Key Takeaways
- Zontes ZT125-G1 launched in Nepal from Rs. 4,40,000 for the Urban Scrambler variant
- Scrambler Tourer is reported at Rs. 5,10,000; Legacy Edition adds about Rs. 20,000
- 124.7cc liquid-cooled engine, around 14.5 bhp, 6-speed gearbox and dual-channel ABS
- 20-litre tank with claimed highway mileage of up to 65 km/l
- It is a petrol bike, so daily commuters may find electric two-wheelers cheaper to run
The Zontes ZT125-G1 has officially launched in Nepal, with prices starting at Rs. 4,40,000 for the Urban Scrambler variant. Iron Monk Nepal Pvt. Ltd. is bringing in this 125cc neo-retro scrambler, which uses a liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine, a six-speed gearbox and dual-channel ABS. It targets younger riders who want an entry-level bike with premium styling.
The ZT125-G1 (also sold as the G1 125) is a petrol motorcycle, not an electric one. It still matters to anyone comparing options in Nepal's two-wheeler market. At Rs. 4,40,000 it costs more than most commuter bikes and many electric scooters. That makes it a lifestyle purchase as much as a practical one, and buyers should weigh it against electric two-wheelers as well as other 125cc petrol bikes.
This guide covers the variants, specs and pricing, how the bike compares with its rivals, and what it means for riders in Kathmandu traffic and on hilly highways.
Key Highlights
- Starting price: Rs. 4,40,000 for the Urban Scrambler
- Higher variant: the Scrambler Tourer is reported at Rs. 5,10,000
- Legacy Edition: a special edition marking Zontes' 15 years in Europe, available on both variants for about Rs. 20,000 more
- Engine: 124.7cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected single-cylinder
- Power: around 14.5 bhp (15 PS), depending on the source
- Gearbox: 6-speed with chain drive
- Safety: dual-channel ABS with a 300 mm front disc and 230 mm rear disc
- Fuel tank: 20 litres
- Claimed mileage: up to 65 km/l on highways
- Distributor: Iron Monk Nepal Pvt. Ltd.
Detailed Analysis
Variants and Pricing
Reports on the Nepal launch describe two main variants, with an optional Legacy Edition on top. One report mentions four variants in total, which fits the two bodies plus two Legacy versions. Dealers may quote slightly different breakdowns, so confirm with Iron Monk Nepal before booking.
| Variant | Reported Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Urban Scrambler | Rs. 4,40,000 | Entry variant, city-focused styling |
| Scrambler Tourer | Rs. 5,10,000 | Touring-oriented variant |
| Urban Scrambler Legacy Edition | About Rs. 4,60,000 | Adds roughly Rs. 20,000 |
| Scrambler Tourer Legacy Edition | About Rs. 5,30,000 | Adds roughly Rs. 20,000 |
Pro tip: Compare like with like. The Rs. 4,40,000 headline price is the Urban Scrambler. A buyer wanting the Tourer or the Legacy Edition should budget Rs. 5 lakh or more.
Engine and Performance
The ZT125-G1 uses a 124.7cc, liquid-cooled, four-valve, fuel-injected single-cylinder engine. International spec sheets list roughly 15 HP at 9,000 rpm and 13 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. Reviews and listings quote 14 to 14.5 bhp, which is normal variation between markets and measurement methods.
These are typical figures for a 125cc engine. Liquid cooling is the more interesting part. Many bikes in this class are air-cooled, and a liquid-cooled engine handles slow, hot, stop-start traffic better. That helps in Kathmandu valley congestion and on long climbs.
Power goes through a six-speed gearbox with a multiplate oil-bath clutch and chain final drive. The extra gears help in the hills, where a rider can stay in the powerband on steep sections instead of working a five-speed box hard.
Chassis, Brakes and Dimensions
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Frame | Steel frame |
| Front suspension | Upside-down telescopic fork |
| Rear suspension | Monoshock on swingarm |
| Front brake | 300 mm single disc |
| Rear brake | 230 mm disc |
| ABS | Dual-channel |
| Tyres | 17-inch, dual-purpose style |
| Kerb weight | About 160 kg |
| Seat height | About 795 mm |
| Fuel tank | 20 litres |
The 795 mm seat height is approachable for average-height riders. The 20-litre tank is large for a 125cc bike. At the claimed highway mileage it gives a very long range between fills, which is useful on routes with sparse fuel stations.
UK reviews describe the dual-purpose tyres as more about looks than serious off-roading. Treat the scrambler styling as a design choice. This bike suits tarmac, broken city roads and light gravel. It is not a trail bike.
Owner and Reviewer Feedback
The UK-market ZT125-G1 has been on sale since 2021. Reviewers have generally praised its value, equipment and styling, and it scored well for reliability in owner surveys. Common observations include:
- Ride quality is decent for a small bike, and the brakes are strong for the class.
