A real bargain! Zontes 125D scooter test 2024

125cc scooters have a big task: they should be economical to maintain and make the daily commute easier. While a purist vehicle - which theoretically needs no more than two wheels and an engine - can fulfill this, you don't have to forgo luxury. Enter the class of luxury scooters, where the Zontes 125D also resides. Such scooters aim to offer luxury and comfort in the form of high-quality features. While this usually means a higher price, the 125D swims against the tide.

Looking at the Japanese competition, prices of 5,000 Euros or more are often asked for A1 luxury scooters. Equipment and comfort have to be paid for - but not with Zontes! The 125D costs significantly less at 3,490 Euros in Austria and 3,790 Euros in Germany, positioning itself at least in terms of price in the class of affordable 125cc scooters. However, this does not mean that you have to make compromises in terms of equipment.

Exact prices and offers can be found here: Buy Zontes 125D.

The 125D is aimed at urban commuters who value stylish appearance, comfortable riding characteristics, and practical features. With its keyless ignition, TFT display including connectivity, and LED lights, the 125D combines modern technology with user-friendliness. Additionally, it offers two electronically locked glove compartments, an under-seat storage compartment, a USB and USB-C port, and an electronic windshield that can be locked in two positions. Thus, the Zontes scooter brings a lot to the table, but not everything is convincing.

Keyless ignitions are designed to make life easier. The Zontes 125D also features such a system, which performs its function correctly. The minimalist key can always stay in your pocket to operate all functions. Unfortunately, all features such as unlocking the seat or fuel tank cap are electronically controlled, which in the case of the 125D means a forced activation of the ignition. This happens with a simple push of a button, but it is accompanied by a loud - and annoying - acoustic signal. And that's just because you want to open the seat.

Even something as simple as turning off the Zontes 125D is unfortunately unnecessarily complicated. When the engine is running, the ignition cannot be deactivated. First, the engine must be stopped via the kill switch or by extending the side stand before the ignition can be turned off with the push of a button. Why so cumbersome?

As a 125cc scooter, the Zontes can naturally be ridden with the B-license extensions B-111 (AT) and B-196 (DE). This means it can be operated by individuals who might not yet have experience on motorized bikes and are therefore uncertain. We can highly recommend the Zontes 125D to such people, as its low seat height of 748 mm and a narrow, tapering seat ensure that even shorter riders can find a secure footing at traffic lights. Additionally, the handlebars are placed high and close to the rider, making the scooter from China very easy to maneuver. Finally, the 125D scores with a feature that is rare in this price range: adjustable brake levers. So, if you are looking for your first scooter, you should definitely check out the stylish Zontes.

The light handling of the Zontes 125D when stationary and maneuvering continues while riding. The scooter feels particularly agile and, thanks to its pleasant ergonomics, delivers a nimble and lively riding performance. In the city, it is ideal for effortlessly lane splitting between lines of cars. On country roads, it can be a lot of fun, with the CST tires being quite convincing. The only downside is the efficiency of the windshield, as it makes little difference which position the screen is in.

Another positive aspect is the chassis, which works surprisingly well in this price range and offers a lot of comfort. Road irregularities are effectively compensated for, and even manhole covers do not transmit unpleasant jolts directly to the back. The brakes of the Zontes 125D are also very powerful and convey a high level of safety without being overwhelming.

When it comes to everyday usability, the features really support the rider. Particularly practical is the tire pressure indicator on the display, which allows you to conveniently keep an eye on the tire pressure without having to check it at every fuel stop. Another plus is the low consumption of just over 2 liters per 100 kilometers. With a full 12-liter fuel tank, you can achieve a range of over 500 kilometers, which is truly remarkable for a scooter of this class.

Luxury scooters not only offer more comfort due to their larger dimensions but also provide additional storage space. However, Zontes has not fully utilized this aspect. Although a helmet fits under the seat, competitors often accommodate two. The same picture repeats with the glove compartments. These promise a lot of space with their large covers, but there is hardly any, as the fairing consumes most of the storage space. So, if you plan to store a lot of equipment or a week's groceries in the 125D, you should invest in a top case.

Yes, the keyless system can be annoying, and yes, the storage space could be better utilized. But in a way, you forgive the Zontes 125D a lot when you look at the price tag. A comparable Japanese competitor easily costs 1,500 euros more - a world of difference in this price-sensitive segment! Moreover, it meets the remaining requirements for such a scooter with flying colors. The Zontes 125D thus undoubtedly receives a purchase recommendation.