Zero Motorcycles, the global leader in the electric motorcycle industry, announced today the debut of its 2010 Zero S electric motorcycle. Its flagship street legal supermoto now has more power, increased acceleration, and enhanced power pack technology. Continuing the innovation that they are known for, Zero has integrated its newly developed Z-Force™ Air Induction System into the Zero S to enable greater performance. The cumulative result of this technology is a higher top speed, better performance off the line and improved ride quality. In addition to more performance, Zero is offering, for the first time, color graphics packages and two new Corbin seat options.
“The Zero S is the most advanced production electric motorcycle on the market and now it’s even better. Enhancements for 2010 make it faster, more durable and better looking," says Gene Banman, CEO Zero Motorcycles. "With significant performance improvements, the Zero S is ideal for urban riding and short trips on the freeway. We invite riders of all types to schedule a demo ride in their area and discover a new experience that will leave them grinning."
Central to the performance improvements on the Zero S is the revolutionary Z-Force™ Air Induction System. The newly developed system allows Zero to produce more horsepower from a light and compact motor by increasing the airflow through the heart of the motor. Zero is also introducing a new throttle technology that modulates the increased power to provide riders with exacting control over the acceleration. The 2010 Zero S is powered using the latest generation of Z-Force™ power pack technology that includes more precise cell monitoring and lightweight lithium ion technology.
In addition to the increased performance capabilities, consumers now can choose between color graphic packages or Zero’s classic white on all four models. This allows riders to express themselves through personalized styling. The new seat options on the Zero S are specially designed by Corbin to provide a more comfortable and performance-oriented ride. Those interested in reducing the stand-over height of the motorcycle can now select a Corbin low seat option. The aesthetic changes in combination with Zero’s signature exposed twin spar aircraft grade alloy frame make for a sleeker and more visually appealing motorcycle.
The 2010 Zero S offers 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. 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. At 270lbs, the Zero S has a range of up to 50 miles and a GPS verified 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.
The Zero S is priced at $8,995 (after a 10% U.S. federal tax credit). Some states and provinces offer additional incentives. Consumer financing is available in the United States for those who qualify. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States at the end of March. The Zero S comes with a2-year limited warranty.
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“The S feels similar to a standard supermoto, with a narrow frame and hard, skinny seat. The reach to the bars is too low for a supermoto; more like a mountain bike. But the seat was low, like the center of gravity, but the bike felt heavier to me than its claimed 225 pounds.” – motorcycledaily
"The power delivery is instantaneous and seamless. But acceleration initially feels strange, lacking the punctuation of power bands and gears. Yet the force pulling your shoulders back from the bars indicates that the S should keep up with gas-powered supermotos and street bikes in a straight line." – popularmechanics
"The S handled very well in the corners and braking power seemed sufficient for the bikes capabilities. Considering the S will appeal to city folks I would try to improve the turning radius a bit. The bike would make a fantastic commuter and would be a lot of fun on a tight road track or local backroad twisties." – plugbike
"As it is maximum velocity is a paltry 60 mph, and while that’s presumably limited to preserve motor and battery, if the Electric Motorsport GPR-S can go faster with far less power we’d like to see what the Zero S could really do with another gear. As it is this bike isn’t really a safe on highways." – engadget
Conclusion
So you’ve seen what Zero have to say about their street bike and also what the motorcycle press thinks of it. We must add that this is a newly conquered market share and competition is poor, meaning the 2010 Zero S is pretty much the option for those willing to stay green and save money…for now.
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Motor
- Type: Brushed permanent magnet electric
- Top speed: 67 mph (105 kph)
Power System