2020 Zero Motorcycles Zero S Review: A bare electric bike
"The 2020 Zero S is the most developed version of a vehicle with the longest production history in a product class that most people don't know exists."
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A mature e-motorcycle design
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Excellent driving per loading area
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No gears, no clutch, no shifting
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Powerful brakes and suspension
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Inexpensive to fill up and maintain
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Driver posture leaning forward
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Driver and passenger pegs high
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Expensive for an entry-level bike
Zero Motorcycles & # 39; 2020 Zero S is the most developed version of a vehicle with the longest production history in a product class that most people do not know existed. Most people would be surprised to learn that electric motorcycles are on the street today. You are even more surprised to hear that the first arrived over 12 years ago.
Zero Motorcycles' first production model was founded in 2006 by a former NASA engineer and was the Zero S in 2009, making 2020 the 12th model year. Depending on the buyer's installed power supply, the Zero S price varies between $ 10,995 and $ 18,390. The most powerful (and most expensive) Zero S has a maximum range of 223 miles in the city.
Design and performance
I asked Zero Motorcycles to suggest which model in its Nine Model 2020 range is the best choice for an e-bike rider who wants to choose the Zero as their first motorcycle. After discussing the lighter, bigger, more off-road looking bike Zero FXSI chose the Zero S with the lowest battery. I tested the 7.2 kWh Zero S base at a price of $ 10,995, which the company described as "ideal for the first rider looking for an entry-level road motorcycle."
The 2020 Zero S basic model is a must for e-motos. Acceleration takes place immediately with the full torque of the S from a standing start. Apart from tire noises and a slight whirring of the carbon drive belt, the bike is quiet. There is no clutch and no shifting because there is only one gear. As with most electric motorcycles, you don't need to know how to use a manual transmission to drive it.
To drive the Zero, simply turn the key and wait a few seconds for the indicators on the display to settle. Zero includes two throttle sections to protect the driver from accidental acceleration from a stationary stop. An engine stop switch on the right handle cuts power to the engine and the bike does not move when the stand is down.
The zero stays silent when it is on and ready to move.
The zero stays silent when it is on and ready to move. If you are only familiar with vehicles with gas or diesel engines, the lack of noise can lead you to believe that they are not switched on. Oh, but it is. It is definitely so.
I was careful with the gas at first. Electric motors can deliver the full torque from a stationary stop. It is therefore a good idea to be careful. However, I am happy to inform you that you can comfortably drive at slow speeds on the Zero S. The throttle is not overly sensitive, with excellent "feel" and granularity.
The regenerative braking of the Zero S charges the battery easily when you release the throttle. If you're familiar with engine braking in a manual transmission car, regenerative braking feels about the same, just quieter.
If you have to stop quickly, the Zero S brakes have more braking power than ever before. I found the learning curve for modulating the powerful braking system steeper than getting used to the gas. The Zero S has ABS disc brakes from Bosch with two 320 mm brake calipers at the front and one 240 mm brake caliper at the rear.
The Zero S brakes have more braking power than you will ever need.
This almost bare sports bike has no fairing and little body that covers the functional components. The driver geometry (the relative positions of the driver's handlebar, seat and footrests) requires a moderately forward-inclined posture. Leaning forward is great for driving fast and carving bends and canyons. Beginners with previous knowledge on a more upright bike have to adapt, but not as dramatically as with more aggressive bikes.
Speed and range
Motorcycle manufacturers are usually cautious when specifying acceleration figures. I haven't timed my runs, but I've heard from other Zero riders that 60 mph can be reached in less than 4 seconds. My butt says that is about right and as someone who is not an experienced driver it was exhilarating.
My test bike with the basic 7.2 kWh power pack has a maximum top speed of 98 mph with a sustained top speed of 80 mph. The nominal ranges for the Zero S with the basic power pack are 89 miles in city traffic, 45 miles at 70 mph on the highway and 60 miles combined.