- The naked riding position leaves the rider exposed to wind and rain. That matters during Nepal's monsoon.
- Servicing costs in the UK were modest, though Nepal costs will depend on the dealer and parts supply.
Nepal's version has not yet built up its own owner base, so real-world feedback here will take months to appear. Early buyers should ask about service intervals, spare parts and warranty terms in writing.
Impact on Nepal EV Market
The ZT125-G1 does not compete head-on with electric vehicles, but it shapes what buyers expect from two-wheelers. Several points matter for EV shoppers.
For Buyers
- Price gap: At Rs. 4,40,000 the bike sits well above the usual commuter price point. A buyer spending this much on a petrol 125cc is paying mostly for styling and features such as liquid cooling and ABS.
- Running costs: Electric two-wheelers charged at home cost far less per kilometre than petrol bikes. With NEA domestic rates of roughly Rs. 10-12 per kWh, daily commuting on an electric scooter is cheap. A petrol scrambler will cost more to run even with its claimed mileage.
- Performance: A 125cc bike makes about 15 PS. Many electric motorcycles and scooters now match or beat that in city acceleration, though few offer the ZT125-G1's range on a single tank.
- Hill climbs: Petrol bikes still have an edge on long mountain routes, because refuelling takes a minute, while charging infrastructure remains thin outside the main corridors.
For Dealers and the Industry
Zontes' arrival adds to a growing premium segment in Nepal. Iron Monk Nepal has already introduced other Zontes models, and the 125cc entry lowers the price of joining the brand. That puts pressure on rivals to sharpen both pricing and equipment.
Electric brands benefit from the same shift. Buyers are becoming more comfortable paying for design, ABS and brand image, and EV makers can use that willingness to pay with stronger specs and warranty offers.
Pro tip: If your daily ride is under 40 km and you can charge at home, an electric two-wheeler will almost certainly beat this bike on running cost. If you want a weekend scrambler with long range and fast refuelling, the ZT125-G1 is a reasonable pick.
Who Should Buy the ZT125-G1?
| Rider Profile | Good Fit? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Kathmandu commuter | Maybe | Liquid cooling helps, but running costs are higher than an EV |
| Young rider wanting style | Yes | Scrambler looks and premium features |
| Highway and hill traveller | Yes | 6-speed box, 20-litre tank, long range |
| Budget-focused buyer | No | The price is high for a 125cc |
| Off-road enthusiast | No | Tyres and setup are road-biased |
For wider options, use the Compare EVs tool to see how electric alternatives stack up on price, range and running cost. If you want to save money, browse the Used EVs listings too.
What to Expect Next
The Nepal rollout is in its early stage, and several developments are likely over the coming months.
- Showroom expansion: Iron Monk Nepal is likely to widen the dealer network beyond Kathmandu and Pokhara, which will make servicing easier outside the main cities.
- Price movement: Prices in Nepal move with import duty, exchange rates and festival offers. Watch for Dashain and Tihar discounts or finance schemes, which are common in the bike market.
- More Zontes models: The company has previously signalled other adventure and tourer models for Nepal. The 125cc is likely to remain the entry point to the brand.
- Early owner feedback: Expect the first real-world mileage, parts-availability and service reports within a few months of deliveries.
- EV competition: As electric two-wheelers improve in range and styling, the price gap between premium petrol bikes and capable EVs will keep narrowing.
If you are deciding now, test ride the bike, ask for written service and warranty terms, and compare against electric options before you pay.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the price of the Zontes ZT125-G1 in Nepal?
A: The Zontes ZT125-G1 starts at Rs. 4,40,000 for the Urban Scrambler variant. The Scrambler Tourer is reported at Rs. 5,10,000, and the Legacy Edition adds roughly Rs. 20,000 on either variant. Confirm final prices with Iron Monk Nepal, as dealer quotes can vary.
Q: What engine does the Zontes ZT125-G1 have?
A: It has a 124.7cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected single-cylinder engine producing roughly 14.5 bhp (about 15 PS), paired with a six-speed gearbox. It also has dual-channel ABS and a 20-litre fuel tank.
Q: What mileage does the Zontes ZT125-G1 give?
A: The company claims up to 65 km/l on highways. Real-world mileage in Kathmandu traffic and on hilly roads will be lower, so treat the claim as a best case until Nepal owners report their own figures.
Q: Is the Zontes ZT125-G1 an electric bike?
A: No. The ZT125-G1 is a petrol motorcycle. Riders who want lower running costs can compare electric two-wheelers on the EV News Nepal compare page, where prices and specs are updated regularly.
Q: Who distributes Zontes motorcycles in Nepal?
A: Iron Monk Nepal Pvt. Ltd. is the distributor and has showrooms in Nepal, including one in Pokhara. Contact the nearest showroom for test rides, booking, service plans and warranty terms.
