Bajaj Chetak vs TVS iQube vs Ather Rizta — Which One Is Better?

Electric scooters have matured significantly in the last couple of years, and comparing top variants makes the decision much clearer because you get the full feature set each brand offers. Here’s a practical, feature-focused comparison of the top trims of TVS iQube ST 5.1 kWh, Bajaj Chetak 3501, and Ather Rizta Z 3.7 kWh.

I’ll go section by section so it’s easy to understand where each scooter shines.

Price Comparison

Verdict: If budget matters most, the Chetak clearly offers the lowest entry cost among top variants. The iQube is the most expensive here unless you opt for Ather’s higher configuration with Stack Pro.

Range & Battery Performance

Observations:

• Chetak’s range indicator is known to be quite accurate, which helps in daily planning.
• Ather offers the highest claimed range in this comparison.
• iQube delivers predictable range but not segment-leading.

Verdict: For maximum range, I’d lean toward the Ather Rizta. For predictable real-world estimation, Chetak stands out.

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Performance, Ride & Braking

TVS iQube

• Front disc, rear drum with CBS
• Great braking performance
• Strong pickup and power mode

Bajaj Chetak

• Drum brakes at both ends
• No acceleration lag
• Smooth, refined delivery rather than aggressive performance

Ather Rizta

• Front disc, rear drum with CBS
• Great acceleration
• Tech features like Skid Control and Magic Twist (regen braking)

Verdict: If I had to pick purely for ride feel and braking confidence, the iQube and Rizta are ahead due to disc brakes. Rizta adds advanced electronic riding aids, which gives it a slight edge in technology-assisted riding.

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Technology & Features

TVS iQube

• App subscription free for 1 year, then ₹1000/year
• Solid overall feature set

Bajaj Chetak

• TecPac required for advanced features
• Lifetime + data option costs ₹7,500
• Cost-effective long term, but warranty cap reduces the advantage slightly

Ather Rizta

• Best-in-class tech package
• Theft tracking, fall detection, skid control
• Ather Connect free for 3 years
• Optional Stack Pro and Eight70 warranty (up to 8 years or 80,000 km, battery guarantee)

Verdict: In my view, Ather is clearly ahead here. Their ecosystem, software reliability, and long warranty options make ownership feel more future-proof.

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Build Quality & Practicality

TVS iQube

• Good build quality overall
• LED lighting good but not the strongest

Bajaj Chetak

• Metal body — strongest build in the segment
• Very durable feel
• Front storage for charger

Ather Rizta

• Designed as a family scooter
• Spacious and sturdy
• Ground clearance slightly lower than competitors

Verdict: If durability and long-term ruggedness are priorities, I would pick the Chetak. For family practicality and space, Rizta is excellent.

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Charging & Ownership Costs

TVS iQube

• Service cost: ₹680
• AMC: ₹1400
• Warranty up to 5 years

Bajaj Chetak

• Service: ₹300–500
• Spare parts widely available
• May require earthing setup costing ₹15–20k

Ather Rizta

• Service: ₹500–800
• Fast-charging support
• Subscription after 3 years similar to TVS pricing

Verdict: Chetak is cheapest to maintain, but installation cost for proper charging can offset early savings. Ather offers the strongest long-term battery assurance.

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Lighting & Visibility

Chetak — strongest headlamp

TVS iQube — good LEDs

Ather Rizta — adequate but could be better

Verdict: Chetak wins clearly in headlamp performance.

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Warranty Comparison

Verdict: Ather offers the strongest long-term protection, especially with battery health guarantees.

Overall Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

Choose TVS iQube if:

• You want balanced performance and braking
• You prefer a reliable, no-nonsense scooter

Choose Bajaj Chetak if:

• You want maximum durability and lowest service cost
• Build quality and simplicity matter more than tech

Choose Ather Rizta if:

• You want the most technology, highest range, and longest warranty
• You want a family-friendly scooter with smart features

My Personal Take

If I had to choose purely on overall ownership experience, I’d lean toward the Rizta because the combination of range, tech, and warranty makes it feel the most future-ready. But if someone wants something ultra-solid and low maintenance, the Chetak still makes a lot of sense.

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Frequently Asked Questions — FAQs

Q. Which scooter has the highest real-world range?

• The Ather Rizta generally offers the highest claimed and practical range among the three.

Q. Which electric scooter is cheapest to maintain?

• Bajaj Chetak has the lowest routine service costs, though installation requirements for charging may add initial expense.

Q. Which scooter is best for family use?

• Ather Rizta is designed as a family scooter with better practicality and space.

Q. Which scooter has the best build quality?

• Bajaj Chetak stands out due to its metal body construction.

Q. Which scooter has the best warranty?

• Ather Rizta offers the longest battery and vehicle warranty options in this comparison.

Q. Is fast charging available in all three?

• Fast charging support is strongest in Ather’s ecosystem; availability varies by city and infrastructure.