Tesla has inspired countless electric vehicle startups, but Zero Motorcycles is pushing things a little far with their new “Model S.”
Billed as an evolution of the SR/F and SR/S, the Zero S is an electric street bike that aims to be the “best battery value in the industry” thanks to a base price of $14,995.
It features a 14.4 kWh lithium-ion battery, which powers an electric motor developing 68 hp (51 kW / 69 PS) and 97 lb-ft (131 Nm) of torque. This setup will enable the bike to hit a top speed of up to 104 mph (167 km/h). Furthermore, in terms of range, Zero says the Model S can travel 154 miles (248 km) in the city or 101 miles (162 km) when “high-speed highway commuting.”
When the battery is depleted, it can be fully recharged in 9.7 hours using a 110V outlet. That’s far from fast, but the optional 6 kW rapid charger can deliver a 95% charge in as little as 1.3 hours.
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Besides the electric powertrain, the bike features a steel frame, a Showa suspension, a custom swingarm, and 17-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli Diablo Rosso III tires. The 492 lb (223 kg) bike also has LED lighting units, a 5-inch digital instrument cluster, and a storage compartment where the fuel tank would normally be located. The latter can be replaced by an optional $3,200 Power Tank for added range.
Speaking of accessories, Zero hinted at a “suite of downloadable performance upgrades.” The company also noted the EV is “connected” and this allows owners to keep tabs on the bike as well as receive over-the-air-updates.
While Zero’s website avoids calling it the Model S, the press release announcing it didn’t hold back and said the “new Model S is a true game-changer.” It also mentioned “Model S” four different times, which is interesting as Tesla trademarked the moniker for goods and services such as electric automobiles.
