2012 Zero XU
2012 Zero XU
2012 Zero XU
2012 Zero XU
2012 Zero XU
- 2012 Zero XU
2012 Zero XU Review
The Zero XU is an innovative, lightweight, electric motorcycle that blends industry leading technology, performance and practicality to deliver the ultimate urban-crosser. A low seat height, no-shift operation, removable power pack and optional onboard storage allow riders of all kinds to negotiate the city with a new kind of freedom.
Ride the way you want. Twist the throttle, relax and leisurely wind your way from one destination to the next. Or…hop curbs, fly around corners and cut through traffic. Designed for utility and pure enjoyment, the Zero XU transforms the city into a motorcycle amusement park. It is ideal for the day-to-day…but built for dynamic individuals who may want to occasionally push the limits.
Built around Zero’s lightweight aircraft grade aluminum frame, the Zero XU is styled to be minimalistic, strong, eye-catching and comfortable. With a removable power pack, and the option of a stand-alone charger, riders who live anywhere can now charge anywhere. As with Zero’s entire model line, the 2012 Zero XU costs only cents to recharge and, with its maintenance-free powertrain, it is one of the most economical motorcycles to own and operate.
2012 Zero XU Key Features
What's new for 2012
The entire powertrain of the Zero XU is new for 2012. The result is a more powerful motorcycle that goes 75% farther on a charge, is 25% faster, utilizes regenerative deceleration and offers a dramatically extended lifetime of nearly maintenance free riding. Capable of hitting a top speed of 65 mph, the new Zero XU also has a significantly broader power band that makes urban riding more fun than ever before. Now featuring new state of the art battery cell technology and a brushless motor, the Zero XU lasts over 3,000 full recharge cycles, or over 100,000 miles, while requiring no motor or power pack maintenance. In addition, the rear wheel is now driven by a belt drive that is both maintenance free and offers the same sophisticated silence as the Zero S and Zero DS.
Revised frame geometry, new optimized Zero designed rotors and larger brake reservoirs give the Zero XU better handling than ever before. Visually distinguishing it from last year, the Zero XU’s aircraft grade aluminum frame is now anodized black.
2012 Zero XU Features and Benefits
Game Changing Z-Force™ Technology: 75% More Range / 100,000+ Mi on a Power Pack
The Zero XU is the world’s first street motorcycle that enables owners to essentially charge anywhere by way of an on-board charger, removable power pack and optional stand-alone charger. This allows owners to recharge without the requirement of garage or street-level charging at their homes or apartments. The removable pack also facilitates essentially non-stop usage by enabling individuals, or fleets, to quickly swap power packs.
The 2012 Zero XU leverages a completely new battery cell chemistry and configuration. Not only does the Zero XU now have 42 miles range, the power pack is designed to last the life of the motorcycle. The result of cutting edge research and development, each cell in the power pack is individually controlled and monitored at all times to ensure maximum health. The integrated onboard charger minimizes charge time and can work in parallel with Zero’s quick charge accessories to cut charge times by 50%.
Enhanced power pack features include: •75% more range over 2011
- Now capable of going 42 miles according to the EPA UDDS
- Cells last 3,000 full charge-discharge cycles before hitting 80% capacity, yielding as much as 113,000 miles on the original power pack
- State of the art new power pack configuration and cell chemistry ?68% higher energy density power pack that yields significant range and performance advantages
- Elegant new low resistance and highly robust cell interconnect technology
- New battery management system with enhanced 24/7 cell monitoring and a 92% reduction in power consumption
- New, higher voltage power system that allows the motor to run cooler and with more RPMs than ever before
- Quick-charge option available to cut recharge time by 50%
- Isolated power systems and 12 volt system for running accessories
- Onboard charger that uses a specially developed charge profile
- Power pack can be fully removed from the motorcycle and transported to charge anywhere (this requires the purchase of the stand-alone charger in the quick-charge option)
- Power pack can be used interchangeably with the Zero X and Zero MX
- Power pack locking system for increased security and peace of mind
- Full aluminum anodized exterior casing
- Highly durable and impact load resistant
- Superior internal packaging
- External programming and recall capabilities via diagnostics port
Brushless Motor and Regenerative Breaking: 65 mph Top Speed
A compact and powerful brushless motor provides riders with exhilarating acceleration to a top speed of 65 mph. Completely air cooled, the motor is designed to provide riders with years of fun minus the need for any regular maintenance. When slowing down the motor works with a new brushless motor controller to recharge the power pack.
