Quick Analysis
Bajaj Chetak EV
18.5 pts
Unweighted: 31 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Nightster Special
33.0 pts
Unweighted: 19 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | — | Liquid‑cooled |
| Displacement | — | 975 cc |
| Engine Type | Electric motor, 3-phase permanent magnet synchronous | Revolution Max 975T V‑twin (DOHC, VVT) |
| Power | — | 89 HP (66 kW) @ 7,500 rpm |
| Torque | 20 Nm @ 1,950 rpm | 95 Nm @ 5,750 RPM |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | — | 11.7 L |
| Mileage | — | 18.18 Kmpl |
| Top Speed (km/h) | 72 | — |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | — | 225 |
| Seat Height | 775 | 715 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | — | Dual‑channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 130 mm Disc | Disc |
| Front Suspension | Single Sided Leading Link | 41mm SHOWA® Dual Bending Valve conventional forks. Aluminum fork triple clamps. |
| Rear Brake | 130 mm Drum | Disc |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock | Rear suspension is dual outboard, direct-acting (no linkage) emulsion technology shock absorbers with coil springs and a threaded collar for pre-load adjustment. |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 90/90-12 | 100/90‑19 |
| Rear Tyre | 90/100-12 | 150/80‑16 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Aluminum cast, satin black |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED with DRLs (as per official visuals) | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| 0–40 km/h (s) | 2.8 | — |
| Anti-Theft / IoT Tracking | Yes | — |
| App Connectivity | Yes | — |
| Battery | 3.0 kWh (Series 30) / 3.5 kWh (Series 35) | — |
| Battery Capacity (kWh) | 3.5 | — |
| Battery Chemistry | Li-ion | — |
| Battery Warranty (Years) | 3 | — |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Brooklyn-Black.jpeg | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gray-1.avif |
| Bike Image 10 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/racing-red.jpeg | — |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Coarse-grey.jpeg | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/snake-venom-1.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Cyber-white.jpeg | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/whiskey-fire-3.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Ebony-black.jpeg | — |
| Bike Image 5 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/hazel-nut.jpeg | — |
| Bike Image 6 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Indigo-blue.jpeg | — |
| Bike Image 7 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Lime-yellow.jpeg | — |
| Bike Image 8 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Matt-grey.jpeg | — |
| Bike Image 9 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pista-green.jpeg | — |
| Built-in GPS Navigation | Yes | — |
| Charger Output Power (kW) | 0.95 | — |
| Charging Port Type | Proprietary | — |
| Charging Time (Standard) | 3 h 25 mins | — |
| Cluster | Fully digital colored LCD, Bluetooth‑linked, with navigation capability (Series 35) | Digital TFT (102 mm) |
| Color Options | Brooklyn Black | #1A1A1A Hazelnut | #8A6A4A Indigo Metallic | #2F4F8F Matte Scarlett Red / Scarlet Red | #A32028 Racing Red | #C1121F Pista Green | #A8C66C Lime Yellow | #C9D300 Azure Blue | #4A8EDB Cyber White | #F4F4F0 Matte Coarse Grey | #6C7075 Matt Grey | #707070 Moon White | #F5F5F2 | Whiskey Fire | #A64B22 Vivid Black | #0F0F10 Billiard Gray | #6B7074 Snake Venom | #4F5A3D |
| Connectivity Features | Bluetooth, Smartphone Connectivity, Navigation, Call Alerts, Music Control, Ride Statistics | — |
| Cons | No Fast Charging Support – Charging times remain longer than some rivals because DC fast charging is not supported. Battery Is Non-Removable – Users living in apartments without dedicated charging access may find charging less convenient. Performance Focuses on Smoothness Rather Than Aggression – Riders seeking rapid acceleration or sporty performance may find the scooter relatively relaxed. Top Speed Lower Than Some Performance EV Rivals – Competing electric scooters in the segment offer higher top speeds and quicker acceleration. Premium Pricing Compared to Petrol Scooters – Initial purchase cost remains higher than many conventional scooters despite lower running expenses. Limited Highway Suitability – While capable of short highway stretches, the scooter is primarily optimized for city commuting. Service and Charging Infrastructure Still Expanding – EV infrastructure and specialized service support continue to grow but may vary depending on location. Storage Space Still Less Than Some Rivals – Although improved, underseat storage may still feel limited compared to certain family-oriented scooters. | Fuel Capacity Is Modest for the Segment – The 11.7-litre fuel tank is smaller than what many riders expect from a motorcycle intended for highway use, which