Bajaj Freedom 125: Revolutionizing the Commuter Motorcycle Segment

In a groundbreaking move, Bajaj has unleashed the world’s first CNG-powered motorcycle, the Bajaj Freedom 125. We’ve spent a few days putting this innovative commuter bike through its paces, and here’s our comprehensive review.

🚀 Key Highlights

• World’s First CNG Motorcycle: Revolutionizing the commuter segment.
• Dual Fuel Capability: 2 kg CNG tank and 2-litre petrol tank.
• All-New 125 cc Engine: Designed to start and run primarily on CNG.

A Game-Changer in the Two-Wheeler Market

India’s two-wheeler market is fiercely competitive, especially in the commuter segment. Motorcycles are the go-to choice for affordable personal transport, and mileage is a crucial factor. With fuel costs soaring, Bajaj’s Freedom 125, powered by CNG, offers a promising solution.

🏍️ Design & Features

The Bajaj Freedom 125 boasts a fresh, appealing design:

• All-LED Headlamp and Taillamp
• Compact Petrol Fuel Tank with Contrast Shrouds
• Long One-Piece Seat
• Dual-Tone Color Scheme with Graphics

Instrumentation

An all-digital inverted display provides:

• Odometer with Two Trip Meters
• Speedometer
• Gear Position Indicator
• Clock
• Bluetooth Connectivity for Calls and Messages

Comfort & Ergonomics

The Freedom 125 offers a comfortable, rider-friendly experience:

• One-Piece Handlebar
• Centre-Set Footpegs
• Saddle Height: 825 mm
• Longest Seat in the Segment: 725 mm

The seat is designed for comfort, with good contouring and cushioning, making it ideal for long rides.

🛠️ Chassis, CNG Fitment, and Safety

Built around a street trellis frame, the Bajaj Freedom 125 integrates the engine as a stressed member. With a kerb weight of 149 kg, the 2 kg CNG tank is safely located within the frame.

Safety Tests

Bajaj has conducted extensive safety tests, including:

• Head-On Collision Tests
• Driving a Truck Over the Motorcycle

These tests ensure the Bajaj Freedom 125 is a safe bike, minimizing the chances of a CNG leak or damage.

Engine & Performance

The all-new 125 cc engine delivers:

• Max Power: 9.4 bhp at 8,000 rpm
• Peak Torque: 9.7 Nm at 5,000 rpm

The motor is mated to a 5-speed gearbox with a heel and toe shifter. It can start and run primarily on CNG, with larger fins on the cylinder block and head for better heat dissipation.

Fuel Economy

The Freedom 125 delivers impressive mileage figures:

• CNG: 98 km/kg
• Petrol: 62 km/l

Combined, the Freedom 125 offers a total range of 321 km, significantly reducing running costs.

🚦 Ride & Handling

The suspension setup includes a telescopic fork up front and a link-type monoshock at the rear, providing a smooth and enjoyable ride. The motorcycle handles corners confidently and navigates traffic with ease.

Braking and Tyres

The top variant features a disc-drum setup, with:

• 240 mm Disc at the Front
• 130 mm Drum at the Rear

Eurogrip tyres (90/80-R17 front, 120/70-R16 rear) offer ample grip and confidence, even in wet conditions.

💰 Pricing

The Bajaj Freedom 125 is available in three variants:

• Drum: Rs 95,000
• Drum LED: Rs 1,05,000
• Disc LED: Rs 1,10,000

All prices are ex-showroom.

Verdict

After extensive testing, it’s clear that Bajaj has hit the mark with the Bajaj Freedom 125. This 125 cc offering runs on both CNG and petrol, features a unique and appealing design, offers good riding dynamics, and is priced competitively. Bajaj has created a formidable challenger in the commuter segment, and the Freedom 125 is poised to take the crown as the new king of commuter motorcycles.