Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG : Bajaj Auto has just dropped a game-changing bomb in the world of two-wheelers with the Freedom 125 CNG, the world’s first CNG-powered motorcycle. Designed to tackle soaring fuel costs and the increasing demand for eco-friendly transportation, this bike offers an innovative solution that promises a 50% reduction in daily riding expenses. But there’s more to this motorcycle than just savings—it’s got technology, comfort, and safety packed into one sleek package.
What’s Under the Hood?
At the heart of the Freedom 125 CNG is a 125cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine designed to run on compressed natural gas (CNG). It produces 9.5PS of power and 9.7Nm of torque, which may not be the most powerful in its class, but remember, this bike’s primary goal is economy. The slight drop in power compared to traditional petrol engines is a small price to pay for the massive savings at the fuel pump.
Engine Specifications:
| Specification | Details |
| Engine Type | 125cc air-cooled, single-cylinder |
| Power | 9.5PS |
| Torque | 9.7Nm |
The Magic of Dual-Fuel Technology
What truly sets the Freedom 125 CNG apart is its dual-fuel technology. Bajaj has cleverly integrated a 2kg CNG tank and a 2-liter petrol tank into one bike. This means riders can switch between CNG and petrol without any hassle, offering the perfect balance of economy and convenience.
On a full tank, the CNG setup gives you a range of 200km, and when you add the petrol tank’s 130km range, you’re looking at an impressive 330km total range. And here’s the kicker—you can switch between the two fuels with a simple switch on the left handlebar. No stops, no fuss.
Range and Fuel Switching:
| Fuel Type | Range |
| CNG | 200km |
| Petrol | 130km |
| Total Range | 330km |
| Fuel Switching | Seamless (Left Handlebar Switch) |
Safety First: A Tank You Can Trust
With a CNG tank on a bike, safety is naturally a concern, but Bajaj has made sure that the Freedom 125 CNG is built like a tank. The bike features a trellis frame—a first for a 125cc motorcycle—designed for rigidity and protection. The CNG tank itself is custom-designed, factory-installed, and comes with an additional tank shield for added safety.
Bajaj has gone all-in with safety, subjecting the bike to extensive crash testing, including frontal, rear, and side impacts. They even ran the bike over with a truck to ensure it’s tough enough. Plus, the CNG tank is PESO (Petroleum & Explosive Safety Organization) certified, so you can ride with peace of mind knowing it meets all safety standards.
Safety Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Frame | Trellis frame for added protection |
| CNG Tank | Custom, factory-installed, PESO certified |
| Crash Testing | Extensive impact tests (including truck run-over!) |
Comfort and Ride Quality
The Freedom 125 CNG isn’t just about being economical and safe; it’s also about comfort. Bajaj has designed the seat to be the most spacious in the 125cc segment, ensuring comfort during long commutes. The mono-linked suspension system promises a smooth ride, even on the bumpiest roads. Paired with 16-inch rear wheels and 120/70 profile tires, the bike delivers stability and comfort that’s perfect for both urban and highway riding.
Ride Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Seat | Spacious, designed for comfort |
| Suspension | Mono-linked for a smoother ride |
| Tires | 16-inch rear with 120/70 profile |
Tech Features: Digital and Connected
The top-end NG04 Disc LED variant is packed with modern tech features, making it perfect for the connected rider. You get a fully digital speedometer, complete with Bluetooth connectivity for call alerts, caller ID, missed calls, and battery life notifications. There’s even a USB charging port, perfect for those always-on-the-go moments when you need to charge your phone during a ride.
Tech Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Speedometer | Fully digital with Bluetooth connectivity |
| Charging | USB port for smartphone charging |
| Call Alerts | Call alerts, caller ID, and missed call notifications |
Pricing and Variants
Bajaj is offering the Freedom 125 CNG in three variants, catering to different budget ranges:
- NG04 Drum – Entry-level model at ₹95,000
- NG04 Drum LED – Mid-spec variant at ₹1,05,000
- NG04 Disc LED – Top-spec model at ₹1,10,000
These prices are ex-showroom in Maharashtra, and considering the savings on fuel, the initial investment could quickly pay off.
Variant Pricing:
| Variant | Price (Ex-showroom, Maharashtra) |
| NG04 Drum | ₹95,000 |
| NG04 Drum LED | ₹1,05,000 |
| NG04 Disc LED | ₹1,10,000 |
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While the Freedom 125 CNG offers a lot of potential, there are a few challenges. The limited availability of CNG stations is a big concern. Currently, CNG stations are mostly concentrated in urban areas, which could restrict the bike’s appeal to cities with well-developed infrastructure. However, as the government pushes for greener fuels, we could see an increase in CNG station availability across the country.
Conclusion: Bajaj’s Bold Move
The Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG is more than just a new commuter bike—it’s a glimpse into the future of urban mobility. With significant fuel savings, modern tech, and top-notch safety features, it could redefine the commuter segment in India. While there are hurdles to overcome, such as CNG infrastructure, Bajaj’s bold step could lead the way for a cleaner, greener, and more economical two-wheeler future.
If you’re looking for a commuter bike that’s easy on the environment and your wallet, the Freedom 125 CNG is definitely worth considering. It’s the kind of bike that could spark a revolution in green commuting across India.