Quick Analysis
JAWA 42
21.5 pts
Unweighted: 20 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG (new)
14.0 pts
Unweighted: 9 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid Cooled | Air‑cooled |
| Displacement | 294.7 cc | 124.58 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4 Stroke, Liquid Cooled, DOHC | 4‑Stroke, Single Cylinder |
| Power | 27.3 PS | 9.5 PS @ 8,000 rpm |
| Torque | 26.8 Nm | 9.7 Nm @ 5,000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.2 L | 2 kg CNG + 2 L Petrol |
| Mileage | 33 kmpl | 65 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 184 | 147.8 |
| Seat Height | 788 | 825 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | — |
| Front Brake | Disc Front 280 mm, Caliper - Front 2 Piston | 240 mm Disc / 130 mm Drum |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic Forks, Ø 35 mm | Telescopic, Dia 30 Inner, Stroke 125 |
| Rear Brake | Disc Front 240 mm, Caliper - Rear 1Piston | 130 mm Drum / 110 mm Drum |
| Rear Suspension | Twin Shock Absorber, Gas Filled with Adjustable Preload | Monoshox With Linkages, Stroke 120 |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | Alloy/Spokes wheel - 90/90-18, 51P | 90/80‑17 Tubeless |
| Rear Tyre | Alloy/Spokes Wheel - 120/80-17, 61P | 120/70-16 Tubeless |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy/Spokes | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | MF Battery | — |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42voyagerred.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Blue-2.avif |
| Bike Image 10 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42cosmicrockdt.webp | — |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42asteroidgrey.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Grey.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42odysseyblack.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Red-4.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42nebulablue.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/WHite-2.avif |
| Bike Image 5 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42celestialcoppermatte.webp | — |
| Bike Image 6 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42allstarblackmatte.webp | — |
| Bike Image 7 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42celestialcoppermattedt.webp | — |
| Bike Image 8 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42starshipbluedt.webp | — |
| Bike Image 9 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/42infinityblackmattedt.webp | — |
| Cluster | — | Fully Digital LCD with Bluetooth |
| Color Options | Vega White | #F5F5F5 Voyager Red | #8B1E2D Asteroid Grey | #6B6F76 Odyssey Black | #0F0F10 Nebula Blue | #1F3A5F Celestial Copper Matte | #A65E2E Orion Red Matte | #6E1A1F Sirius White Matte | #EDEDED All Star Black Matte | #1C1C1C Cosmic Rock Dual Tone | #5A4A3F Celestial Copper Matte Dual Tone | #B87333 Starship Blue Dual Tone | #2E4A7D Infinity Black Matte Dual Tone | #2B2B2B Cosmic Carbon Dual Tone | #3A3A3A Ivory | #F8F1D4 | Cyber White | #F2F2EE Racing Red | #B00000 Caribbean Blue | #1E5AA8 Pewter Grey | #6E7378 Ebony Black | #111111 |
| Cons | It’s not a performance-focused bike: top-end acceleration and high-speed punch are modest compared to sportier or more powerful motorcycles. If you crave quick bursts or aggressive overtakes, the 42 might feel a bit reserved. At around 180+ kg kerb-weight, it’s not the lightest manoeuvring at very low speeds or parking sometimes feels a bit heavyish for inexperienced riders. While suspension is comfortable and balanced, it doesn’t offer sporty handling or sharp cornering agility. On twisty roads or aggressive riding, the bike doesn’t inspire a sport-bike vibe. For fully-loaded touring (pillions, luggage, rough terrain), the comfort and power are only average: it’s more of a commuter-plus or mild-tourer than a long-distance tourer. Because it aims for balance, it doesn’t shine in any single category. It may leave riders who want either pure vintage simplicity or modern performance wanting more. Tubeless/Alloy wheel + disc-brake setup is good, but tyre size and ground clearance (typical of this class) might limit comfort on severely broken or off-road conditions. Maintenance and running costs, while reasonable for a 300 cc class bike, will still be higher than basic commuter bikes fuel, maintenance, and insurance will be more than a small-capacity commuter. | 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 Jawa 42 is built around a 294cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that produces around 27 bhp and 27 Nm of torque. It uses a 6-speed gearbox, and the power delivery feels focused more on low and mid-range speeds rather than high-speed riding. The engine is paired with a fuel injection