- Completely new maintenance-free, clean, forced-air cooled brushless motor
- Increased torque and broader power band for much stronger acceleration
- Regenerative braking recharges the power pack when decelerating
Frame and Bodywork: Lightweight and Stealthy
The Zero XU is built around an incredibly robust dirt bike frame that has been refined for the city. Aircraft grade aluminum is exclusively used in the construction of the lightweight and rigid frame. The result is a fun motorcycle that is ideal for withstanding the rigors of urban streets.
- Better handling with refined frame geometry for 2012
- Extremely rigid and lightweight black aircraft grade aluminum frame
- Entire frame is shot-peened and anodized for resistance to corrosion and abrasion
- Organic frame gusseting for increased strength and smoother body lines
- Large cylindrical swingarm cross tube for increased stiffness and suspension response
Wheels and Brakes: Robust and Responsive
The wheels and tires on the Zero XU are built to last. With rugged construction and tires that steadfastly hold the pavement, riders can feel confident while maneuvering through urban obstacles.
- More durable and robust wheels for 2012
- Standard sizes with commonality for aftermarket tire options
- Straight-pull spokes for long term durability
- Precise and easy to modulate brake system ?Steel braided lines for superior lever feel and more precise brake modulation
- High performance compound brake pads
Suspension and Riding Position: Confidence and Control
The Zero XU has a low seat height and uses a highly tuned suspension system to absorb rough surfaces in the city. Taking advantage of the motorcycle’s low weight, the inverted front fork is robust, light and responsive. Riders can quickly dial it in using the externally adjustable compression and rebound damping. On the rear, a rigid double diamond swing arm keeps the wheel planted using an adjustable shock.
Carefully tuned and balanced suspension system: •Specially tuned for urban riding
- Robust triple-clamps
- Optimized fork and shock internals
- Aluminum stanchions for reduced weight and superior control
- Front adjustments: Compression and rebound damping
- Rear adjustments: Spring preload and rebound damping
Comfortable riding position and optional on-board storage: •Low seat height for improved rider confidence and better handling via a lower center of gravity
- Tall handlebars for increased control and better responsiveness (with adjustable risers to allow for rider customization)
- Optional storage for greater around town utility
- Supportive foot pegs with an aggressive profile
Dash and Controls: Focus on the Ride
Advanced system monitoring and informative dash reporting
- Sport / Eco switch to allow riders to select motorcycle performance
- Exceptionally accurate charge indicator
- Innovative state of charge (SOC) algorithm
- Ergonomic and durable switch gear (for operation of lights, turn signals, etc.)
- Keyed ignition switch and steering lock for improved security and peace of mind
- Soft and more comfortable seat to accommodate longer rides
Gearing: Maintenance Free Belt Drive
With silent operation and no shifting, riders can simply focus on enjoying the ride. Featuring a clutchless direct drive, the Zero XU is geared for city riding and increased efficiency. Using a new maintenance free belt system, the Zero XU is able to achieve minimal frictional losses. This increases its overall range and channels power more efficiently into speed. The result is a motorcycle that is quick and responsive.
- New maintenance free and virtually silent belt drive system
- No shifting with direct drive
- Clutchless one speed that simplifies operation
- Geared for rapid acceleration and maximum efficiency
2012 Zero XU - Specifications and Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ 7,695 USD
Europe MSRP Price: €7,695 Euro
Range
City (EPA UDDS) 42 miles (68 km)
Highway (commuting, 55mph) 28 miles (45 km)
Motor
Type High efficiency, axial flux permanent magnet, brushless motor with integrated forced air cooling
Controller High efficiency, 220 amp, 3-phase brushless controller with re-generative deceleration
Top speed (max) 65 mph (105 km/h)
Top speed (sustained) 55 mph (88 km/h)
Power System
Type Z-Force™ patented Li-Ion intelligent portable power pack
Maximum capacity 3.0 kWh
Nominal capacity 2.6 kWh
Estimated pack life to 80% (city) 113,000 miles (182,000 km)
Charger type 1kW, integrated
Charge time (standard) 3.1 hours (100% charged) / 2.7 hours (95% charged)
Quick 2x charger time (accessory) 2.0 hours (100% charged) / 1.3 hours (95% charged)
Input Standard 110V or 220V
Drivetrain
Transmission Clutchless one speed
Final drive 132T / 25T, Poly Chain® GT® Carbon™ belt
Chassis / Suspension / Brakes
Front suspension 38mm inverted forks with adjustable compression and rebound damping
Rear suspension Direct-link shock with adjustable spring preload and rebound damping
Front suspension travel 5.31 inches (135 mm)
Rear suspension travel 5.54 inches (141 mm)
Front brakes 2 piston hydraulic, 220x4 mm disc
Rear brakes 1 piston hydraulic, 220x4 mm disc
Front tire 90/90-19
Rear tire 110/90-16
Front wheel 1.85x19
Rear wheel 2.15x16
Dimensions
Wheel base 55.0 inches (1397 mm)
Seat height (standard) 31.5 inches (800 mm)
Low seat height (accessory) 29.5 inches (749 mm)
Rake 24.7 degrees
Trail 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Weight
Frame 14.5 pounds (6.6 kg)
Curb weight 221 pounds (100 kg)
GVWR 471 pounds (214 kg)
Carrying capacity 250 pounds (113 kg)
Economy
Typical cost to charge $0.32
Equivalent fuel economy (city) 539 MPGe (0.44 liters/100km)
Equivalent fuel economy (highway) 359 MPGe (0.66 liters/100km)
Specifications are subject to change without notice. Imagery may not reflect most current product specifications. Zero Motorcycles reserves the right to make improvements and/or design changes without any obligation to previously sold, assembled or fabricated equipment.
