Key Highlights
- Narrowing gap in the petrol and CNG prices have caused a dip in the sales of India’s only CNG motorcycle
- Only 1200 units of the Freedom 125 were sold in May 2026, this is an all-time low
- CNG prices have gone up by 15% in the last two years
India’s only CNG motorcycle, the Bajaj Freedom 125 has seen a steep decline in sales. Bajaj delivered on 1210 units in the month of May this year. This has been the lowest ever sales number for the Freedom 125 since its launch.
What is causing the dip?
The USP of the Bajaj Freedom 125 was its fuel compatibility. CNG enabled users to run the motorcycle at a lower cost. It was a boon for owners whose running is very high. However, the rising cost of CNG is increasing the running cost as well. CNG has gone up from approx. Rs 75 per kg to Rs 86 per kg (Mumbai) in the last two years.
To put things in perspective, two years ago petrol was approx Rs 107 per litre making the gap between CNG and petrol a whopping Rs 32 per unit (kg or litre). Now, petrol cost Rs 111 per litre and the gap now stands at Rs 25 per unit.
Also, the Freedom 125 commands a premium of about Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000 over its competitors. This might be forcing some new buyers rethink their decision about buying the Freedom.
The electric angle
Buyers are now also looking at electric two-wheelers that offer much lower running costs than their petrol or CNG counterparts. The electric commuter market share has been growing month on month. There are also new models launching almost every month spoiling buyers for choice. The closing gap in the cost of acquisition of EVs and ICE two-wheelers is also pushing more buyers towards EVs.
Then there is the question of fuel blends. The government’s constant push for E85 fuel and growing reports of ethanol blended fuel causing damage to vehicles have increased the level of uncertainty among buyers. At this point, EVs look like a safe bet when you are choosing the lesser of the two evils.
As a product, the Bajaj Freedom 125 is an excellent product. It offers versatility and amazing value for money. However, it is being failed by rising fuel costs and unrealistic policies set by the government.
Also read: Ather Rizta scooter gets expensive by up to Rs 4,000: Here’s why
