Whenever we test a Zontes, we are impressed by the standard equipment and some of the stylistic details of the models. This 350S is no exception, being a small, utilitarian custom that at the same time has the characteristics of a (miniature) muscle bike, capable of making many high-performance motorcyclists dream.
We’re not going to talk about the brand at length this time, as we’ve done that several times when we’ve tested Zontes models, a brand that has grown very steadily and which, after the 125 cc, 310 cc and 350 cc, is soon to present its new three-cylinder engine. This engine should revolutionize the Chinese manufacturer’s range, with a motor base that could reach models in different segments, but for now let’s focus on this 350S, another model with a simple designation but a lot to show for it.
This is Zontes’ second custom alternative among the 350s: we find the stylized and futuristic 350V and this 350S, with its rounder and smoother lines that give rise to a muscle bike style but with some more classic touches. In other words, it’s easy to see how the brand continues to take ideas from famous models on the market and then create bikes with a philosophy all of their own. Even so, all the Zontes models so far have some points in common: great equipment and technology and a good final price/quality ratio.
FEATURES
Under the guise of a classic vintage model, this 350S hides a number of familiar components, including the 4-valve single-cylinder engine with double overhead camshaft that delivers 29 Kw of power (39 hp) and a maximum torque of 32.8 Nm, characterized by a high compression ratio and a Bosch fuel injection system. The aluminum cylinder is entirely produced by Zontes, from casting to processing, and has a high-power magnet with a reduced rotor weight. Still in terms of the engine, highlights include the slipper clutch, the new air filter design and the presence of a large radiator. There are two driving modes (Eco and Sport), and this model also features a fully concealed exhaust, made of stainless steel and with internal thermal insulation so that no one gets burned by it.
THE BEST Pleasant ride, quality of suspension, equipment, price TO BE IMPROVED Shape of gear selector, key to open tank
CYCLING AND TECHNOLOGY
As far as the bike is concerned, there is of course the aluminum alloy rear monoshock, which connects to an eye-catching wheel that mounts a 180 mm tire. The progressive rear monoshock is completely hidden under the engine and has an ingenious articulation system, relying on high-pressure nitrogen to reduce the temperature of the hydraulic oil. At the front, there’s a 43mm inverted fork and a generously-sized J.Juan brake disc, along with a radial-mount caliper. Note also the presence of full LED lighting, which as well as having aesthetically pleasing elements at the front and rear, offer pleasant night-time visibility, where the backlit controls are also to be commended. A bike that has a seat just 750 mm from the ground and mounts footrests, something that in our opinion doesn’t go so well aesthetically with the rest. Also noteworthy is the full TFT instrumentation with on-board computer and various display modes, the tire pressure monitoring system, the two USB ports and, of course, the Keyless ignition. We warned you that this bike’s equipment was super complete! The total weight of the set is 195 kg.
IN PROGRESS
In person, the lines of the 350S are really curious and naturally won’t appeal to everyone, but they won’t leave anyone indifferent either. Let’s just say that the rear section is the best achieved, with its spectacular rims, wide tires and eye-catching LED headlights. As for the riding position, it’s traditional for a custom model, with a low (and minimally comfortable) seat and feet in front, which are placed on small platforms, smaller than those traditionally found on American models. However, the gear selector isn’t the best positioned, and instead of shifting up, you almost have to pull the selector back. With stiff boots, it was even harder to get used to. The handlebars are well-shaped and the single-cylinder engine offers good sensations (and performance) on the move, although we didn’t notice any difference between Eco 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 rpm hardly drops when you change gear), but this doesn’t mean that the acceleration and recovery are good, and that they take the 350S beyond 150 km/h. And with economy to match, with fuel consumption of around 4.2 l/100 km, even at high speeds. Above all, it’s a very smooth and linear engine, which vibrates little and therefore also keeps the quality of visibility in the mirrors intact, not to mention comfort.
We liked the smooth, progressive braking – excellent for those just starting out – the feel of the adjustable levers and the operation of the suspension, even at a brisk pace, all of which will help the less experienced. In fact, the rear suspension is very good indeed, the best available on bikes of this capacity, and we’re not just talking about custom bikes. As for the sporty CST tires, they don’t fail (at least in the dry), but we never fully understood where the limits were, so we needed more kilometers to “understand” them better.
All in all, it’s a quality bike that’s very pleasant to ride and can serve both new riders and those who want something easy and attractive to get them back into motorcycling. With this level of equipment, performance, dynamics and final price, you’ll have to look hard to find tempting offers at this level from competing brands.