Pune: Bajaj Auto unveiled the Freedom 125, the first motorcycle in the world to run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). This 125cc bike can switch between petrol and CNG, offering significant savings on fuel costs for everyday riders.
Available for pre-order starting today, the Freedom 125 is priced between ₹95,000 and ₹1.10 lakh (ex-showroom). Initially, the bike will be sold in Gujarat and Maharashtra, with future plans to expand to Egypt, Tanzania, Peru, Indonesia, and Bangladesh.
Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways Nitin Gadkari launched the motorcycle in Pune on July 5.
The Freedom 125 targets budget-conscious consumers by reducing fuel expenses by 50 percent compared to other bikes in its class. It is equipped with both a petrol tank and a CNG cylinder, allowing users to alternate between fuel types via a switch on the handlebar.
The CNG cylinder, situated beneath the petrol tank, integrates smoothly into the bike’s overall design. The bike has distinct filling points for petrol and CNG, with the petrol tank accommodating 2 liters and the CNG tank holding 2 kg.
Bajaj states that the Freedom 125 can travel up to 213 km solely on CNG, and an additional 117 km on petrol, totaling a range of 330 km. The bike's fuel efficiency is rated at 102 km per kg of CNG and 64 km per liter of petrol.
The Freedom 125 is powered by a 125 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine with fuel injection, producing 9.4 bhp and 9.7 Nm of torque. It features telescopic front forks, a rear monoshock, and braking is managed by a front disc and a rear drum brake. The bike rides on 17-inch alloy wheels.
Aesthetically, the Freedom 125 features a retro-modern design with a round headlamp incorporating a daytime running light (DRL). The bike includes a flat seat, wide handlebars, and center-set foot pegs for a comfortable riding stance.
The semi-digital instrument cluster includes indicators such as a low CNG warning and a neutral gear indicator. The Freedom 125 by Bajaj Auto is set to revolutionize the commuter bike market by combining eco-friendly technology with cost-effective operation.
