Zontes 703RR: Challenger to Yamaha and Triumph - China's Triple-Powered Sportbike

Zontes 703RR: The Upcoming Triple-Powered Sportbike from China

Chinese manufacturer Zontes is set to shake up the motorcycle market with their new three-cylinder sportbike, the 703RR. After years of development, Zontes unveiled the 703F adventure bike and the 703RR sportbike, marking a significant step forward for the company.

Key Highlights of the Zontes 703RR

Performance and Specifications

Engine: 699cc three-cylinder engine
- Configuration: 120-degree crank for evenly spaced firing intervals
- Power: Homologated peak power of 101 horsepower
- Top Speed: Verified top speed of 143 mph
- Compression Ratio: High-performance design with a 13:1 compression ratio
Chassis (Structural Framework of Vehicle):
- Frame: Cast aluminum twin-spar frame
- Suspension: Likely supplied by Marzocchi, as used in the 703F
- Wheelbase: 57 inches, similar to Honda’s CBR650R
- Weight: Curb weight of 432 pounds (195.95 kilograms)

Design and Features

Headlights: Positioned on either side of the fairing, with a more subtle design compared to the prototype.
Additional Lighting: V-shaped LED strip and additional lamps underneath
Brake Calipers: Two versions with different specifications, both using Chinese-sourced components

Pricing for the Zontes 703RR

While the official price for the Zontes 703RR has not yet been revealed, we can get an idea of its potential pricing based on other models from Zontes:

Zontes 350R:
- 348 cc
- 38.2 bhp
- ₹2,79,000 (Avg. Ex-Showroom price)
Zontes 350X:
- 348 cc
- 38.2 bhp
- ₹2,99,000 (Avg. Ex-Showroom price)
Zontes 350T:
- 348 cc
- 38.2 bhp
- ₹2,99,000 (Avg. Ex-Showroom price)
Zontes GK350:
- 348 cc
- 38.2 bhp
- 188 kg
- ₹3,47,000 (Avg. Ex-Showroom price)

Given these figures, the Zontes 703RR, with its advanced three-cylinder engine and higher performance, is likely to be priced competitively within this range, offering great value for enthusiasts looking for a powerful and unique sportbike.

Comparison with Competitors

Middleweight Sportbike Class: Competes with Aprilia RS660 and Triumph Daytona 660
Market Position: Ahead of twin-cylinder Yamaha R7 and close to Aprilia RS 660 and Triumph Daytona 660
Upcoming Competitor: CFMoto’s 675SR three-cylinder bike

Market and Availability

Current Status: The 703F adventure bike is already being delivered to customers in China
Future Plans: Export sales of the 703F expected to follow soon, and the 703RR might be exported to the US and other international markets
Potential Market Impact: The bike aims to provide an alternative to the established brands like Triumph and Yamaha

Zontes' Strategic Move

Zontes is aiming to stand out in the competitive motorcycle market by offering a unique three-cylinder configuration. This move is intended to leapfrog the common parallel-twin setups and provide something distinctive for customers.

Development and Evolution

Prototypes Revealed: Initially showcased at EICMA with limited technical details
Production Model: Type-approval documents reveal the final specifications and design tweaks from the prototype

Customer Appeal and Market Penetration

China Market: Moving from single-cylinder to three-cylinder bikes to meet customer expectations
Global Ambitions: Zontes aims to compete internationally, including potential entry into the US market

Questions for Readers

Would you consider buying a Zontes 703RR if it becomes available in your country ?
Are you excited for more triple-cylinder bikes entering the market?
What features do you prioritize most in a sportbike?