Bristol Zontes 400M

Among Zontes’ 400-cc scooter lineup, the Bristol Zontes 400M has the most subtle design. It is not as loud or flashy as its bigger cousins, but it still carries a premium look and a confident aura on the road. It features a very confident-looking front end, which kind of resembles a robot or a B-Daman. Its facade is illuminated by a split-type LED headlight assembly along with sleek DRLs underneath. 

Upfront, the rider gets a TFT instrument panel, which displays the fuel gauge, riding mode, tripmeter, average fuel consumption, and odometer among others. The average Filipino rider will definitely achieve a good riding position with this scooter thanks to its adjustable brake levers, well-placed handlebars, and a supportive saddle. The seat on the pillion’s side also provides decent cushioning and ergonomics even on longer rides. 

For more convenience, this maxi-scooter also has USB Type-A and Type-C charging ports. One of this maxi-scooter’s downsides, however, is its limited storage. It comes with an under-seat storage, which is smaller compared to what its 400-cc cousins have. 

Moreover, it has a clean two-toned side profile, accentuated by sharp fairings and sporty-looking blacked-out features. This maxi-scooter runs on a 14-inch wheel at the front, while a 13-inch at the rear. Its minimalist back end is illuminated by a classic-looking LED taillight.

The Bristol Zontes 400M measures 2,025 mm in length, 790 mm in width, 1,185 mm in overall height, and 760 mm in seat height. This maxi-scooter has a wheelbase of 1,405 mm and a ground clearance of 150 mm.

In terms of suspension, the Bristol Zontes 400M utilizes a combination of a Telescopic Fork at the front and an Oil-Damped Telescopic Coil Spring at the rear. This maxi-scooter can confidently handle sharp turns or corners. It delivers a pleasant riding experience on the expressway. Meanwhile, in the city, its ride quality tends to get a bit bouncy when you are passing through bumps and other road imperfections at higher speeds. But, to be fair, this scooter is designed to be ridden sensibly inside the city.

Like its cousins, the Bristol Zontes 400M is powered by a 400-cc, 4-valve, liquid-cooled, SOHC engine that has a maximum power output of 28.5 kW (38 hp) and a maximum torque of 40 Nm. It is equipped with a continuously variable transmission gearbox and Eco and Sport riding modes.

Thanks to its lighter weight, you’ll enjoy this maxi-scooter’s very punchy acceleration. It is quick off the line, allowing you to effectively perform overtakes on the expressway. Its CVT is also very smooth and responsive. Meanwhile, in the city, it also offers great fuel consumption numbers like its cousins, making it a practical ride for your daily commute within Metro Manila. 

The Bristol Zontes 400M comes with disc brakes at both the front and rear ends. The setup is complemented by a dual-channel anti-lock braking system and a traction control system. This maxi-scooter also has a tyre pressure monitoring system.

The Bristol Zontes 400M would be a great first expressway-legal bike for young and novice riders. It is rider-friendly, practical and reliable for everyday city use, and could still rival other bigger bikes in terms of performance.