The electric two-wheeler market in India is expanding rapidly beyond premium segments into more accessible price points, with domestic manufacturers developing electric motorcycles targeting budget-conscious yet performance-hungry buyers. Two compelling contenders in this emerging space are the Odysse Hawk and the VLF Tennis 1500—electric motorcycles promising genuine performance, practical range, and competitive pricing. This comprehensive comparison explores how these homegrown electric machines compete across the crucial dimensions of range and pricing, helping buyers navigate the affordable electric motorcycle landscape.
Table of Contents
Brand Background: Established EV Player vs Emerging Challenger
Odysse Electric: The Experienced Manufacturer
Odysse Electric Vehicles, established in 2016, represents one of India’s earlier entrants into electric two-wheeler manufacturing. The company built its foundation on electric scooters before expanding into electric motorcycle territory, accumulating valuable experience in battery technology, motor systems, and real-world Indian operating conditions.
The Hawk represents Odysse’s attempt to deliver motorcycle-class performance, range, and styling at prices significantly undercutting premium electric motorcycles. Odysse designed the Hawk for practical buyers wanting electric benefits—lower running costs, minimal maintenance, zero emissions—without paying premium prices or accepting basic commuter styling.
Odysse targets value-conscious buyers—students, young professionals, and urban commuters who want electric mobility that looks substantial, delivers adequate performance, and costs significantly less than premium alternatives. The company emphasizes practical affordability alongside environmental consciousness.
VLF Motors: The New Challenger
VLF Motors entered India’s electric vehicle market more recently, positioning itself as a technology-focused manufacturer delivering performance-oriented electric motorcycles at competitive prices. The Tennis 1500 represents VLF’s flagship offering—a motorcycle promising strong specifications, modern features, and eye-catching design targeting performance enthusiasts on budgets.
VLF embodies startup ambition—leveraging modern electric technology to create compelling products that challenge established players through aggressive specifications and pricing. The company designed the Tennis 1500 for buyers who want performance credentials rivaling premium motorcycles without paying luxury prices.
VLF targets aspirational buyers—young riders wanting impressive specifications, sporty styling, and modern technology at accessible prices. The company emphasizes delivering maximum value through high specifications rather than premium brand positioning.
Design and Styling: Sporty Substance vs Aggressive Aspiration
Odysse Hawk Design Language
The Hawk adopts practical, motorcycle-oriented styling balancing modernity with familiarity:
Exterior Design
- Conventional motorcycle proportions creating familiar, comfortable aesthetic
- LED headlamp with modern lighting signature
- Muscular fuel tank-like structure (battery housing) suggesting traditional motorcycle
- Sporty body panels with character lines adding visual interest
- Decent ground clearance suitable for varied Indian road conditions
- Alloy wheels with multi-spoke design
- Conventional seat profile accommodating rider and pillion comfortably
- Practical dimensions balancing presence with maneuverability
- Available color options targeting broader demographics
- Clean, unfussy styling prioritizing function over flash
The Hawk looks like a proper motorcycle—design that won’t alienate traditional buyers transitioning to electric. The styling is conservative and practical rather than cutting-edge, creating broad appeal without polarizing opinions.
Build Quality
Build quality is decent for the price segment—solid construction with acceptable panel fit and finish. Materials are adequate though not premium—serving functional purposes without exuding luxury. Some components show cost-conscious engineering, but overall construction feels durable for daily use.
Ergonomics
The riding position prioritizes everyday comfort:
- Upright handlebars creating relaxed posture
- Mid-positioned footpegs suitable for varied heights
- Well-padded seat with adequate support
- Accessible seat height accommodating most riders
- Good visibility and comfortable reach to controls
- Pillion-friendly with adequate space and grab handles
VLF Tennis 1500 Design Philosophy
The Tennis 1500 adopts more aggressive, performance-oriented styling:
Exterior Design
- Sporty, aggressive bodywork with sharp angles and bold lines
- Distinctive LED headlamp creating memorable face
- Muscular tank structure emphasizing power and presence
- Sculpted body panels suggesting performance intent
- Sporty seat configuration with racing-inspired design
- Alloy wheels with sporty multi-spoke patterns
- Bold graphics and color schemes attracting attention
- Modern lighting elements throughout
- Contemporary proportions balancing aggression with practicality
- Eye-catching styling designed to stand out
The Tennis 1500 looks sportier and more aggressive—design clearly targeting younger buyers wanting their motorcycle to make visual statements. The styling is bolder and more contemporary, creating stronger visual impact than conservative competitors.
