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Zero off-road electric motorcycles get recalled, might crash more than usual
The Zero S our own Tim Stevens rode fearlessly through the streets of New York apparently isn't effected, but it looks like Zero's off-road electric motorcycles (the Zero X and Zero MX) have been hit with a recall after it was discovered that they might crash when it's not entirely the driver's fault. Turns out the throttle can get stuck in the open position or become disconnected, and that the "Easy" or "0-25" modes can "unexpectedly" lead to full power when the bike is turned on -- both what you might call "bad things." Of course, this is a fairly small recall (some 200 vehicles), but if that includes you, you'll want to get in touch with Zero to arrange for a free repair. Hit up the link below for all the necessary details.
Zero Motorcycles bridges the dirt/street gap with the Zero DS electric motorcycle
We love motorcycles, and we love things that help the environment, so it's no secret that we loved the Zero S electric supermoto when we got to take it for a spin through the urban wasteland. That bike has now been set free from the world of asphalt, given some knobbies, beefier wheels, and brawnier suspension to make it just as good when the pavement ends, as the video below shows. It also has a much brighter light, which may put something of an additional drain on the battery (range is still rated at 50 miles), but will make it easier to find puddles to avoid -- or to aim for. This bike fills the void between the company's street and dirt offerings, and while it might not be quite as good over the yumps as the offroad-only Zero MX, it has the distinct advantage of not requiring a truck or trailer to get there in the first place. The DS costs $9,950, the same as the Zero S, and is available for order now.
Zero MX all-electric motorcycle takes on the trails
Not one to rest on its ultra-quiet laurels, Zero Motorcycles has just introduced its newest zero-emissions bike: the Zero MX. Hitting the scene just a month and change after we test drove the Zero S, this whip is engineered specifically for track riding and motocross, with the fork, shocks, wheels and tires being all new for this model. In fact, we're told that the MX will enable riders to jump higher and land softer, with a beefier front-end and a "custom rear shock that gives riders a fully adjustable spring preload and easily tuned damping." Better still, it's available as we speak for the not-at-all-reasonable price of $8,250, though at least we're heading in the right direction -- the aforesaid Zero S rang up at nearly ten large (while that Brammo bike we tested today starts at twelve grand). Live action video is after the break.
Engadget shreds on the Zero S all-electric motorcycle (with video!)
It's not the first. It's not the fastest. It's not the lightest, the strongest, the cheapest, or even the best looking electric motorcycle out there. It is, however, one of the very few you can order today and, when it ships next month, ride it (legally) on the highways and byways of all 50 states. Europe, too. Among that very limited group the Zero S electric supermoto (or electrimoto as we've taken to calling it) is certainly a standout, completely custom-built around battery and motor, and we were lucky enough to take it for a spin on a hazy, dingy, frequently traffic'd New York City side street -- just the sort of conditions a two-wheeled urban warrior/commuter relishes. Read on for our full impressions and a video that will take you along for the ride.
