Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG motorcycle vs Hero Xtreme 125R comparison: Engine specs, price, features etc

Bajaj Auto recently caused a stir in the Indian entry-level motorcycle segment with the launch of its much-anticipated CNG motorcycle, the Freedom 125. This motorcycle will rival a host of competitors but how does it stack up against the Hero Xtreme 125R? Let’s take a look at the specs, prices, and features on offer.
Bajaj Freedom 125 vs Hero Xtreme 125R: Engine specs and mileage
Both motorcycles house a 125 cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder motor.However, Freedom 125 comes with a twist. This versatile engine is capable of running on both, petrol and CNG – a first for a motorcycle segment globally. This engine comes mated to a five-speed gearbox and pumps out 9.5 hp and 9.7 Nm of peak torque.
On the other hand, the Xtreme 125R makes 11.5 hp and 10.5 Nm of peak torque. This makes it one of the most powerful motorcycles in the 125 cc segment.

In terms of fuel efficiency, Hero claims that the motorcycle can run up to 66 km per litre of petrol. On the other hand, the Freedom 125 comes with a range of 330 km combined – 102 km on per KG of CNG and 65 kmpl on petrol. Therefore, the Bajaj motorcycle clearly has the upper hand in terms of fuel efficiency.
Bajaj Freedom 125 vs Hero Xtreme 125R: Features and hardware
The entry and mid-spec Freedom 125 features a drum brake setup for both front and rear wheels. The top model sports a 240 mm front disc brake and a 130 mm rear drum. For suspension duties, it employs a combination of telescopic fork in front and a monoshock unit in rear. In terms of features, it includes an LED headlight and tail lamp, an LCD digital instrument console with smartphone connectivity, missed call alerts, caller ID, battery status, and a USB port.
The Hero Xtreme 125R features a 37mm telescopic fork in front and a preload-adjustable Showa monoshock. It has a 276mm front disc brake, a rear drum brake, and single-channel ABS on the top variant. The Xtreme 125R includes full-LED lighting, an LCD screen, and other features such as Bluetooth connectivity with SMS and call alerts.
Bajaj Freedom 125 vs Hero Xtreme 125R: Price
The Freedom 125 is available in three variants, starting at just Rs 95,000, ex-showroom. The mid-range variant is priced at Rs 1.05 lakh, while the top-end variant comes in at Rs 1.10 lakh, both ex-showroom prices.
On the other hand, the Xtreme 125R is available in two variants: IBS priced at Rs 95,000 and ABS priced at Rs 99,500.
The choice between these two bikes boils down to your priorities. If you crave power, features, and a sportier look, the Hero Xtreme 125 might be your pick. But if fuel efficiency and low running costs are paramount, the Bajaj Freedom 125, with its innovative dual-fuel option, is a game-changer.