Bajaj Freedom vs Revolt RV1
The affordable commuter segment in India has witnessed a revolutionary battle between two distinctly different philosophies – the Bajaj Freedom 125 representing India’s first CNG-powered motorcycle and the Revolt RV1 embodying accessible electric mobility. Both motorcycles target budget-conscious riders seeking low running costs and practical everyday transportation. The Freedom brings dual-fuel flexibility with CNG and petrol, while the RV1 delivers zero-emission electric riding with surprisingly decent range. This comprehensive 2025 comparison will help you decide which economical commuter deserves your investment.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Alternative Fuel Landscape
The ex-showroom price of Bajaj Freedom is ₹93,244 and Revolt RV1 is ₹94,983. Bajaj Freedom is the cheapest among these bikes. The price of Bajaj Freedom starts at Rs 95,000 – Rs 1,10,000 (ex-showroom), while the Revolt RV1 Standard starts at Rs 94,983 and goes up to Rs 1,12,983 for the Plus variant.
According to our average user rating, Bajaj Freedom has a score of 4.7/5 while Revolt RV1 is rated 4.4/5. The higher Freedom rating reflects owner satisfaction with its revolutionary CNG concept despite some teething issues.
Design Philosophy: World’s First vs Electric Simplicity
Bajaj Freedom 125 – Revolutionary CNG Pioneer
Bajaj Freedom is available in 7 colours which are Cyber White, Racing Red, Pewter Grey – Black, Ebony Black – Grey, Caribbean Blue, Ebony Black – Red and Pewter Grey – Yellow. The design maintains conventional motorcycle proportions while accommodating the innovative dual-fuel system underneath.
The Bajaj Freedom is not just India’s but the world’s first CNG motorcycle. The overall aesthetic is practical and straightforward, prioritizing functionality over flashy styling. The longest seat has ever seen according to satisfied owners, providing excellent comfort for daily commuting.
Revolt RV1 – Clean Electric Design
Revolt RV1 is available in 4 colours which are Black Midnight Blue, Black Neon Green, Cosmic Black Red and Titan Red Silver. The design showcases modern electric motorcycle aesthetics with round LED headlight, muscular bodywork, single-piece seat, and grab-rail.
The RV1 features an LCD with smartphone connectivity providing contemporary appeal. The design successfully communicates its electric nature while maintaining accessible, friendly proportions suitable for diverse riders.
Powertrain Battle: Dual Fuel vs Pure Electric
Bajaj Freedom CNG Performance
The Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG bike is powered by a 125cc air-cooled engine that makes 9.5PS and 9.7Nm, and is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Bajaj Freedom is a street bike that weighs 149 kg, has a 125 cc BS6 Phase 2 engine and a fuel capacity of 2 litres petrol.
The Freedom 125 has two fuel tanks: a primary, 2kg CNG tank, and an auxiliary 2-litre petrol tank that can be used when the bike runs out of CNG. This dual-fuel flexibility eliminates range anxiety completely. 125 CC engine gives good performance, speed & pickup according to satisfied owners.
Revolt RV1 Electric Power
Revolt RV1 is an electric bike that comes with a 2.8 kW motor which gives a range of 100 km, and a top speed that goes uptil 70 kmph. It has a charging time of 4.5 hrs. Powering the Revolt RV1 is a 2.2kWh battery, whereas the RV1 Plus uses a 3.24kWh unit.
The base model gets about 100km of range, whereas the Plus trim offers around 160km. The top speed for both variants is limited to 70kmph. The Revolt RV1 Plus also gets fast charging. The instant torque delivery provides sprightly acceleration from standstill.
Weight Comparison and Handling
Bajaj Freedom is heavier (149 kg) than Revolt RV1 (108 kg). This substantial 41 kg weight difference makes the RV1 significantly lighter and easier to maneuver in traffic. The lighter electric motorcycle provides effortless handling particularly valuable for shorter riders and urban commuting.
However, the Freedom’s additional weight provides better highway stability and doesn’t feel flimsy at speed. Very good bike, stable, smooth, 110+ running very smooth according to Freedom owners.
Running Costs: The Critical Comparison
This is where the comparison becomes genuinely interesting. Bajaj claims the CNG mileage is 102km per kg. Average cost of CNG in Maharashtra is Rs 79.46 per kg, which results in CNG-only running cost of Rs 0.78 per kilometre.
According to the user reported data, Bajaj Freedom gives an average mileage of 90 km/kg in real-world conditions. Considering your average monthly running is 1000km, it would cost you Rs 780 per month in fuel with CNG.
