Style Over Substance? Does the Fashionable Design of Zontes 350R Sacrifice Excitement?
The 'country of origin effect' theory highlights that the country of its origin can positively influence a consumer's perception of a product. For instance, we tend to associate Swiss watches with superior quality, Japanese motorcycles with reliability, and European motorcycles with exoticism.
However, there may be some hesitation or scepticism when it comes to Chinese products. Despite this, China has recently secured contracts to manufacture bikes for well-known brands like KTM, Harley Davidson, and BMW. No doubt, their latest motorcycles have been impressive. So it's surprising that the Zontes 350R feels more like a Chinese bike from the past than the present.
The Zontes 350R is a visually striking motorcycle with its Streetfighter design that appears like an ominous Transformer in vehicle form, garnering attention wherever it goes. Passersby would do a double-take, and some even can approach it since it looks like an electric vehicle.
The bike's sharp lines, upswept angles, dual-barrel exhausts inspired by MV Agusta, and chunky dual-tone alloy wheels contribute to its exotic appearance. In this regard, the 350R is just as daring as we've come to expect from contemporary Chinese motorcycles.
Chinese manufacturers are pushing ahead of their competitors in the realm of features. While most motorcycles under 500 cc are beginning to incorporate LCD screens, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB charging, the Zontes 350R is a smartphone among landlines.
Its 5-inch colour TFT screen has a screen mirroring feature and is fully customizable with numerous themes. What's more impressive is that the 350R is fully keyless and operates with a key fob and handlebar buttons for all functions. These functions include locking/unlocking the bike to ignition to access the fuel filler cap and seat. The lighting is also all LED, adding to its convenience and modernity.
Despite its impressive features and design, the Zontes 350R falls short in excitement while in motion. This is disappointing because its 348 cc engine boasts nearly 38 bhp and 32.8 Nm, surpassing the BMW G 310 R's output of 34 bhp and 28 Nm.
The Zontes 350R generates as much power as the Kawasaki Ninja 300 and is a direct rival to the KTM 390 Duke. However, the 350R's engine on the road feels more akin to a 250 cc model.
Zontes 350 ADV, GK 350, and 350R all three exhibit similar behaviour with their gear ratios. While maintaining triple-digit speeds is effortless, quickly overtaking vehicles by shifting gears is cumbersome due to the flat fourth gear.
Despite being suitable for slow city riding in second and third gears, it is worth noting that the bike's poor maintenance has impacted its fuel efficiency. Further, it yields just 20 km/l in the city and 27 km/l on the highway.
However, the better-maintained GK 350 gives a city fuel efficiency of 26 km/l, suggesting that the 350R may have been a victim of negligence.
The Zontes 350R has a mono-shock at the rear and a 43 mm upside-down front fork as part of its hardware. The suspension setup is tuned towards the softer side, providing a comfortable ride over the city's bumpy roads.
However, the bike feels unstable at highway speeds. Unfortunately, the suspension needs adjustability, preventing us from exploring the bike's full potential, despite the CST tyres being grippy and suitable for some enjoyable corner carving.
Let's move on to the part that can make us uneasy. As part of our assessment of a motorcycle's braking ability, applying sudden brakes at various speeds allows us to gauge the effectiveness, feedback, and urgency with which the bike stops in emergencies.
However, if you follow and apply the testing mentioned above, the mounting stems of the handlebar on the Zontes 350R may need to be fixed. Further, it may cause the handlebar to move forward and the rider to lean further over the fuel tank.
The 350R is equipped with a single 325mm and 265mm disc at the front and rear, respectively, and dual-channel ABS. Unfortunately, the ABS needs to be better calibrated, and the bike jolts to a stop, while the lever feels and feedback leave much to be desired.
Recently, Keeway motorcycles, another brand owned by Adishwar Auto Ride, showed how refined Chinese engines had become. Although they had their faults, we cannot say the same for the Zontes 350R.
With all the issues faced while testing the bikes, we cannot recommend it at its ex-showroom price of Rs 3.25 lakh. Despite the wear and tear that test bikes undergo, the number of issues may leave you feeling disappointed. In comparison, the Zontes GK 350 is a better choice.
