The Bajaj Freedom 125 marks a revolutionary milestone in the Indian two-wheeler industry as the world’s first CNG-powered motorcycle. Launched by Bajaj Auto in July 2024, this bike blends innovation with practicality, targeting cost-conscious commuters who seek fuel efficiency without compromising performance. With rising fuel prices and growing environmental concerns, Bajaj has introduced a dual-fuel system that allows riders to switch seamlessly between Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and petrol, offering an economical and eco-friendly alternative to traditional motorcycles. Available in three distinct variants, the Freedom 125 combines a sleek design, robust engineering, and modern features, making it a standout option in the 125cc commuter segment.
This motorcycle is not just a response to economic pressures but also a bold step toward sustainable mobility. Bajaj Auto, a brand synonymous with reliability and innovation, has engineered the Freedom 125 to cater to urban riders, delivery personnel, and small business owners who rely on two-wheelers for daily commuting. Its unique selling proposition lies in its ability to drastically reduce running costs—claimed to be half that of conventional petrol bikes—while maintaining the versatility and convenience of a traditional motorcycle. In this detailed exploration, we’ll dive into the technical specifications, design elements, variants, pricing in metro cities, and how it stacks up against its competitors.
Technical Specifications
The Bajaj Freedom 125 is powered by a 125cc engine designed to operate efficiently on both CNG and petrol. Below is a comprehensive table outlining its technical specifications, sourced and verified from reputable platforms like BikeDekho and BikeWale, ensuring accuracy as of April 10, 2025.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single-cylinder, air-cooled, 4-stroke |
| Displacement | 124.58 cc |
| Max Power | 9.5 PS @ 8000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 9.7 Nm @ 5000 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Fuel System | Dual-fuel (CNG + Petrol) |
| Mileage (Claimed) | CNG: 102 km/kg; Petrol: 65 kmpl |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | CNG: 2 kg; Petrol: 2 liters |
| Combined Range | Approximately 330 km (CNG: 200 km, Petrol: 130 km) |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic fork |
| Rear Suspension | Linked monoshock |
| Frame | Trellis frame |
| Brakes (Front) | Drum (130 mm) or Disc (240 mm, top variant) |
| Brakes (Rear) | Drum (130 mm) |
| Tyres (Front) | 80/90-17, tubeless |
| Tyres (Rear) | 80/100-16, tubeless |
| Wheels | Alloy |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 2030 mm x 785 mm x 1085 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1340 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 165 mm |
| Seat Height | 825 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 147.8 kg |
| Starting System | Electric start |
These specifications highlight the bike’s balanced engineering, prioritizing efficiency, durability, and rider comfort.
Variants
The Bajaj Freedom 125 is offered in three variants, each catering to different budgets and preferences. Below is a table detailing the variants and their key differences.
| Variant | Key Features | Ex-Showroom Price (Delhi) |
|---|---|---|
| NG04 Drum | Drum brakes (front and rear), basic headlamp | ₹90,272 |
| NG04 Drum LED | Drum brakes, LED headlamp, digital console | ₹1,03,148 |
| NG04 Disc LED | Front disc brake (240 mm), LED headlamp, Bluetooth console | ₹1,10,151 |
The base variant offers essential features at an affordable price, while the top-end variant includes advanced safety and connectivity options.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Bajaj Freedom 125 varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table reflecting the on-road prices as of April 10, 2025, based on data from BikeWale and BikeDekho.
| City | NG04 Drum (On-Road) | NG04 Drum LED (On-Road) | NG04 Disc LED (On-Road) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹1,07,494 | ₹1,20,068 | ₹1,29,234 |
| Mumbai | ₹1,13,352 | ₹1,23,230 | ₹1,31,080 |
| Bangalore | ₹1,13,398 | ₹1,33,486 | ₹1,43,807 |
| Hyderabad | ₹1,11,231 | ₹1,23,842 | ₹1,33,943 |
| Chennai | ₹1,09,148 | ₹1,21,759 | ₹1,31,933 |
Note: Prices are subject to change based on dealership offers, festive discounts, and regional tax updates.
About the Bajaj Freedom 125
Design and Exteriors
The Bajaj Freedom 125 boasts a distinctive design that sets it apart in the commuter segment. Its sleek bodylines and long, single-piece seat—measuring 785 mm, the longest in its class—lend it a unique silhouette. The bike’s compact fuel tank placement, necessitated by the CNG cylinder’s positioning, gives it a quirky yet functional aesthetic. Available in seven vibrant color options—Cyber White, Racing Red, Pewter Grey – Black, Ebony Black – Grey, Caribbean Blue, Ebony Black – Red, and Pewter Grey – Yellow—the Freedom 125 appeals to a wide range of tastes. The use of a trellis frame, a rarity in this segment, not only enhances structural rigidity but also ensures the safe housing of the CNG tank beneath the seat.