system, which helps in smoother throttle response during regular use. The bike also comes with a double cradle frame, which forms the base of its structure and supports its overall balance on the road. In terms of dimensions, the bike has a seat height of around 788 mm, which makes it accessible for a wide range of riders. The kerb weight is close to 182 kg, depending on the variant, and the fuel tank capacity stands at 13.2 litres. These numbers place it in line with other motorcycles in the same category. The riding position is set up with a slightly forward-leaning handlebar and mid-set foot pegs, which creates a neutral stance for both city rides and occasional longer trips. The suspension setup includes telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear. This setup is quite common in this segment and is tuned to handle everyday road conditions. The bike rides on either spoke wheels with tube tyres or alloy wheels with tubeless tyres, depending on the variant chosen. Wheel size remains consistent, with a 18-inch front and 17-inch rear combination, which affects the way the bike handles uneven roads and corners. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on both ends. The front gets a 280 mm disc, while the rear has a 240 mm disc. The bike is available in both single-channel and dual-channel ABS options, again depending on the variant. This gives buyers a choice based on their budget and requirement. The braking setup is designed to offer controlled stopping without being overly sharp or aggressive. On the feature side, the Jawa 42 keeps things simple. It uses a single-pod instrument cluster that shows basic information like speed, fuel level and other essential indicators. Lighting is mostly halogen-based, though some variants may include LED elements for the tail lamp. The overall feature list is not very extensive, and the focus remains on core riding functions rather than added technology. The bike is available in multiple colour options, including both single-tone and dual-tone finishes. Some colours are limited to higher variants that come with alloy wheels and dual-channel ABS, while simpler colours are offered with spoke wheels and single-channel ABS. This variation in colours and variants also affects the overall pricing and positioning of the bike within its segment. | 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 Jawa 42 carries a design that draws from older Jawa motorcycles, but the finish and small details give it a slightly updated feel without changing the overall character. The riding position is upright and comfortable for daily use, with an easy seat height, though the seat can feel firm after longer rides. Its 294cc liquid-cooled engine responds quickly at low speeds, making city riding smooth, but it starts to feel a bit stressed when pushed harder on open roads. The gearbox works well most of the time, although mild vibrations can be noticed at higher revs. Handling is simple and predictable, with stable straight-line behaviour, while the suspension feels slightly stiff over rough patches. Braking setup varies across variants, and while it does the job, the feel at the lever is something riders may take time to get used to., 3.8, 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) | Q1. Is the Jawa 42 good for daily commuting? Yes, the Jawa 42 works very well as a daily ride. Its engine is smooth in the low and mid-range, the riding posture is comfortable, and the bike feels easy to handle in traffic once it’s moving. The 6-speed gearbox also helps during mixed city and highway use. Q2. What is the real-world mileage of the Jawa 42? In normal riding conditions, most owners get somewhere around 30–35 km/l. Mileage can vary based on traffic, riding style, and how often you ride in lower gears. Q3. Can the Jawa 42 handle long highway rides? Absolutely. The bike maintains a relaxed rhythm at cruising speeds, and the liquid-cooled engine stays stable on longer stretches. The seat and riding triangle are designed to reduce fatigue, making weekend trips and short tours comfortable. Q4. Is the engine reliable for long-term use? The 294.7 cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine is built to be durable and refined. With regular maintenance and quality engine oil, the bike holds up well over the years and remains smooth even with daily use. Q5. How is the suspension comfort on bad roads? The suspension tuning leans toward comfort. The front forks and adjustable rear shocks absorb bumps reasonably well, making the bike suitable for broken city roads and uneven surfaces. Q6. Does the Jawa 42 vibrate at high speeds? The bike handles vibrations better than many retro-styled motorcycles. Mild buzz may appear at very high speeds, but cruising at moderate highway