Benelli 350 ZenZero (2012-2017): A Timeless Maxi-Scooter for the Urban Explorer
Introduction
The Benelli 350 ZenZero, produced between 2012 and 2017, stands out as a bold Italian-designed maxi-scooter that blends retro aesthetics with modern practicality. Designed for riders who crave style without sacrificing daily usability, this 313cc machine carves its niche in the crowded scooter market. After spending a week with a well-maintained 2016 model, it’s clear why this scooter still turns heads and delivers a satisfying urban experience years after its debut. Let’s dive into what makes the ZenZero 350 a compelling choice for city commuters and weekend adventurers alike.
Design & Ergonomics
Benelli’s design team nailed the ZenZero’s “urban vintage” theme. The ZenZero’s silhouette combines classic scooter curves with muscular accents – think rounded headlight housing paired with chunky 16-inch front and 15-inch rear alloy wheels. The steel trestle frame, finished in glossy black, adds a rugged contrast to the two-tone body panels available in dark gray or white.
At 805 mm (31.7 inches), the seat height accommodates riders of varying statures, though the broad saddle might challenge shorter inseams. The flat floorboard offers generous legroom, and the swept-back handlebars create a relaxed, upright riding position. Despite its 180 kg (397 lb) wet weight, the ZenZero feels surprisingly manageable at a standstill thanks to a low center of gravity. Practical touches like the 145-160 mm (5.7-6.3 inches) ground clearance handle curbs confidently, while the 13.5-liter (3.57-gallon) fuel tank hides neatly under the sculpted bodywork.
Engine & Performance
Powering the ZenZero is a liquid-cooled 313cc SOHC single-cylinder engine, producing 21 HP at 7,000 RPM and 23.7 Nm (17.5 lb-ft) of torque. While these numbers seem modest, the engine’s character is perfectly suited to urban life. Thumb the electric starter, and the motor settles into a subdued idle – no aggressive vibrations here.
Twist the throttle, and the automatic CVT transmission delivers smooth, linear acceleration. The ZenZero isn’t a speed demon (top speed hovers around 130 km/h / 81 mph), but it thrives in 40-80 km/h (25-50 mph) zones. The torque curve deserves praise – with peak twist arriving as low as 2,400 RPM in some model years – making stoplight launches brisk and hill climbs drama-free. Fuel injection ensures crisp throttle response, though the engine note through the catalytic converter-equipped exhaust is more polite purr than growl.
Fuel efficiency averages 25-30 km/l (58-70 MPG), translating to a 320-390 km (200-240 mi) range from the main tank. The 5-liter reserve adds peace of mind for longer rides.
Handling & Comfort
The ZenZero shines in city traffic. The 1,545 mm (60.8-inch) wheelbase strikes a balance between stability and agility, allowing tight U-turns and confident lane changes. Suspension duties are handled by a 90 mm (3.5-inch) travel telescopic fork up front and a unique “floating engine” rear setup with 100 mm (3.9-inch) wheel travel. While not plush, the suspension absorbs most pavement imperfections, only getting flustered by sharp potholes.
Braking relies on single 256 mm discs front and rear, gripped by dual-piston calipers. The system lacks ABS but provides adequate stopping power for the scooter’s weight. Enthusiasts might upgrade to sintered pads for sharper bite.
At highway speeds, the ZenZero remains composed up to 100 km/h (62 mph), though crosswinds can nudge the tall body. The bench seat, while stylish, benefits from an aftermarket gel insert for rides exceeding an hour.
Technology & Features
The ZenZero keeps tech simple but effective. The analog-digital dash combines a speedometer, fuel gauge, and odometer – no frills, but legible day or night. Lighting uses conventional bulbs rather than LEDs, a potential upgrade area. Under-seat storage fits a full-face helmet, and the locking glovebox includes a 12V socket.
The liquid cooling system and electronic fuel injection (EFI) were advanced for its class during production years, ensuring reliability across temperatures. Missing modern touches like smartphone connectivity? Consider a handlebar phone mount from MOTOPARTS.store’s catalog.
