Zero Motorcycles, announced its highly anticipated 2011 product line alongside a strategy for continued leadership of the global electric motorcycle industry. The only company to offer a complete lineup, Zero Motorcycles has made sweeping technical improvements as well as added a contemporary new look to each of its four models, including a complete overhaul of the Zero S and the Zero DS. Every model is now ‘quick-charge’ capable using an optional upgrade that allows the motorcycles to charge nearly twice as fast. In addition, for the first time on an electric motorcycle, riders can now take advantage of J1772 public charging stations by using an optional accessory. This offers riders greater mobility by giving them access to a rapidly growing network of charge stations. The entire lineup is equipped with upgraded suspension systems, a more intelligent and rugged Z-Force powertrain, more precise charge indicators, new higher performance brakes and industry-standard component features to provide owners with more aftermarket options. Other highlights to the product line include street legal configurations of the dirt bikes and a new maintenance free belt drive for the street and dual sport models.
“During the past year, our Engineering and Manufacturing teams have benefitted from experienced new leadership and the results are clear. In close coordination, they have been working overtime to design and build the world’s finest collection of electric motorcycles,” said Gene Banman, CEO of Zero Motorcycles. “Our 2011 model line is composed of exceptionally high quality electric motorcycles that balance performance, range, weight, affordability and availability. We are excited to announce such major changes across the entire model line and to also be setting new industry standards in the way we report on our motorcycles’ performance specifications.”
Nearly every component of the Zero S and Zero DS has seen major upgrades and improvements. With a bold and completely new look, the street and dual sport models will become the world’s first production electric motorcycles to feature a maintenance free belt drive system. The quiet operation of the drivetrain, when combined with each of the motorcycles’ overall improvements, yields a sophisticated silence during riding that speaks to their overall solid build quality. Zero has also increased the capacity of the power packs by 12.5% to improve the motorcycles’ range. Among the other upgrades are more robust wheels, a new HB Performance braking system, tires with better grip, more robust hardware, new aggressive profile foot pegs and an integrated ignition switch and lock. Unique to the Zero S, it has been lowered by two inches to improve street handling and the new overall package gives it an eye-catching naked look.
Zero Motorcycles has also made major changes to its off-road line. For the first time, the company will deliver street-legal configurations of both its trail and motocross dirt bikes, Zero X and Zero MX respectively. The ability to legally ride the electric off-road motorcycles on the street opens countless new possibilities for enthusiasts as well as a new market for Zero. Street-legal versions include additional components such as headlights, taillights, sidestands, dashes, sensors and different gearing.
Both the Zero X and Zero MX are better performing and more robust than ever before. They have stouter wheels, new tires, a more robust HB Performance braking system, new aggressive foot pegs and an integrated ignition switch and lock. Their motors are energized using a beautifully refined aluminum power pack that is highly durable and easy to swap in less than sixty seconds. To maximize control, Zero has customized each motorcycles’ suspension internals to give them a more fluid and compliant motion under rough conditions. Unique to only the Zero MX, the 2011 model uses a motor mounted Z-Force Air Induction System to cool its new and more powerful Agni motor. Designed to ride harder, faster and longer, it represents the most competitive dirt bike that Zero has released to consumers.
The Zero S, Zero DS, Zero X and Zero MX are all available now through Zero Motorcycles’ website and will begin shipping in March. Each of the models carry a two year limited warranty. This is currently the best warranty offering in the electric motorcycle industry and is backed by an international service and support network. Zero operates on a strategy of building a ‘better motorcycle’ wherein each model balances performance, range, weight, affordability and availability. To consumers this translates into owning a high quality motorcycle that is supported by a company with a solid business foundation.
