Bajaj Auto claims the Freedom 125 slashes operating costs by up to 50% compared to petrol-engined motorcycles; the Freedom 125, whose engine develops 9.5hp and 9.7 Nm torque, has a combined CNG-petrol range of 330km.
05 Jul 2024 | 19510 Views | By Gavin Rodrigues, Autocar India
Bajaj Auto has finally launched its highly anticipated CNG motorcycle called the Freedom 125. Not only is it the first of its kind in India but also globally. Prices for the Freedom 125 start at Rs 95,000 (ex-showroom India) and go upto Rs 1.10 lakh (ex-showroom India) for the range ...
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Bajaj Auto has finally launched its highly anticipated CNG motorcycle called the Freedom 125. Not only is it the first of its kind in India but also globally. Prices for the Freedom 125 start at Rs 95,000 (ex-showroom India) and go upto Rs 1.10 lakh (ex-showroom India) for the range topping variant. Here’s everything you need to know about this unique motorcycle.
The Freedom 125 is powered by a 125cc horizontally mounted single-cylinder engine that produces 9.5hp at 8,000rpm and 9.7Nm at 6,000rpm and has a claimed range of 330km. Additionally, this motor can run on either CNG or petrol at the flip of a switch.
While the petrol tank has a capacity of 2 litres, the CNG tank has a 2kg capacity. The CNG tank weighs a total of 16kg and goes upto 18kg when filled with gas. Bajaj also claims a 102km per kg mileage on CNG and a 65kpl efficiency when using petrol.
The fuel cost of the Bajaj Freedom is estimated at just Rs 1/km, which is 50% below a comparable petrol bike. The emission levels for the CNG motorcycle is estimated to be lower by 26% (CO2) and 43% (NOX).
The bike comes in three variants, with the mid and premium variants are priced at Rs 105,000 and Rs 110,000.
The CNG tank is cradled in a trellis frame which acts as a protective cage and has a capacity of 2kg. The CNG tank installed in the Bajaj Freedom has been certified by the government of India's PESO (Petroleum & Explosive Safety Organisation).
The company has a production capacity of 20,000 units a month for the model, and will initially launch it in Maharashtra and Gujarat.
The company plans to launch more CNG models in the future.
"Considering favorable cost of ownership, the CNG model should appeal to e-commerce delivery riders, traders, businessmen, and other buyers who are mileage conscious," said a Mumbai-based stock analyst.
Minimalist but rugged design
In terms of styling, Bajaj Auto has followed a minimalist yet rugged design language for the Freedom 125. The motorcycles comes equipped with a full LED headlight and taillight along with a set of halogen indicators.
Its instrument cluster is a monochrome LCD display that also supports bluetooth connectivity. Bajaj has incorporated access to both fuel tanks via a large flap present on top of the tank which also allows you to access the air filter.
The Freedom 125 has a total weight of 147kg which is 16kg heavier than the CT125X for reference.
Suspension duties are taken care of by a telescopic fork at the front and linked monoshock at the rear. It also has 825mm seat height which is 15mm taller than a CT125X.
The Freedom 125 is available in three variants: Disc LED, Drum LED and Drum. Bajaj Auto will offer this motorcycle with seven dual-tone colour options that are divided amongst all three variants.
It is equipped with a 785mm single-piece seat which Bajaj claims is the longest seat in its segment. Bookings for the Freedom 125 start from today across all dealerships and on the Bajaj website.
The Freedom 125 has passed 11 safety tests based on industry standards and Bajaj Auto’s own safety standards. The company plans to export the Freedom 125 to countries such as: Egypt, Tanzania, Columbia, Peru, Bangladesh and Indonesia.
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