Quick Analysis
Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG (new)
16.0 pts
Unweighted: 15 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Aprilia SR 175
12.0 pts
Unweighted: 6 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air‑cooled | Air‑cooled |
| Displacement | 124.58 cc | 174.7 cc |
| Engine Type | 4‑Stroke, Single Cylinder | Single‑cylinder, 4‑stroke, SOHC, 3‑valve, air‑cooled. |
| Power | 9.5 PS @ 8,000 rpm | 13.26 PS @ 7200 rpm |
| Torque | 9.7 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | 14.14 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2 kg CNG + 2 L Petrol | 7 L |
| Mileage | 65 Kmpl | 40 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 147.8 | 118 |
| Seat Height | 825 | — |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | — | Single‑channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 240 mm Disc / 130 mm Drum | 220 mm disc |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic, Dia 30 Inner, Stroke 125 | Telescopic front fork |
| Rear Brake | 130 mm Drum / 110 mm Drum | Drum brake |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshox With Linkages, Stroke 120 | Monoshock |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 90/80‑17 Tubeless | — |
| Rear Tyre | 120/70-16 Tubeless | — |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Blue-2.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sr_tech_175_banner2.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Grey.avif | — |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Red-4.avif | — |
| Bike Image 4 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/WHite-2.avif | — |
| Cluster | Fully Digital LCD with Bluetooth | Digital |
| Color Options | Cyber White | #F2F2EE Racing Red | #B00000 Caribbean Blue | #1E5AA8 Pewter Grey | #6E7378 Ebony Black | #111111 | GLOSSY TECH WHITE | #F2F2F2 MATT PRISMATIC DARK | #2B2B2B |
| Cons | The additional CNG hardware adds weight, making the motorcycle feel heavier than many conventional 125cc commuters. Boot space and underbody packaging are naturally affected because of the placement of the CNG cylinder. Performance feels adequate rather than sporty, especially when compared to some 125cc motorcycles that focus more on acceleration. CNG availability can still be limited in certain regions compared to petrol stations. Refueling CNG generally takes longer than a regular petrol refill. The design is more functional than aggressive, which may not appeal to buyers looking for a sporty appearance. The motorcycle introduces a new technology package, so long-term ownership data is still developing compared to more established commuter models. Highway overtakes require more planning when compared to larger-capacity motorcycles. | The seat is firm and somewhat compact, making long rides or carrying a pillion less comfortable. The suspension is on the stiffer side, so rough roads and potholes can feel more pronounced than on commuter-focused scooters. Fuel tank capacity and mileage limit long-range practicality; frequent refuelling may be required for longer rides. Storage space is limited, restricting the ability to carry larger items or helmets comfortably. Taller or heavier riders may find the riding posture and legroom slightly restrictive, especially for longer commutes. |
| Detailed Overview | The Bajaj Freedom 125 enters the commuter motorcycle segment with a concept that has not been seen before in the Indian market. At a time when most motorcycles rely entirely on petrol, the Freedom introduces a factory-developed dual-fuel system that allows it to run on both CNG and petrol. While this is the feature that immediately grabs attention, the motorcycle itself has been designed to function like a regular commuter in day-to-day use rather than feeling like an experimental product. From a distance, the Freedom does not look dramatically different from a conventional commuter motorcycle. It carries a straightforward design with practical bodywork, a sculpted fuel tank area, alloy wheels and a long seat. The overall shape prioritizes functionality, but there are a few distinctive details, particularly around the frame and side panels, where the packaging of the CNG system influences the motorcycle’s appearance. Instead of hiding the technology completely, Bajaj has integrated it into the design in a way that becomes part of the motorcycle’s identity. At the centre of the motorcycle is a 124.58cc single-cylinder engine that has been developed to operate on both fuels. The rider can switch between CNG and petrol through a handlebar-mounted switch, making the transition simple during everyday riding. The engine produces around 9.5 PS of power and 9.7 Nm of torque, figures that place it firmly within the commuter category. The focus is on smooth and predictable performance rather than rapid acceleration. Whether navigating traffic, carrying a passenger, or maintaining steady speeds on open roads, the engine delivers power in a gradual and easy-to-manage manner. The packaging of the fuel system is one of the more interesting aspects of the motorcycle. A 2 kg CNG cylinder is positioned within the frame structure, while a separate 2-litre petrol tank serves as a backup fuel source. This arrangement allows the motorcycle to continue operating even when CNG is unavailable. Riders travelling through areas with limited CNG infrastructure can simply switch to petrol mode and continue their journey. The combined range from both fuel sources also reduces the frequency of refuelling stops during regular use. Comfort has clearly been given considerable attention. The Freedom features one of the longest seats available in its category, providing a generous amount of space for both rider and pillion. The riding posture remains upright and relaxed, with a naturally positioned handlebar and footpegs. This setup helps reduce fatigue during long hours of commuting and allows riders to maintain a comfortable posture in stop-and-go traffic. The motorcycle uses telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock suspension. Together, they are tuned to handle the mixed