#zeromotorcycle

[ecodweeb]

John’s Bike: 2015 Zero SR

On Monday April 4, Gopher the Smart Car was delivered to me. On Wednesday April 6, I’d drive my husband in our electric car to buy his first electric vehicle: a 2015 Zero SR. I had no idea this bike would put me back in the seat after a crash I’d had 20 years previous.

Service Stats

In Service Date: 4/6/2016 In Service Mileage: 250 Out of Service Date: 9/23/2017 Out of Service Mileage: 5005 Service Life: 17 months,  4,755 miles

The History & Story

I was not always a motorcyclist. In fact when I met my husband I was very much against them, because I’d already flipped one and felt they were too dangerous. I had no idea that cleaning up the garage one day would change my opinion on motorcycles. While cleaning out the garage at his old townhouse, I came across a sealed turn signal lens cover that was too small for a car. I asked what this went to, and my husband stopped and dropped the box he was holding. He stared at the package I was holding between my fingers and took it from me never breaking eye contact with it. He then tells me this was the turn signal lens for Craig’s motorcycle. Ok, so, who is Craig?

Turns out Craig was one of his best friends in college. Craig died in a motorcycle accident. The day before Craig died, he and my husband skipped classes and hung out all day. The next day he was in the hospital after being struck by a vehicle. I’ll be honest I don’t know all the details, I do know that Craig was buried in Austin, TX and that my husband has a story about his funeral and the rental Mazda Miata he got from Enterprise to attend it.

So, great, I unearthed this rather sad memory. After I’m told this story my husband says that Craig had always said he’d teach him how to ride a motorcycle. I told him how I felt about that, but I could tell this wasn’t the last I’d hear about Craig and motorcycles. Not quite a year later, John shows me the website for Zero motorcycles and says he wants one of them to commute with. I was very, very much against it. However, over time, I caved in... happy spouse, happy life or some such saying. But we didn’t go straight for the Zero...

My husband started with a Sachs MadASS - think if Vespa and Ducati had a lovechild. It was a moped, but it looked like a motorcycle. I picked it up in Nashville, TN bringing back my dad’s old F150 and his 1986 VW Golf diesel to sell off for him. I forgot how long he rode that thing, but the next bike was a BMW 650CS, the short-lived City Sport commuter bike. I know he had this bike for a couple of years, and he was annoyed with it because he never took it on the highway (he had no reason to) and it didn’t like being used as a slow speed commuter. Often it would stall out going through intersections unless a friend of ours ran it on the highway once a month for us.

Fast forward to acquiring Gopher and saying goodbye to VW diesels. John had made friends with the sales guy at the local powersports dealer that sells Zeros, and that guy let him know they had a demo unit coming up for sale at a discount. Since I’d gone electric, it was only fitting that he did too. So we sold the BMW to someone from Maine who flew down and rode it back home and we hopped in the electric car to go buy an electric motorcycle.

I wish I could say that this bike was the end all be all, but it was really a headache from the start. We had numerous issues with the on board charger, the DC-DC converter, and I believe the main bike board failed on it at one point in time. There was a solid 4 months where we were riding the demo DSR instead of our SR because it was waiting on Zero to fix it. But more on that later.

During our time with it, both the powersports sales manager and my husband egged me on to ride it. I finally caved in because I felt it was like having a manual: you should be able to at least move it around your property. So I slowly started to learn to ride a two wheel vehicle again.

Fast forward to the EV Challenge the following year (2017). This event happened on the same day as “Tour de Brew,” a bicycle-based brewery tour that my husband was dying to attend. Because we had three vehicles to show (the BMW, the Smart, and the Zero motorcycle), we dropped the BMW off the night before with my husband’s bicycle stored in the back of it. The next morning I drove the Smart and he rode the Zero to the show grounds. In his haste to get to the starting line of the tour, he picked up the wrong Plug-in NC tote bag that had all the car keys in it instead of his bag with his wallet and gloves. I didn’t realize this until the end of the day, when it was time to pack up and leave.

