Bajaj CT 125x: In a relentless pursuit of excellence in the all-important, high volume motorcycle space in India, where price and fuel economy predominate the decision parameters, Bajaj Auto has launched a product that makes no compromise.
The CT 125X appears to be an interesting choice that combines the convenience of a scooter with a bit of spirit and character, a combination which could change the game in the entry-level scene.
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Bajaj CT 125x: Evolution of an Icon
The CT series has been a workhorse for Bajaj, which has been preferred by millions of customers in rural and semi-urban India for its simplicity and functionality and unsurpassable durability.
With this CT 125X, Bajaj has breathed new life into a name that many trusted, taken it beyond being just a means of commuting to something that’s delightfully emotional, but retained the same philosophy of the original.
Evolutionary bent is visible in motorcycle’s design language. Its futuristic look is enhanced by muscular shapes that lend a tough edge to a fresh CT 125.
Its tank shrouds have got a sharp design, the headlamp housing now looks angular, and the rear looks cleaner and modern.
Taken together, these changes transform what has been a strictly utilitarian vehicle into something that owners can park without shame.
Heart of the Matter
Bajaj CT 125x- Propelling the ocket of a commuter is a 125cc single-cylinder motor whose power and torque outputs have been tuned for the best balance between performance and fuel efficiency, as its Bajaj’s hallmark.
The air-cooled engine is good for an estimated 10.9 hp and 11 Nm of torque—conservative numbers on paper, yet perfectly in tune with the typical Indian riding experience.
The nature of the engine is particularly worth mentioning. Unlike some competitors that concentrate on wringing every last drop of fuel, Bajaj CT 125x the powerplant in the CT 125X delivers a playful mid-range, which isn’t terrifying when overtaking trucks on the open narrow roads.
The throttle is spot on and easy to modulate, and there’s good, predictable power at the twist of the wrist anywhere in the rev range.
But the most commendable aspect of all is how Bajaj has managed to rise the bars of refinement with this single-cylinder motor. While vibrations are a pet peeve of the budget motorcycle, here too, they are kept at the bay, fairly impressively.
Gone are the days of immobilised hands and numb feet with these on your long-distance commutes, some achievement at this price point.
Riding Dynamics That Surprise
Up front and at the back, the CT 125X’s layout is more or less a case of old fashioned telescopic forks and twin shock absorbers—hardly innovative on paper.
But still, kudos to the suspension tuning for striking that magical dichotomy between comfort and control.
The motorcycles soaks up road abnormalities with a great amount of composure, with no excessive harshness being telegraphed to the rider even on some crappy stretches.
However, pushed through corners, the chassis does not wander all over the place with excessive wallowing or vagueness.
It’s that duality that makes the CT 125X just as maneuverable through pothole-stricken urban lanes as it is through sinuous country lanes.
And, the riding position is well proportioned, so should suit riders in the mid height range. The handlebar is at a good neutral level; you don’t have to lean too far forward and at the same time do not sit so bolt upright that you act as a sail.
The seat, which is amply sized and well cushioned, can be sat on for undefiled hours without discomfort—a critical feature for riders who ride the long miles to work and back every day.
Practical Innovations
Bajaj CT 125x- In addition to the basics of a mechanical nature, the concept also features solutions which are oriented towards everyday usability.
The 11L fuel tank has been expanded so that you can go even further between fill-ups. This is a significant improvement for a populace ever more under the burden of escalating fuel prices.
Apart from very basic measurements it still provides the user with necessary information shown on clear to read, even in direct sunlight, display.
There’s a surprising level of tactility and quality to the switchgear that gives a lot of confidence in attention to detail where others skimp.
Special accolades must be awarded to the ground clearance—the CT 125X gives you 170mm of separation between its underbelly and the ground beneath; that means you can take on speed breakers and broken terrain without scratching the exhaust or the motor casing.
A 100/90-17 rear tire and 80/100-17 front work respectably enough (with reasonable replacement prices down the road) to provide enough grip to satisfy its 250 lbs. curb weight.
Value Proposition
It’d be hard to argue a more compelling reason to buy the CT 125X than the price tag. Sitting between the more frugal 100cc bare-bones offerings, and pricier 125cc motorcycles, the ComforTec tech-laden offering gets technically good over the former and is more affordable than the latter.
It’s a unique value proposition, positioning the little Indian as something just shy of a beginners bike and definitely more than the cheapest game in town.
Added to that, the Bajaj service network is quite large, and spares are known to be available in most all locations that can proudly be referred to as remote as well.
Put this together with the marque’s reputation for mechanical durability and you’ve got yourself a proposition that’s cheap even after you’ve paid up.
Bajaj CT 125x: Verdict- Raising Expectations
The Bajaj CT 125X marks an important shift in the approach of manufactures towards entry-level motorcycles. Instead of the affordability versus desirability mind-set, Bajaj has proven it is possible to have both with clever and efficient engineering, and a bit of inspired design.
Daily commuters in search of reliability, weekend riders looking to get away and families needing some two-wheeled flexibility should all strongly consider the CT 125X.
It recognises that even an economy-minded customer shouldn’t have to do without a measure of joy in everyday objects.
In a category that’s frequently a compromise, the CT 125X is different – because it defies the norm. It encourages both buyers and rivals to demand more of entry-level bikes, raising the bar for the industry.
That may be the most lasting thing any of it is and achieve—it showed that “economical and enjoyable” don’t have to be antonyms in the language of motorcycles.
