TVS Radeon

TVS Radeon TEST RIDE & REVIEW

VINTAGE STYLING

Cruisers are well known for their unique styling and they have the license to go some extreme in terms of design. But here the Bajaj has gone well within the limits and played safe considering the Indian buying mindset. Upfront everything is classic whether be round tail lights, headlamps and oval-shaped crash guard. Also, the large fairing has got unique shape along with rectangle shaped rear view mirrors completes the package.

In the side profile chrome finished silencer and engine is the area where our focus will be upon and the spoke wheels brings that classic feel to the cruiser. There is nothing special while talking about the rear profile while the logo behind the pillion backrest is a nice thing to have. The fully digital console on the handlebars and the one on the fuel tank are nicely built and integrated to the overall design. The build quality of all parts whether being switches, panels, paint, decals etc is always up to the mark.

POWERFUL PERFORMER

The power is almost spread in a linear manner throughout the entire rev range. There is enough mid range power which is very vital as far as a cruiser is concerned. Vibrations and refinement levels have improved a lot but still, there is room for improvement. This 220cc oil cooled, Twin Spark, 2 valve. DTS-i engine pumps out 19.03 PS @ 8400rpm and 17.5N.m peak torque @ 7000rpm.

The 5-speed gearbox is slick and smooth enough and hence clear thumbs up for that. After the three digit speed mark vibrations can be really felt and make it uncomfortable for the rider. Mileage figures of Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220 stands around in 36-40km/l range which is really a good number as far as a powerful cruiser is concerned. So overall it does its best in the performance category with doubt.

LONG HAUL FRIENDLY

The suspension setup consists of conventional telescopic forks up front and pair of twin shocks at the back. While riding on the smooth roads, the suspension does not come into play as we all know but when taken onto undulated roads, discomfort is immediately felt for the rider. There are several reasons for that and that includes a longer wheelbase, archaic suspension setup and short seat height. Spoke wheels instead of alloy wheels is a calculated move as the former one absorbs road undulations quite well but maintenance is on higher side.

The ergonomics is really comfortable with upright stance, tall & easily reachable highway comfort handlebars and centered footpegs which is a cruiser is meant for. The pillion backrest is a great thing but the seat quality of the pillion is on the worse side. While for the rider, the seat is large enough and provides enough cushion. The taller handlebars are really meant for long hauls and highways but in cities and for short hauls within city rider will have to sweat a little bit. The single-channel ABS along with 260mm disc up front and 130mm drum brake altogether does the braking duties well enough.

ENOUGH SET OF FEATURES

The fully digital information rich display, iconic styling, integrated windshields and LED DRL’s, oil cooled DTS-i engine, low and long seating, wide rear tyres, premium body colours and single channel ABS is a long list of good features and more than enough as far as a cruiser is concerned.