The Indian two-wheeler market has witnessed a revolutionary launch with Bajaj introducing the Freedom 125 CNG bike. Priced between Rs 95,000 and Rs 1,10,000 (ex-showroom), this bike stands out as the world’s first CNG-powered motorcycle. The company claims that the fuel cost is reduced by half when compared to conventional petrol-powered bikes. But is that really the case? Let’s take a closer look at the Bajaj Freedom 125 and evaluate its claimed versus real-world mileage performance.
Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG: Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Bajaj Freedom 125 is a 125cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 9.5PS at 8000rpm and 9.7Nm at 5000rpm. It comes equipped with a 5-speed gearbox featuring a heel-and-toe shifter, ensuring a seamless riding experience. For added durability, Bajaj has integrated a bash plate to protect the engine from damage.
The bike’s top speed varies slightly depending on the fuel mode: it can achieve 90.5kmph on CNG and 93.4kmph on petrol. This means that while switching between fuel modes, riders won’t experience a significant drop in performance.
Dual Fuel System: The Key Feature
One of the most innovative aspects of the Bajaj Freedom 125 is its dual fuel system, allowing the bike to run on both CNG and petrol. The motorcycle houses two tanks:
- A primary 2kg CNG tank, which is horizontally placed under the seat.
- A 2-litre petrol tank as a backup fuel option when the CNG runs out.
The bike offers the convenience of switching between CNG and petrol on the go, providing flexibility for long-distance riders.
Mileage Claims: How Does It Perform?
Bajaj claims that the Freedom 125 delivers an impressive mileage of:
- 102km per kg on CNG
- 65km per litre on petrol
- A combined range of approximately 330km
However, these figures are based on ideal conditions with a fuel station pressure of 200 bar. In reality, CNG pump pressures can vary, affecting actual mileage figures.
Real-World Mileage Test: Expectations vs Reality
To test the real-world efficiency of the Bajaj Freedom 125, we conducted a mileage test under normal road conditions. Here’s what we found:
- We first emptied the CNG tank and refilled it at the nearest station. While the bike claims a 2kg CNG capacity, due to suboptimal pump pressure, we could only fill 1.63kg of CNG, which cost Rs 145.
- In mixed city and highway riding conditions, the Bajaj Freedom 125 delivered 85km per kg of CNG.
- The bike managed to cover 140km before the CNG tank emptied, bringing the running cost to approximately Rs 1 per kilometre.
It is important to note that if the CNG station had the ideal pressure, achieving the claimed mileage of 102km per kg might have been possible.
Running Cost Comparison: CNG vs Petrol
Let’s compare the cost efficiency of the Freedom 125 on both fuel modes:
| Fuel Type | Mileage | Fuel Cost (Per Unit) | Cost Per Km |
|---|---|---|---|
| CNG | 85 km/kg | Rs 90 per kg | Rs 1.05/km |
| Petrol | 65 km/l | Rs 100 per litre | Rs 1.54/km |
From this, it’s evident that CNG is significantly cheaper than petrol, making the Bajaj Freedom 125 an excellent choice for cost-conscious commuters.
Pros and Cons of the Bajaj Freedom 125
Pros:
✔️ Lower Running Costs – With a running cost of Rs 1 per km, it is nearly 50% cheaper than petrol bikes.
✔️ Eco-Friendly – CNG emits fewer pollutants, making it a greener alternative.
✔️ Dual Fuel Advantage – No worries about fuel availability; you can easily switch between CNG and petrol.
✔️ Decent Performance – Despite being CNG-powered, the bike retains an impressive top speed of 90.5kmph.
Cons:
❌ Limited CNG Availability – CNG refueling stations are still scarce in some regions.
❌ Lower Tank Capacity – A 2kg CNG tank means more frequent refueling compared to petrol bikes.
❌ Slight Drop in Performance – While the difference is minor, CNG mode is slightly less powerful than petrol.
Who Should Buy the Bajaj Freedom 125?
The Bajaj Freedom 125 is ideal for:
- Daily commuters looking to save on fuel costs.
- Riders in metro cities where CNG availability is widespread.
- Eco-conscious individuals who prefer a greener alternative to petrol.
- Fleet operators who require cost-effective, long-term solutions for transportation.
Final Verdict: Is the Bajaj Freedom 125 Worth It?
The Bajaj Freedom 125 is a groundbreaking motorcycle, offering a unique combination of cost efficiency, performance, and eco-friendliness. While real-world mileage may fall slightly below the claimed 102km per kg, the running cost still remains significantly lower than petrol bikes.
If you have easy access to CNG refueling stations, this bike is undoubtedly one of the most economical and practical choices for urban commuters. However, if CNG availability is an issue in your region, you might want to consider alternative options.
With a starting price of Rs 95,000, the Bajaj Freedom 125 offers an affordable, fuel-efficient solution, making it a great investment for riders looking to reduce long-term running costs.
Future of CNG Bikes in India
The launch of the Bajaj Freedom 125 raises an important question: Are CNG motorcycles the future of budget-friendly commuting? As fuel prices continue to rise and environmental concerns grow, manufacturers may look toward alternative fuels like CNG. If Bajaj’s experiment with the Freedom 125 proves successful, it could pave the way for more CNG-powered two-wheelers in India.
Additionally, government incentives and a growing CNG infrastructure could make such bikes even more attractive. The Bajaj Freedom 125 sets a benchmark for what could be a greener and more economical future for two-wheelers.
Would You Buy a CNG Bike?
What do you think about the Bajaj Freedom 125? Would you consider buying a CNG-powered bike, or do you still prefer petrol or electric alternatives? Let us know in the comments below!