The Bajaj Avenger is now better-equipped and more appealing. It’s also available in three avatars – the Street 180, Street 220 and Cruise 220. While the Intruder is more expensive, is it configured and equipped better, as well? Let’s find out.
The Intruder breaks away from traditionalist cruiser styling and is designed using the bigger M800 and M1800R as inspiration. This bike is supremely well finished like most Suzuki bikes. It features a digital instrument cluster, comfy seating and alloy wheels. It’s decently-equipped for its price.
The Avenger now looks fresher but not substantially newer. With the update the bike comes with a new headlight with LED DRLs, a digital speedo (only on the 220s), a chrome and matte-black exhaust (for the Cruise and Street respectively), and a revised grab rail and seat texture. As far as value is concerned, the Avenger wins since all its variants are cheaper and it offers more tech.
The Intruder isn’t as powerful as the Avengers and it even makes lesser torque as well. The refined 155cc motor is great in all riding conditions and it is mated to a fuss-free five-speed gearbox. The Avengers boast more initial grunt, and has a better top-end, which makes it better on the highway. But in the city, it’s the Intruder which appeals more with its smooth, refined nature. For those weekend rides, the more powerful Avenger, particularly the 220, is probably your best bet.
The Suzuki Intruder is priced at Rs 1.02 lakh and it’s a comfortable, well-built, decently equipped bike that’s also quite the head turner. But, Bajaj’s aggressive pricing, which severely undercuts the Intruder, is what throws this comparison in its favour. Priced at Rs 92,442, the Avenger 220 is excellent value and has the edge in terms of performance. The Avenger 180, which is priced even cheaper, at Rs 83,475 (all prices, ex-showroom, Mumbai) is even more tempting. It offers more than the Intruder on paper. So, this battle clearly goes to the Bajaj Avengers.