Competition
The ZenZero 350’s prime rivals include:
- Yamaha XMAX 300: More powerful (28 HP), lighter, and tech-forward with ABS. However, the Yamaha lacks the Benelli’s retro charm and often carries a premium.
- Honda Forza 300: A touring-focused scooter with superior wind protection and storage. The Honda feels more refined but sterile compared to the ZenZero’s personality.
- Kymco Xciting 400: Higher displacement and performance, but bulkier dimensions complicate urban maneuvering.
Where the ZenZero excels is style-per-dollar. It delivers 80% of the premium scooters’ functionality with twice the character. Maintenance costs also trend lower, especially when sourcing parts through MOTOPARTS.store.
Maintenance & Ownership Tips
The ZenZero 350 is a low-fuss companion with proper care:
- Belt & Drivetrain: Inspect the CVT belt every 12,000 km (7,500 mi). Upgrade to a reinforced belt for spirited riding.
- Cooling System: Flush coolant every 2 years or 20,000 km (12,400 mi). Monitor hoses for cracks.
- Brakes: Replace pads every 15,000 km (9,300 mi). Swap fluid biannually.
- Tires: The 120/70-16 front and 140/70-15 rear favor durability over grip. Consider sport-touring rubber for wet weather confidence.
- Battery: The 12V 8Ah battery benefits from a tender during winter storage.
MOTOPARTS.store recommends stocking up on:
- High-performance air filters
- Anti-vibration handlebar grips
- LED auxiliary lighting kits
- Custom seat covers for enhanced comfort
Conclusion
The Benelli 350 ZenZero (2012-2017) remains a compelling choice for riders prioritizing style and substance. It’s not the fastest or most tech-laden maxi-scooter, but its blend of retro design, torquey engine, and everyday usability creates an irresistible charm. Whether threading through city streets or cruising coastal roads, the ZenZero proves that practicality doesn’t require sacrificing personality.
Ready to personalize your ZenZero? Explore MOTOPARTS.store’s curated selection of upgrades – from premium windscreens to performance exhausts – and transform your scooter into a true extension of your riding spirit.
Specifications sheet
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Stroke: | Four-stroke |
| Max power: | 15 kW | 20.0 hp |
| Max torque: | 24 Nm |
| Fuel system: | Injection |
| Max power @: | 7000 rpm |
| Displacement: | 313 ccm |
| Fuel control: | Single Overhead Cams (SOHC) |
| Max torque @: | 6000 rpm |
| Bore x stroke: | 78.0 x 65.6 mm (3.1 x 2.6 in) |
| Configuration: | Single |
| Cooling system: | Liquid |
| Exhaust system: | With catalytic converter |
| Compression ratio: | 10.6:1 |
| Number of cylinders: | 1 |
| Valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase: | 1545 mm (60.8 in) |
| Dry weight: | 170 |
| Wet weight: | 180 |
| Seat height: | 805 mm (31.7 in) |
| Overall width: | 760 mm (29.9 in) |
| Overall height: | 1205 mm (47.4 in) |
| Overall length: | 2174 mm (85.6 in) |
| Ground clearance: | 160 mm (6.3 in) |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 13.5 L (3.57 US gal) |
| Reserve fuel capacity: | 5.0 L (1.32 US gal) |
| Drivetrain | |
|---|---|
| Clutch: | Automatic centrifugal dry clutch |
| Final drive: | belt |
| Transmission: | Automatic |
| Primary drive: | V belt |
| Chassis and Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Frame: | Steel trestle with double cradle in high tensile strength steel tube |
| Wheels: | Aluminum alloy |
| Rear tire: | 140/70-15 |
| Front tire: | 120/70-16 |
| Rear brakes: | Single disc, floating double-piston caliper |
| Front brakes: | Single disc, floating double-piston caliper |
| Rear suspension: | Floating engine with double hydraulic rear damper |
| Front suspension: | Hydraulic telescopic fork |
| Rear wheel travel: | 100 mm (3.9 in) |
| Front wheel travel: | 90 mm (3.5 in) |
