Yamaha EC-06

Yamaha recently launched the EC-06 e-scooter in India, at a price of Rs 1,67,600 (ex-showroom Delhi). It comes with a 6.7kW motor, a 169km claimed range and 79kmph top speed (claimed).

The EC-06 is a properly good-looking scooter. Look at it from any angle and it has a muscular and big feel. In fact, I really like its front. There is a big headlamp protruding forward which looks alien -- in a good way. Then there are two 14-inch alloy wheels, which give it a very solid stance. The handlebar is also quite exposed, which improves the appeal even more. Even the side panels feel a little sporty and sharp. Overall, this scooter definitely has an imposing road presence -- like that of a naked muscular motorcycle. However, you don't get any color options with it, only this white and black. This is a good-looking color option, no doubt. But a little customizability is needed for personal taste. 

The build quality of this scooter is a little confusing. When you look at it, its paint quality, finish, and panel gaps are all consistent, as expected from Yamaha. But then comes the panel quality—almost every panel creaks when pressed. It doesn't bother much while riding, but how well will this age? I have doubts. Then comes its switchgear. Functionality is good, but the quality feels a little cheap. 

Overall -- the good thing is that the EC-06 doesn't look like the River Indie at all. At a glance, you won’t be able to tell if anything is shared. Yes, if you look closely, the mirrors, switchgear, emblem on the motor and screen are the same, but well hidden by a completely new body work. This is a good-looking scooter with a strong road presence.

In terms of features, the EC-06 offers a great balance. There are no unnecessary features, but all the useful everyday ones are present. The LCD cluster has a black background with a colored display, and all the information is clearly visible. Ride modes, speed, charge percentage, and estimated range are displayed in large fonts. Whether it’s bright sunlight or nighttime, readability is excellent. However, this is not a fancy TFT screen. You don’t get navigation or call alerts. Yes, you can pair your phone via an app, but the functionality is so basic that you’re unlikely to use it. Still, for essential information, it works very well. You don’t get ABS or traction control, but the brake calibration is good enough that you won’t miss them. Traction control isn’t really necessary for this scooter anyway. 

In terms of practicality, you also get a multi-key slot (not available on the River Indie). You can open the seat and charging flap with it, which adds convenience. The floorboard is wide and long, so you can easily place bags or other items. There’s also a bag hook for groceries.

The under-seat storage (24.5L) is slightly less than the River Indie due to the sportier design. However, on its own, it’s still a good boot space with a deep entry. You can fit larger items or spread groceries easily. A full-face helmet won’t fit, but a regular helmet should. There’s also a boot light, and the seat closes easily with a push—both nice touches. However, there’s no front storage—no glove box or pocket. A small storage space would have improved practicality further. That said, here are all the features of the Yamaha EC-06 explained in detail. Also, here's how it fares against the Ather Rizta in terms of features.

Ride comfort is impressive. The scooter absorbs bumps and potholes well, feeling plush without being too soft. The 14-inch wheels help in handling rough roads better than typical scooters. It's built to deal with bad roads and it excels there. On smooth roads too, the ride remains flat and stable, and the balance of ride and handling is a highlight for this scooter.

The Yamaha EC-06 is a comfortable scooter to sit on. The seat’s cushioning is well balanced -- when you sit on it, there is a slight sink-in effect. It cushions you well but isn’t too soft either. My height is 5 feet 7 inches, and I can easily flat-foot the scooter. People around 5 feet 5 inches should also be able to balance it easily without much trouble. The handlebar reach is very natural too, so shorter riders won't have to stretch for it. The floor is slightly high. It would have been better if it were a bit lower, but since the batteries are placed there, this is understandable. Compared to the River Indie, where the handlebars are positioned further away, this riding posture feels more comfortable. So, well done, Yamaha.

The seat is also very comfortable for the pillion. It is wide and long, so even bigger pillions can sit easily. The grab rail is large and solid, adding to comfort. The footpeg position also feels natural. Overall, the riding posture—for both rider and pillion—has been thoughtfully designed.

It is also easy to move in a parking lot because the scooter isn’t too heavy. Additionally, it has a dedicated reverse mode, so even on a steep incline, removing it from parking won’t be an issue.

The scooter comes with three ride modes: Eco, Standard, and Power. Eco mode is only useful when the battery is very low—it’s slow and not enjoyable. Standard mode is very well calibrated, offering smooth throttle response and easy overtaking in the city. The transition from smooth to quicker acceleration is seamless. Power mode is where it gets fun. While it’s not as aggressive as something like the Ather 450 Apex, it still feels exciting. Acceleration is strong, and it can reach 80–85 kmph quickly, even on inclines. It uses a chain drive instead of a belt drive, so you do hear some chain noise. However, it’s well-contained and doesn’t disturb the overall quiet EV experience. 

Regenerative braking is not customization. However -- the tuning is smooth and it slows the scooter naturally, reducing the need for frequent braking. It takes some time to get used to, but once you do, it works well.

In the real world, you can expect around 100–110 km of range. In a more aggressive riding style, this can drop to around 80 km. However, charging is a concern. Unlike the River Indie which comes with an optional fast charger, Yamaha does not offer fast charging—not even as an accessory. It takes about 8 hours to charge up to 80% and around 10 hours for a full charge. The River Indie can do this in 4–5 hours, so the lack of fast charging is noticeable.

On smooth roads, handling feels very Yamaha-like. It’s easy to lean, stable in corners, and enjoyable to ride. While its range limits long trips, it’s fun on twisty roads if you get the chance. For new riders, it’s easy to maneuver in traffic. Direction changes are quick, U-turns are effortless, and overall handling is very confidence-inspiring. Compared to the River Indie, it feels more nimble due to a shorter wheelbase(1354mm), making it better in traffic and slightly more comfortable.