Quick Analysis
BMW M 1000 RR
25.0 pts
Unweighted: 17 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG (new)
11.0 pts
Unweighted: 11 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | Air‑cooled |
| Displacement | 999 cc | 124.58 cc |
| Engine Type | 4-cylinder, four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder | 4‑Stroke, Single Cylinder |
| Power | 212 hp at 14,500 rpm | 9.5 PS @ 8,000 rpm |
| Torque | 113 Nm at 11,000 rpm | 9.7 Nm @ 5,000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 16.5 L | 2 kg CNG + 2 L Petrol |
| Mileage | 15.3 kmpl | 65 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 192 | 147.8 |
| Seat Height | 832 | 825 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | — |
| Front Brake | Disc 320 mm Caliper - Front 4 Piston | 240 mm Disc / 130 mm Drum |
| Front Suspension | Upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 45 mm | Telescopic, Dia 30 Inner, Stroke 125 |
| Rear Brake | Disc 220 mm Caliper - Rear 2 Piston | 130 mm Drum / 110 mm Drum |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock, Full Floater Pro, 117mm Travel, Fully Adjustable | Monoshox With Linkages, Stroke 120 |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 120/70 - ZR17 | 90/80‑17 Tubeless |
| Rear Tyre | 200/55 - ZR17 | 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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| Battery | 12 V / 5 Ah, Lithium-ion | — |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot_2026-03-19_190742-removebg-preview.png | 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 | Light white | #F4F4F4, #16588E Blackstorm Metallic | #121212, #16588E | Cyber White | #F2F2EE Racing Red | #B00000 Caribbean Blue | #1E5AA8 Pewter Grey | #6E7378 Ebony Black | #111111 |
| Cons | Extremely high ownership costs Poor real-world fuel efficiency Aggressive, tiring ergonomics Complex, dealer-dependent electronics Steep maintenance and servicing costs | 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. |
| Detailed Overview | The BMW M 1000 RR is built around a 999cc water and oil-cooled inline four-cylinder four-stroke engine, sharing its basic architecture with the S 1000 RR but with meaningful internal differences. The cylinder heads are revised with larger 52mm throttle bodies, and the ShiftCam variable intake camshaft system is carried over. The result is 212 hp at 14,500 rpm and 113 Nm of torque at 11,000 rpm, delivered through a six-speed gearbox with a slip-and-assist clutch and a bidirectional quickshifter as standard. Fuel is fed via electronic injection with a variable intake pipe, requiring a minimum of 98 RON premium unleaded petrol. The chassis is a bridge-type cast aluminium frame with the engine serving as a structural element, wrapped around M Carbon wheels, a notable distinction from the standard S 1000 RR’s cast aluminium units. These carbon wheels contribute to the bike’s 192 kg kerb weight, one of the lowest figures in its class. Suspension is handled by a fully adjustable 45mm upside-down fork at the front with 120mm of travel, and a fully adjustable monoshock at the rear with 117mm of travel. Braking is taken care of by twin 320mm discs at the front with four-piston fixed calipers, and a single 220mm disc at the rear with a two-piston fixed caliper, supported by Race ABS Pro as standard. The bike rolls on 120/70 ZR17 front and 200/55 ZR17 rear tubeless radial tyres. Seat height is 832mm with a 16.5-litre fuel tank. The electrical system uses BMW’s M Lightweight lithium-ion battery at 12V / 5Ah, paired with a 450W alternator. The instrument cluster is a 6.5-inch TFT display with full LED lighting and electric start. Electronics include the full Riding Modes Pro suite with Launch Control, Wheelie Control, Pit Lane Limiter, Brake Slide Assist, Slide Control, and a steering angle sensor. The Competition variant adds the M GPS Laptrigger with data logging capability, a lighter anodised swingarm, DLC-coated M Endurance chain, and M milled parts. In India, it was offered in two variants, Standard at ₹49 lakh and Competition at ₹55 lakh ex-showroom, both now discontinued. | 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. |
| Expert Review | The M 1000 RR is BMW Motorrad's most extreme road-legal offering, extracting 212 hp from a revised version of the familiar 999cc ShiftCam inline-four. The M Carbon wheels and 192 kg kerb weight give it a noticeably sharp, responsive character, and the Race ABS Pro electronics suite functions cohesively at pace. On track, it is difficult to fault. In India however, the fully committed riding position, heat buildup in traffic, and the bike's narrow performance window make everyday use genuinely demanding. At ₹49–55 lakh ex-showroom, ownership costs, limited trained technicians, and growing parts availability concerns add further weight to the ownership equation., 3.9, MotoAutiv Team | 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 |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: Is the BMW M 1000 RR still available to buy in India? A: No. The M 1000 RR has been discontinued by BMW Motorrad and is no longer available through authorized dealerships in India. It can only be found through the used motorcycle market. Q: What is the difference between the Standard and Competition variant? A: Both share the same engine and core hardware. The Competition variant adds the M GPS Laptrigger with data logging software, a lighter anodised swingarm, DLC-coated M Endurance chain, M milled parts package, and M Carbon components, all oriented toward track use. Q: How practical is it for daily use in Indian cities? A: Very limited. The fully committed riding position, significant heat buildup in traffic, 832mm seat height, and track-tuned suspension make city commuting physically demanding and uncomfortable, especially in Indian summer conditions. Q: How does it differ from the standard S 1000 RR? A: The M 1000 RR gets revised cylinder heads with larger 52mm throttle bodies, M Carbon wheels, carbon fibre aerodynamic winglets generating significantly more downforce, M-spec brakes, a lighter overall package, and 2 additional hp, all developed specifically for homologation racing purposes. | 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. |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection | — |
| Price Variants | Standard | 4900000 Competition | 5500000 | NG04 Drum | 91566 NG04 Drum LED | 104117 NG04 Disc LED | 109852 |
| Pros | Monstrous, thrilling engine performance Comprehensive, race-grade electronics suite Lightweight, razor-sharp handling Powerful, fade-free braking Premium carbon-fibre build quality Highly adjustable suspension and ergonomics | 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. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric only (ISG) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 5‑speed (1 Down, 4 Up) |
