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Is Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG Bike Safe for Indian Roads?

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Swarnim Saraf
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Is Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG Bike Safe for Indian Roads?
The Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG bike has generated significant buzz as the world’s first motorcycle to run on both petrol and compressed natural gas (CNG). With its innovative dual-fuel technology, the Freedom 125 promises exceptional fuel efficiency and cost savings for Indian riders. However, many potential buyers have questions regarding its safety, reliability, and suitability for Indian roads. This article aims to address these concerns, exploring the bike’s mileage, safety features, and the current state of CNG infrastructure in India, providing a comprehensive overview of what riders can expect from this groundbreaking vehicle.  
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Safety Concerns

Firstly, many users have concerns about the CNG tank’s safety. It’s important to note that every CNG vehicle on Indian roads is working perfectly and without complaints. Bajaj is not a startup but a well-established company with extensive expertise. They have conducted thorough R&D before launching the world’s first CNG bike, ensuring it is safe for Indian conditions. Bajaj has a track record of launching revolutionary products in India that have never failed.
Bajaj uses a CNG tank in Freedom 125 which is approved by (PESO) Petroleum & Explosives Safety Organization, formerly known as the Department of Explosives, has been serving India since its inception on September 5, 1898.
Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG tank

Hydrostatic Testing

Every CNG vehicle, including the Freedom 125, requires mandatory hydrostatic testing once every three years. Hydrostatic testing involves checking the CNG tank for any leaks or weaknesses by filling it with water and applying pressure, ensuring its integrity. The CNG tank in the bike is placed under the seat, and its registration details are mentioned on the chassis where the CNG and fuel are filled. If you need to re-register the CNG tank after hydro testing, it can be easily removed from the bike. The CNG tank is rigorously tested to prevent blasts or leaks, so users only need to ensure hydro testing is done every three years.

Innovative Setup and Safety Tests

Bajaj has utilized a unique setup for its CNG bike, incorporating multiple innovations in the placement of the CNG tank, fitting a sloper engine, and achieving adequate control and balance. To ensure that the Freedom 125 meets user expectations, the bike has undergone rigorous and comprehensive safety testing, including frontal, side, and rear impact tests.  
In one of the frontal collision tests, the bike was subjected to a head-on impact with a 1.5-ton load, simulating an SUV-like weight such as the Jeep Compass. With both the bike and the load moving towards each other at a relative speed of 60 km/h, the Freedom 125’s CNG tank remained in prime condition, with no dents, scratches, or leaks observed. The pressure gauge also stayed in its original position, indicating no CNG leakage.  
Bajaj Freedom 125 Crash Test
Bajaj conducted 11 different types of safety tests with the Freedom 125 before its launch.
The Freedom 125 CNG bike has also passed side impact tests and vertical drop tests, showing no damage or leakage issues. Going a step further, Bajaj even tested the Freedom 125 under the wheels of a 10-ton truck. Despite being completely run over by the truck’s rear wheels, the CNG tank remained intact, with its position unchanged and the pressure gauge indicating no leaks. This comprehensive testing ensures the Freedom 125’s safety and reliability for Indian roads.

Glance at Bajaj Freedom 125

The Freedom 125 comes with an air-cooled 125cc single-cylinder engine that starts directly on CNG, generating 9.5 hp at 8000 RPM and 9.7 Nm at 5000 RPM. It features an integrated 5-speed gearbox with a one-down, four-up shift pattern, similar to other Bajaj bikes like the Pulsar, giving it a sporty feel. Weighing 147 kg, it is quite decent for a CNG bike, and with a ground clearance of 170 mm, it is well-suited for Indian roads. The Freedom 125 boasts the longest seat in its segment, comfortably accommodating up to four skinny people, though Bajaj does not officially promote this due to legal restrictions in India limiting bike passengers to two. It has a fuel tank capacity of 2 kg for CNG and 2 liters for petrol, with a claimed mileage of 102 km per kg on CNG and 65 km per liter on petrol, offering a combined range of over 300 km.  
Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG bike launched
The Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG bike is a remarkable initiative from Bajaj, targeting both middle-class commuters and touring enthusiasts. Its unique dual-fuel technology, combined with a seat height of 825mm and a ground clearance of 170mm, makes it versatile and well-suited for Indian roads. Priced starting from Rs 95,000, the Freedom 125 offers an excellent balance of cost, mileage, and features, resembling an adventure bike’s specs without the dedicated adventure engine. Bajaj’s primary focus on CNG technology ensures great fuel efficiency, making it an ideal choice for daily commuters. However, while the bike promises impressive performance on paper, we await real-life tests to fully validate its capabilities.  
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Is Bajaj CNG bike safe?

Yes, the Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG bike undergoes rigorous safety testing, including frontal, side, and rear impact tests. It has also been tested under extreme conditions, such as being run over by a 10-ton truck, demonstrating its safety and reliability.

 

What is the mileage of Bajaj Freedom?

The Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG bike offers a mileage of 102 km/kg on CNG and 65 km/l on petrol, providing a combined range of over 300 km on both fuels.

Is Bajaj Freedom safe?

The Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG bike is designed with safety in mind. It meets all regulatory safety standards and has passed multiple safety tests, ensuring it is safe for Indian road conditions.

 

What is the risk of a CNG vehicle?

CNG vehicles, including the Bajaj Freedom 125, are generally safe when maintained and used according to manufacturer guidelines. The primary risks involve the handling and storage of CNG, which is highly regulated to prevent accidents. Regular hydrostatic testing of the CNG tank every three years is essential to ensure safety.

 

Can the CNG tank of the Bajaj Freedom 125 be removed for testing?

Yes, the CNG tank of the Bajaj Freedom 125 can be easily removed for mandatory hydrostatic testing, which is required once every three years to check for leaks or weaknesses.

 

How does the dual-fuel technology of the Bajaj Freedom 125 work?

The Bajaj Freedom 125 can run on both CNG and petrol. It features a switch on the handlebar that allows the rider to switch between fuels seamlessly, offering flexibility and cost savings in fuel consumption.

 

What are the maintenance costs associated with the Bajaj Freedom 125?

The maintenance costs of the Bajaj Freedom 125 are comparable to other motorcycles in its segment. Regular servicing intervals and mandatory hydrostatic testing every three years contribute to its maintenance regimen.

 

Does the Bajaj Freedom 125 have Bluetooth connectivity?

Yes, the Bajaj Freedom 125 comes equipped with a monochrome LCD display that supports Bluetooth connectivity. This feature allows riders to connect their smartphones and access additional functionalities.

 

How does the ground clearance of the Bajaj Freedom 125 affect its performance?

With a ground clearance of 170 mm, the Bajaj Freedom 125 is well-suited for navigating Indian roads, including uneven surfaces and speed breakers. This clearance enhances its performance and maneuverability in urban and rural environments alike.

 

Is the Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG bike suitable for long-distance rides?

Yes, the Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG bike, with its dual-fuel capability and impressive mileage, is suitable for long-distance rides. Its comfortable seating, fuel efficiency, and robust design make it a viable option for touring enthusiasts looking to explore various terrains across India.

 

 

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