Hero Lectro F6i e-Cycle vs Hero Electric Optima LA Electric Scooter: Which One To Buy?

Both are priced similarly, while offering completely different experiences. We help you decide which one you should go for

Hero Lectro recently launched the F6i electric bicycle in India. Priced at Rs 49,000, the F6i is just a little more expensive than the Hero Electric Optima LA (Rs 47,490, ex-showroom Delhi), which is a full-fledged electric scooter. Both have a 25kmph top speed and a 250W BLDC hub motor. So which one should you go for?

Buy the Hero Lectro F6i if...

… you value fitness along with your eco-friendly commuting needs. The Hero Lector F6i offers a range of up to 60km with a 70kg rider on pure electric power alone. While its top speed may be restricted to 25kmph in electric-only mode, you may be able to hit a higher top speed on pedal power thanks to the 7-speed Shimano gears. It even gets a radio frequency lock system for added security and a LED instrument cluster with bluetooth-enabled smartphone connectivity. And for added convenience, the lithium-ion battery pack is removable so that you can take it to your home/ office space and charge it at your own leisure. Speaking of charging times, it takes 5-6 hours to top up completely. And even if you’re running out of juice, you still have the assurance of pedal power.

However, it is still a bicycle at the end of the day. So the ride quality may not be anywhere as good as a proper scooter thanks to the slim seat and hardtail frame. You can’t take a pillion with you either, so if you’re looking for a strictly personal means of environment and fitness-friendly means of transportation, then the Lectro F6i is a great bet.

Go for the Hero Optima LA if....

… you prioritise practicality in an electric vehicle. Being a scooter, there’s plenty of space to keep your knick-knacks thanks to the flat floorboard and underseat storage. You also get a large cushioned seat, which should ensure comfort for both the rider and the pillion. This coupled with the telescopic front fork, twin rear shock absorbers and alloy wheels should ensure a much better ride quality compared to electric bicycles.

On the flip side, the scooter has an electronically limited top speed of 25kmph. You may not be able to remove the battery as it is a lead-acid unit. Moreover, it takes 8-10 hours to charge completely, so you’ll have to make sure there’s a 3-pin plug point where your electric scooter is parked. It also offers a slightly less claimed range of 50km. So, you’ll have to plan out your journey better as you do not have pedal power to back up. Overall, if you want a practical, comfortable electric scooter for your intra-city commutes, the Hero Electric Optima LA is the one to choose.