Incrementally better each and every year since its introduction in 2009.
Wayne Gerdes -
CleanMPG - Oct. 7, 2012
Zero Motorcycles 2013 Model Line Improves Power, Range and adds features including Level-3 charging.
Our first ride of a Zero-S back in 2009 (
CleanMPG Reviews the 2009 Zero Motorcycles Zero S) was promising but promises were for a future edition, not the 2009 we rode.
It lacked a credible highway capability and the range guess gauge caught me a bit off guard. Meaning a 1.5 mile walk in full gear
As Zero Motorcycles transitioned to new ownership, it has also gained a more professional PR stance and an even more capable design. The incremental improvements have occurred each and every year up through the announced 2013 lineup where it finally appears to be the real deal with performance and range capability matching some gasoline fueled counterparts without the expense and emissions that fueling on and consuming 87 unleaded and 91 premium entails.
Meet the all-new 2013 Zero Lineup
Boy I should have posted this when it was first released a week ago
Zero Motorcycles released details on its 2013 model line which features more power and what the company is touting as the world's longest-range from an all-electric motorcycle.
The Zero S is said to be capable of 137 miles in the city, as much as
75 miles at 70 mph while riding the super slab and a top speed of 95 mph. This makes the Zero S not only practical but fully capable and even credible amongst bike commuters the world over.
To attain the new-found range and acceleration performance, Zero redesigned its air cooled Z-Force motor and added larger and more current output capable Z-Force Li-Ion pack.
Where it gets even more interesting is that Zero S not only has Level-1 and 2 charging capability but now adds as an option and first in its class Level-3 DC CHAdeMO port allowing an energy drained Zero S with the largest pack configuration to be charged to 95 percent in less than an hour!
Another new feature is smartphone integration. Using Bluetooth, riders can now sync their iPhone or Android mobile phones to see detailed information and even adjust the performance characteristics of their Zeros. Zeros PR lacked detail on what could and could not be changed and what is available to see but for an all-electric bike to receive telematics of a BEV is indeed impressive.
From a looks standpoint, the 2013 Zero S and Zero DS include new bodywork and an integrated storage compartment in the "tank" area. To accommodate the new plastic, frame and powertrain, Zero redesigned the frames for every model with an emphasis on improving rider ergonomics and expanding compatibility with aftermarket accessories.
The rider ergonomics in particular needs the most work and while we have not yet ridden a 2013 Zero, when one becomes available (
if), well surely give it a go
For 2013, Zero is introducing an FX urban rebel motorcycle. It is the fastest accelerating motorcycle in the company's lineup with 70 ft-lbs of torque, 44 hp and a low weight of just 275 lbs.
The Zero FX, as well as the Zero XU and Zero MX, now features the world's first truly modular quick-swap power pack technology. Riders can now use one or two battery modules and can upgrade any of the previously mentioned models from 2.8 kWh to 5.7 kWh in seconds.
The new Z-Force motor and overall powertrain is completely air-cooled on account of its highly efficient and innovative design. With instant torque, a nearly silent belt-driven system and no shifting, riders need only focus on the road ahead. For the owner, there is no routine powertrain maintenance and the "fuel" cost is only a penny a mile. While we did break the penny during a few cold riding days in December of 2009, electricity rates have gone up a smidgen and whether or not the 2013 Zero lineup can maintain this claim in the real world is something I am very much looking forward to achieving. With regenerative braking added some model years ago and improved packs and motor, there are a number of efficiency improvements that should make the mile on a penny ride quite an interesting experience indeed.
2013 Zero Pricing
| Model | Pack size in kWh | Price (MSRP in $US or CAN $s) |
| Zero S | ZF8.5 | $13,995 |
| Zero S | ZF11.4 | $15,995 |
| | | |
| Zero DS | ZF8.5 | $13,995 |
| Zero DS | ZF11.4 | $15,995 |
| | | |
| Zero FX | ZF2.8 | $9,495 |
| Zero FX | ZF5.7 | $11,990 |
| | | |
| Zero XU | ZF2.8 | $7,995 |
| Zero XU | ZF5.7 | $10,490 |
| | | |
| Zero MX | ZF2.8 | $9,495 |
| Zero MX | ZF5.7 | $11,990 |
Each street-legal Zero motorcycle comes with a two year limited warranty, while the Zero MX comes with a one year limited warranty. Initial deliveries will commence in January 2013 for North America and in February 2013 for Europe.
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