Chinese motorcycles are getting bigger, more powerful, and more technologically advanced. If the recently concluded EICMA 2023 was any indication, it’s clear that Chinese-made motorcycles are here to stay, whether we like it or not. Many Chinese brands showcased their innovations, and Zontes is just one of the many trying to make a mark in the global market.
Zontes’ latest offering aims to target the highly lucrative mid-displacement segment for beginners in Europe, predominantly occupied by A2 license motorcycles. Models in this category typically have engines with displacements between 300 and 500 cc, and the new 500 T takes the form of an adventure bike. Set to hit the market in 2024, the Zontes 500 T will be offered in two versions – one with alloy wheels for a more road-focused ride and another with spoked wheels for better off-road performance.
At the heart of the Zontes 500T is a liquid-cooled 498cc single-cylinder engine with fuel injection. With a power output of 38 kilowatts, or around 51 hp, and 50 Nm of torque, the bike is slightly more powerful than its counterparts equipped with similar displacement twin-cylinder engines. However, due to its single-cylinder configuration, a substantial amount of vibrations from this engine can be expected. According to Zontes, the 500 T has a top speed of 180 km/h.
Regarding style, Zontes did not rewrite the rule book at all. The 500 T follows the standard adventure bike formula, with angular fairing, a tall windscreen, and side protection bars to protect the engine and fairing in case of a fall. There is also a front beak, accentuating its off-road inspired design. The 500 T has 19-inch front wheels and 17-inch rear wheels with dual sport tires, while the road version has 17-inch wheels both front and rear. The suspension consists of an inverted front fork and a mid-mounted monoshock, while braking is provided by twin discs at the front and a single disc at the rear.
So far, Zontes has not announced the price and availability of the new 500 T. It is likely to hit the European market in 2024, as the brand has an established distribution network in countries like France, Germany, and Italy. As with most Chinese-made bikes, the 500 T is expected to have an attractive price point, with a substantial margin over its Japanese and European rivals.
