Post By- Sakshi Srivastava

Bajaj Freedom 125: India's First CNG Motorcycle

Bajaj Auto has recently introduced the Freedom 125, a groundbreaking motorcycle that claims the title of the world’s first CNG-powered two-wheeler. Launched in India at a starting price of ₹95,000, the Freedom 125 aims to revolutionize economical commuting in the country.

Powertrain and Fuel Efficiency of Freedom 125:

The Freedom 125 is powered by a 125cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 9.5 hp and 9.7 Nm of torque. The unique selling point of this motorcycle is its integrated fuel system, which includes a 2kg CNG tank and a 2L petrol tank. This dual-fuel setup allows the rider to switch between CNG and petrol modes at the push of a button, offering a combined range of 330 km.

Design and Features:

The Freedom 125 boasts a trellis frame that serves as a protective cage for the CNG tank, ensuring the safety of the rider. It also features the longest seat in the 125cc segment, measuring 785mm, providing ample comfort for both the rider and pillion. The motorcycle is equipped with a negative LCD instrument cluster that offers Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to stay connected on the go. The suspension setup includes telescopic forks at the front and a linked monoshock at the rear, while the braking system comprises a disc brake at the front and a drum brake at the rear (the base variant has drum brakes at both ends).

Cost Savings and Availability:

The Bajaj Freedom 125 is expected to provide up to 50% lower running costs compared to a traditional petrol-powered motorcycle, translating to savings of ₹75,000 over a 5-year period. Bookings for the Freedom 125 are now open on Bajaj’s website and at their dealerships, with initial deliveries starting in Maharashtra and Gujarat.

Safety Measures Taken:

Bajaj Auto has taken comprehensive measures to ensure the safety of the Freedom 125 CNG. Here’s a closer look at the safety features and testing procedures implemented by the company:

Rigorous Safety Testing: Bajaj has conducted extensive testing on the Freedom 125 CNG, subjecting it to 11 different safety evaluations based on industry standards. These tests include frontal collision, rollover, and impact assessments, all of which the motorcycle has successfully passed.

Protective Design: The Freedom 125 CNG features a trellis frame and rear subframe that act as a protective cage around the CNG tank. This design helps shield the pressurized gas tank from potential damages in the event of an accident. Additionally, the engine is positioned away from the CNG tank to prevent any heat-related issues.

Regulatory Compliance: As with any other vehicle, the Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG has undergone the mandatory government-mandated safety tests before being approved for launch in the market. This ensures that the motorcycle meets the necessary safety standards set by the authorities.

Refuelling Precautions: Bajaj recommends that riders dismount the bike during the CNG refueling process as a precautionary measure, in case of any unexpected cylinder explosion or pressure release.

Overall, the extensive safety testing, protective design, and regulatory compliance measures undertaken by Bajaj indicate that the Freedom 125 CNG is a safe and reliable option for Indian consumers. The company’s focus on addressing potential safety concerns associated with the CNG powertrain further reinforces the motorcycle’s suitability for everyday use.