Build Quality
Build quality is acceptable for the price point, though being a newer manufacturer, long-term durability remains to be proven through extended ownership experiences. Initial assembly appears decent with reasonable attention to finish details, though some components reveal budget constraints.
Ergonomics
The riding position balances sport and practicality:
- Slightly forward-leaning posture (sportier than Hawk)
- Mid-to-rear-set footpegs
- Firm, supportive seat
- Accessible seat height for most riders
- Adequate pillion accommodation
- Sporty yet practical for daily use
Design Verdict
The Odysse Hawk wins for:
- More practical, universally appealing styling
- Better pillion comfort and accommodation
- More conservative design aging gracefully
- Broader demographic appeal
- More proven build quality (longer market presence)
The VLF Tennis 1500 wins for:
- Sportier, more exciting appearance
- More contemporary, aggressive styling
- Better visual impact and presence
- More appealing to younger demographics
- More distinctive, memorable design
Conclusion: The Hawk offers practical, broadly appealing design; the Tennis 1500 delivers sportier, more aggressive styling. Choose based on desired image—practical versatility (Hawk) or sporty aspiration (Tennis 1500).
Performance Specifications: Power and Capability
Odysse Hawk Performance
Electric Powertrain Specifications
- BLDC (Brushless DC) hub motor
- Motor power: 3 kW nominal / 4.5 kW peak (claimed)
- Torque: High torque from electric motor (specific figures vary)
- Single-speed direct drive
- Weight: Approximately 120-130 kg (depending on battery configuration)
Performance Characteristics
Acceleration: The Hawk delivers adequate acceleration for urban and suburban riding. Electric motor torque provides brisk initial acceleration from standstill, making traffic navigation and signal-to-signal riding satisfying. Real-world 0-50 km/h acceleration is brisk enough for daily commuting needs.
Top Speed: The Hawk achieves approximately 80-85 km/h top speed—adequate for city riding and acceptable for limited highway use on shorter stretches. This speed limitation restricts extended highway touring but suffices for occasional highway sections during urban commutes.
Power Delivery: Power delivery is smooth, linear, and predictable—characteristic electric motor behavior. The instant torque availability creates effortless riding experience without gear changes or clutch management. Urban riding is particularly stress-free with simple twist-and-go operation.
Riding Modes: Multiple riding modes optimize performance versus efficiency:
- Eco mode: Maximum range, conservative power delivery
- City mode: Balanced performance for normal riding
- Sport mode: Maximum performance and throttle response
Regenerative Braking: Adjustable regenerative braking recovers energy during deceleration, extending range while providing engine-braking-like feel that reduces mechanical brake wear.
VLF Tennis 1500 Performance
Electric Powertrain Specifications
- BLDC motor (configuration varies by marketing)
- Motor power: 1.5 kW nominal / 3 kW peak (claimed, model name suggests 1500W)
- Alternative claims suggest higher specifications (verification needed)
- Torque: High instant torque (specific figures require verification)
- Single-speed direct drive
- Weight: Approximately 115-125 kg (claimed)
Performance Characteristics
Acceleration: The Tennis 1500’s actual performance depends on which motor specification is accurate. If truly 1.5 kW nominal power, acceleration would be modest—adequate for city use but underwhelming for performance claims. Higher claimed specifications suggest brisker performance, though independent verification is limited.
Top Speed: Claimed top speed varies in marketing materials from 75 km/h to 100+ km/h—significant discrepancy requiring clarification. Conservative estimates suggest 75-85 km/h realistic top speed, limiting highway usability to occasional short stretches.
