2023 Zero DSR/X First Look Preview

The big news in Zero Motorcycles’ 2023 model announcement is the introduction of the 2023 Zero DSR/X, the most torque-rich adventure motorcycle yet.

The all-new e-ADV is powered by the latest Z-Force 75-10X motor, which cranks out an insane 166 lb.-ft. of torque. This (claimed) torque figure is currently the highest of all dirt-capable Zeros, and more than ADV greats such as the BMW R 1250 GS, Ducati Multistrada V4, and Harley-Davidson Pan-America, which claim 105, 92, and 94 lb.-ft. respectively. To further drive the point home, Zero’s SR/S sportbike delivers 140 lb.-ft.; even Lightning’s LS-218 electric superbike claims 168. Instantaneous torque is one of an electric motorcycle’s best characteristics, and this Zero has it in spades.

The DSR/X rides on 19- and 17-inch Pirelli Scorpion Trail II tires, soaking up rough terrain with Showa’s fully adjustable 47mm Big Piston Separate Function fork and piggyback reservoir shock. Both deliver 7.5 inches of travel. Stopping the 544-pound machine are two front J.Juan calipers taking hold of 320mm discs while a rear single floating caliper grabs a 265mm disc. Electronic aids include Off-Road mode, Vehicle Hold Control, and Bosch’s Advanced MSC (Motorcycle Stability Control) with Combined Braking (also known as eCBS, which optimizes brake force distribution).

Related: Best Electric Motorcycles for Adults

The DSR/X is one of three bikes in Zero’s lineup using the Cypher III+ operating system, which includes features such as faster charging, more battery capacity, and the new Park mode (a low-speed reverse and crawl function). The bike also connects to the Zero app, which in turn allows riders to customize the bike’s performance, check on charge status, monitor tip-over alerts, and display on-dash navigation (the DSR/X currently has a free beta version available on the Zero app).

Now for the big electric-bike question: How much range? Zero claims its Z-Force 17.3kWh battery offers up to 180 miles of range in the city and 85 miles on the highway. If that’s not enough juice for your adventures, an optional Power Tank upgrade can increase the charging capacity to 21kWh. Adding the Power Tank takes up space in the standard tank storage compartment, but for those living with uncontrollable range fear that’s an easy sacrifice to make.

There are a few places to store personal belongings, the aforementioned lockable tank storage, a right-side compartment (secured by two T25 Torx screws, Torx key included in the provided tool kit), and a small storage space under the seat.

A knob-adjustable windscreen and Scorpion Trail II tires are standard, but if decking the DSR/X out with adventure-focused accessories is in the cards, there are saddlebags, a skid plate, spoked wheels, touring windscreen, top and side cases, Pirelli Scorpion Rally tires, and more available from Zero’s accessory page.

Zero Motorcycles dealerships are receiving their DSR/X units now. MSRP is listed at $24,495. Stay tuned for an MC Commute–style review of it next week.