95 horses for less than €8,000: Zontes reinvents the premium trail
When you think of a Chinese motorcycle, the first image that probably comes to mind is not that of a well-equipped, high-performance trail. However, Zontes, a brand that has been gaining recognition in recent years, surprises us with its Zontes 703 F. A trail that looks like a high-end model, but accessible to everyone, with its three-cylinder engine, modern equipment, and refined design. Let’s put it to the test to see if this machine really lives up to its reputation.
A design that impresses from the first moment
You know, a motorcycle is first and foremost a matter of style. And here, Zontes stands out with a design that attracts all eyes. The Zontes 703 F is simply elegant. A sleek body, a front headlight that combines LED and cutting-edge technology, and a set of thin and aerodynamic fairings that impress without being exaggerated. It really looks great! But the real surprise is the ultramodern front with its LED lights that adjust automatically thanks to the “Starlight” night vision sensor. In short, this motorcycle does not go unnoticed.
The engine: a three-cylinder with a lot of power
Come on, let’s not fool ourselves, what really interests us is what’s underneath the tank. Here, Zontes has put in a lot of effort. We are talking about a three-cylinder engine of 699 cc that develops 95 horsepower. Honestly, for a motorcycle of this size, this is impressive. With a torque of 76 Nm at 7500 rpm, the Zontes 703 F is not afraid to face the road, whether urban or a bit more “off-road”. If you’re looking for power without taking it to the extreme, you’ve come to the right place.
The engine is well-designed: components coated with a wear-resistant coating, good thermal management, and a crankshaft at 120° for optimal performance. The motorcycle offers two riding profiles, Sport and Eco, to manage consumption according to your mood. In the city, the Eco mode is perfect for avoiding jolts when accelerating, which can be a bit harsh in Sport mode.
The onboard technology: it’s impressive
On this front, Zontes does not hold back. The 6.75-inch TFT display is clear and readable, even in bright sunlight, thanks to its anti-reflective system. And that’s not all: the Zontes 703 F is equipped with front and rear cameras to record your rides, something like a dashcam. This feature can be really useful for your daily commutes or long trips.
Another interesting point is the USB ports for charging your smartphone and the 4G connectivity that allows the motorcycle to connect to a mobile app for more functions.
Maneuverability and suspension: it rides smoothly
In terms of maneuverability, Zontes has done a good job. The motorcycle is quite stable on the road, and its pressure-injected aluminum chassis gives it the perfect stiffness to tackle curves or dirt paths. The fully adjustable front and rear Marzocchi suspensions offer good comfort and shock absorption. Whether you’re in the middle of the city or on more difficult roads, the Zontes 703 F gives you confidence. However, let’s not fool ourselves, its 241 kg makes it a motorcycle that is not exactly the lightest in its category. You will feel its weight a bit, especially at low speeds or when you have to push it while stationary.
