Okinawa Ridge electric scooter road test review

Design and Features of the Okinawa Ridge

At first glance, the Okinawa Ridge design is futuristic and the looks are voguish. The fascia sports a large headlamp which casts a decent beam and gives this electric scooter the smart looks similar to the Honda Dio. The bikini fairing houses turn indicators which also add a touch of attitude to the scooter. The stance of the scooter is stylish and smooth flowing lines give the Ridge a very peppy appeal.

In terms of dimensions, the Ridge is nearly as large as conventional scooters. The quality of materials used in the construction is surprisingly good and can infact be considered a benchmark for electric scooters in India. Speaking of quality even the build and fit of the scooter is remarkable. The switch gear as well is above average and does not leave an impression of cost cutting. Adding appeal to a stylish stance are alloy wheels wrapped in tubeless tyres.

The scooter gets a digital instrument cluster that displays level of charge in the battery, speed, odometer and time. The Okinawa ridge has also been equipped with a key fob that gets an anti-theft feature. It can also be used to remote start the scooter.  

The scooter also features a broad saddle which we found more comfortable than most other scooters we have ridden so far. Also on offer is a back rest for the pillion rider. The company has catered to adequate storage space on the scooter. The under seat storage is decent. It houses a rather large charging unit. The space left is adequate to fit in a half face helmet. The footboard up front is roomy and reasonably broad.

Engine and Performance of the Okinawa Ridge

Powering the Ridge is an 800W electric motor propelled by a 60V VRLA battery. While the company claims a top speed of 55kmph for the Ridge scooter, this may vary depending on the level of charge in the scooter and of course the weight of the rider, riding mode and style of riding. The range as well has been claimed at 80-90kms.

On offer are Eco and Sport riding modes. In Eco the speed has been limited to 35kmph. The Sport mode allows the rider to tap into the full potential of the motor enabling it to reach a maximum speed of 55kmph. In Eco mode the throttle response is slow and sluggish. The Sport mode feels more active and alive. With just a small twist of the throttle the Ridge gets going and that too pretty quickly. In Sport mode it does not take the scooter too long to attain its top speed of 55kmph. But that figure may not be sustained for too long and a noticeable drop in performance can be seen with a drop in the level of charge.  

While the woes of refueling may be put to rest, one does need to constantly keep an eye out for the level of charge left in the led acid batteries. This is where I faced a problem. The level of charge is not always accurately indicated in the instrument cluster. But our estimate is that if you are riding all through in Sport mode the Ridge can do a total of 50-60kms.

The overall performance of the scooter is complimented by good brakes and a neatly tuned suspension which provides adequate cushioning on mildly rough roads but is easily rattled by larger bumps and potholes. The scooter handles well in and around traffic, it feels surefooted and light and that adds to the fun of riding this around town.

Verdict

The Okinawa Ridge scooter is quick and if your daily travels are around the 50-60kms mark then this is probably the most convenient and economical option around.