The Chinese motorcycle manufacturer Zontes has been occupying the segment of motorcycles for novice riders, particularly in the European market, for some time now. At EICMA 2023, the brand presented numerous new offerings, signifying its intention to establish itself in the premium segment. Zontes seems to have a keen interest in the growing maxi-scooter segment, as evidenced by its recent launches, the most premium of which is the 501 series.
Maxi-scooters have become a well-known segment of the scooter world in recent years, as they offer the comfort and long-distance travel amenities of touring bikes, together with the practicality and ease of use of a scooter. This means that maxi-scooters are excellent city commuters and, at the same time, long-distance two-wheelers for trips out of town. That said, while many other high-capacity scooters opt to use twin-cylinder engines, Zontes has decided to stick with a single-cylinder engine
With a displacement of 491 cc, this liquid-cooled, fuel-injected unit will certainly have some compensators to reduce vibration. However, it has a respectable power output of 35 kilowatts (47 hp) and 53 Nm of torque. On the European market, where the scooter was launched, it complies with A2 licensing regulations. The top speed is 175 km/h and the scooter has a very large fuel tank of 17 liters for greater autonomy between fill-ups.
Zontes is currently offering the 501 range of maxi-scooters in a variety of versions. The first is the 501E, which is an evolution of the smaller 350E, designed as a GT maxi-scooter. The Zontes 501H, meanwhile, is the sportiest of the bunch, with curved lines and a minimalist set of accessories. The 501K is technically similar to the 501E, but has a rounder fairing that gives it a more aerodynamic look.
Last but not least, the 501G is distinguished by an adventurous design complete with roll bars and spoked rims. With the 501G, Zontes hopes to enter the growing adventure scooter segment, known for models such as the Honda X-ADV and the recently launched Peugeot XP400.
So far, Zontes has not announced the price and availability of the new range of maxi-scooters. However, judging by its previous models, the new 501 series of maxi-scooters is likely to be very competitively priced compared to its more established counterparts.