Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG

The Bajaj Freedom 125 has a fresh and cohesive design that sets it apart from the current lineup of Bajaj motorcycles. The dual-tone color scheme, silver accents, and thoughtful detailing give the Freedom 125 a premium feel for a commuter motorcycle. The all-LED headlamp and taillamp add to its modern look, while the compact petrol fuel tank with contrasting shrouds complements the overall design.

Bajaj has incorporated cast grab rails, a belly pan, tyre hugger, and a stubby exhaust, enhancing the bike’s aesthetic appeal. The long one-piece seat is not only comfortable but also practical for carrying luggage. The compact size of the 2-liter petrol tank and the cleverly integrated 2 kg CNG tank provide convenience without compromising the bike’s design. Additionally, the inverted digital display adds a modern touch, providing clear and concise information for the rider.

The Bajaj Freedom 125 is powered by a newly designed 125 cc, single-cylinder air-cooled engine, delivering 9.4 bhp at 8000 rpm and 9.7 Nm of torque at 5000 rpm. The motor has been specifically engineered to operate primarily on CNG, although it can seamlessly switch between CNG and petrol modes as needed. This dual-fuel system ensures that even in areas where CNG stations are scarce, the rider can rely on petrol to continue their journey.

The motorcycle offers a smooth riding experience, particularly in city conditions where it excels in fuel efficiency. In CNG mode, the Freedom 125 reaches a top speed of 95 km/h, while in petrol mode, it can achieve up to 105 km/h. The CNG system’s performance is slightly less potent than petrol, but this difference is hardly noticeable during normal city rides. One of the standout features of the engine is its ability to start and run directly on CNG, which is a unique feature in this segment.

Bajaj has done an excellent job of tuning the chassis and suspension to suit the Freedom 125’s role as a commuter motorcycle. The telescopic front forks and link-type monoshock in the rear provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and potholes efficiently. This setup ensures that the bike can handle varying road conditions, from smooth city streets to more rugged suburban roads.

The wide handlebar and well-positioned footpegs create a comfortable riding posture, making it easy to navigate through heavy traffic or take on longer commutes. The Freedom 125’s long wheelbase contributes to its stability, while its relatively light weight of 149 kg makes it easy to maneuver. Despite being a CNG-powered motorcycle, the weight distribution is well-balanced, with the CNG tank mounted within the trellis frame to protect it from impacts.

The bike’s braking system, with a 240 mm disc at the front and a 130 mm drum at the rear, provides adequate stopping power. The Eurogrip tires offer good grip, even in wet conditions, giving the rider confidence while riding through rain-soaked streets.

The Bajaj Freedom 125 is designed with rider comfort in mind. The 825 mm saddle height is accessible for a wide range of riders, including shorter individuals. The long seat provides ample room for both rider and pillion, with enough space to carry luggage if needed. The seat’s cushioning strikes a good balance between firmness and softness, ensuring comfort during long commutes without causing fatigue.

The overall ergonomics of the bike are well thought out, with the handlebar, footpegs, and seat forming a comfortable triangle. The mirrors are stylish and offer good visibility, though they may require some adjustment depending on the rider’s posture. Additionally, the compact engine crash guard and other thoughtful design elements, such as grooved footpegs, contribute to a more comfortable and secure ride.

The Freedom 125 comes equipped with a digital inverted display that is easy to read and offers a range of useful information, including two trip meters, a gear position indicator, clock, and speedometer. It also features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to receive call and message alerts directly on the display. This connectivity feature is an excellent addition for urban commuters who need to stay connected while on the move.

In terms of fuel management, the bike’s CNG system comes with a dedicated gauge that allows the rider to monitor CNG levels easily. The petrol system, however, only features a low-fuel indicator without a detailed gauge. The instant fuel economy indicator in CNG mode is another useful tool for riders who want to monitor and optimize their fuel usage

Fuel efficiency is the highlight of the Bajaj Freedom 125, especially in CNG mode. During testing, the motorcycle delivered an impressive 98 km/kg in CNG mode, and 62 km/l when running on petrol. Given the CNG tank’s 2 kg capacity and the petrol tank’s 2-liter capacity, the bike offers a combined range of 321 kilometers. This mileage is particularly beneficial for commuters looking to minimize their running costs.

For riders who are concerned about access to CNG stations, the bike’s dual-fuel system ensures that they can always switch to petrol if needed, making it a practical option for long-distance commutes as well.

The Bajaj Freedom 125 is priced between ₹95,000 for the base Drum variant and ₹1.10 lakh for the top-spec Disc LED variant. For a commuter motorcycle offering CNG capabilities, Bluetooth connectivity, and premium design features, this pricing represents excellent value for money. Compared to other 125 cc motorcycles in the market, the Freedom 125 stands out for its innovation, particularly in fuel savings and running costs.

For buyers looking for a daily commuter that is both economical and feature-rich, the Freedom 125 is an outstanding option. It not only delivers on its promise of fuel savings but also offers a good balance of comfort, practicality, and performance at a competitive price.

Bajaj Auto has an extensive service network across India, ensuring that Freedom 125 owners will have easy access to maintenance and repairs. The CNG system, being a unique feature, is supported by specialized service centers, and Bajaj has conducted rigorous safety tests to ensure that the CNG tank is reliable and safe.

Additionally, the availability of affordable spare parts and service plans makes owning the Freedom 125 a cost-effective proposition. With Bajaj’s reputation for reliable after-sales service, buyers can expect a hassle-free ownership experience.

The Bajaj Freedom 125 competes with other popular commuter motorcycles like the Hero Splendor Plus, Honda Shine, and TVS Raider 125. While these models are well-established in the market, none of them offer a CNG variant, giving the Freedom 125 a unique edge in terms of running costs. The Freedom 125 also stands out for its modern features, such as Bluetooth connectivity and an all-digital instrument cluster, which are not commonly found in its segment.

The Bajaj Freedom 125 is an innovative and well-rounded motorcycle that offers exceptional value for money in the highly competitive commuter segment. With its dual-fuel system, impressive fuel efficiency, and modern features, it sets a new benchmark for commuter motorcycles in India. While it may not be the most powerful bike in its class, its CNG capability, coupled with practical design and good riding dynamics, make it a highly attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.

For those looking to minimize their running costs without sacrificing comfort, performance, or features, the Bajaj Freedom 125 is an excellent choice that could very well take the crown in the commuter segment