2012 Zero S ZF9

As gas prices fluctuate, but generally remain on the rise, electric vehicles are becoming more popular. Leading the pack of electric motorcycles is the 2012 Zero S. A new toothed-belt direct drive (to replace the previous, much noisier chain) and a new brushless, permanent magnet AC motor provides smoother response and promises no maintenance compared to the previous brush-type motor.

However, though improvements abound, there are some drawbacks, namely a low response from the throttle off the line. Thrill seekers looking to explode from a stop may be disappointed at first, but relatively strong torque will remain constant all the way up to 60 MPH. The lack of a transmission in the Zero S, and all other environmentally friendly models, means most of the acceleration happens in the mid-to-high speeds. Overall, the engine improvements and revamped framework make this a worthy contender to gas-powered engines, as you can handle the bike smoothly and easily through the city.

• New top speed: the world’s first available mass-produced electric motorcycle capable of exceeding 100 miles on the EPA’s UDDS range test.
• New long-lasting powertrain: a brushless motor capable of achieving speeds of up to 88 mph, new state of the art battery cell technology, regenerative deceleration and a power pack that is designed to last the life of the motorcycle
• Choice of range: The new ZF6 and ZF9 power pack configurations give riders the ability to respectively achieve 76 miles and 114 miles according to the EPA UDDS.
• Improved handling: Revised frame geometry, new optimized Zero designed rotors and a larger front brake master cylinder give the Zero S better handling and more stopping power than ever before.
• New look: additions to the bodywork, components and graphics with newly designed and optimized cast wheels, refining the bike’s appearance