VIDEO: Jay Leno gets the Zero X in his garage
Jay Leno often gets to try some pretty sweet rides but this week's featured machine was cool AND green. It's not the first electric two-wheeler to drop by the the late-night comedian's automotive haunt but the Zero X electric off-road motorcycle is arguably the coolest. As Jay explains in the video, he likes vehicles that are the result of a singular vision and the Zero X is a perfect example of that. It's creator, Neil Saiki, took 5 years to design and build every millimeter of the bike until he was satisfied with the result. And what a result. Built on an aircraft-aluminum frame, it weighs only 140 lbs. and has enough energy in its modular battery to carry you 20 to 40 miles, depending on your riding style. It also fully recharges in two hours from a household outlet or half that time with 220 volts. Like other electric bikes, there are no gears, no clutch and no noise. The Zero X is available now through their website and costs $7,450. There is a light kit available to make it street legal, but if you have a little patience, Neal mentions they will have a street-specific bike coming out in January. We can't wait. Hit the jump for the video.
[Source: Jay Leno's Garage]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Brian 11:17AM (9/19/2008)
Is the future of shifting going to disappear with all the electric vehicles?? I mean is it to hard to build a 6speed tesla or a 6 speed electric motorcycle??
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brandon 12:13PM (9/19/2008)
Watching that bit of riding at the end definitely made me want one. Burning rubber that easily and accelerating quickly, it looks like a fun green bike! Plus easy to remove batteries and quick charging? I can't wait for the street version :)
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Nick 1:37PM (9/19/2008)
For a high-tech bike like that, $7500 is a bargain !
Brian: There is no need for energy wasting, heavy transmissions on electric vehicles.
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Doug 3:59PM (9/19/2008)
Here's a local SF Bay Area news report about the company:
http://video.nbc11.com/player/?fid=23061#videoid=286563
I think it's cool that they are light enough to just ship them to your door.
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Andy 7:35PM (9/19/2008)
Hat tip to zero X. This is one of the best examples of EV design in any vehicle category.
They have found a market niche. Have a good looking lightweight body, reasonable balance of power and range, with a modular replaceable battery,,,,,, all at a good price!
Now if the d__kheads at Zap and other places could take a few pointers...
Can't wait to see the next bike.
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JDred 8:30PM (9/19/2008)
Zero has had my interest for some time now. Hope the street version meets my expectations. But those front brakes look like they're better suited to stop a mountain bike rather than a motorcycle.
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TopaZ 12:26PM (9/20/2008)
I bought a beach cruiser-style electric bike for $250 and I've had it for 4 years. I'm not sure what this bike is offering me for $7200 more
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Paul Scott 6:21PM (9/20/2008)
I love this bike! As a Vectrix rider, I can attest to how much fun e-bikes are. The amazing acceleration is seductive. I have a fully electric Toyota RAV4 as well and drive that for efficiency, but when I get on the Vectrix, I race everything in site.
This Zero bike is very cool! I'd definitely get it with the light kit - did they say how much?
You'll make it your go-to transportation for commuting, anything not requiring full weather coverage or carrying a lot of stuff.
Driving on electricity is going to change everything.
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