2011 Zero S Electric Motorcycle: First Ride Report

By Nikki Gordon-Bloomfield

Nikki Gordon-Bloomfield

Contributing Writer BIO

Nikki Gordon-Bloomfield is a self-confessed petrol head. She grew up in a carless family but was able at a very early age to name cars passing her on... More

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2011 Zero S Electric Motorcycle

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In its five-year history, Zero has gone from a single electric motorcross bike to a global operation, building five different electric motorcycles for a variety of markets. 

So while we were visiting Tesla in California last week, we decided to drop by on Zero's Californian headquarters for a few test-rides.

During our visit, we rode three of Zero’s motorcycles, the 2011 Zero S, 2011 Zero DS, and 2011 Zero XU. Each with a different character, they offer three very different takes on the world of electric vehicles.

Today we’re going to tell you about the Zero S, Zero’s road-going super-moto-meets-sports bike with an electrically-limited top speed of 67 mph and a range of between 43 and 58 miles per charge of its 4.4 kilowatt-hour battery pack. 

First impressions

2011 Zero S Electric Motorcycle

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Unlike the Brammo Enertia we reviewed last week, the 2011 Zero S shows its internal organs for the world to see. Clearly visible through its frame is the sealed lithium-ion battery pack, power electronics and large 22 kilowatt peak DC permanent magnet motor. 

Following Zero’s minimalist, functional design ethics is the beautifully welded lightweight chassis. Encasing everything else, it makes the Zero S look very much like a conventional gasoline motorcycle, and extends just below the saddle towards the front headset, giving riders plenty to hold onto with their knees. 

Starting, stopping

Open the throttle, and the Zero S leaps to 30 mph in under 2 seconds, getting you to 60 mph in the same kind of time you’d expect of a 250cc motorcycle. 

Admittedly, there are plenty of gasoline motorcycles which are a lot faster, but thanks to the instant torque and smooth throttle response, the Zero feels great, accelerating right up to its electronically top speed of 67 mph without any fuss.

When it comes to stopping, the lack of engine braking means that rolling back on the throttle won’t slow you down as quickly as it would on a gasoline motorcycle -- but the Zero S’ dual piston 12.2 inch front brake disc quickly helps shed speed when needed. 

The back brake -- a single piston, 8.6 inch disc brake -- is also firm and responsive, providing additional stopping power at speed and excellent stability when executing tight, slow turns.