The Bajaj Freedom CNG motorcycle debuted recently and has been the talk of the town since then. The web is flooded with images, videos, and every possible question you could think of. We spent three days testing it in the Mumbai monsoon, and here is our take on it.
Surprisingly, the Bajaj Freedom is quite recognisable on the road and for all the right reasons, but it gels up with other commuter bikes at the same time. After all, it too is a commuter and sports a practical design with some rather unconventional elements.
The one we tested was the top-spec trim that came with all the bells and whistles, From an LED headlight to a front disc brake, CBS, and a digital dash with smartphone connectivity, the Freedom is loaded with decent tech.
The Freedom gets a long single-piece seat that extends from the fuel tank to the top of the tail light. Its trellis frame is slightly exposed and the braced handlebar gives it a rugged look. Then, the front fork covers, although ornamental, give the Freedom a chunky look.
Powering the Bajaj Freedom is a 125cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 9.5bhp at 8,000rpm and 9.7Nm at 5,000rpm. The power delivery is smooth and just like a pure-petrol motorcycle, this one too accelerates linearly until 80kmph. Post that, minor vibrations start creeping in, but not to a deal-breaking level.
We even tested the fuel efficiency of the Bajaj Freedom and the results were impressive. The bike managed to clock 104km/kg. However, we will be able to get a more accurate result once we get the bike for a longer duration and it can be refueled at various pumps with different gas pressure.
The overall build quality too on the Bajaj Freedom is commendable. From the paint quality to the panel fitment, gaps, switch cube feel and feedback, Bajaj has upped the ante with its CNG offering.
But should you spend Rs. 1.10 lakh on the first-ever mass-market CNG motorcycle? Well, there are a few more things you should consider. We have listed all of them in our detailed first ride review.