I called him and he says he’s not far from campus -- over at a place off Lake Wheeler Rd, and that he thinks he left the key to the bike in its ignition. Sure enough, it was there. He said to just hop on it and ride over to pick up the car keys. I said no, I’m in toe shoes and shorts and I don’t know that your helmet will fit. He said well you can ride over here or you can wait two more hours for this to be over. I decided to see if his helmet would fit.

I hopped on the bike and said a small prayer, turned the key and twisted the throttle. Away I went -- I only needed to go 2 miles to get the keys. No big deal. I got there, got the keys, and then took a 10-mile detour to get back to the cars. Turns out, I really liked how the Zero rode. 

I loved it so much, I rode it home and promptly laid it down in my driveway, gently. There wasn’t much damage...

After this we started trading off on Tuesdays. I’d take the bike to work, he’d take my car to work and then his run club event afterwards. We did this for a short time before he decided that commuting with a motorcycle was stupid, and he wanted a convertible smart car instead. I started riding the bike on Tuesdays, and Sundays, and before long I was ready to try and do a long ride with it.

In 2017, Lidl opened their first store in Sanford, North Caroilina. I decided that I wanted to ride the Zero there -- it was 40 miles -- then ride it to my friend’s house in Durham. I remember I used my Pebble smart watch to assist with the turn by turn directions, and I was terrified on the few stretches of 55mph roads I had to be on. However I managed to make it to the Lidl, pick up some mixers, and head to my friend’s home in Durham unscathed. 

But sadly, the battery management on these early units was really problematic. A few weeks after this successful long ride, I had attended a meeting in Burlington with the Triad Auto Association on the Zero. On my way back home I was going to again stop at my friend’s home in Durham (this was my weekend thing for many years), and as I was 2 miles from his house the battery went from 7% to 0% and stranded me in Durham.

I managed to push the bike up into someone’s yard as the road I died on had no shoulder or sidewalk. The owner was super nice and he ran an extension cord out for me to let the bike charge -- thankfully it did. I called my husband who had went to get a small trailer so we could tow the bike, but by the time he got the rig there it was charged up enough to make it to our friend’s house. I rode it over there and plugged it in, and we left it overnight and picked it back up on Sunday. It was around this time that we began to really engage Zero with all the problems on the bike, and ultimate they ended up taking this bike back. That’s when I bought my 2017, which thankfully, was a problem-free machine...except for the overheating due to its non-cooled battery design.

[sbknews]

Zero Motorcycles announces even more accessible 2024 model line-up

Zero Motorcycles has today unveiled its most accessible range of all-electric motorcycles yet, with an exciting line up containing four new models which have been designed to offer something for riders of all ages and licence categories. New for learners and A1 licence holders, the 2024 Zero S and DS utilise Zero’s award-winning Fixed Steel Trellis (FST) platform, offering a pair of more accessible models for riders as young as 17-years-old, while the range topping DSR/X Black Forest is the most highly specified Zero to date. These three models are joined by a new FST based DSR for A2 licence holders, while the SR is also retuned for A2 licence holders. Both can be upgraded to unlock more power when the rider’s licence permits. New colours give a fresh look to the carryover FX, FXE, SR/F, SR/S and DSR/X. All models are more competitively priced, with Zero taking advantage of new production facilities to offer lower RRPs than 12 months ago. All 2024 models are available from official Zero Motorcycles dealerships imminently.

2024 Zero S Built on Zero’s award-winning FST platform, the 2024 Zero S brings all the style of the SR/F streetfighter to the A1 licence category. Highly specified with fully adjustable Showa suspension, Pirelli Diablo Rosso III tyres and Zero’s latest Cypher III+ operating system, the 2024 Zero S is powered by a large 14.4kWh battery, giving a range of over 150 miles as standard, with a number of upgrades to the battery and charging capacity available. Delivering 11kw of continuous power, as per A1 licence regulations, the Zero S can be ridden without the need to take a full motorcycle test. A generous 132Nm of torque, combined with twist and go transmission, makes the Zero S both fun and easy to ride, while an 86mph top speed ensures it is more than capable of keeping up with traffic on the open road. Priced at £15,300 (plus on the road charges) the Zero S comes in a new White-Silver colourway.

