Urban motorcyclists looking for a fast and efficient motorcycle that’s well suited to quick trips around town should take a ride on Zero Motorcycles’ all-electric SR/F ($21,495, as tested). The SR/F combines big-bike-type styling and performance with usable range and charging for those looking to rid themselves of the gasoline pump.
The SR/F is the northern California-based company’s top-of-the-line electric motorcycle. It’s styled as a naked bike that compares loosely to liter-sized gasoline-powered streetfighters. Powered by a huge, and aesthetically pleasing 14.4kW battery and compact ZF75-10 motor, Zero claims its powertrain is capable of producing a whopping 140 pound-feet torque. That’s more than either Honda’s six-cylinder Gold Wing or BMW’s mighty K 1600 GTL. And it does it nearly without silence.
Sure, the lack of engine and exhaust sound feels strange at first, as compared to a traditional internal combustion engine, open-minded riders will acclimate to the whine of the drivetrain and bite of the brakes when squeezed.
Simplicity is the name of the game with the SR/F. There are no gears to shift, no clutch lever to squeeze, instead the Zero offers a scooter-like gas-and-go riding experience. Multiple power mode settings makes it easy to get up to speed on the Zero, and the throttle response is nearly perfectly calibrated. Bosch-sourced traction control and ABS come standard, both of which can be manually disabled, if desired.
Range is dependent on the selected power mode and how much throttle the rider applies, and of course the terrain (riding uphill sucks more juice than coasting down an incline). During our 13-mile stoplight-to-stoplight city commute, in Sport mode, the SR/F consumed 17 percent capacity. This meant we had plenty of juice to run a few errands before returning home at the end of the day.
As opposed to the standard 3kW charger, the premium model we rode is equipped with a 6kW charger, allowing the SR/F to charge from a depleted battery state to 95 percent charge in four hours when plugged into a Level 2 charging station. It takes eight hours of charging time when a traditional three-pronged 110-volt household power source is used. A colorful TFT-style instrument display keeps tabs on the motorcycle’s vitals including battery life and range with a multifunctional handlebar-mounted switch allowing for adjustment.
The SR/F rolls on a set of 17-inch cast alloy wheels shod in Pirelli’s grippy Diablo Rosso III tires. For the first-time ever, Zero employs real motorcycle suspension components highlighted by Showa’s BP-style (big-piston) fork and a gas-charged direct-mount shock absorber. Although a bit heavy-feeling this ebike glides over rough pavement and delivers pleasing ride quality. Heavy-duty triple Spanish-sourced J.Juan disc brakes keep speed in check and provide ample stopping power for the nearly 500-pound Zero.
Those seeking a fun and functional urban motorcycle with most of the good (thrilling acceleration, great build quality, and ease of use) and nearly none of the bad (i.e., gasoline fill-ups, oil changes, and other forms of routine maintenance aside from wear-and-tear items) will love the SR/F. For quick sprints around town Zero’s latest motorcycle will make you think twice about the future of all-electric bikes.
