The Ather 450 was the first product in India from the Bengaluru-based startup, and it cemented the company’s reputation here as a maker of well-engineered, fun-to-ride and tech-laden scooters. We break down the main reasons why you should consider buying a 450 and some factors that may tempt you to look elsewhere.
Three reasons to buy an Ather 450
Fun handling and strong performance.
One of the main reasons why you’re looking at something like an Ather 450 is that you’re a performance-oriented buyer. And boy, does the 450 excel in this regard! Whether it is the strong performance it delivers (not just in the top Warp mode, even the default Ride mode is pretty zippy!) or its sure-footed, planted handling, the 450 is sure to put a smile on your face and keep you engaged when you’re astride it.
Accurate range indication.
One of the biggest potential deterrents on any electric vehicle can be an inaccurate range indicator. In that regard, the 450 (and even the family centric Rizta) have a range indicator that's precisely accurate to a fault. Irrespective of what mode you’re in, the screen displays the distance to empty, and more often than not, it’s usually the amount of kilometres you’ll cover until you need to recharge again.
Feature packed.
Ather has always pushed the envelope when it comes to cramming in technology into its two-wheelers and a perfect example of that is the 450. In its latest iteration it comes with adjustable regenerative braking, multi-mode traction control and now with AtherStack 7. The 450 even alerts you of potholes on the route you’re travelling on as well as cricket score updates – two features that are particularly India-centric.
However, on the flip side, the two reasons listed below could potentially be the biggest deterrents for prospective 450 buyers.
Two reasons that could deter you from buying an Ather 450
Cramped for taller riders.
The 450 line of scooters has always been on the smaller side physically and larger riders will end up feeling rather cramped on it. If you are tall, your knees will even make contact with the sharp body panels of the front apron while going over bigger bumps, which is not a pleasant experience.
Rear wheel locks up too easily.
The Ather 450 has always had sharp brakes – a little too sharp, in our experience. If you are going over wet roads, slippery concrete surfaces and metal manhole covers, the rear wheel is all too easy to lock up. This is particularly so if you use the brakes in tandem with Ather’s MagicTwist regenerative braking system.
