Engadget throws a leg over the Zero S electric motorcycle
Zero S electric motorcycle - Click above for a high-res gallery
Our friends over at Engadget managed to snag some seat time on the new Zero S electric motorcycle, and their initial impressions are rather favorable. While it's 60-mile range and 60 mph top speed will surely serve to limit its usefulness for a large portion of riders, those that can live with those limitations will be rewarded with a nearly silent, zero-emissions machine that's capable of scooting to that maximum speed in just about five seconds.
Another point that shouldn't go unmentioned is the bike's extreme light weight. Coming in at just 225 pounds, the Zero S weighs about 75 pounds less than competing gas-powered supermoto bikes like the Yamaha WR250X. Coupled to an electric motor that puts out 62.5 lb-ft of torque right from 0 RPM, the Zero S is sure to be plenty of fun in the tight confines of a race track... or the streets of New York City, apparently.
Problems? A few, naturally. Engadget notes that the brakes might be a little undersized for the bike's accelerative capabilities and the plastics leave a little to be desired. The biggest drawback may be the price, which, at around $10,000, is a few thousand dollars over its gas-swilling siblings.
Gallery: Zero S Motorcycle
[Source: Engadget]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
jharlan 8:41PM (4/23/2009)
Very cool, but too pricey.
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Steve 9:11PM (4/23/2009)
$10,000 seems pricey for this bike, but I guess it is cheaper than a Vectrix and it goes further and faster...
I am surprised that no one commented on this blog yet about Xtreme Green Product's X Rider. I'm on their email list and they just announced that they are starting to take deposits ($3000 on $7999 bike) for their electric motorcycle which ships in June. They say on their storefront (http://www.xgpshop.com) that it goes 65mph and 95 miles per charge...
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jpm 12:38AM (4/24/2009)
The bike looks pretty good and the range is sufficient for commuting, but the 60 mph top speed is a deal breaker for most riders including myself. It's a good first step though.
I guess the top speed is limited by system voltage? Someone correct me if I'm wrong. C'mon better batteries!
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Herm 7:25AM (4/24/2009)
Most likely the motor was optimized for a certain power and rpm range.. and probably not enough power for more speed.
Does not sound like a hwy motorcycle.. more for city riding.
Andy 7:28AM (4/24/2009)
It's not because the batteries are not good enough it's because they are too expensive.
You could double the pack size, double the range and increase the top speed. But it completely changes the value proposition.
50% reduction in battery costs and this baby gets competitive.
matt 8:24AM (4/24/2009)
I get to test drive one of these babies today @ the green living show in Toronto. can't wait!!
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Luke 11:38AM (4/24/2009)
I put my name in for a test-ride on their website. I don't know how long it'll be until they get to Illinois, but if they bring it, I will drive over give it some serious consideration.
Of course, now that this bike actually exists, some real-world concerns come up. I'm 5'4", and I'm "inseam challenged" as they say. With a seat-height around 35", this bike might be too tall for me. On the other hand, nearly all of my current motorcycle experience is with a small Japanese cruiser that I used to own, and not with dirtbikes. So, I might be able to learn a few tricks from an experienced dirtbike rider.
The 60mph top-speed wouldn't be a deal-breaker for me. I used to spend a lot of time on the Interstates when I lived in the Appalachian mountains, since the only road that went through a certain mountain pass was sometimes the Interstate. But things are a little more Cartesian out here in Illinois, so I can just take a parallel road with a lower speed limit. The whole point of being on a motorcycle is to enjoy the ride so, in Illinois, one as well take the back roads and enjoy the day!
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matt 9:18AM (4/27/2009)
The zero S was going from Toronto in Chicago so if your not too far from there you might get a chance to ride it... Not sure what show etc. it was going to be at in Chicago though.....