Zontes 368G ADV: We’ve tried this scooter in China
Good news for adventure scooter enthusiasts, Zontes Malaysia has confirmed that the Zontes 368G ADV model will enter the Malaysian market in early 2025.
Specifications
According to the specifications, the Zontes 368G ADV is powered by a single-cylinder liquid-cooled SOHC engine generating 38 hp at 7,500 rpm and 40 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm, with two available modes: Eco and Sport.
Riding aspects are enhanced by the use of a 41 mm upside-down (USD) front fork suspension with compression/rebound adjustability, dual shock absorbers at the rear with preload adjustment, and a J.Juan braking system.
It also features a two-channel ABS, traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) as standard features.
This ADV scooter is equipped with a 17.5-liter fuel tank, under-seat storage that can accommodate two full-face helmets, an adjustable windscreen with five levels, and a seat height of 790 mm (or 770 mm for the lower version).
All essential information and additional function settings can be accessed via an eight-inch TFT display.
Interestingly, Zontes also offers several standard features for the 368G ADV model.
For instance, there are crash bars and handguards on the handlebars, as well as fog lights with various beam settings to enhance the stylish ADV scooter image.
For rider comfort, the 368G is fitted with grip heating functions that are very useful during winter or rainy rides.
Finally, there’s a front and rear dashcam featuring a Sony Starvis sensor capable of capturing HD 1080p video and storing up to 128 GB.
First Impressions
We had the opportunity to take a closer look and test the capabilities of this ADV scooter during a visit to the Zontes factory located in Jiangmen, China, this week.
At first glance, adventure scooter fans may fall in love at first sight due to its stylish appearance, complete with crash bars, fog lights, and spoked wheels (17 inches front, 14 inches rear).
We were also particularly impressed by the relatively spacious floor design, which offers multiple comfortable riding positions and includes additional foot pegs in the middle to facilitate standing riding on off-road paths.
Based on a few hours of riding, we can say that the Zontes 368G ADV offers a good power delivery that is easy to control, with the author taking little time to get accustomed to the throttle response of this scooter.
Its dimensions, which are not overly wide, make the scooter easier to maneuver, especially in heavy urban traffic.
The braking performance does not disappoint, and importantly, with its slightly stiff suspension system, you can enjoy a somewhat aggressive riding experience when tackling corners on rural roads.
For those who remain skeptical about Chinese-made motorcycles, the Zontes 368G may leave you momentarily speechless.
With impressive build quality, it is hard to find any loose parts or poorly finished areas; in fact, while riding, there is virtually no noticeable vibration that could disrupt your journey.
The large TFT display is very easy to read, even when riding under the scorching sun at midday.
Another aspect that excites us is the sharp and clear quality of the dashcam recording, which captures all necessary evidence in case you (heaven forbid) encounter any unwanted situations.
Price
We were informed that the selling price of the Zontes 368G ADV will be around RM28,000 when it launches next year.
This is a price that offers excellent value considering the specifications and features packed into this adventure machine, making Honda ADV350 owners feel a bit challenged.
