India’s roads have long been ruled by practical and affordable small-displacement scooters and motorcycles. As the shift toward electric vehicles gains momentum, this landscape is evolving, but the essence remains unchanged. The familiar sight of nimble scooters and motorcycles will persist, only now their internal combustion engines will be replaced by compact electric motors. This transition is exemplified by the rising popularity of electric models such as the Ola S1 and Ather 450X.
Yet, amid this wave of change, there’s a thrilling development for enthusiasts seeking a more dynamic, performance-oriented riding experience. Enter Tork Motors, a prominent player in India’s electric vehicle scene, and its flagship model, the Kratos R electric motorcycle. Although it falls within the low-power category, akin to a 150cc motorbike, the Kratos R defies convention by adopting the form of a sleek and sporty naked motorcycle, breaking away from the typical scooter mold. Tork Motors remains committed to innovation, constantly enhancing its offerings, as exemplified by the recent update to the Kratos R.
Tork Kratos R electric motorcycle owners can now enjoy an extended riding range, thanks to the newly introduced Eco+ mode. This mode has been specifically designed to conserve battery power, allowing riders to maximize their mileage. With Eco+ mode activated, the motorcycle’s single-charge range is significantly increased to 150 kilometers (about 93 miles). This feature comes as a standard option for all new Kratos R models, and existing owners can also benefit from this enhancement through a simple software update.
Eco+ mode prioritizes energy efficiency, capping the motorcycle’s top speed at 35 kilometers per hour (approximately 22 miles per hour). While it may be the slowest mode available, it proves to be incredibly useful in maneuvering through heavy traffic or navigating crowded residential areas. Alongside Eco+, the Kratos R offers three other modes: Eco, City, and Sport. Among these, Sport mode stands out with a top speed of 105 kilometers per hour (65 miles per hour), providing riders with diverse options for their riding experience.
The Tork Kratos R electric motorcycle boasts a 4-kilowatt-hour battery pack that fuels its 4.5-kilowatt electric motor. This motor reaches a peak output of 9 kilowatts, roughly equivalent to 12 horsepower, aligning it with the performance levels of a 125cc to 150cc gas-powered bike. Notably, electric motorcycles offer immediate throttle response and maintain maximum power throughout their rev range, making the Kratos feel considerably more agile than a typical 125cc two-wheeler. Charging the bike at home takes approximately six to seven hours using a standard outlet.
As for pricing and availability, the Tork Kratos R is currently exclusive to the Indian market, retailing at Rs 167,499, which is around $2,000 USD.