Good to see so much excitement around the re-launch of Freedom Bike from the stable of Kanpur-based LML Ltd.Well to start with, I purchased this bike in December, 2002. Believe me or not, it’s up to you, this two-wheeler even today stands out when you park with other bikes on road side.
I do not know what’s there in this bike - but I am simply in love with it.
It’s been nearly 13 years since I am using Freedom. It’s clearly a no-nonsense bike. Not very funky but yet not very simple. A stud bike and a better bike with the re-launching. Though the company had some trouble and post 2005, it was increasingly becoming difficult to find the spare parts or an authorized service centre.
But why are these required when there is no problem with the bike. The engine of my vehicle has not yet been opened, as has been the case with many bikes of other companies - you name it. In these entire 12 years of journey, my Freedom ran nearly 1.75 lakh kilometer - I am not joking at all. Let me repeat - a massive 1.75 lakh kilometer! This essentially means a run of about 35 kilometer a day. And I feel that it can go a further 75, 000, at least.
And what have been the changes/repairs? Just I had to replace its silencer in October, 2013. That means after 11 years. The bike still gives anywhere between 50-65 km average per litre. I don’t think anybody should have any complaints.
Further, the maximum speed, currently that I can go is till 75 km. Beyond which the bike does start vibrating, let me be very honest. But remember, it’s happening after more than 12 years. Is not that a plus factor especially during a time when hardly anyone wants to carry on with the same bike for more than 5 years.
What I did to keep my machine running was its regular servicing by my local mechanic since March of 2010. Every six months I make sure that its parts are well oiled. Further, I need to change its engine oil every 1500-2000 km. You will love riding this bike if the machine is taken care of regularly.
The best part is the comfort I get when I sit on it. It can very comfortably take two riders with ample space, thanks to its long seat. And even if you are three, the bike can easily take you all three with little hassle.
Do remember, when it was first launched at the start of this century - there was no other bike, I bet, no other bike so stylish and well crafted.
Now with the re-launch, I am planning to have one more LML Freedom at my house. It’s a long bike and far better than its peers like Hero’s Passion, TVS’ Sports or for that matter even Honda’s two twins - Yuga and Neo.
And I disagree with one of the reviewer that it’s good for people with short height. I myself 5’11’, never had any discomfort. Rather, it appears to me best bike in its category of 110 cc.
The new revamped bike has kept it all the same - barring some cheeky changes like self-kickstart which is very much needed. Though, there is not much changes in its look, it still looks damn good and value for money. The average on-road price(not ex-showroom) comes out to be around Rs 55, 000 - Rs 58, 000/-
I must say that it’s a worth "investment" and not expenses. The company is believed to re-juvenating its dealer base. Just I checked on its website, it already has added nearly 90 dealers - mainly in the northern states of UP, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and also in western states of Gujarat and Maharashtra.
My final thought: Do not let any second thought coming in your mind when thinking to purchase this smart bike. Just go for it. Trust me, you won’t regret your decision - at least for next 10-12 years.
And do not forget to write to me your experience after riding Freedom.All the best. Happy biking. Be safe!
Bye till my next review.
Yours’
CKK1982