BAJAJ CHETAK
Is Bajaj’s decision to resurrect the Chetak monicker just a gimmick, or is it another great story in the making?
ELECTRIC MOBILITY HAS BEEN A HOT TOPIC in the last couple of years and the 2020 Auto Expo was the perfect testimony to that. But when a manufacturer like Bajaj decides to ride the tide, you know things are serious. Moreover, when it decides to name the scooter Chetak, after one of the most successful scooters in the Indian automotive industry, you know it is more than just making a statement.
Bajaj has given the Chetak contemporary styling. The styling is very European with its metal body, LED headlight and split taillight. The fit-and-finish is commendable except for the front stowage that feels a bit flimsy.
The Chetak is powered by a Bosch-sourced 3kWh battery mated to a motor churning out 4kW and takes five hours to fully charge with a 5A outlet. The range is class-leading at 95km in Eco mode and 85km in Sport mode. Bajaj is giving a home charging station complimentary with the Chetak.
Hop on to the roomy saddle, and you won’t find it any different from a regular ICE-powered scooter. I started off in Eco mode, expecting it to be dull, however the lack of a belt drive meant super precise throttle response. Then there’s the Sport mode if you wish to engage in some spirited riding. The acceleration feels quicker, and even when you select Eco mode, it switches to Sport if the throttle is wrung more than 80 per cent, aiding overtaking manoeuvres. It is quick to reach its top speed of 70kmph (speedo rated).
Though I had my doubts about the trailing link suspension, it performed its duties satisfactorily, soaking up bumps and undulations without any protest. The front disc brake, coupled with the rear drum brake provided enough stopping power, further aided by regen.
The switchgear on our test bikes was inconsistent, some buttons requiring multiple tries to engage. Also, the indicator switch on both sides of the handlebar took some getting used to. Then there’s the negative-lit LED instrument cluster, which is laid out well, but is impossible to read under harsh sunlight.
At `1.15 lakh (ex-showroom), the Chetak might seem like a pricey proposition. But the fresh looks, adequate power and class-leading range will beg you to rethink your decision. Adding to that is the 50,000km battery warranty and a yearly service cycle. To me, this is history repeating itself with another great story in the making. ⌧
THE CHETAK SWITCHES FROM ECO TO SPORT IF THE THROTTLE IS WRUNG MORE THAN 80 PER CENT