Do you know that Honda obtains patent in India for its new Forza 350 maxi-scooter
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Honda recently launched their latest 350cc retro bike, the CB350, which directly competes with Royal Enfield's iconic Bullet 350. This comparison will analyze the key differences between these two motorcycles. Honda CB350 Vs Royal Enfield Bullet 350: DesignBoth bikes boast retro designs with round headlights, indicators, and full metal fenders. However, some key differences exist.Honda CB350 Vs Royal Enfield Bullet 350: Headlight CowlBullet 350 comes with a full metallic cowl integrated with fork covers & indicators behind the fork. On the other hand, the CB350 comes with a simple headlight unit with triangular mounts and integrated indicators. Honda CB350 Vs Royal Enfield Bullet 350: Fuel TankBullet 350 features a teardrop-shaped tank with optional hand-painted pinstripes or 3D badging. This has a fuel tank capacity of 13 liters. On the contrary, the CB350 features a simple, sleek design with tank grips. This has a fuel tank capacity of 15.2 liters.Honda CB350 Vs Royal Enfield Bullet 350: Seating SetupBullet 350 features a long, well-contoured & single-piece seat. Whereas, the CB350 features a split seat setup with premium seat covers.Honda CB350 Vs Royal Enfield Bullet 350: EngineBullet 350 is powered by a 348cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder J series engine, producing 20.2PS @ 6100rpm & 27 Nm @ 4000 rpm. Meanwhile, the CB350 is powered by a 348.36cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine, producing 21.07PS @ 5500rpm & 29.4Nm @ 3000rpm.Both the Bullet 350 & CB350 are equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission. However, the CB350 is also equipped with a standard traction control.Honda CB350 Vs Royal Enfield Bullet 350: Additional SpecsFrame:Bullet 350: Twin downtube cradle frame.CB350: Half-duplex cradle frame.Brakes:Bullet 350:Front: 300mm disc.Rear: 270mm disc.Single or dual-channel ABS, depending on the variant.CB350:Front: 310mm discRear: 240mm discDual-channel ABS standardHonda CB350 Vs Royal Enfield Bullet 350: FeaturesBullet 350 features a Semi-digital cluster with a retro look. On the other hand, the CB350 features a semi-digital cluster with gear position and real-time mileage alongside a range indicator.Honda CB350 Vs Royal Enfield Bullet 350: PriceIn terms of pricing, the difference between the Honda CB350 & the base Bullet 350 is huge, making the Honda CB350 more expensive. Here is the price chart for a better understanding: Honda CB350 PriceRoyal Enfield Bullet 350 PriceDLX is priced at Rs. 1,99,990 in IndiaMilitary Red/ Military Black is priced at Rs. 1,98,680 in IndiaDLX Pro is priced at Rs. 2,17,800 in IndiaStandard Maroon / Standard Black is priced at Rs. 2,24,680 in India-Black Gold is priced at Rs. 2,44,680 in India. Key Highlight: Top-end CB350 DLX Pro: Smartphone-connected voice control system with optional Bluetooth module.Till we get more insights about the new launches & updates, read about the Honda ADV 350's Exciting Updates & 4 More Colour Options! Are you searching for a new bike? Explore bikejunction & compare your choice of bike, we will help you out with a bike loan. Select your bike according to category and other specifications on Bike Junction with just one click. Follow our news section or Social Media handles to get the latest news & updates related to the bike industry in India.Follow us for Latest Bike Industry Updates Facebook - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_offl_fb Instagram - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_ofl_insta Twitter - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_ofl_twitter
...Read full newsHonda, a Japanese 2-wheeler brand, has updated its ADV 350 scooter for 2024. This scooter will now be available in 4 new paint schemes – Matt Coal Black Metallic, Pearl Falcon Gray, Matt Pearl Cool White & Matt Pearl Pacific Blue. The new Matt Coal Black Metallic gives ADV 350 an even more attractive appearance, elevating its proportions. 2024 ADV 350 Scooter: SpecsThis new Japanese scooter will be powered by a 330cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, producing 28.8 bhp & 31.5 Nm torque. Covered with an underbone chassis, this engine is equipped with USD front forks & twin rear shocks. The braking system comprises a 256 mm front & a 240 mm rear disc. This new scooter will roll on a 15-inch front & a 14-inch rear wheel. 2024 ADV 350 Scooter: FeaturesIt features LED illumination, a Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), a Type-C charging port & an LCD. This scooter also comes with all the important readouts, including the speedometer, odometer, trip meter & many more. 2024 ADV 350 Scooter: Design & LaunchThe Honda ADV 350 remains the same in terms of design, features, and hardware for 2024. It still has the tall stance, beefy bodywork, single-piece LED headlight & chunky silhouette. Coming to its Launch, Honda is expected to launch the updated ADV 350 in the European market by the end of this year. Unfortunately, it is unlikely to be launched in India anytime soon. Till we get more insights about the new launches & updates, read about the Recently Released Teaser of Ather’s Fastest E-Scooter 450 Apex! Are you searching for a new bike? Explore bikejunction & compare your choice of bike, we will help you out with a bike loan. Select your bike according to category and other specifications on Bike Junction with just one click. Follow our news section or Social Media handles to get the latest news & updates related to the bike industry in India. Follow us for Latest Bike Industry Updates Facebook - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_offl_fb Instagram - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_ofl_insta Twitter - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_ofl_twitter