For the Revolt RV1, charging costs depend on electricity rates but typically work out to approximately Rs 0.30-0.50 per kilometer. On the face of it, that’s a saving of Rs 468 per month in running costs, if you opt for the electric bike over the CNG bike.
The CNG+petrol option saves big on fuel costs according to Freedom owners. It saves more than 50% of fuel compared to petrol. The electric option provides even lower running costs with virtually zero maintenance compared to combustion engines.
Range and Refueling Considerations
The Freedom offers combined range of approximately 330 km after full tank with both CNG and petrol. The total average is 330 km after a full tank according to owners. This exceptional range eliminates range anxiety completely.
However, CNG refuelling is not as quick as petrol either; most CNG stations have infamously long queues that result in a prolonged waiting time. The limited CNG infrastructure in many cities poses practical challenges.
The Revolt RV1 Plus offers around 160km range which is adequate for typical daily commuting. While it takes 4.5 hours to fully charge the Revolt, you can charge it while you are at home or in the office, and in the meanwhile, are free to go about your business.
Features and Technology
Bajaj Freedom Equipment
Features like LED lighting, digital display, Bluetooth alerts are appreciated according to owners. The Freedom gets disc brake option in higher variants, combined braking system, and practical features focused on everyday usability.
The instrument cluster provides essential information including distance-to-empty for both fuels, helping riders plan refueling stops effectively.
Revolt RV1 Connectivity
The RV1 features an LCD with smartphone connectivity, ride modes, speedometer, odometer, trip meter, charge level, and other essential readouts. The smartphone connectivity adds modern convenience missing from the Freedom.
The ride modes allow optimization between performance and range, providing flexibility based on riding conditions.
User Experience and Satisfaction
Real owner feedback reveals important insights. Freedom owners report: “I own the Bajaj Freedom and it’s been a game changer. The CNG+petrol option saves big on fuel costs. Smooth ride, practical design, and very economical. Ideal for daily use. Bajaj has really built something smart and future-ready.”
However, issues exist: “From the very 1st day, this bike has been giving trouble, starting issues, very slow pickup and CNG issues. You can not drive in the city and the heavy traffic in CNG mode.” Some owners report service staff are also not trained properly on the new CNG system.
RV1 owners appreciate the electric simplicity: “This bike is so beautiful honestly this bike range is low but powerful bike I like this type bikes 1 more benefit cops don’t arrest because bike running with battery.” However, the brand lacks sales and service reach, which could be a problem for Indian buyers.
Which Commuter Should You Choose?
Choose Bajaj Freedom If
You want world’s first CNG motorcycle innovation. Exceptional 330 km combined range eliminates anxiety. Dual-fuel flexibility with CNG and petrol appeals. CNG infrastructure exists in your area. Lower running cost of Rs 0.78 per km matters. Higher user rating of 4.7/5 provides confidence. Bajaj’s extensive service network reassures you. Longer seat provides maximum comfort. You prefer conventional motorcycle operation. Seven color options provide choice. Lower initial price saves money. You don’t mind CNG refueling queues. Bajaj company reputation provides confidence.
Choose Revolt RV1 If
Zero-emission electric riding aligns with values. Even lower running costs than CNG appeal. Home/office charging convenience matters. Lighter 108 kg weight provides easy handling. 160 km range in Plus variant suffices. Smartphone connectivity is important. Ride modes provide flexibility. You have reliable home charging. Lower maintenance with no engine oil changes. Instant electric torque provides fun. Four attractive color options appeal. Top speed of 70 kmph is adequate. Modern electric technology excites you.
The Final Verdict
Both motorcycles represent revolutionary approaches to affordable, economical commuting with distinct advantages and compromises.
The Bajaj Freedom excels with exceptional 330 km range, dual-fuel flexibility, extensive Bajaj service network, and higher user rating of 4.7/5. The Rs 0.78 per km running cost is remarkable, and the Freedom eliminates range anxiety completely. However, CNG infrastructure limitations, refueling queue times, and some reliability concerns temper enthusiasm.
The Revolt RV1 provides even lower running costs, zero emissions, home charging convenience, and 41 kg lighter weight. The 160 km range in Plus variant is adequate for most daily commuting. However, the brand lacks sales and service reach, which poses long-term ownership concerns.
So it primarily comes down to whether you want to save money upfront by opting for the cheaper bike, or you want to save money gradually with lower running costs. Visit dealerships, test ride both motorcycles, and assess infrastructure availability in your area. If CNG stations are accessible and you want proven Bajaj support, choose the Freedom. If home charging is convenient and you prioritize lowest running costs, select the RV1. Either choice represents the future of economical commuting in India.
