Scoop: Bajaj Avenger 160 To Launch Soon, Replace Avenger Street 180

Expected to launch sometime around last week of March or early April

• Sources reveal that it will use the same engine as the Pulsar NS160.
• It features a 4-valve head, which should make it scalable to become BSVI-compliant.
• Prices might remain unchanged.

(Image for representational purpose only)

Sources closer to Bajaj Auto have confirmed that the Chakan-based company will be launching the Avenger 160 in India soon. The Avenger 160 will be the third iteration of the entry-level Avenger (and sixth overall), and will be replacing the current Avenger Street 180. One of the main reasons for the move is the upcoming BSVI emission norms that will come into effect next year. It will be an easier task for Bajaj engineers to make the Pulsar NS160-sourced 4-valve motor comply with upcoming emission norms rather than rework the old 2-valve head motor on the Avenger 180. 

This indicates the new Avenger 160 will be powered by the same 160.3cc, single-cylinder engine as the Pulsar NS160. Which, interestingly, makes a similar 15.5PS of power as the Avenger Street 180, while making 14.6Nm of torque (1Nm more than the Avenger Street 180). Not really a downgrade then, right?

Also Read - Bajaj Avenger 180: First Ride Review

Other than the mechanical changes, we are not expecting any major design changes with the new cruiser. However, Bajaj might offer some new colours or different graphics to make the distinction from the Avenger 180 & 160 more clear. 

We have to consider that this new Avenger will come equipped with ABS. Considering Bajaj’s other ABS-equipped range in this segment, it will likely be a single-channel ABS unit. This should add a premium of around Rs 7,000 to 7,500 over the expected pricing of the new motorcycle. Speaking of which, we expect it to be in the same ballpark as the Avenger Street 180, putting it somewhere around Rs 88,000 to 90,000 (ex-showroom). This will put it right against the Suzuki Intruder 150, which retails for Rs 1 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). 

When can we expect to see the new Avenger in showrooms? Our source indicates it’ll be somewhere around March end or early April. So, will a more future-proof engine and the addition of ABS be enough to tempt buyers? Stay tuned to find out.