Major changes for Zero models

From Zero Motorcycles

SANTA CRUZ, CA - Zero Motorcycles has announced its 2011 product line alongside a strategy for continued leadership of the global electric motorcycle industry.

Zero Motorcycles has made sweeping technical improvements as well as added a contemporary new look to each of its four models, including a complete overhaul of the Zero S and the Zero DS.

Every model is now ‘quick-charge’ capable using an optional upgrade that allows the motorcycles to charge nearly twice as fast. In addition, for the first time on an electric motorcycle, riders can now take advantage of J1772 public charging stations by using an optional accessory. This offers riders greater mobility by giving them access to a rapidly growing network of charge stations.

The entire lineup is equipped with upgraded suspension systems, a more intelligent and rugged Z-Force powertrain, more precise charge indicators, new higher performance brakes and industry-standard component features to provide owners with more aftermarket options. Other highlights to the product line include street legal configurations of the dirt bikes and a new maintenance free belt drive for the street and dual sport models.

“During the past year, our engineering and manufacturing teams have benefitted from experienced new leadership and the results are clear. In close coordination, they have been working overtime to design and build the world’s finest collection of electric motorcycles,” said Gene Banman, CEO of Zero Motorcycles. “Our 2011 model line is composed of exceptionally high quality electric motorcycles that balance performance, range, weight, affordability and availability. We are excited to announce such major changes across the entire model line and to also be setting new industry standards in the way we report on our motorcycles’ performance specifications.”

Nearly every component of the Zero S and Zero DS has seen major upgrades and improvements. With a bold and completely new look, the street and dual sport models will become the world’s first production electric motorcycles to feature a maintenance free belt drive system. The quiet operation of the drivetrain, when combined with each of the motorcycles’ overall improvements, yields a sophisticated silence during riding.

Zero has also increased the capacity of the power packs by 12.5 percent to improve the motorcycles’ range.

Among the other upgrades are more robust wheels, a new HB Performance braking system, tires with better grip, more robust hardware, new aggressive profile foot pegs and an integrated ignition switch and lock. Unique to the Zero S, it has been lowered by two inches to improve street handling and the new overall package gives it an eye-catching naked look.

The Zero S is priced at $9,995 (US) and the Zero DS is priced at $10,495 (US).

Zero Motorcycles has also made major changes to its off-road line. For the first time, the company will deliver street-legal configurations of both its trail and motocross dirt bikes, Zero X and Zero MX respectively. Street-legal versions include additional components such as headlights, taillights, side stands, dashes, sensors and different gearing.

Both the Zero X and Zero MX have stouter wheels, new tires, a more robust HB Performance braking system, new aggressive foot pegs and an integrated ignition switch and lock. Their motors are energized using a beautifully refined aluminum power pack that is highly durable and easy to swap in less than 60 seconds. To maximize control, Zero has customized each motorcycles’ suspension internals to give them a more fluid and compliant motion under rough conditions.

Unique to only the Zero MX, the 2011 model uses a motor mounted Z-Force Air Induction System to cool its new and more powerful Agni motor. Designed to ride harder, faster and longer, it represents the most competitive dirt bike that Zero has released to consumers.

The Zero MX starts at $9,495 (US) and the Zero X starts at $7,995 (US).

The Zero S, Zero DS, Zero X and Zero MX are all available now through Zero Motorcycles’ website and will begin shipping in March. Each of the models carries a two year limited warranty.

For more information on Zero Motorcycles or to learn more about its complete product line including the Zero S, Zero DS, Zero MX and Zero X motorcycles, visit http://www.zeromotorcycles.com/.