Bajaj Avenger Street 220 Set to Roar Back on Indian Roads: A Stylish Comeback for the Cruiser Icon

In a strategic move aimed at reviving its dominance in the entry-level cruiser segment, Bajaj Auto is preparing to relaunch the Avenger Street 220 in India. This re-entry marks a significant development for motorcycle enthusiasts, especially fans of budget-friendly cruisers that blend style with comfort.

After being absent from showrooms for some time, the Avenger Street 220 is all set to make a grand comeback, and the timing couldn’t be better. With increasing demand for affordable cruisers in urban and semi-urban areas, Bajaj seems keen to bring back a name that holds nostalgic value and practical appeal.

Let’s explore what’s in store for this revived version and why it’s generating buzz in the Indian motorcycle market.

The Legacy of the Avenger Series

Bajaj Auto’s Avenger series first made waves in 2004 with the launch of the Avenger 180, a bike that introduced Indian riders to the world of cruisers at an affordable price point. Over time, Bajaj expanded the lineup to include 160 cc and 220 cc variants, catering to a diverse set of riders.

While the Avenger 180 was eventually discontinued, the company continued offering the Avenger Street 160 and the Avenger Cruise 220—two models aimed at different types of riders. The Street variant targeted younger, urban riders, while the Cruise variant appealed to long-distance touring enthusiasts.

However, with the growing popularity of lifestyle biking and renewed interest in cruisers, Bajaj is now bringing back the Avenger Street 220, this time with modern styling and updated mechanical components to appeal to a new generation.

Why Relaunch the Avenger Street 220 Now?

The relaunch is seen as a calculated effort to capitalize on the growing market for affordable cruiser motorcycles. Bajaj has recognized the potential in offering a more powerful cruiser option that slots just above the 160 cc model, providing riders with an upgrade in performance and road presence.

Leaked homologation documents from the Delhi Transport Department have confirmed that the Avenger Street 220 has been approved for production, even though Bajaj Auto has not yet made an official announcement. This kind of regulatory green light typically signals that a launch is just around the corner.

The move could also be part of Bajaj’s larger strategy to refresh its product lineup amid rising competition from rivals like Royal Enfield, Honda, and Jawa, all of whom are aggressively expanding their cruiser and retro-style bike offerings.

Design Philosophy: Urban Sportiness Meets Cruiser Comfort

The 2025 Bajaj Avenger Street 220 aims to offer a bolder, sportier alternative to its sibling, the Cruise 220. It will adopt a more urban-focused design, doing away with traditional cruiser elements like large windshields and pillion backrests in favor of minimalist and aggressive aesthetics.

Key Dimensions and Build:

• Length: 2,210 mm
• Width: 806 mm
• Height: 1,070 mm
• Wheelbase: 1,490 mm
• Gross Weight: 310 kg

These specifications suggest that while the Avenger Street 220 will maintain a solid and comfortable presence, it will be slightly more compact than the Cruise version, making it more manageable in city traffic.

Black-Themed Components for a Modern Look:

The bike’s updated styling will include:

• Blacked-out alloy wheels
• Black engine casing
• Matte-finish exhaust muffler covers
• Sporty rearview mirrors
• Front and rear fenders finished in black
• Fork gaiters for added ruggedness

This darker, sportier look aims to attract younger riders who appreciate aesthetics that reflect a street-ready attitude.

Mechanical Specifications: Proven Performance with a Smooth Ride

Under the hood, the Avenger Street 220 will continue to use the trusted 220 cc oil-cooled, single-cylinder engine, which is already known for its balance of power and efficiency.

Performance Highlights:

• Power Output: 18 hp at 8,500 rpm
• Torque: 17 Nm at 7,000 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed manual gearbox

The engine is designed to offer linear power delivery, making it ideal for both urban commutes and occasional highway cruising. While the performance numbers are not groundbreaking, they are more than sufficient for a relaxed cruiser experience—especially for newer riders and those moving up from smaller bikes.

Ride Quality and Handling:

The bike will likely retain the telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers, offering a comfortable ride over Indian road conditions. The chassis geometry is expected to remain cruiser-friendly with a low-slung seat, wide handlebars, and forward-set footpegs.

Feature Expectations and Potential Upgrades

While Bajaj has not yet officially revealed the feature list, expectations are high that the new Avenger Street 220 will come with updated elements, possibly including:

• LED DRLs and tail lamp
• Semi-digital instrument console
• Front disc brake with single-channel ABS
• Tubeless tires for added convenience
• Refreshed switchgear and handlebar grips

Whether the bike will receive Bluetooth connectivity or smartphone integration remains to be seen, though it’s less likely in this segment. Bajaj may choose to focus on mechanical reliability and design tweaks rather than advanced tech to keep the price competitive.

Market Positioning and Expected Price

The Avenger Street 220 will likely be positioned above the Avenger Street 160 and alongside or slightly above the Avenger Cruise 220. With its sportier look and urban appeal, it could become the preferred choice for city dwellers seeking cruiser comfort without bulky design.

Expected Price Range: ₹1.45 lakh – ₹1.55 lakh (ex-showroom, India)

This pricing strategy would keep the model competitive while still offering a significant upgrade over the 160 cc option.

Competitors in the Segment

The Bajaj Avenger Street 220 will face competition from several key players in the cruiser and retro bike segment, including:

• Royal Enfield Hunter 350
• Jawa 42
• Honda H’ness CB350 (although priced higher)
• Suzuki Intruder 150 (discontinued but relevant in comparison)

While some of these bikes have larger engines or more advanced features, the Avenger Street 220 will stand out for its affordable pricing, proven engine, and cruiser styling, offering excellent value for budget-conscious buyers.

What This Means for Indian Motorcycle Buyers

The return of the Avenger Street 220 signals that Bajaj Auto is not only listening to its loyal fanbase but also strategically responding to market trends. Indian riders increasingly seek bikes that combine style, comfort, and affordability, and the Avenger Street 220 checks all the right boxes.

For riders looking for an upgrade from a commuter bike or a step into the cruiser world without crossing the ₹2 lakh mark, the Avenger Street 220 presents a compelling proposition.

Final Thoughts

As Bajaj prepares to roll out the new Avenger Street 220, the Indian two-wheeler scene is set to get more exciting. The bike is expected to blend the charm of classic cruising with a bold new attitude, catering to a younger, style-conscious audience.

While the official launch date is yet to be confirmed, all signs point toward an imminent debut. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser buyer or a long-time fan of the Avenger series, this relaunch promises to deliver both nostalgia and modern-day practicality.