Bajaj Freedom 125 NG04: A Bold Leap or a Calculated Risk?
Bajaj, a name synonymous with innovation in the Indian two-wheeler market, introduced a paradigm shift in July 2024 with the world’s first dual-fuel CNG motorcycle, the Freedom 125 NG04. This pioneering machine was positioned as a game-changer, promising the unprecedented convenience of dual-fuel (CNG + petrol) alongside remarkable fuel cost savings, potentially up to 50%.
To invigorate sales, Bajaj has now strategically reduced the price of the base variant. The question on many minds: will this be a triumphant acceleration or a modest adjustment in its market trajectory?
Pricing Strategy: Unlocking Accessibility for the Base Variant
The ‘NG04 Drum’ base variant now enjoys a significant discount of Rs 5,000. Its price has moved from Rs 90,976 to a more accessible Rs 85,976. This adjustment aims to broaden its appeal, inviting a wider segment of buyers to experience dual-fuel technology. Importantly, this price revision applies solely to the base model; the mid and top variants maintain their original pricing at Rs 95,981 and Rs 1,10,976, respectively. This differentiated pricing strategy indicates a clear focus on boosting entry-level adoption.

The Freedom 125: A Closer Look at its Core
At its heart, the Bajaj Freedom 125 features a 125cc engine, generating 9.5 PS of power and 9.7 Nm of peak torque. This power output ensures a capable ride for daily commutes and urban maneuvering.
Variant-specific features illustrate the tiered offering. The base variant, the NG04 Drum, incorporates a traditional halogen headlamp, a practical choice for its price point. In contrast, the more premium variants boast modern LED headlamps, enhancing visibility and adding a contemporary aesthetic. Wheel and tire specifications also vary; the base model employs 17-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels with 80/90 front and 80/100 rear tires. The mid and top variants elevate this with 90/80 front and 120/70 rear tires, providing improved grip and road presence.
Braking systems see a progression across the variants. The base model features 130 mm drum brakes at both the front and rear. The mid variant, the NG04 Drum LED, upgrades to 130 mm drum brakes at both ends. The top-tier NG04 Disc LED offers superior stopping power with a 240 mm disc brake at the front and a 130 mm drum brake at the rear. All variants are equipped with a Combined Braking System (CBS), contributing to rider safety.
Beyond mechanicals, connectivity and build materials also distinguish the variants. The base and mid variants feature a straightforward LCD display without connectivity options. The top variant, however, stands out with an inverted full LCD display that includes connectivity features. Furthermore, the base variant employs a sheet metal belly pan, a robust yet basic solution, while the mid and top variants utilize a more refined plastic and steel metal belly pan. The tank cover flap, a small but significant comfort feature, is also absent in the base variant, present only in the mid and top trims.
Market Performance: A Unique Journey
Since its launch, the Bajaj Freedom has recorded total sales of 76,760 units over eleven months, averaging approximately 6,978 units per month. As the sole dual-fuel bike in the country, it commands a distinctive first-mover advantage. This unique proposition has generated considerable interest among potential buyers and enthusiasts. Notably, during the festive season of 2024, sales of the Bajaj Freedom CNG peaked impressively at 30,051 units in October.
However, monthly sales have experienced a relative slowdown in 2025. Multiple factors contribute to this trend. A primary influence relates to the availability of CNG fuel stations. Data clearly indicates that approximately 60% of Bajaj Freedom CNG sales originate from states with a high density of CNG infrastructure, such as Delhi, Maharashtra, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat. This highlights the critical role of supporting infrastructure in driving adoption.
Another significant challenge emerges from the phenomenal growth of low-cost electric scooters. These electric alternatives offer not only a lower initial purchase price but also a substantially reduced cost per kilometer. The continuous improvement in charging infrastructure further encourages a shift towards electric vehicles.
Bajaj itself has witnessed tremendous success in this segment with the Chetak electric scooter, which has emerged as the second best-selling electric scooter in the country. In May 2025, the Chetak recorded sales of 25,540 units, capturing a 4.65% market share. This internal competition within Bajaj’s portfolio underscores the dynamic nature of the two-wheeler market.
Competitive Landscape: Paving its Own Path
The Bajaj Freedom 125 NG04 operates in a unique segment with no direct dual-fuel motorcycle competitors in India. Its competition, therefore, primarily comprises:
- Conventional 125cc Petrol Motorcycles: Established players like the Hero Glamour, Honda SP 125, and TVS Raider offer strong alternatives. Their widespread service networks and the universal availability of petrol represent significant advantages.
- Electric Two-Wheelers: The rapidly expanding electric scooter market, spearheaded by players such as Ola Electric, TVS iQube, and Ather Energy, presents a formidable challenge. These vehicles boast very low running costs and a growing appeal among environmentally conscious consumers. However, their limitations still include range and charging time.
Perceived Strengths and Areas for Growth
Based on its unique proposition and market reception, the Bajaj Freedom 125 NG04 exhibits several compelling strengths:
- Exceptional Fuel Economy: The primary allure remains the substantial reduction in running costs due to CNG, a critical factor for price-sensitive Indian consumers.
- First-to-Market Advantage: Its pioneering status in the dual-fuel motorcycle segment confers a distinct competitive edge, allowing it to capture early adopters.
