Bajaj Chetak Series 25

The C25 has added some subtle, modern tweaks to the recognisable Chetak shape.

Amaan points out,

"From a distance, the C25 may pass off for a Chetak 30 or 35, but get up close and the differences become apparent."

Lighting & Front Identity

• The front end keeps the signature horseshoe-shaped LED headlamp from the older models.
• However, Bajaj cleaned up the front apron by moving the LED turn indicators directly into the upper headlamp cowl.
• The front mudguard is minimal, keeping the nose looking sleek and unintimidating.

Side Profile & Rear Section

• From the side, the shorter dimensions really stand out.
• Bajaj added covers over the telescopic forks and the swingarm to hide the mechanical parts and keep the retro aesthetic looking clean.
• The pillion footrests fold flush into the bodywork instead of sticking out.
• At the back, the taillight gets a major redesign. It features edge-to-edge "ice-cube-style" LED elements with seamlessly integrated turn indicators.

Practical Integration

• This scooter’s flat seat is well-padded and comfortable.
• But since the wheelbase is tight, a pillion rider with large shoes might occasionally brush against the rider's calves.
• The underseat storage dropped from 35 litres (found on the bigger Chetaks) to 25 litres.
• However, there’s the five-litre front apron glovebox kept intact, which also houses the USB charging port.

Bajaj aims the C25 directly at the budget commuter segment. Note that its TecPac software upgrade costs an additional Rs. 3,000 to unlock turn-by-turn navigation, hill-hold assist, music playback controls, etc.

Disclaimer: The listed prices are at the time of publishing this review. Check your local dealerships for accurate regional pricing.

The battery pack is relatively small to keep the kerb weight down, making this a strictly short-to-medium distance urban vehicle. Also, the scooter uses a portable 750W charger that plugs into a port under the seat and takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes for a full 100 per cent charge. A standard three-year warranty comes along with the battery pack.

Bajaj kept the electronics simple but effective, ensuring you do not pay for massive touchscreen displays if you only want a reliable daily commuter.

Instrumentation & Connectivity

• The dashboard uses a bright colour LCD screen.
• It displays your speed, remaining battery, and estimated range in large, clear fonts.
• If you stick to the standard variant, the screen acts essentially as a digital speedometer.
• However, if you buy the TecPac software upgrade, it unlocks Bluetooth connectivity.
• It allows you to pair your smartphone to the display, providing incoming call alerts and music playback controls directly through the scooter's left-hand switchgear.

Practical Technology & Safety Integration

• Even on a budget scooter, Bajaj includes a highly useful reverse assist mode as standard, helping you back the scooter out of tight alleys without straining your legs.
• Adding the TecPac also unlocks Hill-Hold Assist. If you stop on a steep incline, the scooter holds the brakes automatically for a few seconds so you do not roll backwards.
• A "guide-me-home" lighting system keeps the headlamp illuminated for a few seconds after you turn the scooter off, helping you navigate dark parking spaces safely.

Amaan specifies,

“Thankfully, Bajaj has not lowered quality levels to achieve a lower price point.”

The C25 is as relaxing to control as possible for both novice and experienced riders.

City Handling

• The city is the one true place this scooter belongs.
• The kerb weight and the short wheelbase give it a very agile identity.
• You can guide it through standstill traffic without making too much effort.

Highway Stability

• Highway riding should be actively avoided on the C25, unless it’s very urgent.
• With the top speed electronically limited, you can become a roadblock on fast expressways.
• While the 12-inch wheels keep the chassis stable in a straight line, you do not have the top-end speed or the mid-range acceleration to align with other fast vehicles.

Suspension Behaviour

• Bajaj utilises telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers for slow-speed comfort.
• When you face standard city potholes or uneven roads, the setup absorbs the impacts well.
• However, because the rear shocks are slightly firm, hitting tall speed bumps at a higher speed will shake the scooter a little.

There is only one physical variant of the scooter available. Your decision rests entirely on whether you want to pay the extra Rs. 3,000 for the digital TecPac upgrade. If you only need a sturdy, reliable scooter to ride 10 km a day to the local market and back, there’s no need for the TecPac. The standard scooter gives you the same metal body, the 80-90 km real-world range, and a highly comfortable ride while capping your speed at a safe 45 kmph. But if you commute daily in heavy traffic, spend the extra money. Unlocking the 55 kmph Sport mode makes keeping up with regular traffic easier, and the Hill-Hold Assist is invaluable when you are stuck on a crowded city flyover.