Comparing Ather 450X
The Ather 450X has long been a favorite among scooter enthusiasts. Known for its speed, agility, and reliability, it’s one of India’s top electric vehicles. However, its sporty design isn’t ideal for everyone, particularly those looking for a practical, family-friendly option. To appeal to a broader audience, Ather launched the Rizta, a scooter specifically designed with families in mind. It features the largest seat in its category, offering a more traditional scooter experience.
Ather Rizta Design
The Rizta sports a more conventional design compared to the 450X, focusing on practicality. It has a flat front end with a wide light strip, smoothly transitioning into the side skirts and a boxy rear section. We tested the ‘Z’ variant, which comes in dual-tone colors of white and seafoam green. This model combines a classic family scooter look with Ather’s unique touches, such as pastel colors, sharp LED lights, and a large 7-inch instrument cluster.
For added convenience, the Rizta includes a 22-litre front-mounted bag, enhancing the spacious 34-litre boot. Ather also provides a handy accessory organizer that can double as a portable shopping bag, adding to the scooter’s practicality.
Ather Rizta Performance, Range, and Features
The standout feature of the Rizta is its seat, touted by Ather as the largest in its class, whether electric or internal combustion engine (ICE). While we didn’t measure it against competitors, it feels spacious. Even larger individuals can comfortably accommodate another person without feeling cramped. The dashboard and controls are similar to the new 450S model, with the ‘Z’ variant featuring a color-TFT screen, although it is not a touchscreen.
The Rizta is powered by a 2.9kWh battery, the same as in the 450S and X models. An optional 3.7kWh battery extends the claimed Indian Drive Cycle (IDC) range from 123 km to 159 km on a single charge. The electric motor delivers 4.3kW of peak power and 22Nm of torque, with a top speed of 80 km/h and a 0-40 km/h acceleration time of 4.7 seconds. It features a single ‘Zip’ mode, with the Pro pack unlocking an additional SmartEco mode. In Zip mode, the performance is similar to the mid-performance mode of the Ather 450S. The scooter accelerates smoothly up to 50-55 km/h, then gradually reaches its top speed. SmartEco mode helps conserve energy, useful for extending range when charging points are scarce.
The Rizta handles inclines without issue, provided you’re not in a rush. Its throttle response is gentle, making it suitable for riders of all skill levels. While it may not offer the exhilarating experience typical of Ather scooters, it is perfect for everyday commuting. We didn’t have enough time for a full range test, but around 90 km per charge is a realistic expectation, depending on riding conditions.
Innovative Features
The Rizta introduces several innovative features that enhance the riding experience. The MagicTwist system, first seen in the 450 Apex, is an advanced regenerative braking system that reduces reliance on traditional brakes. Unlike typical regen systems that activate only when the battery is low, MagicTwist works from a full charge to zero. Riders can control braking by twisting the throttle beyond its neutral position, with about 15 degrees of precision.
Another notable feature is skid control, Ather’s version of traction control. It uses sensors on both wheels to maintain optimal traction, preventing skidding by ensuring both wheels rotate at the same speed. This is especially useful on slippery surfaces or inclines. These features, included in the Pro pack, add significant value to the scooter’s capabilities. For those considering the Rizta, investing an additional ₹15,000 for the Pro pack is highly recommended for its safety and convenience enhancements.
Comfort and Convenience
The Rizta features a well-designed suspension system with a telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear, providing a smoother ride compared to the 450 series. The front frame and geometry are similar to the 450 series, but the rear subframe and swingarm are newly developed to accommodate a larger storage compartment. The scooter handles predictably and smoothly, ideal for daily commuting.
For braking, the Rizta uses a disc brake at the front and a drum brake at the rear. While the brakes may not be the sharpest, the MagicTwist regenerative braking system significantly improves the braking experience, compensating for any lack in sharpness.
Ather has packed the Rizta with a range of features. The latest Atherstack 6.0 software update introduces new functionalities, including WhatsApp access on the scooter’s display. These features are designed with safety in mind, becoming inactive while the scooter is in motion. While the lack of a touchscreen might seem like a drawback, the intuitive smartphone app allows for easy control of most settings. This thoughtful design and user-friendly technology make the Rizta a practical choice for families.
Ather Rizta Verdict
The Ather Rizta isn’t designed to thrill like the 450 series. Instead, it focuses on being a comfortable, practical, and reliable family scooter. It’s ideal for anyone seeking a smooth and convenient ride, whether tech-savvy youngsters or elders running errands. The Rizta offers a stylish design and a range of features catering to diverse needs without being overly complex.
Priced at ₹1.4 lakh (ex-showroom) with the Pro pack, the Rizta offers good value for its features. While it may not be the cheapest option, the benefits, including advanced technology and user-friendly features, make it a worthy investment for families.
Ather On Road Prices
Here is the list of on-road prices for Ather scooters in various cities in India as of August 2024:
| City | Ather 450S | Ather 450X | Ather Rizta (Base) | Ather Rizta (Top) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | Rs. 1,28,000 | Rs. 1,42,000 | Rs. 1,17,000 | Rs. 1,53,000 |
| Mumbai | Rs. 1,34,000 | Rs. 1,41,000 | Rs. 1,20,000 | Rs. 1,52,000 |
| Bangalore | Rs. 1,37,000 | Rs. 1,43,000 | Rs. 1,21,000 | Rs. 1,58,000 |
| Hyderabad | Rs. 1,33,000 | Rs. 1,42,000 | Rs. 1,19,000 | Rs. 1,56,000 |
| Chennai | Rs. 1,32,000 | Rs. 1,41,000 | Rs. 1,16,000 | Rs. 1,52,000 |
| Pune | Rs. 1,34,000 | Rs. 1,42,000 | Rs. 1,16,000 | Rs. 1,52,000 |
| Ahmedabad | Rs. 1,31,000 | Rs. 1,41,000 | Rs. 1,16,000 | Rs. 1,52,000 |
| Kolkata | Rs. 1,33,000 | Rs. 1,42,000 | Rs. 1,16,000 | Rs. 1,52,000 |
| Chandigarh | Rs. 1,33,000 | Rs. 1,42,000 | Rs. 1,16,000 | Rs. 1,52,000 |
| Patna | Rs. 1,36,000 | Rs. 1,42,000 | Rs. 1,16,000 | Rs. 1,52,000 |
These prices include all applicable taxes, insurance, and other charges. Note that actual prices may vary slightly based on local taxes and dealer charges
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