The exterior design prioritizes practicality over flamboyance. The LED headlamp (standard on higher variants) and daytime running lights (DRLs) improve visibility, while the alloy wheels and tubeless tires add a touch of modernity. The bike’s ground clearance of 165 mm and wheelbase of 1340 mm make it adept at navigating urban potholes and speed breakers. Despite its 147.8 kg kerb weight—slightly heavier than typical 125cc bikes due to the CNG setup—the Freedom 125 maintains good agility, especially at low speeds.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Bajaj Freedom 125 lies a 124.58 cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine producing 9.5 PS at 8000 rpm and 9.7 Nm at 5000 rpm. Paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox, this powertrain delivers smooth performance tailored for city commuting. The dual-fuel system is the bike’s defining feature: it can run on either CNG or petrol, with a simple toggle switch allowing riders to switch fuels on the go. On CNG, the bike offers a slightly lower power output compared to petrol, but the difference is negligible for daily use.
The claimed mileage is a major highlight—102 km/kg on CNG and 65 kmpl on petrol—making it one of the most fuel-efficient motorcycles in its class. Real-world tests, such as those conducted by Autocar India, report slightly lower figures (94 km/kg in the city and 126 km/kg on highways for CNG), but these still outshine most petrol-only competitors. The combined range of approximately 330 km (200 km on CNG and 130 km on petrol) ensures riders can travel long distances without frequent refueling, a boon for those in areas with limited CNG stations.
Interiors and Comfort
While motorcycles don’t have “interiors” in the traditional sense, the Bajaj Freedom 125 offers a rider-centric layout that enhances comfort. The long, quilted seat provides ample space for both rider and pillion, making it ideal for extended rides. The seat height of 825 mm strikes a balance, accommodating riders of varying statures while ensuring easy ground reach. The wide handlebar and ergonomic riding posture reduce fatigue, particularly during stop-and-go city traffic.
The CNG tank, with a capacity of 2 kg, is cleverly integrated under the seat, cradled by the trellis frame for safety. Above it sits a 2-liter petrol tank, positioned conventionally at the front. A single filler cap serves both fuels, simplifying the refueling process. Bajaj has rigorously tested this setup, including crash tests and even demonstrating an 11-tonne truck running over the tank to prove its durability. This engineering ingenuity addresses safety concerns, making the Freedom 125 a reliable choice for cautious buyers.
Advanced Features
The Bajaj Freedom 125 isn’t just about fuel efficiency; it also packs modern features to enhance the riding experience. The top-spec NG04 Disc LED variant includes a fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity, offering call alerts with caller ID, missed call notifications, and battery status updates. This feature minimizes distractions, allowing riders to stay connected without taking their eyes off the road. The LED headlamp, available on the mid and top variants, ensures energy-efficient illumination, while the disc brake option (240 mm front) on the highest trim improves stopping power—a critical safety upgrade over the drum brakes on lower variants.
The linked monoshock rear suspension, a segment-first, pairs with a telescopic front fork to deliver a well-balanced ride. This setup absorbs road imperfections effectively, making the bike suitable for both urban and semi-rural conditions. The inclusion of tubeless tires further enhances safety and convenience by reducing the risk of sudden punctures.
Safety and Handling
Safety is a priority for the Bajaj Freedom 125, particularly given its CNG integration. The trellis frame not only supports the bike’s structure but also shields the CNG tank from impacts. Bajaj’s confidence in this design is evident from its rigorous testing protocols, ensuring the tank withstands extreme conditions without compromising rider safety. The bike’s braking system varies by variant: the base model features drum brakes front and rear (130 mm each), while the top variant upgrades to a 240 mm front disc brake for superior stopping power. The combined braking system (CBS) enhances stability during sudden stops.
Handling-wise, the Freedom 125 performs admirably despite its weight. The 17-inch front and 16-inch rear alloy wheels, fitted with tubeless tires, provide good road grip. The suspension setup ensures a comfortable ride over uneven surfaces, while the 165 mm ground clearance prevents underbody scrapes. However, at low speeds, the 147.8 kg kerb weight may feel noticeable, especially for novice riders.
