Bajaj Avenger: ABS Upgrades and Future Prospects in 2019
The speculation surrounding the addition of a 400 CC to the Bajaj Avenger range has generated considerable interest in the Indian motor industry. However, the official response from Bajaj Auto remains understated, leaving much to the imagination. Recent rumors suggest that the launch of a 400 CC Avenger is anticipated in early 2019, possibly with dual-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) technology. For now, motorcyclists in India are limited to the existing Avenger Street 160 and Avenger Cruise 220 models.
Current Bajaj Avenger Models
Currently, the Avenger Street 160 and Avenger Cruise 220 are the only models available in the Avenger lineup. The Avenger Street 160 is priced at ?114,385, while the Avenger Cruise 220 is priced at ?140,823. Both models come equipped with a combination of rear drum brakes and front disc brakes. The rear drum brakes are integrated with Bajaj's anti-skid technology, and the front disc brakes are equipped with ABS sensors, ensuring safety for riders.
Future ABS Upgrades
While the current Avenger models do not offer ABS as a standard feature, it is expected that the Indian government's motor vehicle safety norms will mandate ABS for all 125 cc bikes sold after April 2019. As of now, both the Avenger 180 and the 220 models are equipped with a front disc and rear drum brake setup. Consequently, if Bajaj plans to integrate ABS into these models, it is likely to be a single-channel ABS unit.
The company is speculated to introduce ABS for these models in the first quarter of 2019, with January being the most probable month. However, it is important to note that a new Avenger model is under development, based on the 373 cc KTM engine, which is sure to come equipped with a dual-channel ABS system. This aligns with the government's norm of mandating dual-channel ABS for larger motorcycles, as per the requirements.
Upcoming Regulations and Timelines
Starting from April 2018, a 125 cc engine is no longer a threshold to mandatory ABS. This means that any new bikes launched from April 2018 onwards must be equipped with ABS. Nonetheless, the Avenger, having been launched before April 2018, does not comply with the current mandate. Therefore, any future upgrades for the Avenger to include ABS will be post-April 2019, driven by cost-cutting measures and the new regulatory norms.
From April 2019, the mandate for ABS will affect all motorcycles with engines above 125 cc. Therefore, by April 2019, Bajaj will be compelled to offer ABS on their Avenger 150 and 220 models to comply with the Indian government's regulations. Until then, motorcyclists in India will not see ABS technology in the current Avenger range due to cost considerations.
Key Takeaways:
- Expect the 400 CC Avenger to launch with dual-channel ABS in early 2019.
- Current Avenger models have rear drum brakes and front disc brakes with ABS sensors.
- By April 2019, all 125 cc bikes must have ABS to comply with government regulations.
Stay tuned for more updates on Bajaj's future models and the latest trends in the auto industry. Explore the features and benefits of other Bajaj bikes, including the Bajaj Pulsar NS 200, to stay informed and make informed decisions about your next motorcycle purchase.