The Indian motorcycle market has been witnessing an exciting shift toward bigger engines, advanced features, and lifestyle-oriented designs. Bajaj Auto has now stepped into the spotlight with the Bajaj Avenger 400, the most powerful cruiser in its Avenger series. Priced at ₹2,20,000 (ex-showroom, India), the Avenger 400 aims to balance cruising comfort with a performance-oriented engine.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore every aspect of the Bajaj Avenger 400, including its design, performance, features, competition, and rider suitability—everything you need to know before considering it as your next cruiser.
The Evolution of the Avenger Line
The Avenger brand has been Bajaj’s answer to cruiser enthusiasts since the early 2000s. Starting with smaller displacements like the Avenger 150, 160, and 220, Bajaj carved a unique niche: affordable cruisers with low-slung styling, relaxed ergonomics, and practical performance.
However, as the Indian motorcycle market matured, riders began demanding bigger engines and premium features. This paved the way for Bajaj to introduce the Avenger 400, elevating the Avenger from an entry-level cruiser to a serious highway machine.
Design and Styling
Bajaj has retained the classic cruiser DNA in the Avenger 400 while upgrading its presence with muscular proportions.
- Low-slung stance with stretched wheelbase.
- Sculpted fuel tank with premium finishes.
- LED headlamp and taillamp, modern yet timeless.
- Wide, swept-back handlebars for relaxed cruising.
- Chunky tyres with alloy wheels, giving it stability and confidence.
The Avenger 400 looks more imposing than its predecessors and is designed to appeal to both young riders and mature touring enthusiasts.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Bajaj Avenger 400 lies a 373 cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, single-cylinder engine, inspired by the Dominar 400’s proven motor.
- Power Output: ~35 PS.
- Torque: ~35 Nm.
- Gearbox: 6-speed transmission.
- Cooling: Liquid-cooled for efficiency in Indian climates.
This engine ensures a strong midrange, making it ideal for overtaking, cruising at 100+ km/h comfortably, and tackling uphill stretches with ease.
Expected top speed: ~130-140 km/h.
Expected mileage: 25-30 kmpl (real-world mixed conditions).
For Indian highways and long-distance touring, these numbers make the Avenger 400 a well-balanced cruiser.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Cruisers are defined by their comfort, and Bajaj hasn’t cut corners:
- Low seat height ensures accessibility for all riders.
- Forward-set footpegs for stretched-out comfort.
- Wide handlebars reduce wrist strain during long rides.
- Split seats with cushioning, providing comfort for both rider and pillion.
- Optional backrest and touring accessories may be available.
This makes the Avenger 400 a touring-friendly motorcycle, suited for riders who spend hours on highways.
Features and Technology
Bajaj has upgraded the Avenger 400 with modern tech and safety features:
- Fully digital instrument cluster with speed, tachometer, trip meters, fuel gauge, and gear indicator.
- LED lighting system (headlamp, DRL, indicators, taillamp).
- Dual-channel ABS for improved braking safety.
- Disc brakes at both ends for strong stopping power.
- Tubeless tyres with alloy wheels for durability.
These features make the Avenger 400 future-ready and competitive in its segment.
Handling and Ride Quality
Handling is one of the biggest improvements:
- Front suspension: Telescopic forks with long travel.
- Rear suspension: Twin shock absorbers (gas-charged, adjustable).
- Wheelbase: Longer for highway stability.
- Ground clearance: Balanced for Indian roads, handling speed breakers with ease.
While the Avenger 400 won’t corner like a sport bike, its stability at cruising speeds and comfort over bumps make it a perfect long-ride companion.
Safety Upgrades
Safety has become a priority in Indian motorcycling. Bajaj ensures the Avenger 400 comes with:
- Dual-channel ABS.
- Powerful disc brakes (front & rear).
- Bright LED lighting for night visibility.
- Sturdy build quality for long-term reliability.
Competition in the Segment
The Bajaj Avenger 400 enters a competitive 350-400cc cruiser/touring segment, facing rivals like:
- Royal Enfield Meteor 350 – Classic cruiser feel, but less power.
- Honda H’ness CB350 – Refinement and reliability, but higher cost.
- Jawa 42 & Jawa Perak/Bobber – Retro charm, but limited service network.
- Yezdi Roadster – Stylish but newer in the market.
The Avenger 400 positions itself as a value-for-money cruiser with higher performance than most 350cc rivals, at a price undercutting many.
Price and Variants
- Ex-showroom price: ₹2,20,000 (introductory).
- Bajaj may launch two trims:
- Street Variant – minimalistic styling, urban focus.
- Cruise Variant – tall windshield, chrome accents, touring backrest.
This dual-approach lets Bajaj target both city riders and highway tourers.
Who Should Buy the Avenger 400?
The Bajaj Avenger 400 is perfect for riders who:
- Love long highway rides.
- Want a comfortable cruiser at an affordable price.
- Need more power than 220cc motorcycles.
- Prefer modern features like ABS and LED lighting.
- Desire a balance of style, performance, and practicality.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful 373 cc engine.
- Comfortable cruiser ergonomics.
- Dual-channel ABS and disc brakes.
- Affordable pricing for its segment.
- Stylish, modern cruiser design.
Cons:
- Mileage lower than 220cc Avenger.
- Heavier handling in city traffic.
- May face tough competition from Royal Enfield’s brand loyalty.
The Future of Bajaj Cruisers
With the Avenger 400, Bajaj is signaling its commitment to premium segments while staying true to affordability. If the motorcycle succeeds, we might see:
- Touring accessories packages.
- Special editions with chrome or matte finishes.
- Exports to global markets where mid-displacement cruisers are gaining popularity.
Conclusion
The Bajaj Avenger 400 is a bold step forward in the Indian cruiser motorcycle market. With its powerful 373 cc engine, premium design, dual-channel ABS, and a price tag of ₹2.20 lakh, it has all the makings of a game-changer.
For riders who want the cruiser experience without breaking the bank, the Avenger 400 is one of the strongest value-for-money offerings in India today.
It combines style, comfort, and performance, making it a serious contender in the mid-capacity cruiser space. Whether it can unseat the dominance of Royal Enfield remains to be seen, but it’s clear: Bajaj has raised the bar.