can limit range between fuel stops. Suspension Can Feel Firm on Broken Roads – Sharp bumps and poorly surfaced roads are transmitted more directly to the rider than on motorcycles with longer-travel suspension. Limited Wind Protection – The motorcycle is sold without a windscreen or fairing, leaving the rider exposed to airflow at sustained highway speeds. Passenger Accommodation Is Secondary – The compact rear seat and overall layout prioritize the rider more than two-up comfort. Engine Heat Becomes Noticeable in Congested Traffic – The liquid-cooled V-twin manages temperature effectively, but heat can still be felt around the rider during prolonged stop-and-go conditions. Storage Options Are Minimal – There are no integrated luggage solutions, and touring capability often requires aftermarket accessories. Traditional Harley Riders May Find It Unfamiliar – The engine character, chassis layout, and overall riding experience differ substantially from Harley-Davidson's classic air-cooled cruiser models. Weight Is Still Higher Than Many Middleweight Roadsters – Although lighter than most Harleys, it remains heavier than several similarly powered naked motorcycles and roadsters. |
| Detailed Overview | Few electric scooters on the market place as much emphasis on build quality and design as the Bajaj Chetak EV. While many modern electric scooters adopt sharp styling and futuristic bodywork, the Chetak follows a more timeless approach inspired by the iconic Chetak scooters of the past. Rounded body panels, clean lines, and extensive use of metal give it a distinctive identity, helping it stand apart in an increasingly crowded electric scooter segment. At the same time, the scooter incorporates modern technology, connected features, and an electric powertrain designed for everyday urban mobility. The latest generation Chetak is powered by a 3.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack paired with an electric motor that delivers smooth and immediate acceleration. Unlike conventional petrol-powered scooters that require gear changes or engine revs to build speed, the electric motor provides instant torque from a standstill, making stop-and-go city traffic easier to navigate. The scooter offers a claimed riding range of up to 153 km on a single charge under IDC testing conditions, while real-world range varies depending on riding style, traffic, terrain, and selected riding mode. Charging is handled through a home charging solution supplied with the scooter. The battery can be charged from 0 to 80 percent in approximately three and a half hours, making overnight charging or workplace charging practical for most users. The battery pack is integrated into the chassis and is not removable, allowing Bajaj to maximize storage space and maintain structural rigidity. The battery also benefits from modern thermal management and protection systems designed to support durability and long-term reliability. One of the major highlights of the Chetak is its all-metal body construction. While many electric scooters rely heavily on plastic body panels, the Chetak uses metal across much of its exterior structure, contributing to a solid feel and premium finish. The fit and finish of body panels, switchgear, and controls are designed to create a refined ownership experience while maintaining the scooter’s retro-inspired aesthetic. The scooter is equipped with a digital instrument cluster that provides access to speed, battery status, riding information, trip data, and connectivity functions. Depending on the variant, smartphone integration enables features such as call alerts, message notifications, navigation assistance, vehicle tracking, ride statistics, and software updates. Over-the-air update capability allows supported systems to receive feature enhancements and improvements without requiring a workshop visit. Ride quality is another area that receives attention in the scooter’s overall setup. The suspension system is tuned for urban conditions and works to absorb potholes, speed breakers, and uneven road surfaces commonly encountered in daily commuting. The chassis and wheelbase contribute to stable handling characteristics, while the scooter’s compact dimensions make it manageable in congested traffic and parking situations. Practicality remains an important part of the package. The latest Chetak offers approximately 35 litres of underseat storage, providing space for everyday items such as a helmet, bag, or personal belongings. The flat floorboard further improves utility by allowing riders to carry additional small items when required. Comfortable seating, a relaxed riding position, and intuitive controls make the scooter accessible to a broad range of riders, including those transitioning from conventional petrol-powered scooters. By combining a modern electric drivetrain, connected technology, premium metal construction, practical storage solutions, and a design