Quick Analysis
Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG (new)
8.5 pts
Unweighted: 6 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM RC 390
25.5 pts
Unweighted: 18 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air‑cooled | Liquid cooling. Curved radiator with fans for better heat management |
| Displacement | 124.58 cc | 373.27 cc |
| Engine Type | 4‑Stroke, Single Cylinder | Single Cylinder, Liquid Cooled, DOHC, FI Engine |
| Power | 9.5 PS @ 8,000 rpm | 43.5 PS @ 9000 rpm |
| Torque | 9.7 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | 37 Nm @ 7000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2 kg CNG + 2 L Petrol | 13.7 L |
| Mileage | 65 Kmpl | 29 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 147.8 | 172 |
| Seat Height | 825 | 835 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | — | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 240 mm Disc / 130 mm Drum | 320 mm Disc with Radially mounted calliper |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic, Dia 30 Inner, Stroke 125 | WP APEX USD forks, 43 mm diameter |
| Rear Brake | 130 mm Drum / 110 mm Drum | 230 mm Disc with Floating calliper |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshox With Linkages, Stroke 120 | WP APEX Monoshock, 10 step adjustable |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 90/80‑17 Tubeless | 110/70 - 17 |
| Rear Tyre | 120/70-16 Tubeless | 150/60 - 17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | LED Headlamp |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | — | 12 V, 8 AH MF battery |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Blue-2.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GP-Edition-Blue.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Orange.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Red-4.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GP-Edition-Orange.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/WHite-2.avif | — |
| Cluster | Fully Digital LCD with Bluetooth | TFT Multifunction display |
| Color Options | Cyber White | #F2F2EE Racing Red | #B00000 Caribbean Blue | #1E5AA8 Pewter Grey | #6E7378 Ebony Black | #111111 | Orange | #FF5A00 Blue | #1F3F8B GP Edition Blue | #1F3F8B, #FF5A00 GP Edition Orange | #FF5A00, #1F3F8B |
| 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. | Heat Buildup: The single-cylinder engine can produce noticeable heat in heavy traffic or slow-moving city rides. Harsh Ride at Low Speeds: Stiff sport suspension can make daily commuting rough on bumpy or uneven roads. Aggressive Riding Posture: The forward-leaning position can be fatiguing for longer rides or casual commuting. Fuel Efficiency: The bike’s performance comes at a cost — real-world mileage is moderate when ridden aggressively. Maintenance Costs: Premium parts and periodic services (especially for the high-performance components) can be more expensive compared to typical middleweight bikes. Limited Comfort for Pillion: The rear seat is compact and not very comfortable for longer pillion rides. |
| 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 RC 390 is a fully faired motorcycle built around a 373cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. This engine produces close to 43 bhp and around 37 Nm of torque, and it is paired with a six-speed gearbox. The power delivery is spread across the rev range, with noticeable strength in the mid and top end, which becomes useful during highway riding and quick overtakes. The bike uses a ride-by-wire throttle system, which manages throttle input electronically, and it also comes with a slipper clutch that helps reduce sudden rear wheel movement during aggressive downshifts. The motorcycle is based on a steel trellis frame, which is designed to keep the weight low while maintaining structural strength. It is equipped with upside-down front forks from WP and a rear monoshock, both of which are tuned to handle higher speeds and cornering stability. The braking setup includes a large front disc and a rear disc, supported by dual-channel ABS. The ABS system also offers a Supermoto mode, which allows the rear ABS to be disengaged while keeping the front active. The bike rides on 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres. In terms of design, the RC 390 features a fully faired body with a front section that includes a single LED headlamp and integrated indicators. The fairing is shaped to improve airflow around the rider and the engine area. The windscreen is slightly raised to provide some level of wind protection at higher speeds. The seat is split into two sections, with a slightly elevated rear portion, and the fuel tank is shaped to allow the rider to grip it while riding. The overall layout gives the bike a compact and focused appearance. The feature list includes a TFT display that shows information such as speed, gear position, fuel level, and trip data. It also supports smartphone