-Spotted testing recently
-Single tone colour and fewer features seen
-Launch expected in a few months
The Bajaj Freedom CNG bike recently went on sale in the country. It is aimed at redefining the commuter space owing to its low cost of running. Bajaj, however, seems to be working on a more affordable version, going by a new test bike that was spotted.
The said test mule is seen heavily camouflaged but there are a few cost cutting measures that are evident. One can see a new bracket for the headlight which itself appears to be a halogen unit instead of the LED headlight on the current Freedom.
The prominent cowl around the telescopic fork that’s seen on the current bike is not visible on the test mule. It has simpler, cheaper fork gaiters. The front mud guard is also much simpler in design.
The bike seen here also has a single tone colour, unlike the dual tone colours on the current Bajaj Freedom CNG bike. Under the camouflage, we expect to see a simple set of graphics.
In terms of equipment, the bike should get a basic instrument cluster and no Bluetooth connectivity. The bike has drum brakes at both ends and even the tyres appear to be different from the ones on the current bike. Other visible changes are the extended tyre hugger which should be more effective in preventing rainwater from being kicked up from the rear wheel.
The rest of the bits about the bike, be it the frame, CNG tank and engine should be the same. The Bajaj Freedom is powered by a 125cc, single-cylinder engine that makes 9.3bhp at 8,000rpm and 9.7Nm at 6,000rpm. It is paired with a five-speed gearbox.
The more affordable Bajaj Freedom CNG bike should be launched in a few months time. As for the price, expect it to cost a few thousand rupees less than the base Freedom that will cost you Rs 94.995, ex-showroom.
