When Bajaj revived the Avenger family with the Bajaj Avenger Street 160, it aimed to offer a true cruiser experience at an unbeatable price. Positioned as India’s most affordable cruiser, this 160cc motorcycle blends laid-back styling, refined ride quality, and day-to-day practicality. In this detailed blog, we dissect every element of the Bajaj Avenger Street 160—its design, performance, comfort, real-world feedback, and why it remains a popular choice despite strong competition.
Whether you’re a first-time cruiser rider or looking for a relaxed commuter, the Bajaj Avenger Street 160 is worth examining.
Table of Contents
2. Classic Cruiser Design Language
The Bajaj Avenger Street 160 proudly follows cruiser aesthetics with a contemporary twist:
- Low-slung, long profile with 2,210 mm length and low 737 mm seat height.
- Sporty street-control handlebars provide an upright, urban-friendly posture.
- Alloy wheels (17” front, 15” rear) fitted with tubeless tires for convenience.
- Color options include Spicy Red and Ebony Black.
This Shadow Cruiser vibe is further enhanced by LED DRLs, a halogen headlamp, and twin shock suspension—a true urban cruiser.
The visual appeal is enhanced by its muscular fuel tank, side panels that integrate with the seat design, and minimalist rear section. Bajaj has skillfully managed to keep the motorcycle looking substantial without making it bulky. Its low height and well-balanced stance give it the signature cruiser look that appeals to young urban riders.
3. Refined Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the Bajaj Avenger Street 160 is powered by:
- 160 cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled DTS‑i FI engine producing 14.79 bhp at 8,500 rpm and 13.7 Nm torque at 7,000 rpm.
- A smooth-shifting 5-speed gearbox ideal for city commutes and highway cruising.
- Ideal cruising speed between 70–90 km/h; the engine feels calm and stable.
The engine is responsive and refined, delivering consistent torque and smooth power delivery across city and highway conditions. Bajaj’s DTS-i technology improves fuel combustion, resulting in better efficiency and lesser vibrations. In stop-and-go traffic, it remains composed, and while overtaking on open roads, it delivers just enough grunt to inspire confidence.
4. Comfortable Ergonomics & Seat Design
This cruiser delivers comfort-focused ergonomics:
- Relaxed riding posture with forward-set footpegs and wide handlebars.
- Soft seat cushioning supports long city rides and short highway stints.
- Low 737 mm seat height is perfect for shorter riders.
- Rear seat is comfortable for pillions over short distances.
- Upright handlebar setup ensures no stress on wrists or shoulders.
Additionally, the seat foam is supportive and remains fatigue-free over longer rides. Its riding triangle is tailored for comfort rather than aggression. It’s not built for spirited corner carving but excels in providing a relaxed ride.
5. Suspension, Stability & Urban Handling
Built on a double-cradle chassis:
- Front telescopic forks and rear 5-step adjustable twin shocks absorb road irregularities.
- Despite its cruiser styling, it remains easy to maneuver in city traffic.
- Stable at higher speeds and around gentle bends.
- 156 kg kerb weight ensures easy handling even for beginners.
- Ground clearance of 169 mm strikes a balance between stance and ride quality.
The suspension is tuned for comfort, and the bike tackles potholes and broken tarmac with ease. Its low center of gravity adds to the planted feel, and cornering, though not aggressive, remains confident for casual riders.
6. Braking System & Rider Safety Features
Braking is handled by:
- 280 mm front disc and rear drum setup.
- Single-channel ABS with Rear Lift Protection (RLP).
- Front disc offers adequate bite; rear drum is basic but functional.
- Combined with a firm chassis setup, the braking response is predictable and secure.
While dual-channel ABS would’ve enhanced the safety proposition, the single-channel ABS is sufficient for urban and semi-urban conditions. It reduces the risk of front-wheel lock-ups significantly.
7. Mileage, Range & Fuel Efficiency
The Bajaj Avenger Street 160 is fuel efficient:
- City mileage: approx. 38–42 km/l.
