Zontes’ offensive in the three-cylinder motorcycle segment continues to gain strength. After the launch of the trail 703F and the sports 703RR, the firm now adds to its catalog the new Zontes 703T ETC and Zontes 703R ETC, a sport touring and a naked that complete a family made up of four models with a common mechanical base, but clearly differentiated approaches.
The new members of the range are not limited to adopting a different bodywork or driving position. Both the 703T and the 703R introduce important electronic innovations that raise the technological level of the platform, bringing it closer to what motorcycles of higher categories and prices offer.
Marelli electronics for the new generation 703
The main evolution of the ETC versions is found in the incorporation, for the first time within this family, of a Ride by Wire electronic accelerator and a six-axis IMU inertial platform developed by Marelli.
The adoption of these components allows the electronic aids to be managed taking into account parameters such as inclination, acceleration or movements of the motorcycle. The result is more precise operation adapted to each driving situation.
The technology package includes ABS with Cornering function, traction control, driving modes and cruise control. It also has a Quickshift Up & Down quick change, which allows you to go up and down gears without activating the clutch, favoring more fluid driving both on curved roads and during everyday trips.
This electronic deployment places the new 703T ETC and 703R ETC among the most equipped proposals in their segment, especially taking into account their respective launch prices.
95 HP three-cylinder engine
In the mechanical section, both motorcycles share the 699 cc inline three-cylinder engine already known within the 703 family. This unit develops a declared maximum power of 95 HP at 11,200 rpm and delivers 74.5 Nm of torque at 8,500 rpm.
The figures reflect a mechanics with a marked performance orientation, capable of working at a high speed and offering the particular character associated with three-cylinder engines: a response with greater thrust in the middle zone than many four-cylinder engines, but maintaining a good capacity to stretch in the upper part of the rev counter.
Both the Zontes 703T and 703R will be available in Full Power and Low Power versions, the latter intended for A2 license users.
The propeller is integrated into an aluminum perimeter chassis whose declared weight is just 12 kilograms. The swingarm is also made of aluminum, a solution that allows it to contain masses and improve the rigidity of the assembly.
The suspensions are signed by Marzocchi and offer regulation possibilities. For braking, a Nissin front system consisting of a radial pump and four-piston radial calipers is used, while the rear brake is signed by JJuan. Contact with the asphalt is entrusted to Michelin tires.
Zontes 703T ETC: traveling with protection and comfort
The Zontes 703T ETC represents the sport touring aspect of the new range. Its approach seeks to combine the performance of the three-cylinder engine with greater aerodynamic protection, traveling capacity and comfort during long journeys.
For this, it has a large fairing, tourism-oriented ergonomics and a 20-liter fuel tank. This capacity should provide it with considerable autonomy, especially useful for those who intend to make long trips without having to stop frequently to refuel.
The standard equipment is one of its main arguments. The 703T ETC includes supports for three suitcases, so it is ready to mount side luggage and rear trunk without the need to install additional structures.
It also features an electrically adjustable windshield, heated grips and a heated driver’s seat. Added to this are bumpers, handguards, fog lights and high-resolution front and rear cameras with night sensors.
These cameras can be useful not only for recording trips, but also as an additional element of security and documentation in case of any incident during circulation.
The instrumentation is concentrated on a large eight-inch TFT screen. The system offers smartphone connectivity, navigation, mirroring function, ambient temperature information and real-time display of tire pressure and temperature.
The new Zontes 703T ETC will arrive during the month of October to the brand’s network of authorized sellers. It will be available in gray and blue combinations, as well as black and gold. Its recommended price will be 7,288 euros, including five years of warranty and free insurance during the first year.
Zontes 703R ETC: a muscular and technological naked
The second novelty is the Zontes 703R ETC, responsible for transferring the three-cylinder platform to the competitive mid-displacement naked segment.
Its design is committed to muscular and compact shapes, with a minimalist body that leaves a good part of the aluminum chassis visible. The absence of a wrap-around fairing and its specific ergonomics seek to provide a more direct ride and a greater connection between rider, engine and chassis.
Compared to the traveling character of the 703T, the new 703R is presented as an option more oriented towards curved roads, urban travel and sports use, although it maintains practically all the technological load of its faired sister.
Its standard equipment includes heated grips and a 6.75-inch TFT screen. This instrumentation has connectivity, navigation, mirroring function, ambient temperature indicator and real-time monitoring of tire pressure and temperature.
The presence of Marelli electronics, cornering ABS, traction control, cruise control and bi-directional quick shifting allow the 703R to compete not only for performance, but also for equipment.
The Zontes 703R ETC will be available during the fall in three color combinations: red, black and gray with blue. Its recommended price will be 6,488 euros and will include, like the touring version, free insurance for the first year and a five-year warranty.
