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Cruiser style motorcycles are a big hit in India, a fact very prominent in the popularity of the likes of Royal Enfield and if your wallet is well endowed, the Harley-Davidsons. But does it have to be a big engine to ensure a 'big cruiser' appeal. UM Motorcycles has this 300cc cruiser which quite frankly feels like a 600. But is that a good thing? I lived with a UM Renegade Sports S for some days to find out.
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Quarter-litre motorcycles are pretty much my favourite class of bikes since they're compact and nippy. First look at the Renegade Sport S though and it looks like a big bike which admittedly will be appreciated by many. Take a seat on it and the Renegade Sport S reveals its full potential as a cruiser that promises comfort. Compared to other 300-500cc cruisers and roadster, the UM Renegade has a quite a strong presence on the road that catches attention.
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UM, however, has used a lot of plastic in the Renegade Sport S' bodywork, some of which it could have done without. The LED strip on the sides will generate a mixed response with possible conclusions of either love-it or hate-it.
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The best part about the UM Renegade Sport S is its engine. While I figured that the Renegade didn't have to look and feel so big, it could have had a slightly compact design which would also help with weight reduction, I admit that at no point did it feel underpowered. The 297.5cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder 4-valve engine with its 25.15 PS @ 8500 rpm and torque of 23 Nm @ 7000 rpm delivers appropriate punch in every gear. However, the Renegade demands a down shift very easily.
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Now let's talk comfort since it is one of the most important prerequisites for a cruiser. And the Renegade Sport S offers plenty of it. The seat is wide and comfy and the riding stance too allows relaxed arms and legs. UM, however, may want to upgrade the suspension setup to allow better stability on high speeds and overall comfort.
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Moving over to braking. The Renegade Sport S features a 280 mm disc with a 2-piston calliper up front and a 130 mm drum at the rear. Braking power is sufficient but if the rider would want to indulge in slightly spirited riding, the brakes certainly do not instill confidence and a bit more bite will be welcome. Tyres (110/70 front and 140/90 rear) are wide and rounded.
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While I mentioned earlier that the engine of the Renegade Sport S is the best part of it, vibrations can be a problem. There are some at low speeds, but they grow more intense if you throw open the throttle.
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UM Renegade Sport S is promising package for young riders. Although there is room for improvement, the Renegade does deliver as a strong looking cruiser and not to mention, the engine sounds and performs well. If you're a cruiser style fan, the Renegade is worth a look.
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