Bajaj Launches the World's First CNG bike -VYGR

Bajaj Auto has launched the Bajaj Freedom 125, the world's first CNG-powered motorcycle, priced at Rs 95,000 (ex-showroom). This unique bike promises to significantly reduce expenses for operation, with a paired range of 330 kilometers on CNG and petrol. Here's an in-depth look at this innovative release.

Pricing & Variants:

The Bajaj Freedom 125 is available in three variants:

NG04 Disc LED costs Rs 1,10,000.

NG04 Drum LED costs Rs 1,05,000.

NG04 drum costs Rs 95,000.

Bookings are currently open, with an initial availability in Gujarat and Maharashtra. The bike will be distributed in other states over the next three to four months.

Design and Features:

The bike has a retro, commuter-friendly design with notable highlights.

NG04 Disc LED and NG04 Drum LED: LED headlights

NG04 Drum: Halogen Headlight.

The longest flat single-piece seat in its segment.

Features include a single-piece grab rail, upswept exhaust with a heat shield, and a horizontal CNG tank under the seat.

Negative LCD instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity.

Technical Specifications:

Engine: 125cc, single cylinder, air-cooled.

Power: 9.5 PS and 9.7 Nm torque.

Transmission: Probably a 5-speed gearbox.

CNG Cylinder Capacity: 2kg

Petrol Tank capacity: 2 litres.

Mileage: 102 km/kg (CNG only), 65 km/l (petrol)

Frame: Trellis (first in 125cc commuter bikes).

Suspension: Telescopic fork with fork covers, linked monoshock.

NG04 Drum and NG04 Drum LED have drum brakes, while NG04 Disc LED has a front disc brake.

Safety: Combined Braking System (CBS) is standard on all variants.

Market and competition:

Fortunately, the Bajaj Freedom 125 has no direct competition, it will be facing off against petrol-powered 125cc bikes such as the Honda Shine 125, Hero Glamour, Bajaj Pulsar 125, Hero Xtreme 125R, and TVS Raider 125.

Cost Efficiency and Infrastructure:

Bajaj claims that the Freedom 125 will reduce daily expenses for operation by 50% when compared to petrol bikes, possibly saving customers up to Rs 75,000 over five years. However, the small compressed natural gas (C pump network—primarily in Delhi, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka may pose an obstacle.

Conclusion:

The Bajaj Freedom 125's economical CNG option makes it an exciting alternative to traditional fuel bikes. While its success is dependent on the expansion of CNG infrastructure, it defines a new standard in the workers' bike market.

Inputs: Agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies