Zontes 368G, how goes the Chinese off-road scooter
The Zontes 368G is fully equipped and is capable of tackling a journey without having to worry about tackling even a few gravel roads or an easy dirt track
Adventure scooters are one of the most successful trends of recent years: the trend inaugurated by the Honda X-Adv 750 in 2017, then followed by the Adv 350 in 2022, sees more and more manufacturers presenting their own models. Among these, the Chinese Zontes is the one with the most interesting proposal: with its 368G (€6,500) it enters the segment with a philosophy based on a very aggressive price-quality ratio and extremely rich technological equipment.
Slightly thirsty single-cylinder
From a mechanical point of view, the 368G uses a 368 cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with four-valve distribution and Bosch electronic fuel injection, capable of developing 38.7 hp and torque of 40 Nm at 6,000 rpm. The transmission is an automatic CVT, a classic solution for a scooter, but the delivery has been designed to offer a rather prompt response, especially when starting from a standstill and recovering at medium-low speeds; two selectable maps: Eco and Sport. In real driving, the engine is smooth and relatively quiet, with contained vibrations and good progression up to a top speed of just over 130 km/h, more than enough for extra-urban and motorway use. The declared average consumption is around 3.4-3.5 litres per 100 km, and thanks to the 17.5-litre fuel tank, a very high theoretical range for the category can be achieved.
Specialised cycling
One of the most special aspects of the 368G is the chassis, which is different from that of a conventional scooter. The frame is made of high-strength steel tubing, with a strong structure designed to withstand use on uneven surfaces. The front suspension uses a 41 mm inverted fork, while at the rear we find an adjustable double shock absorber, a solution that improves stability compared to classic touring scooters. Almost unique in the segment is the 17-inch front wheel, combined with a 14-inch rear wheel, with tyres of generous cross-section: everything contributes to giving the vehicle a behaviour closer to that of a crossover motorbike than that of an urban scooter. The ground clearance of about 180 mm makes it possible to tackle light off-road trails without difficulty, although the weight of 203 kg in running order makes itself felt in slow manoeuvres and tight changes of direction.
Rich equipment
Among the highlights of the 368G is its technological equipment. The scooter is equipped with a Tft colour display, keyless system, adjustable windscreen, heated grips, multiple USB sockets and a large under-seat compartment that can accommodate two full-face helmets. There are also advanced features such as front and rear cameras with recording, tyre pressure monitoring and smartphone connectivity, features rarely found on models in the same price range. The trade-off is in rather crowded handlebar blocks that require some practice:
How's it going
The riding position is comfortable for most riders, with a seat set 795 mm from the ground and a wide handlebar that offers good control. On the road, the handling is stable and precise on fast stretches, while on very twisty roads it requires a bit of steering decision, especially due to the not inconsiderable mass. While the 17-inch front wheel improves stability on cobblestones, potholes and unevenness, it also slightly impairs agility in fast changes of direction compared to a leaner scooter. The throttle response is always quite prompt: the sprint to the traffic lights, in short, is never a problem.
