KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Honda Shine offers competitive pricing, lower than the Freedom 125
- Bajaj Freedom 125 provides dual-fuel capability with petrol and CNG options
- Honda Shine excels slightly in power and performance metrics
- Bajaj Freedom 125 comes with more features like LED lighting, a digital speedometer with Bluetooth connectivity, and more
Bajaj has surprised everyone by launching the world's first CNG bike, the Freedom 125, in India. It's a unique move that wasn't expected, but they've taken the lead. However, when it comes to comparing it with other bikes in the 125cc segment, like the popular Honda Shine 125, customers are finding it tricky to judge its worth. To help you decide, we've prepared a detailed comparison article that explores every aspect of these models. Keep reading to see which one comes out on top! Before moving ahead, don't forget to join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Group to stay updated on the latest automotive news.
Also Read: 2025 BMW R1300 GS Adventure Has A 30L Fuel Tank And More Features
Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG vs Honda Shine: Prices And Variants
| Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG Variant | Ex-showroom Price | Honda Shine 125 Variants | Ex-showroom Price |
| NG04 Drum | Rs 95,000 | Shine 125 Drum | Rs 80,250 |
| NG04 Drum LED | Rs 1.05 Lakh | Shine 125 Disk-OBD2 | Rs 84,250 |
| NG04 Disc LED | Rs 1.10 Lakh |
When it comes to pricing, the Honda Shine offers a more budget-friendly option. The starting price for the drum variant is Rs 80,250, while the top disc variant is priced at Rs 84,250. On the other hand, the Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG starts at Rs 95,000 for the base drum variant and goes up to Rs 1.10 lakh for the top variant, which includes a disc brake and LED lighting setup.
Also Read: Kawasaki KLX 230S Clearest Spy Shots Out: Hero Xpulse 200 Rival
Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG vs Honda Shine: Power And Performance
| Bajaj Freedom 125 | Honda Shine | |
| Engine | 4 Stroke, Air cooled | 4 Stroke, SI, BS-VI |
| Max Power | 9.5 ps at 8000 rmp | 10.7 ps at 7500 |
| Max Torque | 9.5 Nm at 5000 rmp | 11 Nm at 60,000 |
| Gears | 5 | 5 |
When it comes to power and performance, the Honda Shine lives up to its name by offering slightly better numbers compared to the Freedom 125. However, let's not overlook that the Freedom 125 is India's first CNG bike. This bike can run on both petrol and a PESO-certified CNG cylinder. You can easily switch between petrol and CNG modes. This dual-fuel option gives the Freedom 125 an advantage by allowing for longer rides, with a total range of up to 330 kilometres.
Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG vs Honda Shine: Features
Talking about the features and benefits, the Freedom model stands out with LED lights and a fully digital speedometer that includes Bluetooth connectivity. You can easily switch between CNG and petrol modes using a convenient switch on the left handlebar. On the other hand, the Shine model has a halogen headlamp and an all-analogue display with basic readouts. It doesn't have Bluetooth connectivity but does include a side-stand engine cut-off feature for added safety.
Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG vs Honda Shine: Hardware
| Specification | Honda Shine | Bajaj Freedom 125 |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | Telescopic | Telescopic fork |
| Rear Suspension | Hydraulic | Linked mono-shock |
| Tyre Size & Type (Front) | 80/100-18, Tubeless | 90/80-17, Tubeless |
| Tyre Size & Type (Rear) | 80/100-18, Tubeless | 120/70-16, Tubeless |
| Brake Type & Size (Front) | Disc-240 mm, Drum-130 mm | Disc-240 mm, Drum-130 mm |
| Brake Type & Size (Rear) | Drum-130 mm Drum-110 mm | Drum-130 mm |
Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG vs Honda Shine: Design
When it comes to design, both bikes have unique appearances. The Freedom has a circular headlamp, an exposed frame, a distinct tank design, and a long seat. This gives it a somewhat classic vibe, but it isn't fully retro. On the other hand, the Honda Shine sticks to Honda's familiar style with a city-friendly look. It features a long body, a sleek tank, a single seat, and a smooth rear design.
The Honda Shine comes in five attractive colours: Black, Rebel Red Metallic, Matte Axis Grey, Genny Grey Metallic, and Decent Blue Metallic. Meanwhile, there are also five other colours available: Ebony Black, Cyber White, Racing Red, Pewter Grey, and Caribbean Blue.
Verdict
If you're looking for more features and a longer ride, the Freedom model is a great choice. However, if you're on a tighter budget, the Shine could be the option for you. When it comes to design, it's a matter of personal preference, but ultimately, the final design is up to you.
Also Read: Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG Bike Fuel Economy Explained
