While the Indian two-wheeler market is witnessing a slow and gradual shift towards large-capacity bikes, the commuter segment is what still holds the largest share. This also includes the 125cc bikes which recently welcomed a new entrant, the Bajaj Freedom. Although a CNG motorcycle, it goes against some popular names like the Honda SP125 and the TVS Raider. In this story, we have pitted the Bajaj CNG bike against the SP 125 and here are the results.
Design
The Bajaj Freedom gets a proper commuter design and styling but with a dash of modern elements like the LED headlight and tank extensions. Then, the braced handlebar, long single-piece seat and exposed chassis give it a rugged look as well. The Honda SP125 on the other hand looks much bigger in terms of proportions and muscular as well. It also looks a tad more youthful.
Features
Bajaj has equipped the Freedom with LED illumination, ABS, and a reverse LCD with smartphone connectivity along with a USB charger. However, only the top-spec trim gets the Bluetooth option. The Honda SP125 uses an LCD, an LED headlight and a side-stand cut-off sensor. The Bajaj Freedom clearly scores extra points here.
Engine
Powering the Freedom is a 125cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. It develops 9.37bhp at 8,000rpm and 9.7Nm at 5,000rpm and gets a five-speed gearbox. However, this bike uses CNG as its primary source of fuel with petrol as the backup. Meanwhile, the SP125 uses a 123.94cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that delivers 10.7bhp at 7,500rpm and 10.9Nm of peak torque at 6,000rpm. The SP125 makes more power and torque than the Freedom by a marginal figure.
Hardware
Both motorcycles ride on telescopic front forks but the Freedom uses a linked monoshock whereas the SP125 gets dual rear springs. Bajaj offers the top spec trim with a front disc and rear drum and it is the same case with the SP125. Although both bikes use a 17-inch front wheel, the Freedom gets a 16-inch unit. This could alter its handling marginally when compared to the SP125.
Price
The asking price for the Freedom 125 is set at Rs. 1.10 lakh for the top-spec variant and the Honda SP125 Disc variant costs Rs. 90,467 (both ex-showroom, Delhi). If you are someone who rides and lives in a city with ample CNG pumps, then the Freedom could be a frugal option but its limitations begin once you consider riding across cities.
