The new Bajaj Freedom is making waves as India’s first CNG motorcycle. With fuel prices constantly pinching riders’ wallets, Bajaj’s bold move could change the daily commute for lakhs of people. If you’ve been looking for a bike that’s easy on the pocket and the planet, the Bajaj Freedom might be just the ticket.
This launch shows how Bajaj wants to stay ahead in the commuter segment. Let’s break down what makes the Freedom special, how it works, what you get for the money, and whether it’s worth considering over regular petrol bikes.
Why CNG For A Motorcycle?
We’ve seen CNG in cars and autos for years, but never on two wheels. Bajaj figured there’s a huge market for affordable rides with lower running costs. The Bajaj Freedom promises up to 50% lower fuel expenses compared to petrol bikes.
CNG is also cleaner, so your daily rides produce fewer harmful emissions. For city riders and fleet operators, this means savings and a smaller carbon footprint.
Engine And Performance
The Bajaj Freedom 125 uses a 124.6cc single-cylinder engine. It runs on both CNG and petrol. Riders can switch between the two using a simple toggle switch.
Power output stays modest to match its commuter role. Expect around 9.5 hp and 9.7 Nm of torque. It’s not meant to thrill speed junkies but to serve daily riders who want reliability and economy.
What’s The Claimed Mileage?
One of the biggest selling points of the Bajaj Freedom is its promised fuel efficiency. On CNG, Bajaj claims the Freedom can deliver about 102 km/kg of CNG. When running on petrol, you can expect around 65 kmpl.
This dual-fuel setup gives riders peace of mind. If you run out of CNG and there’s no pump nearby, just switch to petrol and keep riding.
CNG Tank Placement
Bajaj has cleverly placed the CNG tank under the seat and the petrol tank stays in the usual position. This keeps the bike’s balance intact. The CNG tank can hold around 2 kg, which should cover about 200 km per fill. The petrol tank adds another 2 litres for backup.
| Fuel Type | Capacity | Range (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| CNG | 2 kg | ~200 km |
| Petrol | 2 litres | ~120 km |
This means you could ride about 320 km before needing to refuel both tanks.
Design And Features
Looks-wise, the Bajaj Freedom stays true to a simple commuter bike design. It’s not flashy, but practical.
Some features:
- LED headlamp for better night visibility
- Digital instrument cluster
- Combined braking system for added safety
- Upright seating for comfort
- Long, flat seat for pillion ease
The bike’s frame is slightly tweaked to hold the extra CNG tank without making it feel bulky.
Variants And Pricing
Bajaj is offering the Freedom in multiple trims to cater to different needs. Pricing starts at around ₹95,000 (ex-showroom) and goes up based on features and finish.
| Variant | Approx. Price |
|---|---|
| Drum Alloy | ₹95,000 |
| Drum LED | ₹97,000 |
| Disc LED | ₹1,05,000 |
The price difference comes from brakes, LED lights, and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy One?
The Bajaj Freedom is for those who want:
- Lower daily fuel costs
- A greener ride with less pollution
- A backup petrol option for longer trips
- A simple, low-maintenance commuter
It’s not for speed lovers or riders wanting fancy tech or sporty looks. This bike is all about function, not flair.
Rivals And Alternatives
Right now, there’s no direct rival in the CNG bike space. The closest are 110cc and 125cc petrol bikes like the Hero Splendor, Honda Shine, and TVS Raider.
These bikes are proven, easy to maintain, and have wider service networks. But the Freedom’s CNG option could tempt buyers away if Bajaj can ensure enough CNG pump coverage.
FAQs About Bajaj Freedom
How Safe Is CNG In A Bike?
Bajaj says the Freedom meets all safety norms. The tank is leak-proof, with multiple safety valves. Still, regular checks at authorised service centres are a must.
How Much Does It Cost To Fill?
CNG prices vary, but filling 2 kg costs about ₹160-180 in many cities. So a full CNG tank can cost half of what you’d spend on petrol for the same distance.
Is The Bajaj Freedom Good For Highways?
It’s best for city runs. You can take it on short highway rides, but the small petrol backup and modest power mean it’s not ideal for long highway touring.
Can I Convert My Old Bike To CNG?
Technically possible but not recommended. Factory-fitted CNG bikes like the Freedom are safer and better integrated than aftermarket kits.
Final Thoughts
The Bajaj Freedom could open a new chapter for budget commuting in India. It makes sense for office-goers, fleet owners, delivery riders, and anyone who wants to beat fuel prices. If Bajaj can build a good CNG support network, the Freedom might be the first of many such bikes to come.