Bajaj Freedom: Zabardast CNG Bike at ₹89,997
Bajaj Auto has shaken up the commuter motorcycle segment with its groundbreaking Bajaj Freedom – the world’s first CNG motorcycle.
This innovative two-wheeler promises to revolutionize economical commuting by offering unparalleled fuel efficiency and low running costs. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Bajaj Freedom a potential game-changer in the Indian motorcycle market.
Powertrain and Performance
At the heart of the Bajaj Freedom lies a 124.58cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. This versatile powerplant is capable of running on both petrol and CNG, giving riders unprecedented flexibility. When running on CNG, the engine produces 9.5 PS of power at 8000 rpm and 9.7 Nm of torque at 5000 rpm.
The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, providing smooth shifts for city riding and highway cruising alike. One of the most impressive features of the Freedom is its claimed range of 330 km on a full tank – 200 km on CNG and an additional 130 km on petrol.
Performance-wise, the Freedom can reach a top speed of 93.4 km/h on petrol and 90.5 km/h on CNG. While it may not win any drag races, these figures are more than adequate for its intended purpose as an efficient commuter.
Fuel Efficiency and Economy
The Bajaj Freedom truly shines when it comes to fuel efficiency. The motorcycle boasts an impressive claimed mileage of 65 km/l on petrol. However, the real star of the show is its CNG efficiency. Bajaj claims that the Freedom can run up to 102 km on just 1 kg of CNG.
This exceptional fuel efficiency translates to significant cost savings for riders. With CNG prices being substantially lower than petrol in most Indian cities, the Freedom could potentially cut your fuel expenses by up to 50% compared to conventional petrol-powered motorcycles.
The bike features a 2 kg CNG tank cleverly positioned in the central area, along with a 2-liter petrol tank. This dual-fuel setup not only extends the overall range but also provides a safety net in areas where CNG stations might be scarce.
Design and Styling
The Bajaj Freedom strikes a balance between form and function in its design. Key styling elements include:
- A sharp LED headlight (on higher variants)
- A dirt bike-inspired fuel tank design
- A long, comfortable seat claimed to be the longest in its segment
- A sleek tail section with integrated grab rails
- Sporty graphics and color options
The Freedom is available in seven eye-catching colors: Caribbean Blue, Pewter Grey-Black, Cyber White, Ebony Black-Grey, Racing Red, Pewter Grey-Yellow, and Ebony Black-Red. This wide range of options allows riders to choose a style that best suits their personality.
Chassis and Suspension
The Bajaj Freedom is built around a tubular trellis frame, providing a good balance of rigidity and light weight. The suspension setup consists of:
- Front: Telescopic forks
- Rear: Monoshock absorber (Bajaj calls it a “mono-linked type suspension”)
This suspension configuration is a first in the segment, promising improved ride quality and handling. The Freedom rides on a 17-inch front wheel and a 16-inch rear wheel, offering a good compromise between stability and maneuverability.
Features and Technology
Despite its focus on economy, the Bajaj Freedom doesn’t skimp on features. Some notable inclusions are:
- LED headlight with DRLs (on higher variants)
- Digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity
- Turn-by-turn navigation
- Call and SMS alerts
- Dedicated call-receiving switch
- USB charging port
- Combi-Brake System (CBS) for enhanced safety
The Bluetooth-enabled console provides a wealth of information, including real-time mileage, distance-to-empty, and average fuel consumption. This tech-savvy approach sets the Freedom apart from many of its competitors in the commuter segment.
Variants and Pricing
The Bajaj Freedom is available in three variants:
| Variant | Price (Ex-showroom) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| NG04 Drum | ₹89,997 | Base variant with drum brakes |
| NG04 Drum LED | ₹95,002 | LED headlight, larger rear drum brake |
| NG04 Disc LED | ₹1,09,997 | LED headlight, front disc brake, Bluetooth connectivity |
This competitive pricing strategy positions the Freedom as an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers looking for an efficient and feature-rich commuter motorcycle.
Competitors and Market Positioning
The Bajaj Freedom enters a crowded commuter motorcycle segment, competing with established players like:
- Hero Splendor Plus
- Honda Shine
- TVS Raider
- Hero Glamour
However, the Freedom’s unique selling proposition lies in its CNG capability, which sets it apart from all its competitors. This innovative approach to fuel efficiency could give Bajaj a significant edge in the market, especially in urban areas with good CNG infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)
Q1. What is the real-world mileage of the Bajaj Freedom?
While Bajaj claims a mileage of 65 km/l on petrol and 102 km/kg on CNG, real-world figures may vary. Most users report getting between 55-60 km/l on petrol and 90-95 km/kg on CNG in mixed riding conditions.
Q2. How does the CNG system work on the Bajaj Freedom?
The Freedom features a dual-fuel system with separate tanks for CNG and petrol. Riders can switch between fuels with the flick of a switch on the handlebar. The bike starts on petrol and can be switched to CNG mode once warmed up.
Q3. Is the Bajaj Freedom suitable for long-distance riding?
While primarily designed for urban commuting, the Freedom’s comfortable seat and 330 km combined range make it capable of occasional long rides. However, its performance and comfort levels may not match those of purpose-built touring motorcycles.
Q4. How often does the Bajaj Freedom require servicing?
Bajaj recommends servicing the Freedom every 5,000 km or 3 months, whichever comes first. The CNG system may require additional checks and maintenance, so it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s service schedule closely.
Q5. Can the Bajaj Freedom run on petrol alone if CNG is not available?
Yes, the Freedom can run solely on petrol if CNG is unavailable. Its 2-liter petrol tank provides a range of approximately 130 km, ensuring you’re not stranded in areas without CNG infrastructure.
Wrapping Up
The Bajaj Freedom represents a bold step forward in the commuter motorcycle segment. By introducing CNG technology to two-wheelers, Bajaj has created a potentially game-changing product that addresses the growing need for economical and eco-friendly transportation. While it may have some limitations, the Freedom’s innovative approach, competitive pricing, and promise of substantial fuel savings make it a compelling option for budget-conscious riders. As CNG infrastructure continues to expand across India, the Freedom could well pave the way for a new era of efficient and affordable motorcycling.
Read Also