- Highway mileage: approx. 42–47 km/l.
- 13-liter fuel tank provides a real-world range of 550–650 km.
Its real-world mileage and 160cc engine make it an ideal option for budget-conscious daily riders. Compared to many bikes in this segment, the Avenger’s blend of performance and efficiency stands out as a strong value proposition.
8. Practical Features & Everyday Usability
The Avenger Street 160 includes:
- Blue backlit analog-digital instrument cluster.
- Engine kill switch, DC headlamp setup, and maintenance-free battery.
- Easily accessible service network across India.
- Simple, reliable controls make it user-friendly for new riders.
Its minimalist instrument cluster may lack advanced digital features but shows all essential information like fuel level, odometer, trip meter, and neutral indicator clearly.
9. Long-Term Reliability & Ownership Insights
Pros:
- Comfortable ergonomics for city rides.
- Consistent fuel efficiency.
- Low maintenance and easily available spares.
- Lightweight and beginner-friendly.
Cons:
- Feels underpowered on highways.
- Vibrations above 90 km/h.
- Service experience varies across locations.
Owners generally report high satisfaction due to the motorcycle’s consistent performance and low upkeep costs. It’s not uncommon to see Avenger Street 160s running smoothly after 50,000+ km with timely maintenance.
10. Competitor Comparison & Price Overview
- Bajaj Avenger Street 160
- Engine: 160 cc DTS‑i FI
- Power / Torque: 14.8 PS / 13.7 Nm
- Seat Height: 737 mm
- Kerb Weight: 156 kg
- Fuel Economy (avg): 42–50 km/l
- Ex-Showroom Price: ₹1.16–1.21 lakh
- TVS Ronin 225
- Engine: 225 cc air-cooled
- Power / Torque: 20 PS / 17.5 Nm
- Seat Height: 805 mm
- Kerb Weight: 165 kg
- Fuel Economy (avg): 35–40 km/l
- Ex-Showroom Price: ₹1.49–1.60 lakh
- Royal Enfield Hunter 350
- Engine: 349 cc air-cooled
- Power / Torque: 20.2 PS / 27 Nm
- Seat Height: 805 mm
- Kerb Weight: 181 kg
- Fuel Economy (avg): 30–35 km/l
- Ex-Showroom Price: ₹1.80–1.90 lakh
- Honda SP 160
- Engine: 162.71 cc, air-cooled
- Power / Torque: 15.6 PS / 13.9 Nm
- Seat Height: 800 mm
- Kerb Weight: 142 kg
- Fuel Economy (avg): 45–50 km/l
- Ex-Showroom Price: ₹1.40–1.45 lakh
The Bajaj Avenger Street 160 emerges as the most value-packed cruiser in the list.
11. Ideal Use Cases & Target Riders
Ideal For:
- New riders seeking budget cruisers.
- Daily commuters wanting relaxed ergonomics.
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for mileage.
- Short riders due to low seat height.
Not Ideal For:
- Speed enthusiasts.
- Riders planning long-distance touring.
- Buyers looking for advanced tech or dual-channel ABS.
12. Buying Tips & Ownership Suggestions
- Test ride to ensure riding posture comfort.
- Choose authorized service centers for initial services.
- Avoid revving past 90 km/h for vibration-free rides.
- Consider accessories like backrest and visor for added comfort.
- Regular servicing every 2,000–2,500 km keeps performance optimal.
- Join Avenger riding communities for peer maintenance tips and route suggestions.
13. Bajaj Avenger Street 160: Final Verdict
The Bajaj Avenger Street 160 offers the perfect introduction to the cruiser lifestyle without burning a hole in your pocket. For those who prioritize comfort, classic styling, fuel economy, and affordability, this motorcycle hits the sweet spot. It’s not built for speed, but it is built for ease, elegance, and economy.
If you’re looking for a reliable city cruiser that delivers more than it promises, the Bajaj Avenger Street 160 deserves a spot in your garage.