Finally, after months of anticipation, the Pune-based bike maker Bajaj Auto has launched the world’s first-ever CNG motorcycle – the Freedom 125. It is currently the only motorcycle in the world capable of running on both petrol and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). Bajaj has launched this motorcycle with a starting price of Rs 95,000 (ex-showroom). It will be offered in three different variants, with the most expensive one being priced at Rs 1.10 lakh.
Bajaj Freedom 125: Variants and Pricing
The Bajaj Freedom 125, as mentioned, has been launched in three distinct variants. The base variant, which will come equipped with drum brakes, is priced at Rs 95,000. On the other hand, the mid-tier Drum LED variant is available for Rs 1.05 lakh. Lastly, the top-of-the-line Disc LED variant has been priced at Rs 1.10 lakh (all prices ex-showroom).
Color Options and Availability
In order to make this motorcycle a more appealing option in the commuter motorcycle segment, it is being offered in seven dual-tone color schemes. Interested buyers can reserve the Freedom 125 at Bajaj dealerships or through the company’s website.
As per the reports, the initial deliveries will commence in the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat. Following this, the company plans for wider availability across India in the near future.
Bajaj Freedom 125: Powertrain
As we all are aware, the main highlight of the newly launched Bajaj Freedom 125 is its innovative powertrain. This power plant includes a 125 cc single-cylinder engine capable of delivering 9.4 bhp of power and 9.7 Nm of torque.
This engine will come coupled with a unique bi-fuel system that allows the motorcycle to run on both petrol and CNG. The bike features a 2 kg CNG tank, which has been ingeniously integrated under the seat, and a 2-liter petrol tank positioned just ahead of the seat.
Together, these tanks provide the Freedom 125 with an impressive range of up to 330 kilometers. As per the company, when running on CNG, the Bajaj Freedom 125 achieves remarkable fuel efficiency, covering up to 102 kilometers per kilogram of CNG.
This bi-fuel capability also significantly reduces daily running costs by 50%, claims Bajaj Auto. It will also lower CO2 emissions by 26%. The company stated that it can save owners up to Rs 75,000 in fuel costs over a span of five years compared to a petrol-only 125 cc motorcycle.
Design and Features
In terms of the design, the Bajaj Freedom 125 has also been given a thoughtful design. The bike is built on a sturdy trellis frame and comes equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, telescopic front forks, and a linked mono-shock absorber at the rear.
The braking system of the new Freedom 125 includes a front disc brake and a rear drum brake. It has to be noted that the base variant features drum brakes on both ends. Apart from this, a standout feature of the Bajaj Freedom 125 is its exceptionally long seat.
This unique seat measures 785 mm, which Bajaj claims is the longest in the motorcycle segment. The company has claimed that its design has been made to ensure that it provides enhanced comfort for both the rider and the pillion.
The Freedom 125 also features an upswept exhaust design and a retro-styled hexagonal LED headlamp assembly. It also gets halogen turn indicators and a small LED tail lamp. The overall design of this bike has been inspired by adventure motorcycles.
In terms of technology, the top variant of the Bajaj Freedom 125 comes with a negative LCD cluster featuring Bluetooth connectivity. Additionally, the motorcycle includes a dedicated switch for easy switching between petrol and CNG modes.
Safety Features
Bajaj Auto, in order to make this CNG bike safe for usage, has conducted extensive testing. According to the company, the motorcycle has undergone 11 rigorous tests. These include impact tests and a truck run-over test. The result of these tests was that the CNG tank emerged unharmed in all scenarios. The company claims that it has been tested to withstand all real-life conditions.