Jul 09, 2016 02:17 PM
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Style You get noticed on the road with the styling that new Avenger Cruise has. People turn back, slow down and watch the bike, some even ask for mileage and price. Stands out different in many parked vehicles.
Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox Engine Performance: Throttle response is crisp. Very good pickup for a cruiser. Engine is smooth and refined. Seems more rev-ready.
Fuel Economy I have driven the bike for around 350 kms and I am getting the FE of around 40-42 kmpl in city riding(before first service). Just that I drive below 60 kph on 5th gear and below 50 kph on 4th gear. Need to see if FE still improves after run-in period.
Gearbox Gear shifting has been buttersmooth till now. With practice, you are easily able to find neutral. Gear shift happens well even if you press the foot very gently and there no noise during shift. Taller gear ratios have ensured you use 5th gear for stressfree cruising. Bike goes to 60 when on 5th gear easily and you won't notice! You need to ride the bike on proper gears else the engine slugs(when higher gear is engaged prematurely).
Ride Quality & Handling Have driven little on highways. My most of the driving is in city. Ride quality is good due to relaxed seating posture and tall M shaped handle bar. Increased foam in the sear adds to comfort. Handling is eary and maneuveribility is good too. If you are used to any commuter bike or sports/naked bike earlier, you will feel the difference in handling in traffic for first 2-3 instances but after riding for some 100 kms, you will get used to it. I don't feel any problem now even in bumper-to-bumper traffic. If you are taller than 5'6", the wind blast from the optional wind shield will come directly to your helmet/face when you ride above 60 kmph. So, it is advisable not to install windshiled if you are a tall person.
Final Words It's more than value for money. Many of my friends/relatives were stunned to know that such a nice and royal looking bike is available for just 93k(on road Pune). They were thinking it should be around 1.5L or more this being a cruise bike.
The bike is very comfortable with great engine performance on long drives.
Areas of improvement I expected Bajaj Auto to modify engine of this new avenger(probably a detuned version of Pulsar 200 NS) for still better performance. Hope to see the same in near future.