- Environmental Benefits: Reduced emissions from CNG combustion appeal to a growing segment of environmentally aware buyers.
- Bajaj’s Brand Reliability: The trusted Bajaj brand name instills confidence in the product’s durability and after-sales support.
- Enhanced Accessibility (Base Variant): The recent price cut makes the innovative dual-fuel technology more attainable for a broader customer base.
Conversely, areas where the Freedom 125 NG04 faces challenges include:
- CNG Infrastructure Dependence: The availability of CNG filling stations remains a crucial determinant of its market success, limiting its appeal in regions with sparse infrastructure.
- Potential Performance Perceptions: While capable, some riders may perceive a subtle difference in performance or feel between CNG and petrol modes.
- Feature Disparity in Base Model: The absence of LED lighting, digital connectivity, and premium aesthetic elements in the base variant could be a consideration for some buyers seeking a more modern feature set.
- Rising EV Competition: The rapid growth and increasing affordability of electric scooters pose a significant long-term threat to traditional and alternate-fuel two-wheelers.
The Road Ahead: A Test of Strategy
The recent price reduction for the Bajaj Freedom CNG base variant represents a calculated strategic maneuver. It aims to capitalize on its unique dual-fuel proposition by making it more financially attractive. The success of this move will hinge on several factors: the continued expansion of CNG infrastructure across India, Bajaj’s ability to effectively communicate the long-term cost benefits, and its agility in navigating the burgeoning electric vehicle market.
While the Freedom 125 has carved a unique niche, its long-term trajectory will depend on how effectively it addresses infrastructure challenges and the evolving preferences of Indian two-wheeler consumers. The market awaits to see if this price adjustment propels the Freedom 125 to new sales heights.
Sources
1. Bajaj Freedom 125 NG04 Product Information & Specifications:
- Bajaj Auto Official Website – Freedom 125 NG04: https://www.bajajauto.com/bikes/bajaj-freedom/bajaj-freedom-125-ng04
- BikeWale – Bajaj CNG Bike | Bajaj Freedom Price & Images: https://www.bikewale.com/bajaj-bikes/cng-freedom-125/
- BikeDekho – Bajaj Freedom 125 Price, Mileage, Photos, Weight: https://www.bikedekho.com/bajaj/freedom-125
2. Bajaj Freedom 125 NG04 Price Cut & Details:
- RushLane – Bajaj Freedom CNG Motorcycle Price Cut – Sales Decline: https://www.rushlane.com/bajaj-freedom-cng-motorcycle-price-cut-sales-decline-12524866.html
- GaadiWaadi.com – Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG Bike Gets A Price Cut In India – All Details: https://gaadiwaadi.com/bajaj-freedom-125-cng-bike-gets-a-price-cut-in-india-all-details/
- BikeDekho – Bajaj Freedom 125 Is Now Rs 5000 More Affordable: https://www.bikedekho.com/news/bajaj-freedom-125-is-now-rs-5000-more-affordable-18106
3. Bajaj Freedom 125 NG04 Sales Data & Market Trends:
- Autocar Professional – EXCLUSIVE! Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG hits 50000 sales, Maharashtra top buyer: https://www.autocarpro.in/analysis-sales/exclusive-bajaj-freedom-125-cng-hits-50000-sales-maharashtra-top-buyer-125454
- Autocar Professional – Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG motorcycle retail sales cross 40000 units: https://www.autocarpro.in/analysis-sales/bajaj-freedom-125-cng-motorcycle-retail-sales-cross-40000-entry-in-overseas-markets-soon-124333
- BikeDekho – Sales Numbers Of The Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG Bike Since Its Launch: https://www.bikedekho.com/news/is-the-bajaj-freedom-125-cng-bike-a-hit-for-bajaj-auto-here-are-the-sales-numbers-since-its-launch-17056
4. CNG Infrastructure in India:
- Maharashtra Natural Gas Ltd (MNGL) – CNG Filling Stations (Pune specific, but indicates regional density): https://mngl.in/cng/cylinders-filling-stations
- PNGRB (Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board) – Data Bank (Look for “CGD MIS” or “PNG & CNG Activities” reports for state-wise data): https://pngrb.gov.in/eng-web/data-bank.html
- Open Government Data (OGD) Platform India – CNG related datasets: https://www.data.gov.in/keywords/CNG
5. Electric Scooter Sales & Bajaj Chetak Performance (May 2025):
- RushLane – Top 10 Scooters May 2025 – Activa, Jupiter, Access, iQube, Chetak: https://www.rushlane.com/top-10-scooters-may-2025-activa-jupiter-access-iqube-chetak-12524803.html
- ElectricVehicles.in – Electric Two-Wheeler Sales Surge in May 2025: https://electricvehicles.in/%F0%9F%9A%A8-electric-two-wheeler-sales-surge-in-may-2025/
- Motoroids – Ola Electric Dethroned in May 2025 EV Sales Shock: TVS iQube and Bajaj Chetak Now Rule the Road: https://www.motoroids.com/news/ola-electric-dethroned-in-may-2025-ev-sales-shock-tvs-iqube-and-bajaj-chetak-now-rule-the-road/
- The Financial Express – TVS leads e-scooter sales again, Ola settles for third: https://www.financialexpress.com/auto/bike-news/best-selling-electric-scooters-in-may-2025-tvs-leads-e-scooter-sales-again/3865848/
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