road conditions commonly encountered in daily riding, including potholes, speed breakers and uneven surfaces. The suspension focuses on maintaining ride comfort while keeping the motorcycle stable at normal commuting speeds. Braking duties are handled by either a front disc and rear drum combination or drum brakes at both ends, depending on the variant. Combined Braking System (CBS) is included to assist with braking balance. The motorcycle rides on alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres, a setup that has become common in the commuter segment because of its practicality and ease of maintenance. The Freedom also includes a digital instrument cluster that provides information such as speed, fuel status and trip details. Since the motorcycle carries two different fuel sources, the display plays an important role in helping riders monitor fuel usage and operating mode during everyday journeys. Rather than being defined by a single specification, the Bajaj Freedom 125 is shaped by the way its dual-fuel technology is integrated into an otherwise familiar commuter motorcycle package. The engine, seating layout, suspension setup and fuel system all work together to create a machine intended for routine transportation while introducing a different approach to everyday fuel usage. | The Aprilia SR 175 is a scooter that feels more focused on performance than regular daily-use scooters. It comes with a 174.7 cc engine, which is bigger than most scooters in this segment. Because of this, it feels quick when you ride in city traffic, especially while moving from signals or overtaking. The automatic gearbox makes it easy to use, so even with the extra power, it doesn’t feel difficult to handle. On open roads, it can go close to 95 km/h, which is enough for short highway rides. One thing that stands out is the 14-inch wheels. They are bigger than usual and help the scooter feel more stable, especially when taking turns or riding a bit fast. It gets telescopic suspension in the front and a monoshock at the back. The setup is a bit on the stiffer side, so you will feel bumps and bad roads more clearly, but it helps the scooter stay steady while riding. For braking, it has a disc at the front and a drum at the rear with single-channel ABS. It works well for normal riding and feels controlled. The scooter weighs around 118–120 kg, so it is not too heavy and can be managed easily in traffic. Ground clearance is also decent, so speed breakers and rough roads are not much of an issue. It also comes with a TFT display that shows basic information and supports Bluetooth for navigation and call alerts. There is LED lighting and a USB charging port as well. At the same time, under-seat storage is limited, so carrying bigger items can be a problem. Overall, the SR 175 feels like a scooter made for people who want a bit more performance and better road feel, rather than just comfort and storage. |
| Expert Review | The Bajaj Freedom 125 approaches commuting from a different angle by focusing on fuel flexibility rather than chasing performance or premium features. At first glance it feels like a conventional commuter motorcycle, but the integration of both petrol and CNG systems changes the ownership experience significantly. The 125cc engine provides smooth and predictable performance for daily riding, while the comfortable seat, upright ergonomics, and softly tuned suspension help the motorcycle handle long hours of commuting with ease. The additional weight from the CNG setup is noticeable during low-speed maneuvering, yet the motorcycle remains manageable in regular traffic conditions. The ability to switch between petrol and CNG adds practicality for riders who travel substantial distances, while the large overall riding range reduces the frequency of refueling stops. The motorcycle's design and engineering focus more on efficiency, comfort, and everyday usability than outright speed or sporty handling, which gives it a distinct position within the commuter segment., 4.4, MotoAutiv Team | The Aprilia SR 175 is positioned as a more performance-focused scooter in India, offering a step up from the typical 125cc segment. Its larger engine provides stronger acceleration, which is noticeable in city traffic and short highway stretches. The scooter continues with 14-inch wheels and a firm suspension setup, which helps with stability and cornering but can feel slightly stiff on uneven roads. In terms of features, it stays relatively simple, focusing more on the riding experience rather than adding advanced connectivity or comfort-oriented elements. The design remains sporty, with a riding posture that feels a bit more aggressive than regular scooters. Practical aspects like storage and everyday comfort are average, which may matter for daily users. Its relevance in India comes from offering a sportier alternative in the scooter space, where most options are built mainly for convenience and efficiency., 4.1, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What makes the Bajaj Freedom 125 different from other 125cc motorcycles? A: The Freedom 125 is India's first mass-produced CNG motorcycle. It comes with a factory-fitted dual-fuel system that allows the rider to use both CNG and petrol, switching between them as needed. Q: How much CNG can the Bajaj Freedom 125 store? A: The motorcycle has a 2 kg CNG tank integrated into the frame along with a 2-litre petrol tank for backup fuel supply. Q: Can I switch between CNG and petrol while riding? A: Yes. A handlebar-mounted switch allows the rider to change between CNG and petrol without stopping the motorcycle. Q: What happens if the CNG tank becomes empty? A: The rider can switch to petrol mode and continue riding normally. The petrol tank acts as a backup fuel source when CNG is unavailable or depleted. Q: What is the claimed range of the Bajaj Freedom 125? A: Bajaj claims a combined range of over 330 km when both the CNG and petrol tanks are filled, though actual range depends on riding style, traffic, terrain, and load. Q: Is the performance different in CNG and petrol modes? A: