Essay – Zontes 350S – own style

Whenever we test a Zontes, we are impressed with the standard equipment and some stylistic details of the models. This 350S is no exception, being a small utility custom that, at the same time, presents characteristics of a muscle bike (in miniature), capable of making many motorcyclists dream of high performance.

This time we will not go into detail about the brand, as we have done several times when testing Zontes models, a brand that has been growing very steadily and that, after the 125 cc, 310 cc, and 350 cc, should soon present its new three-cylinder engine. This engine is expected to revolutionize the range of the Chinese manufacturer, with a powertrain base that could reach models in various segments, but for now let’s focus on this 350S, another model with a simple designation but with a lot to show.

This is the second custom alternative from Zontes among the 350: we find the stylized and futuristic 350V and this 350S, with more rounded and smooth lines that give rise to a muscle bike style but with some more classic touches. In other words, it is easy to see how the brand continues to draw ideas from famous models in the market, to then create motorcycles with a very unique philosophy. However, in all Zontes models so far, there are common points: high equipment and technology and a good final relationship in terms of price/quality.

CARACTERÍSTICAS

Sob uma roupagem de modelo vintage clássico, esta 350S esconde vários componentes já conhecidos, nomeadamente o motor monocilíndrico de 4 válvulas e dupla árvore de cames que debita 29 Kw de potência (39 cv) e um binário máximo de 32,8 Nm, sendo caracterizado por apresentar uma elevada taxa de compressão e juntar um sistema de injeção de combustível Bosch. O cilindro de alumínio é totalmente produzido pela Zontes, desde a fundição até ao processamento, e possui um magneto de elevada potência com um peso do rotor reduzido. Ainda em termos de motor, destaque para a embraiagem deslizante, para o novo desenho do filtro de ar e para a presença de um radiador de grandes dimensões. Modos de condução são dois (Eco e Desportivo), e neste modelo destacamos ainda a presença de um escape totalmente oculto, fabricado em aço inoxidável e com um isolamento térmico interno para que ninguém se queime neste elemento.

O MELHOR  Condução agradável, qualidade das suspensões, equipamento, preço  A MELHORAR  Formato do seletor da caixa, chave para abertura do depósito

CYCLING AND TECHNOLOGY

In the cycling department, the presence of a single-arm rear aluminum alloy swingarm stands out, connecting to a striking wheel that mounts a 180 mm tire. The progressive rear mono-shock is completely hidden under the engine and features an ingenious articulation system, with high-pressure nitrogen to reduce the hydraulic oil temperature. At the front, there is an inverted 43mm fork and a generously sized J.Juan brake disc, along with a radial mounting caliper. It is worth noting the presence of full LED lighting, which not only features pleasing aesthetic elements at the front and rear, but also offers pleasant nighttime visibility, with backlit controls that are also commendable. The bike has a seat height of just 750 mm and mounts foot platforms, which in our opinion do not match aesthetically with the rest. Also noteworthy is the complete TFT instrumentation, with a dashboard computer and various display modes, tire pressure monitoring system, two USB ports, and of course, Keyless ignition. We warned you that this bike’s equipment was super complete! The total weight of the bike is 195 kg.

The commands are the ones already known in the Zontes range. Many buttons but easy to handle and backlit, something we really appreciate.

In a motorcycle with a high level of equipment, motor protections are not lacking, something well thought out because this motorcycle is intended for less experienced riders.

The ignition is keyless, but to access the fuel tank we have to use the key that is in a specific location next to the battery. The ideal is to place it in the keychain next to the motorcycle key.

The cycling is very good. At the front, the inverted fork is smooth and competent, and the braking is equally progressive.

The rear section is very eye-catching. Single-arm rim, 180 mm tire and a modern LED taillight. The exhaust pipe is hidden under the assembly, as well as the articulated rear shock absorber that offers excellent performance.

The footrests are actually small platforms. If we are wearing boots, using the gear shift and rear brake may not be the easiest.

The seat has a good shape but we feel it is too narrow when we sit on it. The passenger’s seat is even smaller.

The front section is no less impressive than the rear, with the flashy aluminum rim. The chrome radiator also stands out amidst so much black. The sporty-looking tires are CST brand.

The known instrumentation offers various display modes, with data from the onboard computer, tire pressure monitoring, etc. This is the most classic and our favorite display format. IN PROGRESS The lines of the 350S are truly curious in person and naturally do not appeal to everyone, but they also do not leave anyone indifferent. Let’s say that the rear section is the best achieved, through the spectacular wheel, wide and flashy tire, and LED taillight. As for the riding position, it is traditional in a custom model, with a low (and minimally comfortable) seat and feet in the front, placed on small platforms, smaller than the traditional ones on American models. However, the gear shifter is not in the best position, and instead of shifting gears up, we almost have to pull the shifter back. It was even more difficult to get used to with rigid boots. The handlebar has a good shape and while riding, the single-cylinder engine offers good sensations (and performance), although we do not notice differences between Eco mode and Sport mode. The performance is reminiscent of other Zontes models equipped with this engine, where the gear ratios between 3rd and 4th gear are practically similar (the rotation almost does not drop when shifting gears), but this does not mean that the accelerations and recoveries are good, taking the 350S beyond 150 km/h. And with matching fuel economy, with consumption around 4.2 l/100 km, even with spirited riding. Above all, it is a very smooth and linear engine, which vibrates little and therefore also maintains the quality of visibility in the mirrors intact, not to mention the comfort.

We liked the smooth and progressive braking – excellent for beginners – the feel of the adjustable levers, and the operation of the suspensions, even at a lively pace, all of which helps the less experienced riders. In fact, the rear suspension is really good, among the best in bikes of this capacity, and we’re not just talking about custom bikes. As for the CST tires with a sporty design, they don’t disappoint (at least in dry conditions), but we never fully understood where the limits are, so we needed more miles to “understand” them better.

Ultimately, a quality bike, very pleasant to ride, that can serve both new riders and those looking for something easy and attractive to return to motorcycling. With this level of equipment, performance, dynamics, and final price, you’ll have to search hard to find tempting offers at this level among competing brands.

Zontes 350S

ENGINE single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 4 valves

DISPLACEMENT 348 cc

POWER 29 Kw (39 hp) @9,500 rpm

TORQUE 32.8 Nm @7,500 rpm

TRANSMISSION 6-speed

16-liter DEPOSIT

FRONT SUSPENSION inverted telescopic fork 43 mm, travel n.d.

REAR SUSPENSION lower mono-shock absorber, travel n.d.

FRONT BRAKE 320 mm disc, 4-piston radial caliper J.Juan

REAR BRAKE 265 mm disc, 1-piston caliper

FRONT TIRE 120/70R17

REAR TIRE 180/55R17

WHEELBASE 1,430 mm

SEAT HEIGHT 750 mm

WEIGHT 195 kg

R.R.P. (from) €5,179