India is the world’s largest market for two-wheeler (2W) and three-wheeler (3W) vehicles and is heavily dominated by affordable offerings for commuters. However, this segment is stagnant in terms of mechanical development. Therefore, OEMs resort to adding extra features and gadgets to these vehicles to attract buyers and increase their relevance.
Bajaj CNG Bike
Bajaj Auto takes a different approach, targeting higher fuel efficiency and lower running costs. Introducing the world’s first CNG motorcycle, which will be launched on July 5, 2024 in the presence of Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India.
Since this is a world first, Bajaj wants to create a more complete product that caters to various needs. The Bajaj CNG motorcycle is expected to be a premium motorcycle comparable to other 125cc offerings. Moreover, it boasts an ADV-inspired design that will appeal to a wider audience. As seen in the spy shots, there is a short fuel tank that is estimated to hold around 5 litres of petrol and we can see a long saddle that stretches almost the length of the bike’s wheelbase. The CNG tank is expected to be housed under that long seat and can hold a decent amount (say 4 to 5 kg of CNG).
Together, the CNG and petrol should provide about the same fuel range as a traditional 125cc motorcycle. It features muscular tank covers with silver detailing that also extends to the headlight housing.
The round headlight gives it a classic appeal and the handlebar mounts, knuckle guards and front disc brakes elevate the bike’s presence in the commuter segment. The seats and overall design are expected to be similar to that of an ADV and the Bajaj also offers higher ground clearance.
What to expect?
Other interesting features include a large side fairing, a sleek and muscular underbody, split 5-spoke alloy wheels, a highly functional pillion grab rail, a grooved seat, a conventional RSU telescopic front fork, a rear monoshock, a skid guard and a wide range of colours.
As for the powertrain, Bajaj is likely to opt for a 125cc engine. Since CNG is less powerful than petrol, we can expect the Bajaj CNG bike to perform similar to a 100cc bike but consume much less fuel and offer lower operating costs. Will it hit the 100km/kg gold standard? Only time will tell.
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