Power Delivery: Electric motor characteristics ensure smooth, instant torque delivery creating effortless urban riding. The single-speed direct drive simplifies operation completely—no gear changes, no clutch, just throttle management.
Riding Modes: Expected riding modes include:
- Eco mode: Maximum efficiency
- Standard mode: Balanced performance
- Sport mode: Maximum performance output
Regenerative Braking: Regenerative braking system recovers energy during deceleration, extending range and reducing mechanical brake wear.
Performance Verdict
Performance Comparison Challenges:
Both motorcycles suffer from specification ambiguity—marketing materials often conflict with actual delivered performance. Independent testing and comprehensive customer reviews remain limited, making definitive performance comparisons difficult.
Based on Available Information:
The Odysse Hawk likely offers:
- More proven, verified performance (longer market presence)
- More consistent specifications across marketing materials
- More established customer feedback base
- More realistic, achievable claimed performance
The VLF Tennis 1500 claims:
- Potentially higher performance (if higher specifications are accurate)
- Sportier character and dynamics
- More aggressive performance positioning
Conclusion: Without independent verification, definitive performance winner cannot be determined. The Hawk offers more proven, verifiable performance; the Tennis 1500 makes bolder claims requiring real-world validation.
Range: The Critical Electric Motorcycle Metric
Range determines electric motorcycle practicality more than any specification—inadequate range creates constant anxiety; sufficient range enables freedom and usability.
Odysse Hawk Range Specifications
Battery Configuration
- Lithium-ion battery pack
- Battery capacity: 3.5-4 kWh (variant dependent)
- Removable battery design (variant dependent)
- Battery weight: Approximately 12-15 kg
Claimed Range
- Maximum claimed range: 130-150 km (ideal conditions, conservative riding)
- City riding claimed: 100-120 km
- Mixed riding claimed: 90-110 km
Real-World Range Estimates
Based on typical electric motorcycle efficiency patterns and limited customer feedback:
- Eco mode (conservative urban riding): 80-100 km
- City mode (normal urban riding): 70-90 km
- Sport mode (aggressive riding): 60-75 km
- Highway riding (sustained speeds): 55-70 km
- Mixed realistic riding: 70-85 km
Range Adequacy
The Hawk’s range is adequate for typical daily urban commuting:
- Sufficient for 25-35 km daily commutes (2-3 days between charges)
- Adequate for most urban and suburban riding needs
- Limited for extended highway trips or long-distance travel
- Requires daily or alternate-day charging for 40+ km daily commutes
Charging Specifications
- Home charging: 4-5 hours (standard household socket)
- Fast charging: Limited availability and infrastructure
- Removable battery (variant dependent): Allows convenient indoor charging
- Onboard charger provided
VLF Tennis 1500 Range Specifications
Battery Configuration
- Lithium-ion battery pack
- Battery capacity: 3-3.5 kWh (claimed, specifications vary)
- Removable battery design (claimed)
- Battery weight: Approximately 10-14 kg
Claimed Range
- Maximum claimed range: 120-140 km (ideal conditions)
- Typical range claimed: 100-120 km
- Marketing materials show specification variations
Real-World Range Estimates
Based on battery capacity and typical efficiency (limited customer data available):
- Eco mode (conservative riding): 75-95 km
- Normal mode (regular urban riding): 65-85 km
- Sport mode (aggressive riding): 55-70 km
- Highway riding: 50-65 km
- Mixed realistic riding: 65-80 km
Range Adequacy
The Tennis 1500’s range appears adequate for urban commuting:
- Sufficient for 20-30 km daily commutes (2-3 days between charges)
- Adequate for typical city riding needs
- Limited for highway or extended riding
- Requires frequent charging for 35+ km daily commutes
Charging Specifications
- Home charging: 4-5 hours (standard socket)
- Fast charging: Limited availability
- Removable battery: Enables convenient charging
- Charger included with vehicle
Range Verdict
The Odysse Hawk likely wins on:
- Slightly larger battery capacity (3.5-4 kWh vs. 3-3.5 kWh)
- More conservative, achievable range claims
- More established real-world feedback validating range
- Longer market presence demonstrating battery durability
The VLF Tennis 1500 counters with:
- Competitive claimed range
- Potentially lighter weight improving efficiency
- Modern battery technology (newer product)
Important Consideration: Both motorcycles offer similar practical range—adequate for urban commuting, limited for highway or extended use. Neither provides breakthrough range that eliminates electric motorcycle limitations.