speeds remains smooth and manageable. Q7. Is the seat height suitable for shorter riders? Yes, the seat height is around 788 mm, which most riders can comfortably manage. Even shorter riders usually find it easy to place their feet on the ground. Q8. How are the brakes on the Jawa 42? With disc brakes at both ends and ABS, braking performance is confident and predictable. It offers good stopping power and remains stable even during sudden braking. Q9. Is the Jawa 42 heavy to manage? The weight feels slightly noticeable when pushing it while parked, but once moving, the bike becomes easy to maneuver. Its balance and geometry help it feel lighter than it actually is. Q10. What is the service cost like? Service costs are generally moderate for a 300 cc bike. Routine maintenance, oil changes, and consumables stay within a reasonable range, though prices can vary slightly between dealerships. Q11. Is the Jawa 42 suitable for beginners? Yes, it can be a good choice for new riders. The power delivery is smooth, the handling is friendly, and it doesn’t intimidate you with sudden acceleration. It’s a comfortable, approachable motorcycle for learning and improving skills. Q12. Does the Jawa 42 have tubeless tyres? Yes, the alloy wheel variants come with tubeless tyres, which is a major advantage for daily riders as they make puncture handling much easier. Q13. What is the fuel tank capacity? The bike carries a 13.2-litre tank, giving a comfortable riding range for both city commutes and weekend rides. Q14. What makes the Jawa 42 different from other retro bikes? It stands out for blending classic looks with a smoother, more modern engine feel. The liquid-cooled DOHC engine, 6-speed gearbox, and better high-speed refinement give it a more contemporary riding character while still keeping the vintage charm. | 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 | Vega White Single Channel Spoke | 159431 Voyager Red Single Channel Spoke | 161275 Aestroid Grey Single Channel Spoke | 161275 Odysse Black Single Channel Spoke | 161275 Vega White Dual Channel Spoke | 168650 Asteroid Grey Dual channel ABS Spoke wheels | 170493 Odyssey Black Dual channel ABS Spoke wheels | 170493 Voyager Red Dual channel ABS Spoke wheels | 184942 Ivory | 184950 Sirius White Matte Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels | 189142 Cosmic Rock Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels Dual Tone | 192942 Celestial Copper Matte Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels | 195142 Nebula Blue Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels | 195142 Starship Blue Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels Dual Tone | 195142 Celestial Copper Matte Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels Dual Tone | 195142 All Star Black Matte Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels | 198142 Infinity Black Matte Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels Dual Tone | 198142 Cosmic Carbon Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels | 198142 Orion Red Matte Dual channel ABS Alloy wheels | 198142 | NG04 Drum | 91566 NG04 Drum LED | 104117 NG04 Disc LED | 109852 |
| Pros | The 294.7 cc liquid-cooled, DOHC engine delivers smooth, usable power. It’s strong enough for city traffic and highway cruising without being overly aggressive ideal for a daily ride or a relaxed weekend cruise. The 6-speed gearbox is a big plus: it helps keep the engine relaxed at higher speeds and offers flexibility for tight city riding, which makes the bike versatile whether you’re commuting or touring. Suspension and chassis setup balance comfort and stability nicely. The telescopic front forks and adjustable twin rear shocks soak up urban bumps and rough roads reasonably well, yet the bike remains composed on smoother roads. Handling and ergonomics suit a wide range of riders. Seat height and geometry keep the bike manageable in traffic or tight spots; once moving, the weight feels stable but not cumbersome. Disc brakes (front and rear) with ABS give reliable stopping power and good braking confidence good for unpredictable traffic or sudden stops. The 13-litre fuel tank and respectable real-world mileage make it practical for daily use without frequent fuel stops. Blend of retro styling and modern engineering: it gives the classic-bike look and relaxed feel but with contemporary performance, maintenance comfort, and features like alloy wheels and tubeless tyres. Comfortable riding posture makes it suitable for both short commutes and longer rides; it's not tiring or too aggressive, which broadens the use-case beyond just city or weekend use. | 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 | Self Start Only | Electric only (ISG) |
| Transmission | 6-Speed | 5‑speed (1 Down, 4 Up) |
