Quick Analysis
Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG (new)
9.0 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 890 ADVENTURE R
23.5 pts
Unweighted: 17 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air‑cooled | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 124.58 cc | 889 cc |
| Engine Type | 4‑Stroke, Single Cylinder | 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, parallel twin |
| Power | 9.5 PS @ 8,000 rpm | 104.6 PS @ 8000 rpm |
| Torque | 9.7 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | 100 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2 kg CNG + 2 L Petrol | 20 L |
| Mileage | 65 Kmpl | 22.2 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 147.8 | 215 |
| Seat Height | 825 | 880 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | — | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | 240 mm Disc / 130 mm Drum | Disc 320 mm |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic, Dia 30 Inner, Stroke 125 | WP XPLOR-USD, Ø 48 mm |
| Rear Brake | 130 mm Drum / 110 mm Drum | Disc 260 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshox With Linkages, Stroke 120 | WP Xplor PDS shock absorber |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 90/80‑17 Tubeless | 90/90 - 21 |
| Rear Tyre | 120/70-16 Tubeless | 150/70 - 18 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Spoke |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | — | 12V / 10AH |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Blue-2.avif | — |
| 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 | — |
| Color Options | Cyber White | #F2F2EE Racing Red | #B00000 Caribbean Blue | #1E5AA8 Pewter Grey | #6E7378 Ebony Black | #111111 | Orange | #FF6600 |
| 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. | High Seat Height: With a tall seat (~880 mm), the bike can be challenging for shorter riders to manage, especially off-road. Wind Buffeting / Aerodynamics Issues: Some riders report significant wind turbulence and buffeting due to the screen design. Complex Electronics Overload: With so many electronic systems, new riders may be overwhelmed, and there may be occasional software glitches. Reddit users report issues like random throttle shut-offs. Reliability Concerns: There are reported cases of camshaft issues, throttle body problems, and other mechanical issues on the 890 platform. Maintenance Cost: As a premium mid-weight adventure bike, maintenance (especially for suspension, electronics, and engine) can be expensive. Limited Wind Protection: The stock screen offers minimal protection compared to more road-biased adventure bikes, making high-speed touring less comfortable. Weight: Though relatively light for its capabilities, it's still on the heavier side for serious off-road maneuvering, which some may find limiting. |
| 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 KTM 890 Adventure R is a middleweight adventure bike designed mainly for riding on rough roads and off-road terrain, while still being capable on highways. It comes with an 889cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine that produces a little over 100 PS of power and around 100 Nm of torque. The engine feels smooth for its size and has enough strength for both slow trail riding and faster highway cruising. It is paired with a 6-speed gearbox, and the bike also gets a slipper clutch, which helps during downshifts and makes riding a bit easier in tricky conditions. The bike is built on a steel trellis frame, which is designed to keep the weight balanced. One of the key parts of this bike is its suspension setup. It gets fully adjustable WP XPLOR suspension with long travel, which helps in handling bumps, rocks, and uneven surfaces. Because of this, the bike can absorb rough patches quite well, but on smooth roads, the suspension can feel a bit soft or bouncy depending on the setup. The ground clearance is high, which is useful when riding off-road. For braking, the KTM 890 Adventure R comes with disc brakes at both ends along with dual-channel ABS. It also has an off-road ABS mode, which allows some wheel slip at the rear for better control on loose surfaces. The bike rides on a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel, which is a common setup for off-road focused motorcycles. These larger wheels help in rolling over obstacles more easily compared to smaller wheels. The design of the bike is quite different from regular motorcycles, especially because of its low-slung fuel tank. The fuel tank has a capacity of around 20 litres, and its shape helps in keeping the weight lower, which improves balance while riding. The seat height is around 880 mm, which is quite tall, and this can make it difficult for shorter riders to manage, especially when stopping or riding slowly. The riding position is upright, and the handlebar is wide, giving the rider better control, especially when standing and riding off-road. In terms of features, the bike comes with a TFT display that shows important information like speed, fuel level, trip details, and riding modes. It also includes electronic aids like traction control, multiple riding modes, and cornering ABS, which can be adjusted based on riding conditions. The bike also has ride-by-wire throttle, which helps in managing power delivery more smoothly. Overall, the KTM 890 Adventure R is built in a way that focuses on handling rough terrain, supported by its engine performance, suspension setup, and overall design. |
