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?