Target Audience and Practicality
The Bajaj Freedom 125 is designed for pragmatic riders—daily commuters, gig economy workers (like delivery agents), and small business owners—who prioritize low running costs and reliability. Its dual-fuel capability makes it particularly appealing in regions with accessible CNG stations, such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. The bike’s impressive mileage and combined range cater to those who cover significant distances daily, while its sturdy build ensures durability under frequent use. For urban dwellers navigating traffic-congested metro cities, the Freedom 125 offers an affordable, eco-conscious alternative to petrol-only bikes.
Close Competitors
The Bajaj Freedom 125 has no direct CNG-powered rivals, giving it a unique edge in the market. However, it competes with traditional 125cc commuter bikes in terms of pricing, performance, and practicality. Here’s an in-depth comparison with its closest competitors: the Honda SP 125, TVS Raider 125, and Bajaj Pulsar N125.
Honda SP 125
The Honda SP 125 is a strong contender in the 125cc segment, known for its refined engine and reliability. Priced between ₹92,110 and ₹1 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), it features a 124 cc engine delivering 10.7 PS and 10.9 Nm—slightly more powerful than the Freedom 125. Its mileage of around 60 kmpl is respectable but falls short of the Freedom’s CNG efficiency. The SP 125 offers a digital console, LED headlamp, and a silent start system, appealing to tech-savvy commuters. However, its petrol-only operation means higher running costs compared to the Freedom’s dual-fuel advantage. The Honda’s lighter weight (116 kg) and premium build quality make it a smoother ride, but it lacks the innovative fuel-saving edge of the Bajaj.
TVS Raider 125
The TVS Raider 125 targets younger riders with its sporty design and feature-rich package. Priced from ₹95,219 to ₹1.03 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), it boasts a 124.8 cc engine producing 11.38 PS and 11.2 Nm, outpacing the Freedom 125 in power. Its mileage hovers around 57 kmpl, significantly lower than the Freedom’s CNG figures. The Raider offers a TFT display with Bluetooth, split-seat options, and a dynamic riding stance, making it more stylish and engaging. However, its higher fuel consumption and lack of a CNG option position it as a less economical choice for cost-focused buyers. The Raider’s agility and modern appeal make it a strong rival, but it can’t match the Freedom’s running cost benefits.
Bajaj Pulsar N125
From the same stable, the Bajaj Pulsar N125 (₹94,646 ex-showroom Delhi) caters to riders seeking a sportier commuter. Its 124.58 cc engine delivers 11.88 PS and 11 Nm, offering superior performance compared to the Freedom 125. With a mileage of 57 kmpl and a weight of 125 kg, it’s lighter and more powerful but less fuel-efficient. The Pulsar N125 features a digital cluster, LED DRLs, and a youthful design, appealing to a different demographic. While it excels in performance and handling, its petrol-only operation means it can’t compete with the Freedom’s cost-saving CNG mode, making the latter a better pick for budget-conscious riders.
Competitive Edge
The Bajaj Freedom 125 stands out with its CNG technology, offering unmatched fuel economy and lower running costs (approximately ₹2/km on CNG vs. ₹5-6/km on petrol for competitors). While rivals like the SP 125 and Raider 125 excel in refinement and power, they cater to riders prioritizing performance over savings. The Freedom 125’s unique proposition lies in its dual-fuel flexibility, making it a game-changer for those in CNG-available regions, despite its slightly heavier build and modest power output.
Final Thoughts!
The Bajaj Freedom 125 redefines the 125cc commuter segment with its pioneering CNG-petrol dual-fuel system, blending affordability, efficiency, and practicality into a single package. Its technical prowess, highlighted by a robust 124.58 cc engine, exceptional mileage (102 km/kg on CNG), and a combined range of 330 km, makes it a standout choice for cost-conscious riders. The three variants—NG04 Drum, NG04 Drum LED, and NG04 Disc LED—offer flexibility, with prices ranging from ₹90,272 to ₹1,10,151 (ex-showroom Delhi), translating to on-road costs of ₹1.07 lakh to ₹1.43 lakh across metro cities.
Beyond its specifications, the Freedom 125 impresses with a thoughtful design, featuring a long seat, trellis frame, and modern amenities like Bluetooth connectivity and LED lighting. While it may not match the raw power of competitors like the TVS Raider 125 or Bajaj Pulsar N125, its focus on reducing running costs and environmental impact gives it an unrivaled edge. For urban commuters, gig workers, and eco-conscious buyers in CNG-accessible areas, the Bajaj Freedom 125 is more than just a motorcycle—it’s a smart, sustainable solution to modern mobility challenges.
