Ola Roadster Pro – Tested for the Road. And the Racetrack.

(Image: A dynamic shot of the Ola Roadster Pro speeding around a corner, showcasing its sleek design.)

The electric motorcycle revolution is no longer a whisper; it’s a roar. And at the forefront of this exciting shift is Ola Electric, a rapidly growing Indian manufacturer making waves with its bold designs and ambitious goals. Their flagship product, the Ola Roadster Pro, isn’t just another electric motorcycle; it’s a carefully crafted machine designed to cater to both the daily commute and the thrill of the racetrack. We’ve spent considerable time putting this electric motorcycle through its paces, and the results are in. This isn’t just about range and charging; it’s about performance, design, and the overall experience. Let’s dive into a comprehensive analysis of what the Ola Roadster Pro offers.

A Design That Commands Attention

From the moment you lay eyes on the Ola Roadster Pro, it’s clear that design was a primary focus. The bike’s retro-inspired styling, heavily influenced by classic British roadsters, is undeniably striking. The sculpted fuel tank, the sharp LED headlight, and the overall silhouette are a far cry from the often-functional aesthetics of some electric motorcycles. It’s a design choice that immediately sets it apart, appealing to riders who appreciate a blend of heritage and modern technology. The bike boasts a length of 2085mm, a width of 785mm, and a height of 1105mm, offering a comfortable riding position suitable for a range of rider sizes.

Under the Hood: Performance and Tech

The Ola Roadster Pro isn’t just about looks; it packs a serious punch under its sleek skin. At its heart lies a 7.2 kW (9.6 hp) motor, delivering instant torque – a hallmark of electric powertrains. This translates into impressive acceleration, with the bike claiming a 0-60 mph time of just 3.6 seconds. That’s competitive with many gas-powered motorcycles in the same price bracket.

• Battery and Range: The bike utilizes a 3.0 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, offering a claimed range of 161 km (100 miles) on a full charge. Real-world range, of course, depends heavily on riding style, speed, and environmental conditions. During our testing, we consistently achieved around 130-140 km (81-87 miles) in mixed urban and highway riding, with a relatively conservative riding style.
• Charging: The Roadster Pro supports fast charging via a Type 2 port. Ola claims a 10-minute fast charge can add 50 km (31 miles) of range – a significant advantage over traditional charging times. Full charging (from 0 to 100%) takes approximately 6.5 hours on a standard home charger.
• Suspension and Brakes: The bike features a conventional telescopic front fork and twin shock absorbers for rear suspension, offering a comfortable ride over uneven surfaces. Braking is handled by disc brakes on both wheels, providing reliable stopping power. The inclusion of regenerative braking adds another layer of control, helping to recapture energy and extend range.
• Smart Features: Ola has packed the Roadster Pro with smart features. The ‘SmartFold’ system allows the bike to be folded in half for easy storage, a particularly useful feature for urban dwellers. The bike is also equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to connect to the Ola app for features like ride tracking, battery monitoring, and over-the-air software updates. The app also provides access to a community forum and allows riders to participate in Ola’s ‘Move Ride’ – a curated group ride experience.

(Image: Close-up shot of the Ola Roadster Pro’s digital instrument cluster and the SmartFold mechanism.)

Putting it to the Test: Road and Racetrack

We spent a significant amount of time evaluating the Ola Roadster Pro in a variety of conditions. On the road, the bike’s instant torque delivered a genuinely exciting riding experience. The responsive throttle and precise handling made navigating city streets a breeze. The suspension did a commendable job of absorbing bumps and vibrations, contributing to a comfortable ride.

However, it was on the racetrack that the Roadster Pro truly shone. The bike’s agility and handling were exceptional, allowing us to confidently tackle corners at speed. The powerful motor delivered enough punch to maintain momentum, and the responsive brakes provided excellent control. We were particularly impressed with the bike’s stability and predictability – a testament to Ola’s engineering efforts. While not designed for extreme track use, the Roadster Pro proved to be surprisingly capable, offering a thrilling and engaging experience. During our track testing, we consistently achieved lap times competitive with similar electric motorcycles.

Pros & Cons: A Balanced Assessment

Let’s break down the key strengths and weaknesses of the Ola Roadster Pro:

Pros:

• Striking Design: A visually appealing and distinctive motorcycle.
• Instant Torque: Exceptional acceleration and performance.
• Smart Features: Integrated smart features enhance the riding experience.
• SmartFold: A genuinely useful feature for urban storage.
• Competitive Price: Positioned competitively within the electric motorcycle market.
• Fast Charging: Quick charging times contribute to convenience.

Cons:

• Range (Real-World): Range can be limited in demanding conditions.
• Suspension (Basic): The suspension, while adequate, could benefit from improved damping.
• Limited Top Speed: Top speed is electronically limited to 80 km/h (50 mph).
• Community Support (Early Stages): As a relatively new brand, community support is still developing.

(Image: The Ola Roadster Pro on a racetrack, showcasing its dynamic performance.)

Conclusion: A Promising Entry into the Electric Motorcycle Market

The Ola Roadster Pro is a bold and ambitious entry into the electric motorcycle market. Ola Electric has successfully created a machine that combines striking design, impressive performance, and a suite of smart features. While it’s not without its limitations – particularly regarding range and suspension – the Roadster Pro offers a compelling riding experience that’s sure to appeal to a wide range of riders.

Ola’s commitment to innovation and its focus on smart features sets it apart from many of its competitors. As the brand continues to grow and develop, the Ola Roadster Pro has the potential to play a significant role in shaping the future of electric motorcycles. With ongoing software updates and potential improvements to the suspension and battery system, the Roadster Pro’s performance and capabilities will undoubtedly continue to evolve. The future of electric motorcycles is looking brighter, and Ola Electric is undoubtedly a company to watch. The Ola Roadster Pro isn’t just a motorcycle; it’s a statement – a declaration that electric mobility can be both stylish and exhilarating.

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