Ather 450 Apex vs Ather Rizta: Sporty & Aggressive OR Practically & Family Friendly?

In terms of looks, the Ather Rizta’s design is the fresher one of the two

• The Ather 450 Apex is Ather’s first scooter to get a 100kmph+ top speed
• The USP of the Rizta, meanwhile, is its massive 34-litre underseat storage space
• In fact, with the 22-litre accessories, the Ather’s total storage space can actually be increased to an incredible 56 litres 

Ather scooters have built a reputation for their reliability, aesthetic appeal, and top-notch fit and finish. Renowned as the premier electric scooters in India, they exemplify quality. With the introduction of two compelling models, the Ather Rizta and the Ather 450 Apex, consumers are faced with a choice: where should their money go? We give the definitive answer.

Ather 450 Apex vs Ather Rizta: Design & Features

The Ather 450 Apex introduces a playful redesign of the TFT display UI with the Warp+ mode, creating a visually captivating 'warp speed' appearance. However, the standout innovation lies in the Magic Twist feature, poised to extend across the company’s future lineup.

Magic Twist offers a regenerative braking function, where twisting the accelerator backward gradually slows the scooter to a halt. While some electric two-wheelers in the UK offer regenerative braking, none match the strength and effectiveness of Ather's implementation. The challenge lies in providing a consistent regenerative braking experience, considering factors like battery state of charge and vehicle speed. Unlike cars with e-brakes to mitigate braking inconsistencies, this isn't feasible on a budget e-scooter.

Embracing a refined design language, the Ather Rizta departs from the bold aesthetic of its predecessors in the 450 series. Its front apron showcases a horizontally oriented headlight cluster with integrated DRLs and turn indicators, exuding a sense of understated sophistication. The fusion of side and tail panels underscores Ather's dedication to functionality harmonised with form, presenting a design that resonates across diverse age demographics.

A defining feature of the Rizta is its tail-light, mirroring the bar-style shape of the headlight, contributing to a cohesive design ethos. This approach strikes a delicate balance between elegance and utility, appealing not only to younger riders but also garnering appreciation from more mature enthusiasts.

Ather 450 Apex vs Ather Rizta: Motor & Range

Power in the Ather 450 sees a ten percent increase to 3kW, enabling a top speed of 100kph. Acceleration improves, with the 0-40kph sprint taking just 2.9 seconds. During testing, the Ather scooter exhibited strong acceleration and rapid response in Warp+ mode, alongside smooth accelerator feedback. Warp+ mode also enhances 40-80kph performance.

Riding the scooter on a go-kart track underscores Ather's precision engineering, with the product feeling refined. Sustained high-speed riding leads to a slight drop in performance, though less pronounced than some competitors.

The Ather Rizta lineup introduces two distinct variants packed with cutting-edge features. The Rizta S boasts a 7-inch LCD instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation, while the Rizta Z raises the bar with a 7-inch TFT console and Google Maps integration.

Both variants offer innovative functionalities like AutoHold and MagicTwist for regenerative braking, enhancing the overall riding experience. Noteworthy is the introduction of industry-first features such as integrated WhatsApp and Alexa capabilities, adding convenience and versatility.

Ather 450 Apex vs Ather Rizta: Suspension, Tyres & Brakes

Addressing diverse commuting needs, the Ather Rizta offers versatile battery options. The Rizta S and one variant of the Rizta Z feature a 2.9kWh battery pack with an IDC range of 123km, complemented by a 350W portable charger. Alternatively, the other Rizta Z variant boasts a larger 3.7kWh battery pack, providing an extended IDC range of 160km and faster charging time with the 700W Ather Duo charger.

While not exceptionally powerful, the Rizta demonstrates commendable agility, particularly in Sport mode, matching its counterpart's maximum speed of 90kph. Throttle mapping adjustments in Eco and Ride modes aim to deliver a smoother response, catering to riders new to electric vehicles. However, taller riders may experience slight constraints during U-turns, and the ride quality maintains a firm yet responsive demeanour.

Achieving this involved extensive software engineering and hardware modifications within the motor. The backward accelerator action offers 15 degrees of rotation, providing precise control over regenerative braking. Eventually, riders may not need to use brakes in most normal slowing-down scenarios.

However, it's advisable to keep the left hand close to the brake lever for emergency braking, as reaction time might be slightly delayed. This regenerative braking system is particularly effective below 50kph, covering up to 75 percent of braking scenarios. So if you are commuting around in the city, you will not really have to get on the brakes at all, for this feature will be enough to get all the stopping performance that you want. 

Ather 450 Apex vs Ather Rizta: Dimensions

Ather scooters have always felt exceptionally nimble but stable and the 450 Apex is no different. Riding it around a tight race track was a lot of fun because of just how well the 450 Apex’s chassis is designed. The moment you point it out of a corner, the Apex holds its line beautifully well and will inspire a lot of confidence, even for newer riders. So if you are looking for something that is incredibly sporty to ride, it is hard to beat the 450 Apex in the electric scooter segment. 

In fact, we would go as far to say that the 450 Apex is the most fun to ride electric scooter to ride in the country. 

The Ather Rizta ensures an exceptional ride experience with its well-engineered suspension system, comprising a telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear. Paired with reliable braking components, including a 200mm front disc and a 130mm rear drum with CBS, the Rizta offers optimal stopping power and control. That said, unlike most Ather scooters, the Rizta is actually tuned towards comfort a lot more. And given how it is actually targeted towards families, it only makes sense.

How the Ather 450 Apex’s strong regenerative braking will really help riders is also because using the brakes that much less means the brake pads will also be used a lot less, meaning you will have to replace the pads after a longer time, and hence essentially ensuring your overall ownership costs reduce by a bit, over a long period of time. 

Ather 450 Apex vs Ather Rizta: Price

The Ather 450 Apex costs Rs 1.89 lakh, ex-showroom. While expensive, it offers a unique riding experience unmatched in its segment. Once experienced, the price becomes justified, considering the scooter's capabilities.

Ather presents the Ather Rizta in two appealing variants: the Rizta S and the Rizta Z, catering to diverse consumer preferences. Priced competitively at Rs 1,09,999 and Rs 1,24,999 for the introductory models (ex-showroom Bengaluru), the Rizta presents a compelling blend of affordability and performance. With benefits under the Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024, these prices enhance the value proposition for consumers in Bengaluru and beyond.

Verdict

The Ather 450 Apex appeals to those seeking exclusivity and the pinnacle of the Ather 450 range. While not emphasising value, it offers an unmatched riding experience for enthusiasts.

The Rizta, meanwhile, emerges as a well-priced scooter, targeting individuals seeking a family-friendly ride for daily use. If you prioritise versatility and intend for multiple family members to ride the scooter regularly, the Rizta offers a compelling choice. However, for younger riders seeking a more distinctive and attention-grabbing option for college commutes, the 450S might hold greater appeal, ensuring both style and substance on the road.