| 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 KTM 890 Adventure R is built mainly for off-road riding, and that is clear in the way it feels on different surfaces. It uses an 889cc parallel-twin engine that delivers strong and smooth power, especially when riding on open trails or highways. The suspension has long travel and feels soft enough to absorb bumps and rough patches, which helps when riding on dirt or broken roads. The riding position is upright and allows the rider to stand easily, which is useful off-road, but the tall seat height can make it a bit difficult for shorter riders. On highways, it stays stable, though wind protection is not as much as touring-focused bikes. It also comes with electronic features like ride modes, traction control, and ABS settings that can be adjusted based on riding conditions, but it may take some time to understand all the options., 4.2, 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: Is the KTM 890 Adventure R good for beginners? A: Not really. It is a powerful bike (around 100+ PS) and feels tall and heavy, so beginners may find it difficult to handle, especially off-road. Q: What is the real mileage of KTM 890 Adventure R? A: In normal riding, users can expect around 18–22 km/l, depending on riding style and terrain. Q: Is KTM 890 Adventure R comfortable for long rides? A: Yes, the upright position and seat help in long rides, but wind protection is average compared to touring-focused bikes. Q: Can KTM 890 Adventure R be used for daily city riding? A: It can be used, but the weight (around 215 kg) and height make it less convenient in traffic. Q: What is the seat height of KTM 890 Adventure R? Is it suitable for short riders? A: The seat height is quite tall (around 880 mm), so shorter riders may find it difficult to manage, especially at low speeds. Q: How good is KTM 890 Adventure R for off-road riding? A: This is one of its main strengths. The long suspension travel, 21-inch front wheel, and off-road electronics make it suitable for rough terrain. Q: Does KTM 890 Adventure R have ABS and riding modes? A: Yes, it comes with dual-channel ABS and multiple ride modes, which can be adjusted based on road or off-road conditions. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of KTM 890 Adventure R? A: It has a 20-litre fuel tank, which is useful for long-distance touring. Q: Is maintenance expensive? A: Yes, compared to smaller bikes, service and parts can be expensive, especially for a premium ADV bike. Q: What are common issues owners talk about? A: Some users mention things like electrical issues, starting problems, or parts availability delays, though this can vary by usage and maintenance. Q: What is the top speed of the KTM 890 Adventure R? A: It can reach around 200–210 km/h, though it is not meant for top-speed riding |
| Fuel System | — | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | NG04 Drum | 91566 NG04 Drum LED | 104117 NG04 Disc LED | 109852 | STD | 1580000 |
| 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. | High Power & Torque: The 889cc parallel-twin engine provides a strong, torquey character that works very well on and off road. Advanced Electronics: Features like multiple ride modes (Rally, Off-road, Street, Rain), cornering ABS, MTC traction control, and Quickshifter+ make the bike very versatile and safe. Capable Off-Road Performance: With long-travel WP XPLOR 48 mm USD forks and a high ground clearance (263 mm), the R is tuned for serious off-road riding. Excellent Suspension: The suspension is fully adjustable, offering great control whether you're on rugged trails or cruising highways. Good Fuel Efficiency for Touring: Owners report good fuel consumption (around 4.4 L/100km in some tests), which makes it practical for long-distance rides. Strong Build Quality: The steel frame, durable engine design, and rugged components make it reliable for adventure applications. Rally-Ready Ergonomics: Features like rally pegs, skid plate, and a 5-inch TFT display with GPS make it a true adventure machine out of the box. |
| Starter | Electric only (ISG) | Electric starter |
| Transmission | 5‑speed (1 Down, 4 Up) | 6 Speed Manual |
