Bajaj Auto has revolutionized the Indian two-wheeler market with the launch of Bajaj Freedom 125, the country’s first CNG-powered motorcycle. In a market long dominated by petrol engines, Bajaj’s innovation caters to riders looking for a cost-effective, eco-friendly, and fuel-efficient solution without compromising on performance. With an impressive mileage of 100 km/kg of CNG, this bike is poised to be a game-changer, especially for daily commuters and budget-conscious buyers.
🔧 Engine Specifications and Performance
The Bajaj Freedom 125 comes with a 125cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine, delivering smooth power output and torque. It produces around 9.5 PS of power and 9.7 Nm of peak torque, making it suitable for city commuting as well as semi-urban rides.
What makes this bike unique is the dual-fuel technology—it can run on both CNG and petrol, with separate fuel tanks. This hybrid fueling system allows the rider to switch between fuels using a convenient switch on the handlebar, giving flexibility and longer ride range.
⛽ Fuel Efficiency: The Star Attraction
The Bajaj Freedom 125’s highlight is its 100 km/kg mileage on CNG, along with a petrol mileage of approximately 65 km/l. With rising petrol prices, this offers a significant advantage in terms of running cost. It has a 2 kg CNG tank and a 2-litre petrol tank, combining for a total range of up to 200–250 km on a full tank of both fuels.
The cost of running the bike on CNG is expected to be around ₹1 per km, making it one of the most economical motorcycles in India.
🧰 Design and Build Quality
Despite being a CNG-powered bike, Bajaj hasn’t compromised on design. The Freedom 125 sports a rugged and muscular look, with a commuter-friendly yet sporty appeal. Key design highlights include:
- LED DRLs with halogen headlamps
- Stylish fuel tank design with sharp edges
- Sleek grab rails and comfortable seating
- Dual-tone color options with decals for a modern touch
The chassis has been specifically designed to accommodate the CNG cylinder without affecting the ride ergonomics. Bajaj ensures that the cylinder is safely mounted and well-shielded.
📱 Features and Technology
The Freedom 125 is not just about fuel innovation—it also comes packed with commuter-focused features:
- Digital-analog instrument console
- Handlebar-mounted fuel switch (Petrol/CNG)
- Combi-Braking System (CBS) for better safety
- Tubeless tyres
- USB charging port (in some variants)
Although it’s not overloaded with digital tech, it hits the right balance for its segment and purpose.
🪑 Comfort and Ride Experience
Riders will appreciate the upright seating posture, longer seat, and balanced suspension tuned for Indian roads. The bike’s ground clearance and overall weight make it stable and well-suited for pothole-ridden roads. Front telescopic forks and rear twin-spring suspension ensure a comfortable ride even with a pillion.
💰 Pricing and Variants
The Bajaj Freedom 125 is available in three variants:
- Drum (Base) – ₹95,000 (ex-showroom)
- Drum LED (Mid) – ₹1,05,000 (ex-showroom)
- Disc LED (Top) – ₹1,10,000 (ex-showroom)
Considering its fuel-saving potential and innovative tech, these prices are competitive and aimed at rural, urban, and semi-urban riders alike.
🔒 Safety and Durability
The placement of the CNG cylinder has undergone stringent safety testing. Bajaj claims that the tank has passed rigorous crash tests and includes pressure relief devices and fire-resistant materials. Riders can rest assured that safety hasn’t been compromised in the quest for innovation.
🌍 Environment-Friendly Commuting
One of the main benefits of the Bajaj Freedom 125 is its contribution to reducing carbon emissions. CNG emits less carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons, making it more eco-friendly than traditional petrol-based two-wheelers. With rising global awareness and India’s push towards greener transportation, this bike fits well into sustainable commuting plans.
🔄 Comparison with Other 125cc Bikes
| Feature | Bajaj Freedom 125 | Honda Shine 125 | Hero Glamour 125 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 125cc, CNG + Petrol | 125cc Petrol | 125cc Petrol |
| Mileage | 100 km/kg (CNG) | 65 km/l | 60 km/l |
| Price (Base) | ₹95,000 | ₹82,000 | ₹81,000 |
| Eco-friendly | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Fuel Options | Dual (CNG+Petrol) | Single | Single |
While it is slightly more expensive than petrol-only bikes, the long-term cost savings from fuel make it an appealing option.
🛠️ Who Should Buy It?
This motorcycle is perfect for:
- Daily commuters covering long distances
- Delivery executives and small business owners
- Rural riders looking for affordable transport
- Eco-conscious individuals
It may not appeal to performance bikers, but for the mass market, it brings a much-needed innovation that balances cost, environment, and utility.
🏁 Conclusion: A Bold Step Toward Future Mobility
The Bajaj Freedom 125 is more than just a bike—it’s a statement. With India’s first-ever CNG motorcycle, Bajaj Auto has delivered an economical, practical, and environmentally friendly option for everyday riders. Its dual-fuel flexibility, incredible mileage, and affordable pricing make it a worthy choice for those looking to cut down commuting costs without sacrificing reliability or comfort.
As fuel prices soar and environmental concerns grow, Bajaj Freedom 125 is likely to set a new trend in the Indian two-wheeler industry—a trend that values both economy and ecology.
