Vlektra Bolt

Motor and battery

Both versions of the Vlektra Bolt share the same hardware: a 72 V, 3,000 W BLDC motor that Vlektra rates at 120 Nm of torque, with a factory-limited top speed of 105 km/h. Power comes from a 72 V 38 Ah lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery. Vlektra quotes a range of 150 km per charge and a charging time of about 3.5 hours with the supplied 84 V/10 A charger, which plugs into an ordinary wall socket. The company says a full charge uses roughly 3 units of electricity and that the battery is built to last up to 15 years. The battery is fixed, not removable, and Vlektra describes its bikes as IP67 water-resistant.

Chassis and practicality

The Bolt is the sportiest bike in the range, with an upside-down front fork, a rear monoshock and dual-piston caliper disc brakes at both ends. Tyres are 90/90-17 at the front and 120/80-16 at the rear. Vlektra says the Bolt is suitable for a pillion and can carry around 200 kg without losing speed or range. The tank on Vlektra bikes is there for looks rather than fuel, which is why the Bolt Dark can use that space for storage. The official site does not publish dimensions, weight or seat height, so check these at a showroom if they matter to you.

Equipment by variant

Both variants get an LED projector headlamp with daytime running light, LED indicators, an LED tail light, a digital meter, economy and sport riding modes plus reverse, and a synthesized sound module that reacts to the throttle and connects over Bluetooth. The standard Bolt’s page also highlights a combined braking system (CBS). The Bolt Dark adds an all-black finish and a built-in storage compartment in the tank, large enough to carry the charger on longer trips.

Warranty

Vlektra gives a 3-year replacement warranty on the battery and a 2-year replacement warranty on the motor. The company warns that unlocking the factory speed limit may void the warranty.

Which variant to buy?

The standard Bolt is listed at Rs 549,000, down from a previous Rs 609,000, while the Bolt Dark costs Rs 599,000. Motor, battery, range and charging time are identical. In our opinion, the standard Bolt is the better value unless you specifically want the stealth look or the tank storage, which together add Rs 50,000. Our view is also that the Bolt suits riders who can charge at home overnight and want a quicker, sportier alternative to a 125cc or 150cc petrol bike, accepting a higher purchase price in exchange for lower running costs.