Bajaj CT 110X Review: The Rugged Workhorse Built for India’s Challenging Roads
In the vast and diverse Indian two-wheeler market, where reliability, fuel efficiency, and durability are paramount, the Bajaj CT 110X carves out a significant niche. This isn’t just another commuter motorcycle; it’s specifically designed to be a rugged, no-nonsense workhorse, ready to tackle the challenging road conditions often found in rural areas and even the demanding urban landscape. Priced attractively at ₹70,381/-* (Ex-Showroom, as of June 2025), the CT 110X combines the legendary fuel efficiency of Bajaj’s CT series with enhanced durability and practicality. Powered by a 115.45cc Electronic Injection engine, it promises ample power and torque for its segment, while unique features like semi-knobby tires and a sturdy build aim to ensure a comfortable and dependable ride on diverse terrains. But does this “tough and durable” promise truly deliver for the everyday Indian rider? Let’s find out.
Built Tough: Key Features for the Indian Commuter
The Bajaj CT 110X focuses on core utilitarian strengths, making it a reliable partner for daily commutes, especially where roads are less than perfect.
Robust & Durable Build:
This is arguably the CT 110X’s biggest selling point. It’s engineered for resilience, featuring a strong square tube frame, sturdy crash guards, and a comfortable setup designed to absorb the rigours of challenging roads. This makes it ideal for rural users or commercial delivery riders.
Fuel-Efficient Electronic Injection Engine:
Powering the CT 110X is a 115.45cc, 4-Stroke, Single Cylinder engine with Electronic Injection. This motor is tuned for maximum economy, delivering 8.6 PS Max Power @ 7000 rpm and 9.81 Nm Max Torque @ 5000 rpm, ensuring excellent mileage (~60-70 kmpl).
Enhanced Traction Semi-Knobby Tyres:
A distinctive feature, the CT 110X is equipped with semi-knobby tread pattern tube-type tyres (Front: 2.75 x 17, Rear: 3.00 x 17). These tyres provide significantly improved grip on unpaved roads, muddy tracks, and loose surfaces compared to standard road tyres.
Comfortable Suspension System:
To tackle bumps and potholes effectively, the CT 110X features 125mm travel Hydraulic Telescopic front suspension and 100mm travel Spring-in-Spring (SNS) rear suspension. The SNS suspension is particularly notable for offering superior comfort, especially when carrying a pillion or riding over rough patches.
Combined Braking System (CBS):
For safer stopping, the motorcycle includes a 130mm front drum brake and a 110mm rear drum brake, both linked with CBS. This system intelligently distributes braking force between both wheels, reducing stopping distance and enhancing stability during panic braking.
High Ground Clearance:
With a generous 170mm ground clearance, the CT 110X can comfortably clear even large speed breakers, uneven terrain, and minor obstacles without scraping its underbelly, a common challenge on Indian roads.
Convenient Electric Start & LED Headlamp:
The inclusion of an electric start provides hassle-free ignition, a big convenience over kick-only options. A modern touch is the LED headlamp, which offers improved visibility for night riding compared to traditional halogen bulbs and adds a contemporary aesthetic.
Full Specifications Table: Bajaj CT 110X
Engine
- Engine Type: 4-Stroke, Single Cylinder
- Fuel System: Electronic Injection
- Engine Capacity: 115.45 cc
- Bore x Stroke: 50 mm X 58.8 mm
- Max Power: 8.6 PS @ 7000 rpm
- Max Torque: 9.81 Nm @ 5000 rpm
- Starting: Electric Start
- Top Speed: 90 km/h
- Transmission Type: 4 Speed (All Down Shift)
Chassis & Frame
- Frame Structure: Square tube, Single Down Tube with Lower Cradle frame
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 11 L
Tyres
- Tyre Size – Front: 2.75 x 17 41 P – Tube Type, Semi Knobby Tread Pattern
- Tyre Size – Rear: 3.00 x 17 50 P – Tube Type, Semi Knobby Tread Pattern
Suspension
- Front Suspension: Hydraulic Telescopic, 125 mm Travel
- Rear Suspension: Spring-in-Spring (SNS), 100mm Wheel Travel
Brakes
- Brake Type – Front: 130 mm Drum
- Brake Type – Rear: 110 mm Drum with CBS
- ABS: No ABS (CBS is present)
Dimensions
- Overall Length: 1998 mm
- Overall Width: 753 mm
- Height: 1098 mm
- Wheelbase: 1285 mm
- Ground Clearance: 170 mm
- Kerb Weight: 127 kg
Electricals
- Electrical System: DC System
- Headlamp Specifications: LED System
Performance (Approximate)
- Mileage (Owner Reported): ~60-70 kmpl (approx.)
- Price (Ex-Showroom Delhi): ₹ 70,381/-* (approx. as of June 2025, prices may vary by variant/region)
The Riding Experience: Pros and Cons for the Everyday Indian Rider
Pros: Why the CT 110X is a Smart Pick
- Exceptional Fuel Economy: This is arguably the biggest draw for the Indian market. The 115.45cc electronic injection engine is incredibly efficient, delivering impressive mileage figures (~60-70 kmpl). This translates to significant savings on fuel, making it a very economical choice for daily commutes and long-term ownership.
- Rugged Durability for Tough Roads: The CT 110X is explicitly built to withstand rough usage. Its robust square tube frame, sturdy crash guards, and overall solid build quality make it highly resilient to challenging Indian road conditions, including potholes, unpaved roads, and rural tracks.
- Good Ride Comfort: The combination of long-travel telescopic front forks (125mm) and the unique Spring-in-Spring (SNS) rear suspension (100mm wheel travel) excels at absorbing shocks. This results in a comfortable ride over bumps, speed breakers, and uneven surfaces, greatly reducing rider fatigue.