Yes. The motorcycle generally feels slightly more responsive in petrol mode, while CNG mode prioritizes fuel economy and lower running costs. For normal commuting, the difference is relatively small. Q: Is the CNG cylinder safe in case of an accident? A: Bajaj states that the motorcycle underwent multiple safety tests, including impact, truck-runover, and crash evaluations. The CNG cylinder is housed within a protective trellis frame structure and is designed to meet regulatory safety standards. Q: How long does it take to fill the CNG tank? A: Filling time depends on station pressure and equipment, but it usually takes only a few minutes, similar to filling CNG in passenger vehicles. Q: Does the Bajaj Freedom 125 require special maintenance because of the CNG system? A: The motorcycle follows normal service intervals, but the CNG system and associated components are inspected during scheduled servicing to ensure proper operation and safety. Q: What engine does the Bajaj Freedom 125 use? A: It is powered by a 124.58cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that is specifically calibrated to operate on both CNG and petrol. Q: What is the top speed of the Bajaj Freedom 125? A: The motorcycle has a top speed of approximately 90–95 km/h, depending on fuel mode, road conditions, and rider weight. Q: Does the Freedom 125 have ABS? A: No. The motorcycle does not offer ABS. It uses a Combined Braking System (CBS) for braking assistance. Q: What type of brakes does the Freedom 125 use? A: Depending on the variant, the motorcycle is available with either a front disc brake and rear drum brake setup or drum brakes at both ends, supported by CBS. Q: What is the seat height of the Bajaj Freedom 125? A: The motorcycle has a seat height of approximately 825 mm, making it accessible to a wide range of riders. Q: Is the Bajaj Freedom 125 suitable for long-distance commuting? A: The upright riding posture, long seat, comfort-focused suspension, and large combined fuel range make it suitable for riders who cover substantial distances regularly. Q: Where can I refill the CNG tank? A: The CNG tank can be refilled at standard automotive CNG stations that serve CNG-powered vehicles. Availability depends on local CNG infrastructure in your area. Q: What happens if there are no CNG stations nearby? A: The motorcycle can continue operating on petrol using the separate petrol tank, allowing the rider to complete the journey even when CNG is unavailable. | Q: How does the Aprilia SR 175 perform in city traffic? A: The Aprilia SR 175 feels quick in traffic, with strong acceleration that makes overtaking easier in urban conditions. Q: What kind of mileage does the Aprilia SR 175 give in real-world use? A: The Aprilia SR 175 usually delivers around 34–40 km/l in real riding conditions, depending on usage and traffic. Q: Is the Aprilia SR 175 comfortable for long rides? A: The Aprilia SR 175 can manage short highway rides, but the firm suspension and seat may feel tiring over longer distances. Q: Does the Aprilia SR 175 have good storage space? A: The Aprilia SR 175 has limited under-seat storage, which can only fit small items or a half-face helmet. Q: What makes the Aprilia SR 175 different from other scooters? A: The Aprilia SR 175 stands out mainly for its stronger engine and motorcycle-like handling due to its chassis and 14-inch wheels. Q: Is the Aprilia SR 175 suitable for beginners? A: The Aprilia SR 175 can be used by beginners, but its quick throttle response may take some time to get used to. Q: How is the service and maintenance of the Aprilia SR 175 in India? A: The Aprilia SR 175 may have higher maintenance costs and service availability can vary depending on the city. Q: Does the Aprilia SR 175 come with modern features? A: The Aprilia SR 175 includes features like a digital display, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation support, and LED lighting. |
| Fuel System | — | Electronic fuel injection |
| Price Variants | NG04 Drum | 91566 NG04 Drum LED | 104117 NG04 Disc LED | 109852 | GP Replica | 122521 STD | 125626 |
| Pros | Bajaj freedom has dual-fuel setup, allowing the motorcycle to run on both CNG and petrol. This gives riders the flexibility to switch fuels depending on availability and running costs. Running expenses can be significantly lower when using CNG compared to petrol, making the motorcycle attractive for riders who cover long distances every day. The combined riding range is impressive. With both fuel tanks available, the motorcycle can travel long distances before needing refueling. The 125cc engine delivers enough performance for city commuting and everyday transportation while remaining easy to ride for a wide range of users. The long seat is one of the largest in the segment and provides generous space for both rider and pillion. The upright riding posture and comfortable ergonomics make daily commuting less tiring, especially during extended periods in traffic. Suspension tuning focuses on comfort and absorbs potholes, speed breakers, and uneven roads reasonably well. The switch between petrol and CNG is simple and can be done while riding, adding convenience to everyday use. The motorcycle introduces a unique concept to the Indian market while maintaining the familiarity of a conventional commuter bike. | The SR 175 delivers strong and responsive performance, making city commuting and occasional highway bursts lively and fun. It has a sporty, aggressive design that stands out, giving it a premium and performance-focused look compared with regular scooters. Handling feels confident thanks to 14-inch alloy wheels, wide tyres, and firm suspension, making it stable in corners and during quick lane changes. Front disc brake with ABS provides good stopping power and enhances rider confidence in traffic or sudden braking situations. Modern features like a full-colour TFT instrument cluster, LED lighting, and Bluetooth connectivity make the riding experience convenient and contemporary. |
| Starter | Electric only (ISG) | Electric |
| Transmission | 5‑speed (1 Down, 4 Up) | Automatic |
