2020 Zero S And SR Electric Motorcycle First Look Preview

Zero Motorcycles is pushing the electric motorcycle game forward this year and next, such as with the sophisticated SR/F and recently announced DSR Black Forest. But it's the stable of more established machines that has allowed Zero to push the boundaries of electric performance, and two of these, the Zero S and Zero SR, come with more options than ever in 2020.

Each of these models will be packing Zero's advanced Cypher operating system, which pairs with the latest Next Gen app to provide riders unparalleled detail regarding the bike's stats and status. Each is powered by the latest Z-Force powertrain.

But each meets a different need. The Zero S is equipped with the ZF7.2 battery, a more compact option that opens up storage space and cuts weight. It’s capable of providing up to 89 miles on a charge in the city and 45 miles on the highway at a sustained 70 mph. It’s got a top speed of 98 mph and provides 46 hp and 78 pound-feet of torque. In stock trim, charge time to 100 percent will take 5.2 hours. It weighs a scant 313 pounds and prices at $10,995.

Riders can improve range and charge times dramatically with either the Power Tank or Charge Tank, available as upgrades for the Zero S. If more battery capacity is required, add the Power Tank for $2,895 and you’ll get 3.6 kWh more battery storage capacity and longer range. If you don’t have 5 hours to let your bike charge, the Charge Tank upgrade ($2,495) cuts charge time to 100 percent down to just 1.5 hours.

The Zero SR doubles capacity with the ZF14.4 battery and offers some of the most impressive range numbers in all of Zero’s line. On its own, with no tank upgrades, the SR will fetch 179 miles in the city between charges, and 90 miles on the highway. It provides 116 pound-feet of torque and 70 hp, with a 102 top speed. It’s a commitment to charge however, taking 9.8 hours to reach 100 percent.

With the Charge Tank upgrade though, the SR will be fully juiced in just 2.5 hours. Or, if you want the absolute best range Zero has to offer, equip the SR with a Power Tank and you’ll get up to 223 miles between charges in the city, and up to 112 miles on the highway. The Zero SR starts at $15,495.

Other notable elements of both models include adjustable Showa suspension in the front and back, Bosch Gen 9 ABS, Pirelli Diablo Rosso II tires, and standard two-year warranty.