Zero DS Upgraded for 2011

Scott Brady

Founder
The team at Expedition Portal loves the Zero Dual-Sport.* This is not just a casual interest and a press release, but we actually have one at the offices and ride it nearly every day.* Ours is the 2010 model which has become the favorite moto for riding around Prescott, AZ.* So the 2011 model improvements are particularly interesting to us, and we have reviewed the upgrades in great detail.* We will be reporting on both the 2010 and 2011 in more detail in the coming months.

expo_zeero_ds.jpg


There are several key upgrades to the 2011:

1. Quick Charge Option:* This charges the moto from empty to 93% in about 2 hours.* This is a 50% reduction in charge time for the 2010 model.* The four-hour charge cycle is still available. Riders can also take advantage of the J1772 public charging stations. The most notable performance improvement is a 12% longer ride time/distance from the 2010 Lithium Ion battery pack.

2. Upgraded Components:* The 2011 model includes an upgraded suspension system and improved charging system and battery controller. Impressive, the brakes have also been upgraded, which will be interesting to test as the 2010 model had the most impressive braking of any bike we have tested in this size.

3. Belt Drive:* If the Zero wasn't already quiet, the bike now includes a no-maintenance belt drive system.

We have been impressed with the 2010 model and are leaving in few days for an extended adventure with it.* Look for the complete story in Overland Journal and on the Expedition Portal Forum

From Zero Motorcycles: Zero DS - Dual Sport
The Zero DS combines innovation with passion to deliver the world's most versatile electric motorcycle. Created to be agile in the dirt and quick on the street, the Zero DS represents a new kind of freedom. Tough when you demand it and distinguished when required, the Zero DS has an edgy, yet sophisticated appearance highlighted by an eye catching twin spar frame that is both rigid and lightweight. Powered by the most advanced drive train in the industry, the Zero DS is a fully electric motorcycle that can handle any surface you can throw at it. Navigating obstacles and maintaining control is assured using a specially developed suspension system and a rugged wheel set. During technical maneuvers, an optimized direct drive belt system delivers astonishing responsiveness with the twist of your wrist.

The Zero DS is priced at $10,495. It is eligible for a 10% Federal tax credit, which effectively reduces the price by $1,040 to a total of $9,455. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States during mid-March. The Zero DS comes with a two year limited warranty.
 
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goodtimes

Expedition Poseur
If you venture off into the dirt very far -- take a spare drive belt and the tools to change it along for the ride.
 

goodtimes

Expedition Poseur
Is that an H4 headlamp?

Any idea why they aren't using an LED? :confused:

I wonder what kind of speed (miles per day) you could average if you packed light and used a flexible solar panel to recharge it every afternoon . . .
 

Scott Brady

Founder
Is that an H4 headlamp?

Any idea why they aren't using an LED? :confused:

I wonder what kind of speed (miles per day) you could average if you packed light and used a flexible solar panel to recharge it every afternoon . . .

I will tell you on Monday :sombrero:
Zero_DS.jpg
 

goodtimes

Expedition Poseur
But taking the Jeep to recharge the battery is cheating. :sombrero:

I think a pair of Zero's running the TAT (GWT, CDT, what ever) powered entirely by the sun, would be cool.

BTW, that's a awfully beefy side stand!
 

alosix

Expedition Leader
It needs 1200 watts :Wow1: at 120v

So, 98 amps at 12v. . .

And that would be for 4 hours right?

Loving to see what you guys come up with for this. I've been thinking of grabbing one for commuting and for a support vehicle for my M725 (just under 300lbs to they are pretty easy to carry).

The probable I ran into would be recharging. Pretty much figured I'd need solar on the truck and 4 8D batteries to be able to run the inverter long enough to recharge it.

Then I got to thinking about adding another 24v alternator to the truck, small battery back, and just recharging while moving.. This might just work :)

What do you guys think of it as a first bike? Seems like it would be a lot easier to deal with than a gas bike to start with. I'm dying for a 650 or 800 BMW, but in due time...

Jason
 

alosix

Expedition Leader
Also.. do you guys have any more info on the quick charger voltage/current requirements?

I'll bug them and post up if ya don't. They were very helpful earlier helping me figure out how I could charge it from the truck.
 

goodtimes

Expedition Poseur
It needs 1200 watts :Wow1: at 120v

So, 98 amps at 12v. . .

That's a lot of juice. :eek:

I guess a sun-powered ride across the west is out.

I'd be interested to see how far you can consistently get on a single charge. Not much of a vehicle to explore in considering the range, but it would make a cool 'around town' bike, assuming you don't live too far from town . . .
 

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