...Read full newsBajaj Auto is all set to launch an updated version of its popular Chetak Electric. The new model is expected to boast a bigger battery pack alongside a longer range & some new features. Notably, the updated Chetak Electric will be available in two variants – Urbane & Premium. Bajaj Chetak Electric: Performance & RangeThe updated Bajaj Chetak Premium is expected to be powered by a 4.25 k BLDC electric motor, producing 5.7 bhp. This BLDC motor is expected to deliver better performance & higher top speed than its existing model. Moreover, this new model will be equipped with a larger 3.2 kWh battery pack, delivering a range of 126 km. This range is ARAI-certified. Speaking of the Chetak Urban variant, It is expected to be powered by a 2.9 kWh battery pack similar to its existing model. This battery pack will deliver a higher top speed & ARAI-certified range of 113 km, 5 km more than the current variant. Bajaj Chetak Electric: FeaturesComing to the features, the Chetak Electric is also expected to come with a TFT colour display with turn-by-turn navigation & smartphone connectivity. In addition, this will also feature a 5-7 inches wide display. Bajaj Chetak Electric: Estimated Launch & PriceThe new Bajaj Chetak Electric is expected to be launched in the next few months, most probably around mid-December 2023. In terms of price, the Premium variant is expected to be priced Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15,000, higher than the current model. Till we get more information about the new launches & updates, read about the Newly Revealed Keeway TX450R Adventure Bike! Are you searching for a new bike? Explore bikejunction & compare your choice of bike, we will help you out with a bike loan. Select your bike according to category and other specifications on Bike Junction with just one click. Follow our news section or Social Media handles to get the latest news & updates related to the bike industry in India. Follow us for Latest Bike Industry Updates Facebook - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_offl_fb Instagram - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_ofl_insta Twitter - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_ofl_twitter
...Read full newsAther Energy, an India-based 2-wheeler brand, has released a teaser video talking about its fastest electric scooter, the 450 Apex. There are many anticipations in the market based on teaser and tweet released by the company’s CEO. These releases hint that the 450 Apex will have the best performance ever seen from the brand Ather Energy. Speaking of its name, the word "Apex" in the product name hints at the scooter’s expected potential to reach high speed with a significant acceleration time.x Ather 450 Apex: SpecificationsThe 450X, Ather's current flagship scooter, has a 90 kmph top speed. This cooter can reach from 0 to 40 kmph in just 3.3 seconds. While other electric scooters, such as the Ola S1 Pro are capable of attaining higher speeds, the 450 Apex intends to help Ather in catering to a niche audience that wants top-class performance. Therefore, there is a high possibility that 450X may receive another top-class performance mode despite having a thrilling warp mode. Ather 450 Apex: Expected LaunchThe company is yet to release the exact timeline of the launch of this e-scooter. However, we can expect it to be launched in the next few weeks. Let’s see what the future holds for this top-performing upcoming e-scooter! Till we get more information about the new launches & updates, read about the Newly Revealed K-Speed's Honda Diabolus!Are you searching for a new bike? Explore bikejunction & compare your choice of bike, we will help you out with a bike loan. Select your bike according to category and other specifications on Bike Junction with just one click. Follow our news section or Social Media handles to get the latest news & updates related to the bike industry in India. Follow us for Latest Bike Industry Updates Facebook - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_offl_fb Instagram - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_ofl_insta Twitter - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_ofl_twitter