2024 Zero DS Bringing the effortless adventure sports experience pioneered by the DSR/X to a wider audience, the 2024 Zero DS offers CBT and A1 category licence holders a premium entry into the world of full-sized electric motorcycling. As with all Zero motorcycles, the DS features high quality chassis components, such as fully adjustable suspension from Showa, Pirelli Scorpion STR tyres and an ABS braking system developed by Bosch. Zero’s Z-Force 75-10 permanent magnet AC motor has been tuned to meet the 11kw continuous power output but, with a hefty 132Nm of torque and peak output of 60bhp, the Zero DS enjoys elevated levels of performance beyond that expected from a learner legal motorcycle. With a 14.4kWh battery pack and up to 144 miles of range, the Zero DS opens up electrified adventure riding to a whole new generation of riders. The 2024 Zero DS comes in a Quicksilver livery and will be priced £16,200 (plus OTR charges).

2024 Zero DSR With added performance and a larger capacity, 15.6kWh, battery the 2024 Zero DSR offers even more capability for A2 licence holders. Built on the same ‘FST’ platform as the range topping DSR/X, the DSR boasts over 150 miles of range and a 93mph top speed, making it an ideal companion for A2 licence holders looking to experience adventure touring, Zero style. Featuring a high chassis specification utilising Zero’s coaxial power pivot technology, the DSR is powered by the much-feted Z-Force 75-10 motor, delivering 70bhp peak power and a massive 170Nm of torque. One of the unique features of the 2024 Zero DSR (and the SR roadster) is its ability to be upgraded to meet the rider’s licence eligibility and personal tastes. Official Zero Motorcycles dealerships are able to retrospectively offer a power upgrade for full ‘A’ licence holders, matching the specifications of the DSR/X, while the battery capacity can also be increased to 17.3kWh. The innovative Cypher III+ operating system also allows owners to add upgrades their motorcycles to meet their specific requirements, while the optional 6kw Rapid Charger can see the DSR recharge from fully empty to 95% in around 85 minutes. The 2024 Zero DSR comes in a new Silver livery and will cost £17,000 when it goes on sale this month.

2024 Zero DSR/X Black Forest Taking the DSR/X to a new level, the DSR/X Black Forest is a limited edition model developed for the most serious of motorcycle adventurers. Built on the critically acclaimed DSR/X platform, every Black Forest leaves the factory fully equipped for the most challenging adventurers. Presented in a lustrous gloss black finish unique to the Black Forest, this limited edition model rolls straight out of the factory fully loaded with premium parts and special graphics to mark this out as the most luxurious Zero motorcycle to date. For those looking to ride off the beaten track, the DSR/X Black Forest comes with robust spoked wheels, laced to allow the fitment of tubeless tyres, serrated footpegs, skid plate and frame protection guards, while on-road comfort is increased with the addition of a touring windscreen and premium saddle. The DSR/X Black Forest also benefits from a three-piece luggage set with exclusive inner bags, while fog lights, centre stand and smoked LED indicators further add to style and practicality. Being based on the award-winning DSR/X, the Black Forest edition delivers the same unparalleled riding experience, producing the unmatched levels of power, control and rider connection only a Zero can deliver. Buyers of the 2024 Zero DSR/X Black Forest, which costs £23,450, also receive a bespoke cover for their motorcycle, as well as a VIP gift box containing unique personal accessories to mark them out as the most discerning of riders, and ensuring they get the most out of every adventure. For more Zero Motorcycles news check out our dedicated page Zero Motorcycles News or head to the official Zero Motorcycles website zeromotorcycles.com

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[planbmotorcycles]

Habu

[cincymoto]

