The Kinetic DX electric is a reincarnation of the iconic Kinetic Honda DX 2-stroke petrol scooter, featuring similar boxy, squared-off styling. While it enters a fiercely competitive electric scooter market, the DX has some strengths that might appeal to certain buyers. However, it also has some significant drawbacks that could make established rivals a better choice. If you're considering the Kinetic DX, here's what works in its favour and what doesn't.
Reasons to buy the Kinetic DX
Nostalgic and eye-catching design
The DX electric's boxy, squared-off lines and clear design similarity to the original Kinetic Honda DX make it stand out on the road. The top DX+ variant comes in vibrant colour options that further enhance its appeal. With metal body panels and a solid, built-to-last feel, it has a unique neo-retro character that will tug at the heartstrings of fans of the original Kinetic Honda DX. If you want something that looks different from every other electric scooter on the road, the DX delivers.
Well-tuned suspension and comfortable ride
The suspension setup on the DX electric is well judged for Indian road conditions. It rounds off most bumps fairly well, and only the biggest ones force the slightly soft fork to bottom out. This translates to a comfortable riding experience for both rider and pillion. The braking power is also adequate, with combined brakes providing sufficient stopping power for typical city riding conditions.
Best-in-class on-board charger design and spacious boot
The DX gets some genuinely useful features, starting with the on-board charger that comes with a 3-pin plug integrated into it. This means you don't need to carry any cables or wires with you, making it the best-thought-out on-board charger design yet seen on an electric two-wheeler. The scooter also offers a large 37-litre underseat storage area, which is the second largest on any electric scooter today. Additional conveniences include a mobile app for smart Bluetooth-based functions and remote opening for the seat and charger flap.
Reasons to skip the Kinetic DX
Lower range and higher price than established rivals
With a small 2.6kWh LFP battery pack, the DX's claimed IDC range is a modest 117km. This is lower than what established rivals from Hero, Bajaj, TVS, and Ather offer. More importantly, the DX is priced at Rs 1.11-1.17 lakh, which is higher than several proven products that offer more range. In a segment where price and range are two of the biggest purchase considerations, the DX doesn't offer compelling value.
Uncomfortable seating ergonomics
The riding position on the DX is a bit too knees-up for taller riders. Additionally, the placement of the passenger pegs is too far forward, which results in the pillion having to stretch their legs unnaturally. As a consequence, the pillion's foot will foul the rider's shin at a standstill. These ergonomic flaws could prove to be a pain point over longer durations for both rider and pillion.
Limited dealer network and unproven long-term reliability
The Kinetic DX electric will be sold via a new dealer network under Kinetic Watts and Volts, which is currently quite limited across India. This is a separate entity from Kinetic Green, which has a more established presence. Since this is a brand-new scooter and the first from Kinetic Watts and Volts in a long time, its long-term reliability is unknown. Buyers will have to take a leap of faith on both the product and the after-sales network, which is a significant risk when established alternatives with proven track records are available.
Ved Janve
Dinshaw Magol
