Bajaj Chetak Review: A Modern Twist on an Iconic Classic

 **Bajaj Chetak Review: A Modern Twist on an Iconic Classic**

The **Bajaj Chetak** name is synonymous with India’s two-wheeler history, evoking a sense of nostalgia and connection to the iconic scooter that ruled the streets in the late 20th century. With its latest iteration, Bajaj Auto has reimagined the Chetak as an electric scooter, blending the charm of the past with the technology of the future. This review dives into the design, performance, battery, features, and overall value that the new Chetak brings to the electric scooter market.

### Design and Build Quality

The new **Bajaj Chetak Electric** retains the classic scooter silhouette while incorporating modern design elements that appeal to today’s urban riders. Its all-metal body gives it a premium look and feel, while the smooth, flowing lines exude elegance. The Chetak offers a **retro-inspired aesthetic**, with details like a round LED headlamp with DRLs, curved body panels, and a clean, minimalist design that stands out in a world dominated by futuristic-looking electric scooters.

The scooter is available in a range of metallic and glossy color options, which add to its stylish appearance. The **quality of materials** and the overall fit and finish are top-notch, with the use of high-quality metal and soft-touch plastic components that give the Chetak a durable and premium vibe.

### Performance and Ride Quality

The Bajaj Chetak Electric is powered by a **3.8kW motor** that delivers **16Nm of torque**. This motor provides a smooth and silent riding experience, making city commutes a breeze. The Chetak accelerates seamlessly and can reach a top speed of **60 km/h**, which is sufficient for daily urban commuting. Its performance is comparable to most electric scooters in the same price range, though it's not intended for high-speed highway riding.

There are two riding modes: **Eco** and **Sport**. In **Eco mode**, the scooter is optimized for maximum efficiency, providing a range of up to **90 km** on a single charge, while in **Sport mode**, the scooter delivers slightly more punch at the expense of range, dropping the total distance to around **80 km**. The regenerative braking system helps recharge the battery slightly when decelerating, contributing to overall efficiency.

The **suspension setup** consists of a single-sided front suspension and a monoshock at the rear, offering a comfortable ride on city roads. The Chetak is designed to handle potholes and uneven surfaces well, making it suitable for Indian road conditions. The **12-inch alloy wheels** and **tubeless tires** offer good grip and stability, further enhancing the riding experience.

### Battery and Charging

The Bajaj Chetak is equipped with a **3kWh lithium-ion battery** that offers a range of **80-90 km**, depending on the riding mode and terrain. This range is more than adequate for daily city commutes, although longer rides might require some planning. The battery is IP67-rated for water and dust resistance, ensuring durability in varying weather conditions.

Charging the Chetak is straightforward, with the scooter coming with a **5A standard home charger**. It takes about **5 hours for a full charge**, which is on par with other electric scooters in the market. Bajaj has also integrated a **fast-charging option** that can charge the battery up to 25% in about **60 minutes**, providing some flexibility for quick top-ups.

### Features and Technology

The Bajaj Chetak comes with a range of modern features that enhance convenience and connectivity. The scooter features a fully **digital instrument cluster** with a clean, easy-to-read display showing key information like speed, range, riding mode, and battery percentage. The console is minimalist but functional, and the addition of **Bluetooth connectivity** allows riders to pair the scooter with their smartphone for additional features via the Chetak app.

Some notable features include:

- **Keyless ignition** for a seamless start and stop

- **Reverse mode**, which is helpful for maneuvering in tight spaces

- **Geo-fencing**, which alerts you if the scooter leaves a preset area

- **OTA (Over-The-Air) updates** that keep the software up-to-date without visiting a service center

- **Anti-theft features**, including tamper alerts and location tracking, enhancing the security of the scooter

These smart features, combined with the premium build quality, set the Chetak apart from other electric scooters in the segment.

### Safety and Braking

Safety is a key concern for electric vehicles, and Bajaj has equipped the Chetak with a **combi-braking system (CBS)**, ensuring balanced and effective braking. The front and rear disc brakes work well in tandem, offering confident stopping power even in challenging situations.

The scooter’s lightweight frame and well-tuned suspension make it easy to handle in traffic, and the low seat height (about **740 mm**) ensures that riders of various heights can comfortably reach the ground when stationary. Additionally, the scooter’s large wheelbase offers stability, even at higher speeds.

### Pricing and Value for Money

The Bajaj Chetak Electric is priced competitively, starting at around **₹1.30 lakh** (ex-showroom). While it may seem slightly more expensive compared to some other electric scooters, the Chetak justifies this premium with its build quality, features, and brand reputation. Bajaj’s established network for after-sales service also adds to the overall value proposition, giving buyers peace of mind when it comes to maintenance and support.

### Verdict: Is the Bajaj Chetak the Right Choice?

The **Bajaj Chetak Electric** is an impressive blend of nostalgia and modernity, bringing back the charm of a beloved classic while embracing the future of urban mobility. It offers a premium design, comfortable ride quality, and modern features that make it one of the most appealing electric scooters on the market.

**Pros:**

- Elegant, retro-inspired design with premium build quality

- Smooth and silent electric performance

- Comfortable ride and well-tuned suspension

- Good range for daily city commutes

- Advanced features like keyless ignition, reverse mode, and app connectivity

- Reputable after-sales service

**Cons:**

- Limited to city commuting; not suited for long highway rides

- Charging time could be quicker

- Slightly expensive compared to some competitors

Overall, the Bajaj Chetak is perfect for urban commuters who value design, reliability, and advanced features. It offers a balanced package for those transitioning to electric mobility, without compromising on style or practicality.