Enjoying warmer weather on the Golf of Mexico. The @zeromotorcycles FX is a perfect RV companion to our @winnebagorvs Travato. #zeromotorcycles #winnebagolife #vanlife #travato (at Crystal Beach / Bolivar Peninsula) https://www.instagram.com/p/CpWSXMZO1Z_/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[themotorbikechannel]

MotoVlog Podcast EP 1 | BMW CE 02 Review and Thoughts on Electric Motorcycles https://themotorbikechannel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/1725919221_maxresdefault.jpg Source: MotoVlog Podcast EP 1 | BMW CE 02 Review and Thoughts on Electric Motorcycles by Big Rock Moto. Please don’t forget to give the Video a “Like” on Youtube and subscribe to the channel! In Episode 1 of my new MotoVlog Podcast I discuss the BMW CE 02 and my thoughts on the pros […] #adv #advbikes #adventurebike #advrider #bigrockmedia #bigrockoutdoors #bikes #bmwce04 #dualsportbikes #dualsport #ebike #electric #electricbike #electricscooter #energica #fortnine #lucid #motorbike #Motorcycle #revzilla #rivian #scooters #tesla #urbanmobility #zeromotorcycles https://themotorbikechannel.com/motovlog-podcast-ep-1-bmw-ce-02-review-and-thoughts-on-electric-motorcycles/?feed_id=4172&_unique_id=66df7057a56e4

[classicvehiclerentals]

@zeromotorcycles #hudsonyards @creativefilmcars #wadeschields https://www.instagram.com/p/ClH-THyoP_R/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[swizzlybiker]

My first ride on a Zero Motorcycle. Everybody told me that I will be positively suprised and yes: do you see my big smile? 😉 Meine erste Fahrt auf einem Zero-Motorrad. Alle haben mir gesagt, dass ich positiv überrascht sein werde und ja: sehen Sie mein breites Lächeln? 😉 Picture: Zero Motorcycle SR/S / ZF 14.4.

[hvccycle]

We received our First EM Pure Race Trials bike today. Setting it all up for one very excited customer. #electricmotion #mototrials #centralpowersports #hvccycle #zeromotorcycle (at HVCcycle) https://www.instagram.com/p/CHdvfDZhejF/?igshid=9rtkgwgbvc4i

[privateerclothing]

Zero Motorcycles have collaborated with Deus to produce the first fully customised electric bike based on the Zero SR/S. It’s a stunner, built by Michael “Woolie” Woolaway featuring plenty of carbon fibre and trick ideas. 📷 @zeromotorcycles #zeromotorcycle #deus #deusexmachina #custommotorcycle #carbonfibre #electricmotorcycle #customelectricmotorcycle https://www.instagram.com/p/CGMUvlDFcI6/?igshid=1pbmq4jpm97ht

[originalgiantcontent]

Pretty obsessed with getting my hands on one of these:  the all-electric Zero model S motorcycle.  Made in the USA.

[ecodweeb]

2020 Electrics at the Dragon

My memories from the first annual Electric Motorcycles at the Dragon group meet.

One of the Zero guys from South Carolina, Austin (the tall one in the above photo), decided that we should have an Electrics at the Dragon meetup June 25-28th. He rented a small cabin and still had some space left, so I said I’d be there! It would be the first time I’d take a motorcycle down US-129 - bka The Tail of the Dragon.

I decided to make this an epic trip with my new 2021 Energica EsseEsse9+ by going to Rabun Gap, GA before making my way along Highway 28 to Robbinsville, NC where we would be staying. I left Wednesday after work and rode to Charlotte for the night (stopping to charge in Asheboro and again at the rapid charger in Charlotte to 80% and 120v-charged at my friends house to 100% overnight). The next morning I left Charlotte and road down to Rabun Gap via stops in Boiling Springs, Greer, and Anderson SC and a stop in Clayton, GA.

