Guide for Buyers

Electric bikes or e-bikes are becoming more popular in India as an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to conventional motorcycles. E-bikes use rechargeable batteries to power electric motors that propel the wheels. They offer many benefits such as lower emissions, lower maintenance costs, lower fuel expenses, and higher convenience.

However, choosing an e-bike can be a daunting task for buyers who are not familiar with the different types, features, prices, and availability of these vehicles. That’s why we have prepared this guide to help you find the best e-bike for your needs and budget.

Types of Electric Bikes in India

There are two main types of electric bikes: Pedal-assist and Throttle.

Pedal-assist e-bikes require the rider to pedal to activate the electric motor. The motor then provides additional power to assist the rider’s pedalling effort. The level of assistance can be adjusted by changing gears or modes on the e-bike. Pedal-assist e-bikes are more suitable for fitness enthusiasts who want to exercise while riding.

Throttle e-bikes allow the rider to control the speed and acceleration of the e-bike by twisting a handlebar-mounted throttle. The rider does not need to pedal at all if they wish. Throttle e-bikes are more suitable for commuters who want to save time and energy while riding.

Features of Electric Bikes

Some of the important features that buyers should look for when choosing an electric bike are:

Battery capacity:

This determines how long the e-bike can run on a single charge. The battery capacity is measured in watt-hours (Wh) or kilowatt-hours (kWh). A higher battery capacity means a longer range and less frequent charging.

Motor power:

This determines how fast and powerful the e-bike can go. The motor power is measured in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW). A higher motor power means a higher top speed and better performance on slopes and rough terrains.

Charging time:

This determines how long it takes to fully charge the battery of the e-bike. The charging time depends on factors such as battery capacity, charger type, voltage, current, etc. A shorter charging time means less waiting time and more convenience.

Weight:

This determines how easy it is to handle and carry the e-bike. The weight depends on factors such as frame material, battery size, motor type, etc. A lighter weight means better manoeuvrability and portability.

Design:

This determines how comfortable and stylish the e-bike looks and feels. The design depends on factors such as frame shape, color, seat height, handlebar position, etc. A good design means better ergonomics and aesthetics.

Prices of Electric Bikes

The prices of electric bikes vary depending on factors such as brand name, quality, features, performance, and availability. Generally speaking, electric bikes are more expensive than conventional motorcycles because they use advanced technology and require more components such as batteries, motors, controllers, etc.

However, electric bikes also offer long-term savings because they have lower running costs such as fuel expenses, maintenance charges, taxes, etc.

According to various sources, the average price range of electric bikes in India is between Rs 25,000 – Rs 5 lakh depending on various factors mentioned above.

Some of the most popular electric bike models currently available in India are

1. Ola S1 (Rs 1.33 lakh)

The Ola S1 is an electric scooter produced by the Indian ride-hailing company Ola. It was launched in August 2021 and has since gained a lot of popularity due to its unique features and affordable pricing.

The Ola S1 comes with a 2.98 kWh lithium-ion battery that gives it a range of up to 121 kilometers on a single charge. It can reach a top speed of 90 kilometers per hour and has a peak power output of 8.5 kW. The scooter also has features like hill hold, cruise control, and a reverse mode, making it convenient for riders.

One of the most notable features of the Ola S1 is its large touchscreen display, which provides access to features like turn-by-turn navigation, music streaming, and vehicle diagnostics. The scooter also has an integrated app that allows riders to control various aspects of the vehicle, such as the lights and horn, from their smartphone.

The Ola S1 has received positive reviews for its performance, design, and affordability. It is available in multiple colors and can be purchased directly from Ola’s website.

2. TVS iQube Electric (Rs 1.61 lakh)

TVS iQube Electric is an electric scooter launched by TVS Motors in India. It is powered by a 4.4 kW electric motor that delivers a top speed of 78 km/h and a range of 75 km on a single charge. The scooter features a lithium-ion battery that can be charged in 5 hours and a full charge costs around Rs. 80.

The TVS iQube Electric comes with features like a TFT instrument cluster, LED headlamp, and tail lamp, and has a regenerative braking system. The scooter also offers a host of smart features, such as geofencing, remote charge status, and ride statistics, which can be accessed through the TVS iQube app.

The TVS iQube Electric is currently available in Bangalore, Delhi, Chennai, Pune, Coimbatore, and Hyderabad. It is priced at around Rs. 1.15 lakh (ex-showroom). With the increasing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable modes of transportation, the TVS iQube Electric is a step towards a cleaner future.

