1 Nov 2025
The Zontes N230, an urban-style motorcycle from Kabir Motor Company, is reviewed for its appearance, technical specifications, and riding performance. Despite its 230cc engine size, its performance feels closer to 180cc engines, yet it offers a remarkably comfortable ride and practical features for daily use.
The Zontest N230, with its 230cc engine, has a performance closer to 180cc or sometimes 150cc engines, rather than a full 250cc, a consideration for its 200 toman price range.
The motorcycle's appearance is reminiscent of older 150cc models with a sportier, more modern, and muscular urban style, featuring a distinctive aggressive headlight bowl and an analog-digital screen similar to Kiva City models.
The saddle has an unconventional steep slope, especially for the rear passenger, making it challenging for the passenger to maintain balance during braking without using handles, a design rarely seen in its price segment.
The motorcycle is equipped with front and rear disc brakes utilizing CBS (Combined Braking System) technology, where the front brake is strong, but the rear brake's performance is normal and not particularly interesting.
It uses a 90/90-17 front tire, differing from common 110/70-17 sizes, and 130/70-17 rear tires, which, combined with an attractive exhaust pipe on the right side and gold taillights, give it a sporty and appealing rear view.
The Zontes N230 features normal telescopic front aids and a pair of gas-assist helpers at the rear, providing a soft suspension system for a comfortable ride.
The fuel tank has a 13-liter capacity, and the tubular handlebar is a departure from the typical Zontes brand design, indicating a simpler, more developed engine approach.
The engine is an air-cooled, 6-speed, four-stroke, two-valve Texland 2030C unit, producing 17 horsepower and 19 Nm of torque, which is considered a trump card for its daily urban usability.
With 17 horsepower from its 230cc engine, it produces less power than a 155cc Yamaha MT-15 (19 hp) and is comparable to or slightly less powerful than a 175cc/180cc Benelli 180 (17.8-18 hp), challenging its perceived 230cc performance.
The motorcycle offers a very comfortable and smooth seating position, akin to a street or naked bike style, with footrests positioned for an upright posture, making it distinct from more aggressive sport bikes.
The engine provides good throttle response and acceleration, but this acceleration does not match that of a 250cc engine, aligning more closely with the feel of a 180cc motorcycle.
The steering wheel offers a very good turning radius, enhancing maneuverability and overall riding enjoyment, contributing to its comfortable ride experience.
The Zontes N230 provides a very comfortable ride, suitable for various riders including beginners, daily commuters, and even older individuals or those with back issues, despite its sporty appearance.
Key advantages include its sporty yet urban aesthetic, a 6-speed gearbox for lighter and easier operation, and an air-cooled engine that mitigates overheating issues common in some liquid-cooled lower-displacement bikes.
The motorcycle faces challenges in the secondary market and in terms of service and parts support, despite Kabir Motor offering a 24-month warranty, and features an inconvenient high-beam/flasher button placement.
While its quality is good and it surpasses products like Lifan KPS 200 or Dinwiz, its market might not be as strong or special compared to more established brands like Benelli or Anni due to the mentioned market and support issues.
Overall, it is a comfortable ride, and its driving style is a driving style that even my father can sit on and be comfortable.
| Key Aspect | Observation/Detail | Insight/Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Performance Perception | 230cc engine size | Actual feel is closer to 180cc engines, not competitive with 250cc, despite its numerical designation. |
| Power & Torque Output | 17 hp, 19 Nm torque | Lower horsepower for its displacement compared to Yamaha MT-15 (155cc, 19hp) and Benelli 180 (175cc/17.8hp or 180cc/18hp). |
| Ride Comfort & Ergonomics | Very smooth seating position and comfortable footrest placement. | Suitable for daily use, beginners, and riders with back issues, broadening its appeal beyond young, sporty riders. |
| Braking System Effectiveness | Front and rear discs with CBS technology. | Front brake is strong, while the rear brake's performance is described as merely normal and not standout. |
| Market Standing & Competitiveness | Priced around 178,000-200,000 Tomans with a 24-month warranty. | Better market presence than Lifan KPS 200/Dinwiz, but struggles against Benelli/Anni due to market perception and service infrastructure. |
| Engine Cooling & Operation | Air-cooled Texland 2030C engine. | Considered an advantage for daily urban use, preventing the excessive heat issues seen in some lower-volume liquid-cooled competitors. |
