The Indian market is fans of cruisers, and this is no secret. Despite being so loved, there aren’t many affordable offerings. Since many years now, it is only the Avenger range that is reasonable. Since its launch around a decade ago, the motorcycle has received a number of different powertrains. This latest model sits below the Avenger 220 variants, and replaces the older Street 150. The engine on the motorcycle is new and the bike features a reworked design.
On the outside
The new Street 180 isn’t styled very differently. However, upon closer inspection the smaller changes come into view. The bike uses a differently-shaped headlight unit with LED DRLs sitting at the bottom. Other cosmetic changes include a new cowl, taillight and redesigned backrest. The seat now has a faux carbon-fibre finish and appears to be plusher. The tank features a redesigned Avenger monogram finished in chrome. Aside from this, the motorcycle features almost no chrome elements; it is completely blacked-out.
However, the Street 150 misses out on the fully-digital instrument cluster seen on the 220 models; it gets a digi-analogue gauge instead. This unit displays the trip meter an odometer through the digital screen. Warning lights and the fuel gauge are now positioned on the fuel tank. The overall build quality of the motorcycle is not the best, but passable for its price.
The performance
The biggest change in the Avenger Street 180 is the new engine. This motor is sourced from the Pulsar 180 and makes 15.3hp and 13.7Nm of torque. Surprisingly, this motor is tuned to make better power figures in the Pulsar at 16.8hp and 14.2Nm. Bajaj suggests these lowered figures are to make the engine feel less stressed on Avenger.
We tested this and found it to be true, the motor also felt considerably more refined than the Pulsar 180’s. The motorcycle picks up speed in a smooth and docile manner, it can also carry an average speed of 90-100kph. If you do try and go above it, the motor feels troubled and vibrations get prominent. Gearshifts are smooth and clutch is light. The claimed fuel economy figure is 45kmpl which means the bike should be able to do around 600km thanks to its 13-litre fuel tank.
How does it ride?
The bike has many parts that have remained unchanged like the frame and front and rear suspension. The ergonomics are also not very different. The new handlebar is flatter and feels a bit snug for larger sized individuals.
However, the Avenger did impress in terms of the way it changed direction quickly and how it had a tight turning radius. The travel on the rear suspension has been increased by 10mm which made the bike feel comfortable over rough surfaces. The brakes on the motorcycle work well and slow down the motorcycle considerably, but ABS is missing and cannot be had even as an option.
Should I buy one?
To conclude, the Street 180 is a likeable bike. It has fresh styling elements that give the bike refreshed look and with the additional power over the 150, it means it can cruise well. Priced at Rs 85,498 (ex-showroom, Delhi), the new 180 sells for a justifiable increase Rs 5,000 over the 150. Interestingly, the bike is priced Rs 20,000 lower than the Suzuki Intruder which further enhances its vale-for-money quotient.