that blends heritage-inspired styling with contemporary features, the Bajaj Chetak EV is positioned as an urban-focused electric scooter built around comfort, convenience, and everyday usability. | The Nightster Special is based on the same platform as the standard Nightster, but it adds a number of technology and convenience features that change the motorcycle’s overall specification without altering its core mechanical layout. Within Harley-Davidson’s lineup, it occupies a position that is noticeably different from the company’s traditional cruisers. While the styling retains familiar Harley-Davidson cues such as a low stance, exposed V-twin engine, and compact bodywork, the engineering underneath follows a more contemporary approach. Power comes from the Revolution Max 975T, a 975cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine that serves as a structural component of the motorcycle. Rather than sitting inside a conventional frame, the engine itself forms part of the chassis, with separate frame sections attached directly to it. This design reduces the amount of frame material required and contributes to the motorcycle’s overall rigidity. The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox and electronic throttle control, allowing rider-assistance systems and ride modes to interact with the powertrain. Unlike Harley-Davidson’s traditional air-cooled V-twins, the Revolution Max engine operates across a wider rev range and uses liquid cooling to manage temperatures. Fuel injection and electronic engine management systems continuously monitor operating conditions, while selectable ride modes adjust throttle response and electronic intervention levels. The engine’s design reflects Harley-Davidson’s broader shift toward modern performance-oriented powertrains. One of the motorcycle’s less obvious design features is its fuel storage arrangement. What appears to be a conventional fuel tank is actually an airbox cover. The fuel itself is stored beneath the seat, helping centralize mass and lower the centre of gravity. The fuel capacity is 11.7 litres, which contributes to the Nightster Special’s compact dimensions and narrow profile. The chassis uses conventional telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers. This setup differs from Harley-Davidson’s Softail models, which conceal the rear suspension beneath the motorcycle. Suspension components are configured to support everyday road use while maintaining the motorcycle’s compact proportions. The wheelbase and overall dimensions are considerably smaller than those of Harley-Davidson’s larger cruiser and touring models, making the Nightster Special one of the more manageable motorcycles in the brand’s range. Braking is handled by a single front disc brake and a rear disc brake, supported by a range of electronic rider-assistance systems. These include ABS, traction control, drag-torque slip control, and cornering-enhanced safety functions. The systems use onboard sensors to monitor motorcycle behaviour and adjust intervention levels when required. The riding position combines elements from both cruisers and standard motorcycles. Mid-mounted foot controls place the rider’s feet beneath the body rather than far forward, while the handlebar position encourages a relatively upright posture. The seat height of approximately 705 mm keeps the rider close to the ground, contributing to accessibility and confidence during low-speed manoeuvres. The most noticeable distinction between the Nightster and Nightster Special is the technology package. A 4-inch TFT display replaces the simpler instrumentation found on the standard model and acts as the centre of the motorcycle’s connectivity features. Through this display, riders can access navigation functions, smartphone connectivity, vehicle information, and ride-mode settings. Cruise control is also included as standard equipment on the Special variant. Taken together, the Nightster Special combines a liquid-cooled Revolution Max engine, compact chassis architecture, modern electronic rider aids, and connected technology features within a motorcycle that remains visually linked to Harley-Davidson’s cruiser heritage. Its specifications reflect a platform developed around contemporary engineering solutions while retaining a design language that remains recognisably Harley-Davidson. |
| Drive Modes | Eco, Sports | — |