Zero S – Street
Instant torque and power from a standstill, plus smooth acceleration as you race out of turns-all without ever needing to stop at a gas station. Developed to aggressively take on urban environments and encourage the occasional detour, the Zero S electric motorcycle integrates revolutionary technology with innovative motorcycle design. Built from the ground up using Zero Motorcycles’ proprietary Z-Force power pack and aircraft grade alloy frame, the Zero S features an industry leading power-to-weight ratio that increases its range and maneuverability. It has a range of 43 miles using the newly adopted MIC’s prescribed “Driving Range Test Procedure for Electric Motorcycles,” which is based on the EPA’s UDDS testing, and it has a homologated top speed of 67 MPH. The Zero S is designed for optimal performance off the line, in sharp turns and while navigating obstacles. Instant acceleration and lightweight design enable the Zero S to take on any city street, hill or obstacle, combining exhilaration with efficiency.
The Zero S is priced at $9,995. It is eligible for a 10% Federal tax credit which effectively reduces the price by $1,000 to a total of $8995. Some states and provinces offer additional incentives. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States during mid-March. The Zero S comes with a 2-year limited warranty.
Zero DS – Dual Sport
The Zero DS combines innovation with passion to deliver the world’s most versatile electric motorcycle. Created to be agile in the dirt and quick on the street, the Zero DS represents a new kind of freedom. Tough when you demand it and distinguished when required, the Zero DS has an edgy, yet sophisticated appearance highlighted by an eye catching twin spar frame that is both rigid and lightweight. Powered by the most advanced drive-train in the industry, the Zero DS is a fully electric motorcycle that can handle any surface you can throw at it. Navigating obstacles and maintaining control is assured using a specially developed suspension system and a rugged wheel set. During technical maneuvers, an optimized direct drive belt system delivers astonishing responsiveness with the twist of your wrist.
The Zero DS is priced at $10,495. It is eligible for a 10% Federal tax credit which effectively reduces the price by $1,040 to a total of $9,455. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States during mid-March. The Zero DS comes with a 2-year limited warranty.
Zero MX
The Zero MX takes Zero’s revolutionary electric motorcycle technology to the track. Designed for smooth landings, the Zero MX uses a newly-developed suspension system to absorb aggressive terrain. Incredibly tough and lightweight, the Zero MX combines the state-of-the-art Z-Force™ battery technology with an ultra-light frame design, making it agile and fast where it counts most. The custom suspension system makes the Zero MX highly responsive while maintaining an industry leading power-to-weight ratio. Easily swappable, riders can purchase an additional power pack to extend their riding. Silent and featuring a more powerful Forced Air Induction Agni motor, the Zero MX opens up a whole new world of riding possibilities.
The Zero MX starts at $9,495. A Federal tax credit can be applied to the street-legal versions of the off-road models if they are purchased with a second power pack. Some countries or states may offer incentives. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States during mid-March. The Zero MX comes with a 2-year limited warranty.
Zero X
The Zero X is a performance electric motorcycle that takes technical trail riding to the next level. Using Zero’s patented Z-Force™ technology, this stealthy motorcycle will send you racing up hills, flying over jumps, and cutting through streams. The Zero X is built from the ground up for quick handling and maneuverability. Custom valved suspension, direct drive gearing and weight optimized components allow riders to master demanding terrain. Lightweight, silent and quick, the Zero X opens up trail riding possibilities that would otherwise be out of the question. To extend ride times customers have the option to purchase an extra power pack that can be swapped with a quick pit stop.
The Zero X starts at $7,995. A Federal tax credit can be applied to the street-legal versions of the off-road models if they are purchased with a second power pack. Some countries or states may offer incentives. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States during mid-March. The Zero X comes with a 2-year limited warranty.
About Zero Motorcycles
Zero Motorcycles is committed to transforming the motorcycling experience by bringing to market highly innovative electric motorcycles that offer exceptional value and performance. Zero is powered by innovation, driven by passion, guided by integrity, and measured by results. Through extensive research, insight and experience, Zero combines the art and science of motorcycle development to create and manufacture products that excite consumers and inspire brand loyalty. Zero is determined to be the pre-eminent global electric motorcycle company.
