Motorcycle Manufacturer Zontes Expands Entry-Level Offerings with New 125 C Cruiser

2024 is shaping up to be a significant year for motorcycle manufacturers, and Chinese brand Zontes is no exception. At EICMA 2023, the company unveiled several new models, showcasing its ambitions to enter the premium, high-performance segment while also expanding its entry-level offerings.

Cruisers have long been regarded as ideal motorcycles for beginners due to their low seat height, user-friendly performance, and overall accessibility. Zontes' latest addition, the 125 C, takes accessibility to a whole new level, making it one of the easiest bikes to ride. In terms of design, the Zontes 125 C deviates slightly from the brand's usual aggressive, angular lines, opting for a more retro-inspired approach similar to Honda's Rebel lineup of cruisers. It features a muscular tank, a round LED headlight, fork gaiters, and a laid-back, low-slung stance.

When it comes to performance, the Zontes 125 C follows the formula for all beginner-friendly A1 two-wheelers. It is equipped with a 125cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, single-cylinder engine that produces a power output of no more than 15 horsepower. The engine is housed in a compact steel tubular frame, which incorporates standard telescopic front forks with fork gaiters for a retro look. The rear suspension consists of twin shocks and a steel swingarm.

In terms of other features, the Zontes 125 C rides on 16-inch alloy wheels, similar to those found on the Honda Rebel 300 and 500. The tires measure 120/80 at the front and 140/70 at the rear, enhancing the cruiser's muscular appearance. The 125 C is equipped with front and rear disc brakes with dual-channel ABS for reliable stopping power.

Despite its engine size, the 125 C boasts a larger-than-expected presence. It has a wheelbase of 1,485 mm (approximately 58 inches) and a length of 2,100 mm (83 inches). The seat height is a manageable 700 mm (27 inches), and the dry weight is a beginner-friendly 153 kilos (337 pounds). With a fuel capacity of around 12 liters, the wet weight comes in at approximately 365 pounds.

Zontes plans to launch the new 125 C in the European market in early 2024. However, official pricing and availability have yet to be confirmed at the time of writing. Sources suggest that the cruiser will be priced at around 3,500 to 4,000 euros, equivalent to approximately $3,863 to $4,415 USD.