I do have a Bajaj Chetak EV. I have a zeal to know about my EV. It is important to know about your machine.
I always wanted to know about its braking system. Brakes play a lead role in your life security when it comes to such vehicles.
I learned many things about it once my Bajaj Chetak EV brakes were not working smoothly.
Upon reading the manual and also from my talk to the professional at the Bajaj Chetak EV showroom, the Bajaj Chetak EV has two types of braking systems.
These two types are the disc brakes and the drum brakes. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. In this blog, I will explain both these breaks for your knowhow.
You can choose any of the braking systems in your EV. The ultimate choice is yours.
| Feature | Disc Brake (Front) | Drum Brake (Rear) |
|---|---|---|
| Stopping Power | Superior, especially in wet conditions | Good, but less effective when wet |
| Heat Dissipation | Excellent, reduces brake fade | Adequate for rear wheel needs |
| Maintenance | Easier to inspect and replace pads | Slightly more complex to service |
| Weight | Slightly heavier | Lighter |
| Cost | More expensive | More economical |
| Modulation | Precise control over braking force | Less sensitive control |
| Appearance | Modern, sporty look | Classic, understated design |
| Dust/Debris Handling | Open design, less affected by debris | Enclosed, can trap dust over time |
| Typical Lifespan | Longer pad life in urban riding | Decent longevity, especially for rear use |
| Energy Recuperation | Works well with regenerative braking | Less ideal for regen systems |
What is Disc brake?
The disc brake in the Bajaj Chetak EV will provide you the efficiency in high-stress conditions. Such brakes are good for high speeds.
In the disc brake of the Bajaj Chetak EV, you have a rotor linked to the wheel. You also have the calliper and the hydraulic system.
The calliper houses the brake pads. The hydraulic system activates pads onto the disc. This slows or stops the Bajaj Chetak EV.
I discussed the advantages of disc brakes with the service expert after issues with the braking system of my Bajaj Chetak EV. My nature is inquisitive because generally, many purchasers do not go so deep.
After discussing, I found the following advantages with this braking system.
Superior power to stop
The expert told me that the disc brakes have superior stopping power in wet conditions compared to the drum brakes.
The credit for this goes to its open design. Because of the open design, the water can disperse in a fast way. This process maintains the efficiency of the brake.
Heat release
The disc brakes are exposed and they release the heat more effectively. This is quite important when it comes to the application of brakes. It reduces the fading of the brakes.
Performance in a consistent manner
The brake expert at Bajaj Motors told me that the disc brakes are consistent in performance because there is no high impact of debris and water on them.
As a result, such brakes are generally good for various conditions of driving.
Cost-effective in the long run
Upon discussing financial aspects with the executive related to the disc brakes, he said that the initial cost is high but such a braking system is cost-effective in the long run.
Strong control
With the disc brakes, you have superior control. You can control the brake force more efficiently.
I also discussed the disadvantages of such a system. Below I am mentioning what the executive told me.
- Such a braking system will be costly initially.
- These warp if they become too hot.
- Since these are complex, they need more know-how of technology when it comes to repair.
What is Drum brakes?
Upon discussing the drum brakes with the service centre manager, he told me about the drum brake that I’m going to guide you.
The Chetak expert showed me a drum brake. “It’s a metal cylinder attached to the wheel,” he said. “We call it a drum because of its shape.”
He pointed inside the drum. “See these curved pieces? They’re brake shoes. They sit inside the drum.”
The expert then explained how it works: “When you press the brake, these shoes push outward. They press against the inside of the drum. This creates friction and slows the wheel.”
He demonstrated with his hands. “The drum spins with the wheel. When the shoes press against it, everything slows down.”
“Once you let go of the brake, springs pull the shoes back,” he added. “This lets the wheel spin freely again.”
He tapped the rear wheel of the Chetak EV. “We use a drum brake here. It’s a simple, effective way to stop the scooter.”
Some of the advantages are:
- These are cost-effective.
- These are durable. You have easy protection from water, mud and debris.
- These are self-adjusting. You do not generally need manual adjustments.
- The maintenance level for these brakes is less.
I also discussed the potential disadvantages of such brakes. Some of these are below:
- They release heat less effectively compared to the disc brakes.
- The stopping power is not superior when you compare it to the disc brakes.
- The service cost takes time because of complexity.
- The performance is not trustworthy when it comes to multiple environmental conditions.
Final Thoughts
Dear friend, to be honest with you, I only discussed all the above aspects once the brakes of my Bajaj Chetak EV faced an issue.
After a thorough discussion, I opted for the disc brakes although the initial cost was high. But when it comes to you, you are the best judge when it comes to choice. No one can force you.
All I can say is that life is precious and not the initial expense. Kindly think over it after reading this blog and decide on brake replacement wisely if such a situation happens with your Bajaj Chetak EV.