Conclusion: Range appears comparable between both motorcycles (65-85 km realistic mixed riding). The Hawk offers slightly more proven, verifiable range claims; the Tennis 1500 provides competitive specifications requiring real-world validation.
Features and Technology: Modern Conveniences
Odysse Hawk Features
Instrumentation:
- Digital LCD instrument cluster
- Speedometer, battery level indicator
- Range estimation
- Trip meter and odometer
- Mode indicator
Lighting:
- LED headlamp
- LED tail lamp
- LED turn indicators (variant dependent)
Convenience Features:
- Keyless ignition (variant dependent)
- USB charging port
- Underseat storage
- Removable battery (variant dependent)
- Reverse mode for parking assistance
- Side stand sensor with motor cut-off
Connectivity:
- Basic smartphone connectivity (variant dependent)
- Limited app features
- GPS tracking (variant dependent)
Safety Features:
- Disc brakes (front and rear or front disc/rear drum depending on variant)
- Combined Braking System (CBS)
- Battery management system
- Motor controller safety features
VLF Tennis 1500 Features
Instrumentation:
- Digital instrument cluster (LCD or TFT variant dependent)
- Comprehensive ride information
- Battery status and range
- Mode display
- Trip computer
Lighting:
- Full LED lighting (claimed)
- Modern light signatures
- LED turn indicators
Convenience Features:
- Keyless ignition
- USB charging port
- Underseat storage
- Removable battery
- Reverse mode
- Mobile charging capability
Connectivity:
- Smartphone connectivity (claimed)
- App features (limited information available)
- GPS tracking (variant dependent)
- Anti-theft features (claimed)
Safety Features:
- Disc brakes (front and rear)
- CBS or ABS (variant/claim dependent—verification needed)
- Battery management system
- Safety cut-offs
Features Verdict
Feature Comparison Challenges:
Both motorcycles suffer from inconsistent feature listings across marketing materials and variants, making definitive comparisons difficult.
General Assessment:
The Odysse Hawk offers:
- More proven, reliable feature operation (established product)
- More consistent feature listings
- Established customer feedback on feature functionality
The VLF Tennis 1500 claims:
- Potentially more modern features
- Better connectivity (claimed)
- More advanced technology (verification needed)
Conclusion: Feature parity appears largely equivalent in this price segment, with both offering basic conveniences expected in budget electric motorcycles. Neither provides particularly advanced or sophisticated technology.
Pricing and Value: The Affordability Battle
Odysse Hawk Pricing
Ex-showroom Pricing (Approximate)
- Base variant: ₹1.05-1.15 lakhs
- Higher variant: ₹1.25-1.35 lakhs
- Pricing varies by location and variant configuration
Effective Pricing (With State Subsidies)
EV subsidies vary dramatically by state:
- Strong incentive states (Delhi, Gujarat, etc.): ₹80,000-1,00,000
- Moderate incentive states: ₹95,000-1,15,000
- Minimal incentive states: Near ex-showroom pricing
On-Road Pricing
Including registration, insurance, and accessories:
- ₹1.10-1.50 lakhs (before subsidies)
- ₹85,000-1,25,000 (after subsidies in supportive states)
VLF Tennis 1500 Pricing
Ex-showroom Pricing (Approximate)
- Base variant: ₹95,000-1,05,000 (claimed introductory pricing)
- Higher variant: ₹1,15,000-1,25,000
- Aggressive pricing positioning against competition
Effective Pricing (With State Subsidies)
- Strong incentive states: ₹75,000-90,000
- Moderate incentive states: ₹85,000-1,05,000
- Minimal incentive states: Near ex-showroom pricing
On-Road Pricing
- ₹1,05-1,35 lakhs (before subsidies)
- ₹80,000-1,15,000 (after subsidies)
Ownership Cost Analysis (5 Years, 12,000 km/year)
Odysse Hawk (estimated):
- Purchase: ₹1,00,000 (post-subsidy average)