...Read full newsAdventure motorcycles are becoming increasingly popular. So, Keeway has also joined the trend with its new TX450R bike. This bike has been revealed globally. Let’s read more about this bike to know what it has in store for its customer base! Keeway TX450R: SpecsThe Keeway TX450R will be powered by a 449cc, single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, producing 44 bhp & 38 Nm of torque. In addition, this 449cc engine will be paired with a 6-speed gearbox, driving the rear wheel via a chain. This bike will roll on 21-inch front & 18-inch rear spoked wheels covered with Pirelli RallyCross MT21 tyres. Additionally, the Keeway TX450R will be equipped with a 280mm suspension system for off-road capabilities. The keeyway is yet to reveal other information about the bike. Keeway TX450R: FeaturesSpeaking of features, the bike will feature long travel USD forks, a monoshock at the rear & disc brakes at both ends. Moreover, this bike will come with a TFT dash, full LED lighting, a 28-litre fuel tank, fully-adjustable forks & a rally tower. Keeway TX450R: DesignFeaturing a typical Dakar rally motorcycle styling, the Keeway TX450R is manufactured around a double-cradle cast-aluminium frame. In addition, this bike will have a high front fairing, a narrow, straight seat, a high front fender, a bash plate & an up-swept exhaust. These elements give the bike better off-road capability. Keeway TX450R: RivalsThe Keeway TX450R rally motorcycle has the KTM 450 rally replica alongside the Kove 450 as its major competitors. Unfortunately, this bike is more likely to get launched in India as of now. However, private imports are a great option in case of competition. Till we get more information about the new launches, read about the Newly Revealed KTM Super Duke 1390R with Exciting Updates!Are you searching for a new bike? Explore bikejunction & compare your choice of bike, we will help you out with a bike loan. Select your bike according to category and other specifications on Bike Junction with just one click. Follow our news section or Social Media handles to get the latest news & updates related to the bike industry in India. Follow us for Latest Bike Industry Updates Facebook - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_offl_fb Instagram - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_ofl_insta Twitter - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_ofl_twitter
...Read full newsAs scramblers are dominating the bike market, Honda has come up with its CL lineup. This lineup is specifically designed to go well with the trend. The new Honda Diabolus is manufactured by K-Speed Customs and is based on the Honda CL300 Scrambler, a purpose-built scrambler that pays homage to classic motorcycles. The Diabolus is a great example of what can be done with a little customisation. It's a stylish & capable scrambler, Ready to turn heads. Honda Diabolus: DesignWhen it comes to design, K-Speed has done an excellent job of giving it a stylish & modern appearance. Here are the major Design related pointers: The company has replaced the round headlight with a sleek square LED unit with a grill.The stock front mudguard was swapped for a tall off-road style unit.The brand has installed a different handlebar alongside a retro switchgear.A substantial bash plate was also added.Routed the exhaust from the side into an up-swept twin-end can design.Replaced the seat with a custom single-seater unit.Mounted knobby tires are more suitable for off-road riding than stock ones. Honda Diabolus: SpecsThis CL300 is powered by a single-cylinder 286cc DOHC 4V engine, producing 31 bhp & 27.5 Nm torque. In addition, this 286CC engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox & slipper clutch as standard. The Honda Diabolus custom CL300 Scrambler is among the best models in Honda's CL line-up ever. Speaking of its Ergonomics, it has an upright riding position, which is comfortable for off-road riding. Moreover, the square headlights featured in this customised model give the bike a retro & nostalgic appearance. Speaking of the features, this bike will come with RSU telescopic front forks with gaiters, a rear dual-shock absorber setup, a re-positioned round speedometer & custom bar-end ORVMs. Honda Diabolus: Wire-Spoke WheelsThe wire-spoke wheels featured in this customised model are more attention-grabbing. Let’s explore the components that make it eye-catching: The brand has replaced the alloy units on the standard CL300.This model is available in a more stylish design.The rear subframe & round-section swingarm are retained, though. Honda Diabolus: Launch & PricingHonda may consider launching the CL300 in India. The CL300 shares the same engine as the CB300R, which is already available in India. With its recent price cut, the CB300R is competing against the Triumph Speed 400. Till we get more information about the new launches & updates, read about the New E-Clutch System Introduced by the Honda! Are you searching for a new bike? Explore bikejunction & compare your choice of bike, we will help you out with a bike loan. Select your bike according to category and other specifications on Bike Junction with just one click. Follow our news section or Social Media handles to get the latest news & updates related to the bike industry in India. Follow us for Latest Bike Industry Updates Facebook - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_offl_fb Instagram - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_ofl_insta Twitter - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_ofl_twitter