- Enhanced Grip with Semi-Knobby Tyres: The semi-knobby tread pattern on both front and rear tires provides superior traction on loose gravel, mud, and unpaved roads compared to standard road tyres. This is a crucial advantage for riders in semi-urban and rural areas.
- High Ground Clearance (170mm): This generous ground clearance is a huge practical benefit on Indian roads, allowing the bike to comfortably clear even large speed breakers and deep potholes without the risk of scraping the engine or chassis.
- Affordable & Value-for-Money: Positioned at a highly competitive price point, the CT 110X offers a compelling value proposition, providing essential utility, robustness, and efficiency without breaking the bank.
- LED Headlamp: A modern and practical upgrade from older models, the LED headlamp provides better illumination for safer night riding and adds a contemporary touch to the bike’s design.
Cons: What to Keep in Mind
- Basic Braking System: While it features CBS for safety, the reliance on drum brakes (130mm front, 110mm rear) means less sharp stopping power and feel compared to disc brakes. For riders who prioritize maximum braking performance, the lack of a front disc brake option might be a concern.
- Minimal Features & Basic Instrument Cluster: The CT 110X is a no-frills machine. It lacks advanced features like a fully digital console with smartphone connectivity, trip meters, or real-time mileage indicators, which are becoming common even in slightly higher-segment commuters. The instrument cluster is basic, providing only essential information.
- Tube-Type Tyres: It still comes with tube-type tires, which are less convenient in case of punctures than tubeless tires, often requiring immediate roadside repair. This can be a minor inconvenience for daily commuters.
- Utilitarian, Understated Styling: The design is primarily functional and utilitarian, prioritizing robustness over sporty or flashy aesthetics. While practical, it might not appeal to riders looking for a visually striking or modern-looking motorcycle.
- Limited Top Speed: With a reported top speed of 90 km/h, the CT 110X is best suited for city and moderate highway cruising. It’s not designed for high-speed highway runs, which might be a limitation for some.
Who Is This Bike For? Tailored Recommendations
The Bajaj CT 110X is an outstanding choice for:
- Rural Commuters: Its rugged build, semi-knobby tires, and comfortable suspension make it ideal for navigating unpaved roads and challenging rural terrains.
- Commercial Delivery Riders: Its high durability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride (even with luggage) make it a reliable and economical choice for daily commercial use.
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Those who prioritize exceptional fuel economy and a low initial purchase price, seeking maximum value for money.
- Riders Seeking a No-Nonsense, Reliable Workhorse: Individuals who need a dependable motorcycle for daily chores and commutes, without needing flashy features or high performance.
- Beginner Riders: Its tractable engine, comfortable ergonomics, and CBS make it a forgiving and easy-to-ride motorcycle for new riders.
Who Might Consider Other Options?
You might consider other options if:
- You Prioritize Sporty Looks & Performance: The CT 110X is a utilitarian machine; if you want aggressive styling, higher top speeds, or advanced features, look elsewhere.
- You Need a Front Disc Brake: If sharper braking performance is a non-negotiable for you, models with a front disc brake would be more suitable.
- You Desire Modern Digital Features: If a full-digital instrument cluster, smartphone connectivity, or advanced rider aids are important to you, the CT 110X will feel basic.
- You Prefer Tubeless Tyres: For the convenience of puncture resistance and easier repairs, tubeless tires are a better choice.
- You Frequently Ride on Highways at High Speeds: Its limited top speed makes it less ideal for sustained high-speed highway cruising.
Competitive Edge: What Sets It Apart
The Bajaj CT 110X distinguishes itself in the Indian motorcycle market with several key advantages:
- Unmatched Ruggedness & Durability: Its heavy-duty build, including a strong frame and crash guards, makes it exceptionally resilient to the challenging and often harsh road conditions in India, particularly in rural areas.
- Superior Ride Comfort on Rough Roads: The combination of long-travel telescopic forks and the unique Spring-in-Spring (SNS) rear suspension provides a plush and comfortable ride, effectively soaking up bumps and potholes, which is a critical factor for Indian commuters.
- Exceptional Value for Money with High Fuel Efficiency: It offers a compelling package of essential utility, robust build, and segment-leading mileage at a very attractive price point, making it incredibly economical for long-term ownership.
- Practicality for Diverse Terrains: The semi-knobby tires and high ground clearance are practical features that genuinely enhance its capability to handle a mix of city roads, unpaved tracks, and rural paths with confidence.
- Low Maintenance & Easy to Own: As a utilitarian commuter, it’s designed for simplicity and reliability, translating to lower maintenance costs and hassle-free ownership, which is highly valued by its target audience.
Final Verdict: The Bajaj CT 110X – The Unsung Hero of Indian Commuting?
The Bajaj CT 110X is an ideal choice for riders in India who prioritize rugged durability, exceptional fuel efficiency, and a comfortable, no-frills ride capable of tackling diverse terrains. It serves as a practical, reliable, and incredibly economical workhorse, particularly well-suited for rural commutes, commercial use, or city riding where road conditions are often unpredictable. While it may not offer the flashy features, cutting-edge performance, or sophisticated digital displays of more premium motorcycles, its core strengths of economy, robustness, enhanced ride comfort over bumps, and ease of maintenance make it a highly compelling option. For budget-conscious buyers and those seeking a dependable daily companion that can truly handle the rigours of Indian roads, the Bajaj CT 110X is an unsung hero and a truly value-for-money proposition.
Overall Rating: 4.0 out of 5.0 (Based on Expert Analysis)
