger Cruise 220 | 220cc | ₹1.48 lakh | Touring features, windshield, chrome |
| Avenger Street 220 (Upcoming) | 220cc | ~₹1.4 lakh | Performance without touring extras |
Technical Specifications and Design Philosophy
According to the leaked homologation documents, the Avenger Street 220 maintains the fundamental cruiser architecture while offering a more streamlined approach compared to its Cruise sibling. The motorcycle features specific dimensional characteristics that distinguish it from other Avenger variants.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Gross Weight | 310 kg |
| Wheelbase | 1,490 mm |
| Overall Length | 2,210 mm |
| Overall Width | 806 mm |
| Overall Height | 1,070 mm |
| Engine Capacity | 220cc |
| Maximum Power | 19.03 PS |
| Maximum Torque | 17.55 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
The Avenger Street 220 notably features a slightly lower overall height compared to the Cruise variant, primarily due to the absence of the tall touring windshield that characterizes the Cruise model.
Engine Performance and Powertrain
The heart of the Avenger Street 220 remains the proven 220cc oil-cooled, single-cylinder engine that has powered the Cruise variant successfully. This SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) engine with 2 valves per cylinder delivers a respectable 19.03 PS of peak power and 17.55 Nm of maximum torque.
Engine Characteristics
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single-cylinder, 4-stroke |
| Cooling System | Oil-cooled |
| Valve Configuration | SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder |
| Fuel System | Carburetor |
| Starting System | Electric start with kick backup |
This powertrain configuration provides adequate performance for both city commuting and highway cruising, making it suitable for a wide range of riding scenarios. The 5-speed gearbox ensures optimal gear ratios for different riding conditions.
Design Differentiation and Styling
The Avenger Street 220 adopts a distinctly different aesthetic approach compared to the chrome-laden Cruise variant. The Street version emphasizes a more contemporary, stealthy appearance with an overall blackened finish that appeals to younger riders seeking a modern cruiser aesthetic.
Key Design Elements
Avenger Street 220 Features:
- Blackened engine components and exhaust
- Minimal chrome accents
- Contemporary color schemes
- Streamlined profile without windshield
- Standard pillion seat without backrest
Avenger Cruise 220 Features:
- Extensive chrome detailing
- Classic cruiser colorways
- Tall touring windshield
- Pillion backrest for passenger comfort
- Traditional cruiser styling cues
Market Positioning and Pricing Strategy
Bajaj’s strategic positioning of the Avenger Street 220 addresses a specific market segment seeking 220cc performance without the premium pricing associated with touring features. The expected pricing of approximately ₹1.4 lakh positions it competitively between the entry-level Street 160 and the feature-rich Cruise 220.
Competitive Landscape
| Motorcycle | Engine | Price Range | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kawasaki W175 | 175cc | ₹1.35 lakh | Classic cruiser |
| TVS Ronin | 225cc | ₹1.45 lakh | Neo-retro |
| Bajaj Avenger Street 220 | 220cc | ~₹1.4 lakh | Pure cruiser |
| Royal Enfield Classic 350 | 349cc | ₹1.85 lakh | Premium cruiser |
Sales Performance and Market Challenges
The Avenger brand has faced significant challenges in the Indian market, with sales figures reflecting the segment’s struggle for mainstream acceptance. In April 2025, Avenger sales totaled just over 1,000 units, representing a concerning 46% year-on-year decline.
This sales performance highlights the challenges facing cruiser motorcycles in India, where commuter-focused designs traditionally dominate. However, the introduction of the Street 220 variant could help revitalize the brand by offering customers more choice within the lineup.
Launch Timeline and Market Expectations
Industry sources suggest that the official launch of the Avenger Street 220 is imminent, with Bajaj likely to announce the motorcycle in the coming weeks. The completed homologation process indicates that all regulatory requirements have been fulfilled, clearing the path for commercial production and sales.
The re-introduction of this variant comes at a crucial time for Bajaj’s cruiser ambitions, as the company seeks to expand its market share in the premium motorcycle segment while maintaining its traditional strengths in the commuter and sport motorcycle categories.
Conclusion
The Bajaj Avenger Street 220 represents a strategic move to address market gaps and provide customers with enhanced choice within the cruiser segment. By combining the proven 220cc engine with a more accessible price point and contemporary styling, Bajaj aims to attract riders who appreciate cruiser comfort without the touring-specific features.
This launch could prove pivotal in revitalizing the Avenger brand and establishing Bajaj as a more comprehensive player in India’s evolving motorcycle market, particularly as consumer preferences gradually shift toward more premium and specialized motorcycle categories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the Bajaj Avenger Street 220 be officially launched in India?
A: The launch is expected soon as homologation has been completed, likely within the next few weeks.
Q: What will be the expected price of the Avenger Street 220?
A: The motorcycle is expected to be priced around ₹1.4 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it below the Cruise variant.
Q: How does the Street 220 differ from the Cruise 220?
A: The Street variant features a blackened finish, no windshield, and lacks touring accessories while maintaining the same engine.
Q: Will the Avenger Street 220 have the same engine as the Cruise variant?
A: Yes, it will feature the same 220cc oil-cooled engine producing 19.03 PS power and 17.55 Nm torque.
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