A Look Back at the 2003 Mondial du 2-roues: The Sidecars and the Innovative Zeus Marathon Leave a comment

A Look Back at the 2003 Mondial du 2-roues: The Sidecars and the Innovative Zeus Marathon

The 2003 Mondial du 2-roues was a playground for motorcycle and sidecar enthusiasts. Among the many innovations on display, Side-bike’s booth drew significant attention with its revolutionary Zeus Marathon model. This vehicle breaks away from traditional sidecars by integrating automotive technology into a tubular chassis.

Introducing the Zeus Marathon by Side-bike

Known for its Comanche and Comet models with directional wheels based on Yamaha, Side-bike made a splash with the Zeus Marathon at this event. This sidecar stands out with its unique design and advanced features. Unlike traditional sidecars that pair a motorcycle with a sidecar, the Zeus Marathon incorporates automotive power within a single-piece tubular frame.

A Revolutionary Design

The Zeus Marathon is visually striking from the first glance. Its single-piece tubular frame not only offers a robust aesthetic but also enhanced safety. Weighing in at 650 kg and boasting 133 horsepower, this vehicle can reach top speeds of 210 km/h, combining power and security in one impressive package.

Automotive Power in a Sidecar

The true innovation of the Zeus Marathon lies in its automotive power. Featuring a PSA 4-cylinder inline engine located at the rear, it provides permanent two-wheel drive and steering. This configuration ensures exceptional stability and car-like maneuverability, a major advantage for safety and driving comfort.

Comfort and Safety Features

The Zeus Marathon doesn’t just offer power and stability; it also provides unmatched driving comfort with car-like controls: clutch, brake, and accelerator at the feet, and gear shifting at the handlebars. The sidecar’s equipment includes ABS braking, a deformable cell, and heating and defogging systems in the cabin.

A Price Reflective of Its Features

With a price tag of €25,600, the Zeus Marathon positions itself clearly in the high-end sidecar market. This pricing is justified by the advanced technologies and features offered by this unique model.

Summary

The 2003 Mondial du 2-roues was an opportunity to witness exciting innovations in the sidecar world. The Zeus Marathon by Side-bike stood out as a true revolution, integrating automotive technology to offer an unprecedented driving experience. With its comfort, safety, and power features, it represents a significant advancement in three-wheeled vehicles.