5 Things You Didn't Know About Zero Motorcycles

Oct. 1 2022 News By Lawton Outlaw

No one sells more electric motorcycles than Zero.

And that's not even one of the 5 things on our list.

Many don't know that electric motorcycles are fast gaining traction in the startup ecosystem. Among the new startups, Zero Motorcycles has to be the most recognizable electric motorcycle brand. The California-based manufacturer has produced 100% electric motorcycles since its inception in 2006. Seeing they are a relatively new company, they aren't as popular as the traditional giants, and there are plenty of things people don't know about them. Here are 5 things we just learned about Zero and their electric motorcycles.

So let's get into it - here are 5 things you didn't know about Zero.


1. NASA ROOTS

Zero Motorcycles are among the pioneers in mass-producing electric motorcycles, availing groundbreaking innovation to customers. The company, called Electricross initially, was founded by former NASA engineer Neal Saiki. Since unveiling the first prototype in 2006, the company has rapidly grown into an internationally revered motorcycle company.

The Zero DSR churns out an incredible 116 ft-lb of torque while still being able to hear the crunch of your AT tires shredding the dirt.


2. RACING SUCCESS

Any vehicle's legend isn't complete until it has been used in competitive racing, and winning etches its name forever in the history books. They have had success notable at Pikes Peak, winning the production electric motorcycle class between 2013 and 2015. Also, in 2014, the Zero FX was the first electric motorcycle to beat the 12-minute mark at Pikes Peak International Climb. In 2019, they did better with a Zero SR/F and finished the course at an impressive time of 10:45.

The Zero SR/F delivers 140 ft-lbs of torque and 110 horsepower with the simple twist of a throttle


3. INTERNATIONAL GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS

In the USA, there are over 200 law administration and military agencies using Zero bikes. The California-based company has delivered multiple consignments of MMX off-road motorcycles to the Department of Defense in the last year. Zero Motorcycles has also struck deals with governments outside America, having previously signed a landmark fleet agreement with Spain, Costa Rica, and Hong Kong.

The Zero FXE is both breathtaking in its profile as it is record-breaking in its performance.


4. TESLA LEVEL TECH

Zero is often called the Tesla of motorcycles and some parallels justify their comparison to Tesla. For instance, sell more electric motorcycles than all their competitors combined. And they keep innovating and advancing the electric technology with each new model. 

But more interestingly, it's because of their proprietary 'Cypher' operating system.

Electric vehicles need the software needs to be as good as the hardware for optimum performance, usability, and adaptability. The software components are necessary to manage batteries, charging, power delivery, diagnostics, etc. Zero Motorcycles come with the Cypher Operating System, a proprietary and acts as a hub that integrates all the motorcycle systems.

The Cypher runs on one of the most advanced neuro systems and delivers precise performance seamlessly to give a consistently superior riding experience. A rider can customize and track their bike performance through the Zero App. The latest version of the OS, 13 years in the making, is only available on SR/F and SR/S motorcycles.

The latest Cypher OS delivers a wide range of innovative features sure to make for a better riding experience.


5. HIGHEST POWER & ENERGY DENSITY

The motor in electric motorcycles is unsurprisingly compact and lightweight. What is suprising is Zero's 'Z-Force' powertrain is sealed and air-cooled and comes with a single moving part, making it highly efficient with no routine maintenance. Even more impressive is it's 166ftlbs of torque. The Z-Force produces more torque than any liter gas-powered bike, even with its tiny proportions. Also, among its EV peers the power pack has the highest power and energy density.


Check our inventory of the ultra-cool, highest quality, tech innovative Zero.

See how it feels to ride electric and schedule a test-ride.