All was fine and well until I got to Clayton. Clayton’s charger needed its CCS cable replaced, and it only worked if you held it a certain way. I managed to charge up for maybe 15-20 minutes before the station said “nope, not gonna do this at all now” and I plugged into the Level 2 next to it and went to a restaurant for a leisurely lunch. After eating I had the range to make it to my friend’s home, and once I arrived we ran the extension cords and plugged my bike it to charge. I wasn’t leaving until Saturday, so I spent all day Friday hanging out with my friends and their children. These are my friends who the wife was the officiant at my wedding, for those of you who attended it.

My friend lived in Rabun Gap, and it is a beautiful area. After a lovely visit, I headed to the Dragon by way of US28. My friend said “oh, that’s a fun road!” and I looked at him, he said I’d understand as I got going. I left their home and soon understood what he meant. This road was fun if you’ve got guts and confidence, I had neither at the time. I remember being white knuckled nearly the entire time from the time I left the Ingles about half-way from their house to the Dragon and getting to the Dragon itself.

I do not like heights. I do not like not being able to see around bends. I do not like rocks jutting out into the road way on blind bends. All of these hit me, in fact every single fear I’ve ever had would hit me on this trip. I had to pull over many, many, many times to catch my breath and shake out my hands. By the time I got to the Airbnb that the host rented, I was spent and needed to lay down for a little while. When I got there there was only one other guy there, Christian, and he let me unwind a bit before we headed to the T-Shirt shack (the Killboy tshirt shack across from Deals Gap Motorcycle Inn). 

When we got to the tshirt shack, we found Austin and the others. Someone suggested we go down the dragon, even though it was a tad bit wet. Reluctantly, I said OK. I encountered rain, fog, a snake in the road, a vehicle passing in my lane, and being passed because I was going to slow all within the first 5 miles of the Dragon. I don’t remember if we went to the last lookout point before the Dragon ends, or if we stopped at the mid-way point and turned around. I just remember that I was petrified most of the time. But I did get some good shots!

When we got back to the house, Rick and Sabrina and my buddy from Wilmington, Paul showed up to hang out. Paul brought his van with him, and after we got to talking he offered to trailer my bike back home for me so I didn’t have to ride it. I was pretty worn out and very thankful for this kind offer. I’d done 600mi and was pretty much spent. 

We hung out for one more day and then we loaded up the bikes at the tshirt shack and headed back East to Raleigh. 

Here’s a video of me “slaying” the dragon:

[worlddomesticmarket]

Details... 😎🇬🇧 . . . . . . . #nortonmotorcycles #lovemotorcycles #custommotorcycles #fuelmotorcycles #instamotorcycles #officialnakedmotorcycles #oldschoolmotorcycles #motorcyclesbr #zeromotorcycles #redcarpetmotorcycles https://www.instagram.com/p/CRcwKklBxCE/?utm_medium=tumblr

[planbmotorcycles]

Did I say it already that when @fabioaffusophoto is around for shooting is always a pleasure? Well, now I said it again. Thanks mate, that was fun indeed! . Repost @fabioaffusophoto Shot this beautiful handmade motorbike by @plan_b_motorcycles for @caferacermagazine We drove up and down looking for mist and mist we found. Then sunshine by the lake. All we needed was ice creams at that point. It was a good day. Had a lot of fun 😄 Hard to believe this was originally an electric enduro by @zeromotorcycles #automotivephotography #motorcyclephotography #magazineeditorial #caferacermagazine #planbmotorcycles #zeromotorcycles #handmademotorcycles #handbuilt #incrediblemotorcycles https://www.instagram.com/p/Cng9SzoN62U/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[cincymoto]

Re-Posted from • @pistonsociety Grand Opening for our parent company (Metro Scooter) and the new Piston Society location (again)! Join us next Saturday March 4th at our new home: 4119 Spring Grove Avenue Cincinnati, OH 45223. We'll be there for normal hours between 10am and 4pm. We'll have food and drinks for you. Please don't bring gifts! #PistonSociety #ThisIsOTR #MetroScooter @zeromotorcycles @revit_official @klimmotorcycle (at Piston Society Motorcycle Shop) https://www.instagram.com/p/CpG2E5dJus6/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=