3. Ather 450X (Rs 1.37 lakh)

The Ather 450X is an electric scooter produced by Ather Energy, an Indian electric vehicle startup. It is an upgraded version of the Ather 450 and features a more powerful motor, better range, and improved connectivity features. The scooter is aimed at urban commuters and offers a top speed of 80 km/h and a range of up to 116 km on a single charge.

Some key features of the Ather 450X include a 7-inch touchscreen dashboard, a lightweight and aerodynamic design, fast charging capability, and an AI-powered virtual assistant. It also comes with a host of connectivity features, such as OTA updates, Bluetooth connectivity, and app-based controls.

4. Revolt RV400 (Rs 1.25 lakh)

The Revolt RV400 is an electric motorcycle manufactured by Revolt Motors, an Indian electric vehicle company. It was launched in India in 2019 and has since gained popularity for its sleek design, impressive range, and advanced features such as artificial exhaust sound and mobile connectivity.

The RV400 is powered by a 3.24kWh lithium-ion battery pack that offers a range of up to 150 km on a single charge. It has a top speed of 85 km/h and can be charged in 4.5 hours using a standard household outlet. The motorcycle also features regenerative braking, which helps to conserve energy and increase the range.

One of the most unique features of the RV400 is its artificial exhaust sound, which can be customized by the rider using a mobile app. The app also allows riders to monitor battery levels, track their riding history, and locate nearby charging stations.

The RV400 is available for purchase in select cities in India and is priced competitively compared to other electric motorcycles in the market.

5. Bajaj Chetak (Rs 1.22 lakh)

Bajaj Chetak is an electric scooter manufactured by Bajaj Auto Limited, one of the leading two-wheeler manufacturers in India. The Chetak is a modern-day version of the iconic scooter that Bajaj had introduced in the 1970s, which was immensely popular in India.

The new Bajaj Chetak electric scooter is equipped with a 4kW electric motor that delivers a top speed of 70 km/h and a range of 95 km in Eco mode. The scooter comes with a Lithium-Ion battery pack that can be charged in five hours with a standard 5A household socket and in one hour with a fast charger.

The Chetak has an all-metal body and a retro-modern design, which pays homage to the original Chetak scooter. It features LED lights, digital instrument cluster, and a single-sided suspension that adds to its premium feel. The scooter comes in six color options and is available in two variants, Urbane and Premium.

The Bajaj Chetak has received positive reviews for its design, performance, and features. It is a good option for those looking for a stylish and eco-friendly mode of transportation.

6.Ultraviolette F77 (Rs 3.80 lakh)

Ultraviolette F77 is a high-performance electric motorcycle designed and manufactured by Indian electric vehicle startup, Ultraviolette Automotive. The F77 boasts an impressive top speed of 147 km/h (91 mph) and can accelerate from 0 to 60 km/h (0 to 37 mph) in just 2.9 seconds.

The bike features a sleek and aggressive design, with a lightweight aluminum frame and a fully digital instrument cluster. It is powered by a 25 kW electric motor that delivers 90 Nm of torque, and a 4.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that provides a range of up to 150 km (93 miles) on a single charge.

In addition to its impressive performance, the F77 also comes equipped with a range of advanced features such as regenerative braking, ride modes, and a smartphone app that allows riders to monitor the bike’s performance and track their rides.

The Ultraviolette F77 has been praised for its performance and design, and is considered one of the most exciting electric motorcycles currently available in the Indian market.

7. Tork Kratos X (Rs 1.22 lakh)

Tork Kratos X is an electric motorcycle manufactured by Tork Motors, a leading electric vehicle company based in India. The Kratos X model boasts of a top speed of 100 km/h and can travel up to 200 kilometers on a single charge, making it a reliable and powerful vehicle for daily commute and long rides.

The motorcycle is equipped with a 6 kW electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack that can be charged up to 80% in just an hour. It also features a digital instrument console, adjustable suspension, and disc brakes on both wheels for enhanced safety.

Tork Motors is committed to sustainability and offers a 3-year warranty on the Kratos X model. They also provide free servicing for the first year and have set up charging infrastructure across India to make it convenient for their customers to recharge their electric vehicles.

Some of the upcoming electric bike models expected to launch in India soon are Gogoro 2 Series, Honda Activa Electric, Hero Electric AE-47 E-Bike, Suzuki Burgman Electric, Harley Davidson LiveWire S2 Del Mar, etc.

Where to Buy Electric Bikes

Electric bikes can be bought from various sources such as online platforms, dealerships, showrooms, or directly from manufacturers. Online platforms such as Zigwheels, Bikewale, BikeDekho.

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