| Expert Review | Among the growing number of electric scooters on Indian roads, the Bajaj Chetak takes a noticeably different approach. Rather than chasing the highest top speed or the longest feature list, it focuses on delivering a polished day-to-day riding experience. The metal body panels give the scooter a solid feel, while the electric motor provides smooth and predictable acceleration that suits urban traffic conditions well. Ride quality remains comfortable over broken roads, and the scooter feels stable and easy to control even for first-time EV users. The larger battery pack and improved storage space enhance practicality, while smartphone connectivity, navigation support, and OTA updates bring modern functionality to the package. The absence of fast charging and a removable battery may be considerations for some buyers, but the overall experience revolves around refinement, comfort, build quality, and ease of ownership rather than outright performance figures., 4.4, MotoAutiv Team | The Nightster Special is an interesting motorcycle because it sits between categories rather than fitting neatly into one. Its proportions and low seat height suggest a cruiser, but the riding experience is influenced just as much by the Revolution Max 975T engine and modern chassis as by traditional Harley-Davidson design cues. The engine is central to the motorcycle's character. It revs more freely than Harley-Davidson's older air-cooled V-twins and encourages riders to use a broader portion of the rev range. Around town, the compact dimensions make the motorcycle feel easier to manage than most of Harley-Davidson's larger models, while the upright riding position and mid-mounted controls create ergonomics that are closer to a standard motorcycle than a conventional cruiser. The Special variant adds a TFT display, connectivity features, cruise control, and a more comprehensive electronics package, but these additions do not fundamentally alter the motorcycle's nature. On longer rides, the absence of wind protection and the relatively small fuel tank become more noticeable, while rough road surfaces can highlight the firm suspension setup. Overall, the Nightster Special feels less like a scaled-down version of Harley-Davidson's traditional cruisers and more like a modern middleweight motorcycle that happens to wear Harley-Davidson styling and branding., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the battery capacity of the Bajaj Chetak EV? A: The latest Chetak 3501 is equipped with a 3.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Q: What is the claimed range of the Bajaj Chetak EV? A: Bajaj claims an IDC-certified range of approximately 153 km on a full charge. Q: What is the real-world range of the Chetak EV? A: Depending on riding conditions, speed, terrain, and usage patterns, most riders can expect around 110–130 km in real-world conditions. Q: How long does it take to charge the Bajaj Chetak EV? A: The battery can be charged from 0–80% in approximately 3 hours 25 minutes using the standard charger. Q: Does the Bajaj Chetak EV support fast charging? A: No. The current Chetak range does not support DC fast charging. Q: Is the battery removable? A: No. The battery is integrated into the scooter and cannot be removed for charging. Q: What is the top speed of the Bajaj Chetak EV? A: The latest Chetak 3501 has a top speed of approximately 73 km/h. Q: Does the Chetak EV have smartphone connectivity? A: Yes. It supports smartphone connectivity through the Chetak mobile application. Q: Does the scooter offer navigation features? A: Yes. Turn-by-turn navigation and map-related functions are available through the connected system. Q: Does the Bajaj Chetak EV receive OTA updates? A: Yes. Software updates can be delivered over the air for supported features and system improvements. Q: How much storage space does the Chetak EV offer? A: The latest generation provides approximately 35 litres of underseat storage, making it more practical than previous versions. Q: Is the Bajaj Chetak EV suitable for daily commuting? A: Yes. Its smooth power delivery, comfortable ride quality, practical range, and low running costs make it well suited to everyday urban use. Q: What type of battery chemistry does the Chetak use? A: The scooter uses a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery, known for durability and thermal stability. Q: Does the Bajaj Chetak EV have anti-theft features? A: Yes. Connected variants offer vehicle tracking, security alerts, and anti-theft functions through the companion application. Q: What type of scooter is the Bajaj Chetak EV? A: It is classified as a premium electric scooter, designed primarily for urban commuting and everyday transportation. | Q: What engine powers the Nightster Special? A: It uses Harley-Davidson's 975cc Revolution Max 975T liquid-cooled V-twin engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Q: How is the Nightster Special different from the standard Nightster? A: The Special adds a 4-inch TFT display, smartphone connectivity, navigation functions, cruise control, additional ride modes, and a more comprehensive electronics package. Q: Is the Nightster Special liquid-cooled? A: Yes. Unlike Harley-Davidson's traditional air-cooled cruisers, it uses a liquid-cooled V-twin engine. Q: Does the Nightster Special have cruise control? A: Yes. Cruise control is standard equipment on the Special variant. Q: Does it have ride modes? A: Yes. Riders can select from multiple ride modes, including Road, Rain, Sport, and Custom settings. