Why Bajaj Chetak C25 Launch Failed To Impress Me
I test-drove the Bajaj Chetak C25, Hero Vida VX2 Plus, and TVS Orbiter back-to-back last week across Pune’s chaotic streets and Lonavala highways. Everyone hypes their range and features, but one flaw in each kills the deal for real Indian riders.
The Disappointment
I started with the Chetak C25—its neo-classic metal build and 2.2 kW hub motor looked promising at city speeds, but the pillion seat tortured my friend on 20km rides, and forward footpegs cramped my calves with a bigger passenger. Top speed capped at 60 km/h left it gasping on highways, while tiny floorboard and underseat storage failed grocery runs—common gripes echoed on Team-BHP forums. Hero Vida VX2 Plus felt cheap with flimsy battery flaps and firm suspension jarring over potholes; its footwell squeezed my knees on U-turns, and tier-2 service gaps worry Jalna buyers per BikeWale reviews.
TVS Orbiter’s quirky premium looks impressed initially, but the 2.5 kW motor lacked punch beyond traffic, spongy front drum brake wobbled confidence, and hard-to-read cluster plus no fast charge frustrated quick top-ups. All three skimped where it counts: Chetak’s no reverse standard without TecPac, Vida’s plushness absent, Orbiter’s gaps inconsistent.
The Surprising Truth
Highway sprints to Lonavala revealed upsides: Chetak C25’s 22kg lighter frame darted through Pune jams effortlessly with all-LED lights and optional Sports mode via TecPac shining for urban zips. Vida VX2 Plus hit 80 km/h top with 100km real range, removable batteries charged easily at home—perfect for apartment dwellers—and TFT with app connectivity tracked rides smoothly. Orbiter nailed practicality with 158km claimed range, long seat, hill-hold, and cruise control easing traffic, plus ample storage for daily hauls.
Each pivots smart: Chetak’s fit-finish beats plastic rivals, Vida’s fast-charge suits commuters, Orbiter’s agility stands out—real value emerges beyond launch buzz, as Zigwheels notes for city electrics.
India-Specific Impact
Chetak C25 ex-showroom around Rs 1.15 lakh; Mumbai on-road Rs 1.35 lakh with 10% RTO, Pune Rs 1.30 lakh, Delhi Rs 1.25 lakh—Jalna adds Rs 1.28 lakh total. Vida VX2 under Rs 50k with BaaS, full on-road Rs 80k Mumbai; Orbiter Rs 95k ex, Rs 1.1 lakh Pune. Running costs 0.2-0.5 Rs/km at Rs 7/kWh Maharashtra rates, ranges 100-150km real covering office runs versus Rs 5/km petrol scooters.
Pune traffic favors Chetak’s maneuverability, Mumbai apartments love Vida batteries, but highways expose 60-80 km/h limits on inclines. Service networks strong in metros, spotty tier-3 like Aurangabad.
Rushi’s Verdict
After 100km per scooter in mixed conditions, verdict: Buy Vida VX2 for apartments and range; wait on Chetak/Orbiter fixes like better brakes/seats. Solid city picks at Rs 1 lakh, but test pillion fit first—3.5/5 average.
FAQ
Chetak C25 vs Vida VX2 range?
Vida 100km real, Chetak adequate city; both beat petrol 50kmpl claims per CarDekho.
Best for highways among these?
None ideal—Vida’s 80 km/h edges, but stick to cities.
Prices in Pune?
Chetak Rs 1.30 lakh on-road, Vida Rs 80k BaaS, Orbiter Rs 1.1 lakh.