- Electricity (60,000 km @ ₹0.35/km): ₹21,000
- Maintenance: ₹10,000-12,000
- Insurance: ₹18,000-22,000
- Battery replacement (potential): ₹25,000-35,000 (year 4-5)
- Total: ₹1.74-1.90 lakhs
VLF Tennis 1500 (estimated):
- Purchase: ₹92,000 (post-subsidy average)
- Electricity (60,000 km @ ₹0.35/km): ₹21,000
- Maintenance: ₹10,000-15,000
- Insurance: ₹16,000-20,000
- Battery replacement: ₹25,000-35,000 (year 4-5, uncertainty)
- Total: ₹1.64-1.82 lakhs
Comparison to Petrol Motorcycle (100cc-150cc):
- Petrol motorcycle total 5-year cost: ₹2.00-2.40 lakhs
- Electric motorcycles save ₹25,000-60,000 over five years
- Savings primarily from fuel costs (₹21,000 electricity vs. ₹60,000-75,000 petrol)
Value Verdict
The VLF Tennis 1500 offers:
- Lower entry pricing (₹92,000 vs. ₹1,00,000 post-subsidy average)
- Slightly lower total ownership cost
- More aggressive value positioning
- Better initial affordability
The Odysse Hawk offers:
- More established brand reducing risk
- Proven reliability and durability (longer market presence)
- More predictable ownership costs
- Better service network accessibility (more established presence)
Conclusion: The Tennis 1500 offers marginally better pricing and value on paper; the Hawk provides more proven, lower-risk ownership experience justifying slightly higher costs.
The Final Verdict
Choose the Odysse Hawk if:
- Proven reliability and track record matter
- You want more established manufacturer
- Service network accessibility is important
- Conservative, broadly appealing styling preferred
- Lower risk tolerance (established product)
- You value demonstrated durability
- Practical, comfortable ergonomics prioritized
- You prefer verified specifications over claims
Choose the VLF Tennis 1500 if:
- Lowest possible price is paramount
- Sportier, aggressive styling appeals
- You’re comfortable with newer manufacturers
- You appreciate bold, contemporary design
- You’re willing to be early adopter
- Claimed specifications meet your needs
- You accept higher risk for lower cost
Final Recommendations
Best for Most Buyers: Odysse Hawk More proven reliability, established presence, and lower risk make it safer choice.
Best Budget Option: VLF Tennis 1500 Lower pricing provides better entry-level affordability for budget-constrained buyers.
Best Reliability: Odysse Hawk Longer market presence and established customer base demonstrate durability.
Best Styling: VLF Tennis 1500 Sportier, more aggressive design appeals to younger demographics.
Lowest Risk: Odysse Hawk Established manufacturer with proven track record reduces ownership uncertainty.
Conclusion
The Odysse Hawk and VLF Tennis 1500 represent budget-friendly electric motorcycles targeting value-conscious Indian buyers. Both offer adequate range for urban commuting (65-85 km realistic), competitive pricing (₹92,000-1,00,000 post-subsidy), and basic features suitable for daily use.
The Hawk represents safer choice—more established manufacturer, proven durability, and verifiable specifications reducing ownership risk. The Tennis 1500 offers aggressive pricing and bold styling but lacks established track record proving long-term reliability.
For most buyers, particularly first-time electric motorcycle owners, the Hawk’s proven performance and established presence make it the more rational choice despite marginally higher pricing. The Tennis 1500 appeals to budget-focused buyers willing to accept newer manufacturer uncertainty for lower costs.
Neither motorcycle provides breakthrough performance, range, or features—both deliver basic electric mobility at affordable prices suitable for urban commuting within their limitations. Choose based on risk tolerance and budget priorities rather than expecting significant capability differences between these budget-focused electric motorcycles.
