The Bajaj Freedom is a landmark innovation as the world’s first CNG-powered motorcycle. It’s designed with Indian riders in mind, offering a strong blend of efficiency, affordability, and practicality. But like any new concept, it comes with both strengths and trade-offs. Here’s a breakdown of what makes it worth considering—and what you should be cautious about.
Top 4 Reasons to Consider the Bajaj Freedom
1. Exceptionally Low Running Costs
One of the biggest reasons to buy the Freedom is its cost-saving potential. Bajaj claims the bike can cut your fuel expenses by nearly half—and real-world testing backs this up. Even without hyper-efficient riding habits, you’ll still see significant savings on daily commuting costs thanks to its CNG fuel system.
2. Familiar Riding Feel
Despite the new technology under the tank, riding the Freedom feels reassuringly normal. You can start the engine in either petrol or CNG mode, and the bike will occasionally switch to petrol briefly to maintain engine health. Handling remains stable and predictable, even though the CNG tank sits higher than usual.
3. Competitive Pricing
Bajaj has priced the Freedom very smartly—between ₹91,000 and ₹1.11 lakh (ex-showroom). That places it squarely in the same ballpark as premium 125cc commuter bikes like the TVS Raider 125, Hero Xtreme 125R, and Bajaj Pulsar N125—making it a compelling value for money.
4. Unique and Striking Design
The Freedom’s styling makes it stand out instantly. From its round LED headlamp to the clean lines of its flat seat, and the exposed trellis frame that adds both style and protection for the CNG tank, the design is both functional and eye-catching.
2 Reasons to Think Twice
1. CNG Refueling Challenges
The biggest drawback is the refueling experience. CNG stations are already congested in many cities, and motorcycles won’t get the comfort of waiting inside an air-conditioned cabin like a car. With a usable range of around 180–200 km on a CNG tank, expect regular visits to the pump—and sometimes long waits.
2. Underwhelming Performance in CNG Mode
If you’re expecting sporty performance, especially for two-up riding or hill climbs, the Freedom might disappoint. While it feels adequate in petrol mode, performance in CNG mode is closer to a 110cc bike. It’s not built for speed, but for economy—so know what you’re signing up for.
Verdict:
The Bajaj Freedom is an innovative and practical choice for cost-conscious daily commuters, especially in urban areas with good CNG infrastructure. If saving money is your top priority and you’re okay with occasional compromises in performance and refueling convenience, this could be a revolutionary option.
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