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The Nightster Special carries 11.7 litres of fuel. Q: What is the seat height? A: The seat height is approximately 705 mm, making it one of the more accessible motorcycles in Harley-Davidson's lineup. Q: Does the Nightster Special support smartphone connectivity? A: Yes. The TFT display supports Bluetooth connectivity, navigation-related functions, and mobile device integration. Q: Does it have traction control and cornering ABS? A: Yes. The motorcycle includes traction control, ABS, drag-torque slip control, and cornering-enhanced rider-assistance systems. Q: What is the kerb weight? A: The Nightster Special weighs approximately 225 kg in running condition. Q: Is it comfortable for long-distance touring? A: It can handle highway travel, but the compact fuel tank, lack of wind protection, and limited luggage options mean it is not designed as a dedicated touring motorcycle. Q: Is the Nightster Special beginner-friendly? A: The low seat height and manageable dimensions help accessibility, but the performance and weight make it better suited to riders with some experience. Q: How is it different from the Sportster S? A: The Nightster Special uses the smaller 975T engine and adopts a more balanced approach, while the Sportster S focuses more heavily on performance and uses the larger 1250T powertrain. |
| Final Drive Type | belt | — |
| Fuel System | — | Fuel Injection |
| Ingress Protection (IP Rating) | IP67 | — |
| Motor Power (Peak, kW) | 4.2 | — |
| Motor Type | PMSM | — |
| OTA Updates | Yes | — |
| Price Variants | C3001 | 110006 C3503 | 120605 C3502 | 134104 C3501 | 146305 | | 1538000 |
| Pros | Premium Metal Body Construction – Unlike many electric scooters that use fibre panels, the Chetak uses metal body panels that contribute to a solid and premium feel. Smooth and Silent Riding Experience – The electric motor delivers seamless acceleration with minimal vibrations and almost silent operation, especially in city traffic. Good Real-World Urban Range – The larger battery pack offers sufficient range for daily commuting, office travel, and regular city usage without frequent charging. Excellent Ride Quality – The suspension setup is tuned for comfort and absorbs potholes and uneven roads effectively during urban riding. Retro-Modern Design – The rounded body panels, curved styling, and clean design give the scooter a distinctive appearance that stands apart from aggressive-looking EVs. Refined Performance Delivery – Throttle response remains predictable and smooth, making the scooter beginner-friendly and comfortable in congested traffic. Feature-Rich Connectivity – Features such as smartphone connectivity, navigation support, call alerts, ride statistics, and OTA updates add convenience for everyday use. Large Underseat Storage – The newer Chetak platform offers improved storage practicality compared to earlier versions. Low Running Costs – Electricity costs and routine maintenance expenses are generally lower than petrol-powered scooters. | The Revolution Max 975T Engine – Unlike Harley-Davidson's traditional air-cooled V-twins, the liquid-cooled 975cc engine is designed to operate across a wider rev range. It responds quickly to throttle inputs and feels comfortable in both city traffic and open-road riding. Compact Dimensions by Harley-Davidson Standards – The Nightster Special is noticeably smaller and lighter than the company's cruiser and touring models, making it easier to manoeuvre in everyday situations. Low Seat Height Creates an Accessible Riding Position – Despite its modern chassis and engine, the motorcycle retains a low seat height that helps riders feel connected to the motorcycle at stops and low speeds. Modern Electronics Package – Ride modes, traction control, cornering-enhanced ABS, drag-torque slip control, cruise control, and rider-assistance systems are integrated into the platform. TFT Display Adds Connectivity Features – The Nightster Special receives a colour TFT instrument screen with smartphone connectivity, navigation support, and expanded vehicle information. Neutral Riding Ergonomics – Mid-mounted foot controls and a relatively upright handlebar position create a riding posture that differs from traditional forward-control cruisers. More Agile Than Most Harley-Davidson Cruisers – The combination of its weight, wheelbase, and chassis design allows the motorcycle to change direction more readily than larger Harley-Davidson models. Minimalist Design Approach – Exposed mechanical components, compact bodywork, and a short rear section give the motorcycle a clean and uncluttered appearance. |
| Range (Claimed, km) | 152 | — |
| Range (Real World, km) | 120 | — |
| Starter | Push Button Start | Electric |
| Transmission | Single-speed reduction gear | 6‑speed manual |
| Vehicle Warranty (Years) | 3 | — |