When you're ready to pay for more range, the Zero SR, which is essentially the same bike, has a 14.4 kWh battery. The SR starts at $ 15,495 and increases the range to 179 miles for city trips, 90 miles on the freeway, or 120 miles together. For the maximum possible driving distance with Zero S models, you can also add the 3.3 kWh power tank for $ 2,895. The Zero SR with the Power Tank is designed for a maximum of 223 miles in the city, 112 miles on the highway or 150 miles together.
Note that larger power supplies don't just increase the price. You weigh more. The 7.2 kWh Zero S weighs 313 pounds. The Zero SR with the 14.4 kWh power pack weighs 408 pounds, and if you add the 3.3 kWh fuel tank for a total of 18 kWh, the weight increases to 452 pounds.
Your choice will balance cost, reach and weight. You cannot change the power supplies or add the fuel tank later. It is therefore important to buy the right combination of services right from the start.
Charge the battery
The Zero S has an integrated 1.3 kW battery charger and a thick power cord that connects to a standard 110/220 power plug. Charging the Zero S requires 4.7 hours for a 95% charge or 5.2 hours for a 100% charge. With an optional $ 600 fast charger, a 100% charge will take 3.1 hours or a 95% charge will take 2.6 hours.
A third option is to purchase an optional cargo tank ($ 2,495). With the charging tank you can connect a standard level 2 charging station for 95% charging in one hour or 100% in 1.5 hours. Note that you cannot order a Zero S or SR with the Power Tank and Charge Tank options.
Driving modes and app
The Zero S has two preset performance profiles: Eco and Sport. The profiles control the maximum speed, torque and regeneration values.
As set at the factory, the Eco mode lowers the top speed to 100 km / h, limits the torque and selects the engine braking effect in the regeneration style. Sport mode unlocks the top speed of 98 mph, full torque and little or no regenerative braking. You can customize both profiles with the Zero mobile app.
The Zero S is well balanced so slow driving is easy.
I spent most of my time in Eco Mode with the Zero S through suburban neighborhoods, in small towns, as well as on country roads and highways. The Zero S is well balanced so slow driving is easy. I quickly got used to the gentle throttle to roll at speed as desired. The selected regeneration setting in Eco mode meant that I rarely had to use the brakes until I stopped.
It is quiet. Too quiet?
Electric bikes are quiet, and that can be a mixed blessing. Motorcyclists are used to warning pedestrians and other drivers of noise, but you won't get that with an electric drivetrain. It's a good idea to place the horn button on the left handle so that you can notify anyone who needs it.
The advantage of running silently is that you are less likely to bother your neighbors with the Zero S, and certainly not with the noise. On one of my first rides, when I checked the operation of the bike, a neighbor who had seen me on e-bikes came over to check the Zero S.
"This is a real motorcycle?" he asked. I was able to answer without raising my voice over the Zero S engine because of course it was silent. I wouldn't have heard it on a normal motorcycle if I hadn't stopped and turned off the engine.
Our opinion
I really enjoyed the Zero S and was particularly impressed by its smooth, calm ride. Experienced sports cyclists would probably switch directly to sport mode and fly with it. The power, the brakes and the handling are definitely there.
The ease of use makes the Zero S accessible to beginners. I only hesitate that new drivers have to get used to the forward leaning driving position.
Is there a better alternative?
In a few years, there will be a lot more options for people who buy electric motorcycles, but Zero is already 12 years ahead. No other company has the experience and range of current Zero electric models.
The Harley-Davidson Livewire makes fans of most who ride it, and Harley has shown other concept electric bikes, but the $ 30,000 price for the Livewire limits its appeal. The Lightning Motorcycles LS-218 is the fastest production motorcycle, but starts at $ 38,888. Both motorcycles are aimed at experienced riders who can spend money.
Some companies make much smaller electric motorcycles, like the Ubco 2 × 2 and the Cake Kalk OR. They are cheaper, but often focus on off-road driving or on multiple surfaces with a lower top speed and a shorter range.
How long it will take?
Zero Motorcycles offer a two-year general warranty and a five-year warranty on the power supply. Zero is an established company with distributors in the United States. Parts and service should therefore not matter.
Should you buy one?
Yes. If you are looking for an electric motorcycle for leisure riding or commuting, the Zero S is a good choice.
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