Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG review - Mileage, running cost, performance

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We’ve been testing the Bajaj Freedom for a few days now, and it’s an incredible motorcycle thanks to its novel CNG (compressed natural gas) technology. In this post, we’ll explore why Bajaj decided to create a motorcycle powered by CNG, the technical complexities involved, its safety features, and its affordability.

Engineering Marvel: Building from the Ground Up

Creating a CNG motorcycle required Bajaj to start from scratch. They designed a new engine and chassis specifically for this purpose. The engine is a sloper unit, similar to those in old Hero Honda motorcycles, which allows space for the CNG system. CNG, being a dry fuel, burns hotter than petrol, necessitating robust engine components. Bajaj incorporated larger oil cooling jets, bigger fins, and multiple features to ensure the engine’s longevity, matching the durability of their other commuter bikes.

Creative Chassis Architecture

Unlike other commuter motorcycles, which have a typical diamond chassis, the Bajaj Freedom has a perimeter chassis. By keeping the CNG tank inside the chassis, this design prevents a high seat height. In order to accommodate the additional weight of the CNG tank, Bajaj decided to use a new steel trellis frame, which is both stronger and lighter. Moreover, this frame has a connected monoshock in the back, which is unusual for low-cost motorcycles.

Safety Issues Handled

When it comes to a motorcycle driven by CNG, safety is a major consideration. The Bajaj Freedom has been put through a rigorous testing process that includes being driven over by an 11-ton truck, impact testing from different angles, and crash testing at 60 km/h. Usually limited to cars, these tests guarantee the safety of the motorcycle. Bajaj is more credible when it comes to guaranteeing safety because of their vast experience with CNG vehicles, especially auto-rickshaws with CNG tanks under the seats.

Efficiency and Economic Effectiveness

The Bajaj Freedom’s cost-effectiveness is among the most important concerns. According to tests, the motorcycle gets an amazing 94 km per kg of CNG in the city. At a constant 60–65 km/h on the highway, it reached 126 km/kg. Compared to motorcycles powered by gasoline, these numbers imply considerable fuel savings, with CNG costs perhaps cutting fuel expenditures in half. Even if CNG mode performance is marginally worse, it is still sufficient for daily commuting.

Experience Riding

Although the Bajaj Freedom has an unusual power source, it handles and rides like a typical motorbike. Despite weighing 149 kg more than its gasoline-powered competitors, it handles neutrally and predictably. The seat is manageable while being stiff, and the suspension is sufficient. For shorter riders, nevertheless, the 825 mm seat height can be a problem.

Practical Components

The Bajaj Freedom has sufficient equipment for its class. The top model comes with an LED headlamp, a larger LCD display that can be connected via Bluetooth, and a USB charging port. Each model features a silent start and side stand engine cut-off. On the other hand, there might be more access to the CNG filling outlet and gasoline cap.

Upkeep and Support

The Bajaj Freedom requires simple upkeep, with 5,000 km service intervals. Every 10,000 miles the CNG system’s specialist air filters need to be cleaned, and every 30,000 km they need to be replaced. Every two years, the CNG tank also needs to be recertified; Bajaj dealerships assist with this process.

In conclusion

At a price range of 95,000 to 1.1 lakh rupees, the Bajaj Freedom is a noteworthy development in reasonably priced, environmentally sustainable mobility. Despite the decreased operating costs that electric vehicles (EVs) offer, their practicality is limited by present battery technology. With its remarkable fuel efficiency and lower emissions, the Bajaj Freedom provides an alternative that is unrestricted by range anxiety or the need for charging infrastructure.

The Bajaj Freedom has the potential to revolutionize the motorbike industry by providing affordable and eco-friendly transportation for those who commute on a regular basis, especially when the company expands its sales into additional states.