connectivity for basic functions. Other electronic features include traction control, which helps manage wheel spin under acceleration. The bike has a fuel tank capacity of around 13.7 litres, and the kerb weight is approximately 172 kg. The seat height is around 824 mm, which affects how easily riders can place their feet on the ground. The riding position is set up with clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs, which creates a forward-leaning posture. This setup changes how the rider interacts with the bike, especially during longer rides or slow-moving traffic. Overall, the KTM RC 390 combines its engine, chassis, and electronic features into a package that is designed to deliver a certain type of riding experience, defined largely by its specifications and mechanical setup. |
| 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 RC 390 is designed with a strong focus on performance and track-style riding, which is clear from its sharp fully faired design and aggressive riding posture. The low clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs place the rider in a forward-leaning position, offering better control at higher speeds but making slow city rides feel a bit demanding. Its 373cc single-cylinder engine delivers quick and energetic acceleration, especially in the mid and top range, and responds well to throttle inputs during overtakes or highway riding. The six-speed gearbox, along with a slipper clutch, helps in smoother shifts and better control while downshifting. Handling is one of its key strengths, with the bike feeling stable in corners and composed at higher speeds, supported by a lightweight frame and well-tuned suspension. Braking is predictable and confidence-inspiring, with disc brakes and dual-channel ABS adding to safety. It also comes with modern features like a TFT display and ride-by-wire throttle, though the overall setup leans more towards performance than everyday comfort, with a firm seat and committed riding position., 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: What is the engine specification of the KTM RC 390? A: The RC 390 is powered by a 373.27 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine. Q: How much power and torque does KTM RC 390 produce? A: KTM RC 390 generates approximately 43.5 PS at 9,000 rpm and 37 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity and mileage of the RC 390? A: The bike has a 13.7-litre fuel tank. Q: What type of brakes and safety features does the KTM RC 390 come with? A: It features a 320 mm front disc and a 230 mm rear disc, paired with dual-channel ABS and a Supermoto mode for the ABS system. Q: What suspension setup does the RC 390 have? A: It uses WP APEX 43 mm USD forks at the front and a 10-step adjustable WP APEX monoshock at the rear. Q: What is the seat height and kerb weight of the RC 390? A: The seat height is 835 mm and the kerb weight is 172 kg. Q: Does the RC 390 support quick shifting and a slipper clutch? A: Yes, it comes with a slipper and assist clutch to make downshifts smoother and reduce rear-wheel chatter. Q: What electronic rider aids are available on the RC 390? A: The RC 390 offers several aids, including Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC), cornering ABS, and Quickshifter+. Q: What kind of instrument cluster does KTM RC 390 have? A: It features a TFT multifunction display that shows info like speed, rpm, gear position, fuel range, and more. Q: Is the KTM RC 390 suitable for both city riding and weekend rides? A: Yes, it’s designed to be sporty and rider-focused, making it agile enough for city commuting, while its power and handling also make it a capable pick for weekend rides. |
| Fuel System | — | Electronic Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | NG04 Drum | 91566 NG04 Drum LED | 104117 NG04 Disc LED | 109852 | GP Edition | 322719 STD | 323068 |
| 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 for Its Class: With a 373cc single-cylinder engine, the RC 390 delivers blistering performance and is one of the most powerful in its segment. Aggressive Sport Styling: Fully-faired design, sharp lines, and MotoGP-inspired graphics make it visually striking. Premium Components: Equipped with WP suspension, a slipper/assist clutch, and a responsive quickshifter, giving a premium feel at this displacement. Modern Electronics: Features like Traction Control (MTC), cornering ABS, ride-by-wire throttle, and Quickshifter+ boost both safety and performance. Excellent Braking: Strong braking performance using a 320 mm front disc and dual-channel ABS ensures high safety. TFT Instrument Cluster: A full-color display provides essential information and adds a modern touch to the cockpit. Excellent Handling: Lightweight frame and sporty geometry result in agile, confidence-inspiring cornering and performance. |
| Starter | Electric only (ISG) | Self Start Only |
| Transmission | 5‑speed (1 Down, 4 Up) | 6 Speed Manual |
