Bajaj CT 125: The Bajaj CT 125X carved a unique niche in India’s competitive 125cc commuter motorcycle segment before its discontinuation in January 2025. While its production run was relatively brief, this motorcycle left an indelible mark by offering genuine 125cc performance at prices traditionally associated with 110cc bikes.

Understanding its specifications, strengths, and ultimate fate provides valuable insights into evolving market demands and manufacturer strategies.

When Bajaj introduced the CT 125X, it addressed a specific gap in the market – riders seeking more power than 110cc offerings without the premium pricing of established 125cc motorcycles.

The company positioned this bike as the ultimate rugged commuter, designed specifically for India’s challenging road conditions while maintaining exceptional affordability.

Bajaj CT 125 Design Philosophy and Visual Character

The CT 125X embraced a purposefully rugged aesthetic that distinguished it from conventional commuter motorcycles. The design language drew inspiration from adventure touring bikes, incorporating scrambler-style elements that suggested capability beyond typical city streets.

This approach resonated with buyers seeking motorcycles that appeared robust and dependable.

The circular headlamp housed within a protective cowl immediately established the bike’s utilitarian character.

A distinctive V-shaped LED DRL unit enhanced visibility while adding contemporary appeal to an otherwise traditional design. The extended seat, high-mounted handlebars, and upright riding position reinforced the comfortable touring capability that defined the CT series.

Bajaj offered three dual-tone color schemes – Ebony Black with Green, Blue, or Red decals – each contributing to the bike’s distinctive visual identity.

The matte black finish on major components created a cohesive aesthetic while providing practical benefits in terms of maintenance and durability.

Technical Specifications and Performance

Engine Character and Riding Experience

The 124.4cc air-cooled engine incorporated Bajaj’s proven DTS-i technology, delivering reliable performance optimized for daily commuting scenarios.

Producing 10.7 BHP at 8,000 rpm and 11 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm, the powerplant provided adequate acceleration for urban riding while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency.

The electronic carburetor system ensured consistent fuel delivery across varying operating conditions.

While not as sophisticated as fuel injection systems found in premium motorcycles, this setup struck an appropriate balance between cost-effectiveness and performance reliability.

The five-speed transmission featured well-spaced gear ratios that complemented the engine’s torque characteristics.

Lower gears provided sufficient pulling power for city traffic and gradual inclines, while higher gears enabled comfortable highway cruising speeds. The gearbox operated smoothly under normal conditions, though some users reported occasional issues with long-term durability.

Real-world fuel efficiency consistently exceeded 55 kmpl under mixed riding conditions, with careful riders achieving figures closer to the claimed 59.6 kmpl.

This impressive economy, combined with the 11-liter fuel tank, provided substantial riding range between fill-ups.

Chassis and Suspension Setup

The CT 125X utilized a semi-double-cradle frame designed to handle rough road conditions while maintaining structural integrity under varying load conditions.

This robust construction contributed to the bike’s 130 kg kerb weight, which provided stability without compromising maneuverability.

Telescopic front forks with 125mm travel paired with SNS twin rear shocks featuring 100mm travel and Nitrox damping.

This suspension setup prioritized comfort over sportiness, effectively absorbing road irregularities while maintaining reasonable control during spirited riding.

The 17-inch alloy wheels wore tubeless tires sized 80/100-17 front and 100/90-17 rear.

These dimensions provided adequate contact patch for confident handling while contributing to the bike’s fuel efficiency through reduced rolling resistance.

Features and Equipment

Despite its budget positioning, the CT 125X included several practical features that enhanced daily usability.

The analog instrument cluster displayed essential information clearly, while the integrated USB charging port addressed modern connectivity needs without significant cost additions.

The Combined Braking System (CBS) improved safety by automatically engaging both wheels during braking, particularly beneficial for novice riders or emergency situations.

The drum brake variants featured 130mm units front and rear, while the disc variant upgraded to a 240mm front disc while retaining the rear drum.

LED daytime running lights provided enhanced visibility during daylight hours, while halogen headlamps and taillights maintained traditional bulb technology to minimize replacement costs. Engine cut-off sensors added safety benefits by shutting down the motor during falls or accidents.

Market Position and Competitive Analysis

The CT 125X’s primary achievement lay in disrupting traditional 125cc pricing structures.

Starting at ₹74,016 for the drum variant and ₹77,216 for the disc version (ex-showroom Delhi), it significantly undercut established competitors like the Honda Shine, Hero Super Splendor, and TVS Raider.

This aggressive pricing strategy attracted price-conscious buyers upgrading from 110cc motorcycles while offering genuine 125cc performance benefits. The larger displacement provided noticeably better highway performance and carrying capacity compared to smaller engines.

However, the competitive landscape proved challenging. Established 125cc motorcycles offered superior build quality, more sophisticated features, and stronger brand perception.

Premium buyers often preferred paying marginally more for these benefits, while ultra-budget buyers remained satisfied with 110cc options.

Real-World Ownership Experience

Owner feedback revealed mixed experiences that ultimately contributed to the model’s discontinuation.

Positive aspects included impressive fuel efficiency, comfortable ergonomics for extended riding, and robust construction that handled rough roads confidently.

Several users praised the bike’s ability to carry loads and navigate challenging terrain, validating Bajaj’s positioning as a rugged commuter.

The upright riding position and long seat proved particularly appreciated during longer journeys.

Critical feedback centered on build quality inconsistencies, particularly regarding electrical components and gearbox reliability.

Some owners reported performance issues at higher speeds, with the engine struggling above 40 km/h under certain conditions. These problems, while not universal, damaged the model’s reputation in a segment where reliability is paramount.

Discontinuation Analysis and Market Lessons

Factors Contributing to Discontinuation:

• Limited market acceptance despite competitive pricing

• Quality control issues affecting brand reputation

• Strong competition from established 125cc alternatives

• Buyers’ preference for proven reliability over cost savings

• Insufficient differentiation beyond rugged styling

Market Insights:

• Price alone insufficient to guarantee success in mature segments

• Build quality and reliability remain paramount in commuter segment

• Brand perception significantly influences purchase decisions

• Niche positioning requires substantial market education

Legacy and Industry Impact

The CT 125X’s brief existence provided valuable lessons about market dynamics in India’s competitive two-wheeler landscape.

While it failed to achieve commercial success, the motorcycle demonstrated innovative approaches to pricing and positioning that influenced subsequent product strategies.

Bajaj’s willingness to experiment with aggressive pricing and rugged positioning reflected broader industry trends toward value engineering and market segmentation.

The CT 125X’s specifications and features established benchmarks that continue influencing budget 125cc development.

The model’s discontinuation alongside the Pulsar F250 and Platina 110 ABS in January 2025 signaled Bajaj’s strategic refocus on profitable segments while eliminating underperforming products. This portfolio rationalization allowed resources to concentrate on successful models and emerging opportunities.

Bajaj CT 125 Final Assessment

The Bajaj CT 125X represented an ambitious attempt to democratize 125cc motorcycle ownership through aggressive pricing and purposeful design.

While market forces ultimately led to its discontinuation, the motorcycle achieved its core objective of providing genuine 125cc performance at unprecedented price points.

Also Read This-