Bajaj CNG Bike Review : Cycling isn’t a dream but rather a chilly reality, costing about ₹1 per kilometer! Bajaj Auto is about the launch of Freedom 125, perhaps the first motorcycle manufactured at the primary level in CNG, and, as an advanced engineer with an eye turned towards cost-effectiveness, aiming to seize minds on the two-wheelers commute revolution in India.
Launch & Dual-Fuel System
Launched on July 5, 2024, Bajaj Freedom 125 is factory-built for both CNGs and petrol, without retrofits. A 2 kg CNG cylinder is installed into the trellis frame, and a 2-litre petrol tank on top of that. It has a switch conveniently mounted on the handlebar, which allows the rider to switch between fuel modes while riding.
Engine Specs & Mileage
It is simple yet cleverly designed 125cc air-cooled engine under the seat, developing around 9.5 PS and 9.7 Nm. Real-world tests found this motorcycle delivers approximately 100-102 km/kg in CNG mode and about 65 km/l on petrol, thus adding up to a cumulative range of approximately 330 km per tank.
Performance & Design Features
Nonetheless, it is a motorcycle that is as much powertrain innovative as it is lightweight and practical. It weighs almost 148 kg, has a seat height of 825 mm, and boasts telescopic front forks and linked mono-shock rear suspension, rare in this segment. Top trims offer LED headlights, digital LCD display with Bluetooth connectivity, disc brake up front, and smartphone alerts.
Pricing & Variants
The Freedom 125 is available in three variants: the entry-level Drum, Drum LED, and Disc LED. Prices range from around ₹95,000 to ₹1.10 lakh (ex-showroom) depending on features and location. Bajaj has also hinted at the launch of a cheaper variant early 2025, likely under ₹90,000.
Safety & Real-World Adoption
The company has certified that the bike passed no less than 11 tests: simulated impact and truck-run-over among them. Its CNG tank is PESO-certified. Initially, it will be available to those states that have developed CNG infrastructure such as Maharashtra and Gujarat, but soon it will spread its availability to more than 70 cities. Demand is reportedly quite high, with more than 5,000 units sold in just two months after launch.