Quick Analysis
Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG (new)
5.5 pts
Unweighted: 6 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
SUZUKI V-STROM SX
26.0 pts
Unweighted: 19 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air‑cooled | Oil Cooled |
| Displacement | 124.58 cc | 249 cc |
| Engine Type | 4‑Stroke, Single Cylinder | 4-stroke, Single-cylinder, oil-cooled, SOHC |
| Power | 9.5 PS @ 8,000 rpm | 26.5ps @ 9300rpm |
| Torque | 9.7 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | 22.2 Nm @ 7300 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2 kg CNG + 2 L Petrol | 12 litres |
| Mileage | 65 Kmpl | 32 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 147.8 | 167 |
| Seat Height | 825 | 835 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | — | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 240 mm Disc / 130 mm Drum | Disc 300 mm Caliper - Front 2 Piston |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic, Dia 30 Inner, Stroke 125 | Telescopic, coil spring, oil damped |
| Rear Brake | 130 mm Drum / 110 mm Drum | Disc 220 mm Caliper - Rear 1 Piston |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshox With Linkages, Stroke 120 | Swing arm type, coil spring, oil damped |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 90/80‑17 Tubeless | 100/90 - 19 |
| Rear Tyre | 120/70-16 Tubeless | 140/70 - 17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | — | Maintenance Free, 12V 6AH |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Blue-2.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Red.jpeg |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Sparkle-Black.jpeg |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Red-4.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Yellow-No.2.jpeg |
| Bike Image 4 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/WHite-2.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Yvb-Sparkle-Black.jpeg |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Yww-Pearl-White.jpeg |
| Bike Image 6 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Yu1-Yellow.jpeg |
| Cluster | Fully Digital LCD with Bluetooth | — |
| Color Options | Cyber White | #F2F2EE Racing Red | #B00000 Caribbean Blue | #1E5AA8 Pewter Grey | #6E7378 Ebony Black | #111111 | Champion blue | #1F4FA3 Champion yellow no2 | #F5C400, #0D0D0F Glass sparkle black | #0A0A0A Metallic sonoma red qsb | #7A1F1F Yu1 champion yellow no2 | #F5C400 Yvb glass sparkle black | #0D0D0F Yww pearl glacier white | #F2F2F2 |
| 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. | Seat height of 835 mm may be challenging for shorter riders. Fuel tank capacity of 12 litres could feel small for long-distance touring. Not designed for hardcore off-roading; more suited for mild trails. Wind protection is average at higher speeds. Rear tyre could have been slightly wider for stronger high-speed confidence. Engine feels a bit stressed above 100 km/h during continuous cruising. |
| 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 Suzuki V-Strom SX is built around a 249cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine that produces around 26.5 PS of power and 22.2 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox and fuel injection system, which helps in delivering power in a smooth and controlled manner. Instead of feeling very aggressive, the engine is tuned to be easy to use, especially in daily riding conditions. Whether you are riding in the city or cruising on highways, the power delivery stays predictable and manageable. The bike uses a steel frame and comes with telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock with adjustable preload. The suspension setup offers around 120 mm travel at the front, which is enough for handling regular roads, speed breakers, and mild rough patches. It is not designed for extreme off-roading, but it can manage uneven surfaces without too much trouble. The braking setup includes disc brakes at both ends along with dual-channel ABS, which helps in maintaining control during sudden braking. One of the key highlights of the V-Strom SX is its wheel setup. It gets a 19-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel, both with tubeless tyres. This combination helps in maintaining stability on highways while also giving some confidence on broken roads. The ground clearance of 205 mm allows the bike to pass over bad roads and obstacles more easily, which is useful in Indian conditions. In terms of dimensions, the bike has a kerb weight of around 167 kg and a seat height of 835 mm. The weight is relatively manageable, but the seat height makes the bike feel slightly tall, especially for shorter riders. The