...Read full newsKTM has revealed its new Super Duke 1390R. This bike is a variant of the 1290 Super Duke. Let’s see what the new variant has for its huge customer base. KTM Super Duke 1390R: SpecsThe Super Duke 1390R will be powered by a new 1350CC LC8 engine, producing 190 bhp power output. Moreover, a new cam shift system will be installed to produce maximum power & torque. The bike will also be equipped with shorter throttle bodies & redesigned airbox. To resolve concerns around direct airflow into the engine, this bike will be equipped with a ram air system. Besides, this bike will get the top 2 gears revised for a more comprehensive speed range. Besides, this bike will come with a fuel tank capacity of 17.5 litres & marginally redesigned wheels. KTM Super Duke 1390R: Features Speaking of features, the 1390R will come with different riding modes, a lean-sensitive traction control system, full-colour TFT, TPMS & many more. Moreover, this bike will also feature an advanced anti-wheelie feature that can be switched off entirely. KTM Super Duke 1390R: StylingThe Austrian brand KTM has made several changes in order to make this model more powerful, lighter, agile & enhanced with high-tech features. Notably, the overall styling of this will resemble the existing model. However, the LED headlight & winglets design will be new. KTM Super Duke 1390R: Sale & PriceThe new KTM is likely to put the Super Duke 1390R on sale in Europe very soon. This bike is expected to be priced slightly higher than the existing model. Till we get more updates about the bike industry, read about the Estimated Launch of Simple Electric Scooter Dot One on December 15th, 2023! Are you searching for a new bike? Explore bikejunction & compare your choice of bike, we will help you out with a bike loan. Select your bike according to category and other specifications on Bike Junction with just one click. Follow our news section or Social Media handles to get the latest news & updates related to the bike industry in India. Follow us for Latest Bike Industry Updates Facebook - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_offl_fb Instagram - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_ofl_insta Twitter - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_ofl_twitter
...Read full newsHonda, a well-known 2-wheeler brand, has introduced its new 2024 version of the CBR650R & CB650R at the EICMA 2023. These 2 bikes have received updates, including the new styling & features. However, an intriguing feature of the 650R series, the new E-Clutch from Honda, was somewhat sidelined. So, let’s discuss this intriguing feature along with other aspects of these bikes! E-Clutch System: IntroductionHonda has added a new electronic clutch system named E-Clutch in the 2024 CBR650R & CB650R bikes. Speaking of the E-Clutch, this makes shifting gears easier & smoother. It also helps to prevent the engine from stalling. The E-Clutch system uses 2 servo motors. These motors are bolted to a new engine cover, pulling in the clutch when the bike comes to a stop. In addition, these motors also help to smooth out shifts. Riders will also have 3 settings: Soft, Medium, & Hard. THese settings will help users in adjusting the level of intervention from the E-Clutch system. E-Clutch System: MechanismThe new E-Clutch system is managed via a new ECU actuator unit that is specifically designed for this technology. They decide when the clutch should be engaged or disengaged based on the bike's speed & engine RPM. The system still uses the traditional clutch lever & cable setup. The riders will also be able to completely disable the E-Clutch through the TFT screen.The clutch can still be operated manually using the lever in case the E-Clutch technology fails. The new technology is designed to prioritise the use of the manual clutch. Additionally, it offers smooth 2-way shifting, which is superior to a traditional up-down quick-shifter, according to Honda. E-Clutch System: Additional InformationMV Agusta's Smart Clutch System uses a similar technology. However, Honda's tech system works with the slipper system that is standard on the bikes. Currently, the E-Clutch feature is limited to the new 650 range only. However, there are anticipations that Honda may introduce it to other models in the future, making riding more accessible to novice riders and enhancing city riding capabilities. Till we get more information about new launches & updates, read about the Newly Launched Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 in India at Rs. 2.69 Lakhs! Are you searching for a new bike? Explore bikejunction & compare your choice of bike, we will help you out with a bike loan. Select your bike according to category and other specifications on Bike Junction with just one click. Follow our news section or Social Media handles to get the latest news & updates related to the bike industry in India. Follow us for Latest Bike Industry Updates Facebook - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_offl_fb Instagram - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_ofl_insta Twitter - https://bit.ly/BikeJunction_ofl_twitter
...Read full news