Aftek Zontes R250 to challenge Yamaha FZ25 / Pulsar NS200 in India

Apart from international names at the ongoing Auto Expo, a few home grown companies are also making their mark in the Indian automotive industry. Lucknow based Aftek Motors showcased their entire portfolio, ranging from 110cc to 250cc. The latter is the one that impressed us – its called the Zontes R250 and Aftek hopes to launch it next year.

The bike

Search the Internet and you will see the same brand being sold in the UK. As expected, its a Chinese manufacturer. But during close inspection at the Auto Expo, we found the fit and finish to be acceptable. Aftek has localized the motorcycle heavily to bring down costs. For example, it uses Bosch sourced ABS and Delphi’s Fuel Injection technology

The specs

The single cylinder, oil-cooled 249cc engine puts out an impressive 22 bhp of power and 23 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed transmission and the bike weighs in at 159 kg (wet). You also get wide tyres at both the ends : 110mm up front and 150mm at the back. ABS is offered for both front and rear brakes.

Unique features

The Zontes R250 comes with petal discs at both the ends. The rear suspension gets gas charged mono shock absorber while the front has USD or Up-side down forks. Impressive, again on paper. The bike also sports LED headlamps and a fully digital speedometer display. The fuel tank lid is hidden under a plastic flap which opens from the key slot area.

Aftek has not commented on the pricing as of now. The manufacturing facility will be up and running this year post which homologation formalities will start. The Zontes R250 looks great in the naked avatar and promising on paper. Given the Chinese credentials, a value tag is surely expected which means it should be able to compete with the Yamaha FZ25 and NS200 Pulsar. Remember, you read it here first!