fuel tank capacity is 12 litres, which is average for this segment, so it offers a decent range but may require fuel stops on longer rides. The design of the V-Strom SX is inspired by larger adventure bikes, with elements like a front beak, tall windscreen, and upright stance. These are not just for looks, as the windscreen helps reduce wind pressure while riding at higher speeds. The bike also gets LED headlights and tail lights, which improve visibility. On the feature side, it comes with a fully digital instrument cluster that supports Bluetooth connectivity through Suzuki Ride Connect. This allows basic functions like navigation alerts, call notifications, and ride information. There is also a USB charging port, which is useful for charging devices during rides. Overall, the V-Strom SX brings together a mix of simple engineering and practical features, with specifications that focus more on everyday usability and light touring rather than extreme performance or heavy off-road capability. |
| 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 Suzuki V-Strom SX fits into the Indian market as a touring-focused motorcycle rather than a hardcore adventure bike, which becomes clear once you start riding it. Its 249cc engine feels smooth and predictable, making it easy to manage in daily use as well as on highways, though it doesn’t feel particularly strong when pushed hard. The riding position is upright and comfortable, which works well for long rides, but the bike is more road-biased than its design suggests. Suspension handles regular roads decently, but rough patches and off-road sections expose its limitations. Being lightweight compared to bigger ADVs helps in city traffic, though it still feels slightly tall for shorter riders. Overall, it sits in a space where it balances everyday usability with light touring ability without fully leaning into serious off-road performance., 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 mileage? A: The mileage is around 35–40 kmpl in real-world riding. Q: Is the Suzuki V-Strom SX good for long rides? A: Yes, it’s very comfortable for touring thanks to its upright posture, smooth engine, and stable highway manners. Q: Can beginners ride Suzuki V-Strom SX bike easily? A: Yes, the power delivery is friendly, and the handling is light, making it suitable for new riders. Q: What is the seat height of Suzuki V-Strom SX? A: The seat height is 835 mm. Q: Does Suzuki V-Strom SX come with ABS? A: Yes, the bike is equipped with dual-channel ABS. Q: How does the suspension perform on bad roads? A: Suzuki V-Strom SX handles rough roads well due to long-travel suspension and 205 mm ground clearance. Q: What tyres does the V-Strom SX use? A: It has a 100/90-19 front tyre and a 140/70-17 rear tyre. Q: Does Suzuki V-Strom SX have Bluetooth features? A: Yes, the digital console supports Bluetooth connectivity, including call alerts and navigation prompts. Q: What is the ground clearance of Suzuki V-Strom SX? A: The ground clearance is 205 mm. Q: Is the bike comfortable for a pillion? A: Yes, the seat is wide and supportive, making pillion rides comfortable. Q: How big is the fuel tank of Suzuki V-Strom SX? A: The fuel tank capacity is 12 litres. Q: Does the engine heat up in traffic? A: No, the oil-cooled engine manages heat well and stays stable even in slow-moving traffic. Q: Is luggage mounting easy? A: Yes, panniers and top boxes can be mounted easily due to the strong rear subframe design. Q: What is the kerb weight of Suzuki V-Strom SX? A: The bike weighs 167 kg. Q: Is it suitable for off-roading? A: Light off-roading and rough patches are fine, but it’s not designed for hardcore off-road trails. |
| Fuel System | — | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | NG04 Drum | 91566 NG04 Drum LED | 104117 NG04 Disc LED | 109852 | STD | 198018 |
| 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. | Smooth and refined 249cc engine that’s great for both city and highway use. Very comfortable riding posture, ideal for long rides and daily commuting. Light and easy to handle despite the ADV stance. High 205 mm ground clearance makes bad roads easy to tackle. Dual-channel ABS adds strong safety during sudden braking. Long-travel suspension offers a plush ride over potholes and uneven surfaces. Bluetooth-enabled digital console with navigation alerts and phone notifications. Good stability thanks to 19-inch front wheel and well-balanced chassis. Easy to mount luggage for touring; strong rear subframe. Reliable, low-maintenance engine with proven Suzuki durability. |
| Starter | Electric only (ISG) | Electronic ignition |
| Transmission | 5‑speed (1 Down, 4 Up) | 6 Speed Manual |