2012 Zero XU - Press Release
ZERO MOTORCYCLES DELIVERS 2012 MODEL LINE WITH OVER 100 MILES RANGE,
MORE POWER AND NEW “LIFE OF MOTORCYCLE” POWER PACK
– Game-Changing New Motorcycles to Begin Shipping in February 2012 –
SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (November 8, 2011) – Zero Motorcycles today announced its 2012 model line that includes a revolutionary new powertrain, models capable of exceeding 100 miles range, a power pack designed to last the life of the motorcycle and top speeds of up to 88 mph. Stealthy looking and contemporary, every model has been transformed to be faster, go further and, in the spirit of all two wheeled enthusiasts, to be more fun than ever before. Innovating at an exceptional pace, Zero Motorcycles plans to begin delivery of its complete 2012 model line in February 2012. This will mark the first time in transportation history that a mass production electric motorcycle capable of exceeding 100 miles range will be available for consumers to own.
Zero’s new Z-Forcetm power pack uses a completely new battery cell chemistry and configuration that is up to 95% more energy dense and is rated to 3,000 complete charge cycles before hitting 80% capacity. This means that a Zero S could travel as much as 308,000 miles on its original power pack. All Zero’s on and off-road motorcycles leverage the new technology meaning that the power pack is designed to exceed the longevity expected of any conventional motorcycle. The result is a complete electric motorcycle line that offers owners exhilarating rides while saving on gas and virtually all routine powertrain maintenance.
“The 2012 model line is truly game changing. It marks the first time in history that riders can actually own an electric motorcycle that is capable of exceeding 100 miles of range on a single charge,” said Scot Harden, VP of Global Marketing of Zero Motorcycles. “Every model in the lineup goes faster, further and is more fun than ever before. These are not concepts. In less than three months, riders can see and purchase 2012 models at authorized Zero Motorcycles dealers.”
The Zero S, a street fighter, and Zero DS, a dual sport, are both available in a 6 or 9 kWh configuration. As measured by the EPA UDDS, the Zero S is capable of respectively achieving 76 or 114 miles. Both motorcycles offer a higher top speed, with the Zero DS hitting 80 mph and the Zero S topping out at 88 mph. Perhaps more importantly, both motorcycles offer a broad torque band and stealthy acceleration from 0 rpm that makes them incredibly fun to ride. In addition, all the street models, including the Zero XU, feature new brushless motors and regenerative braking that allow riders to recoup energy during deceleration. The Zero XU, a motorcycle designed for inner city riding, now uses the same maintenance-free belt drive system as the Zero S and Zero DS. Brushless air-cooled motors, life of motorcycle power packs and belt drive systems make Zero’s lineup of street models just about the world’s easiest to own form of transportation.
If you are interested in opening up new off-road riding possibilities with a nearly silent dirt bike, Zero has two models that are better looking and faster than ever before to meet your needs. For 2012, Zero streamlined its off-road model line. The Zero X, designed for trail riding, is now exclusively available with lights and is street-legal. With 33% more overall power and 75% greater range, it now uses the same championship winning powertrain as the Zero MX. Built for motocross riding and now exclusively available for off-road only, the Zero MX also received more power and offers riders the ability to accelerate harder and hit higher top speeds. Both off-road models have a bold new design that speaks to their more aggressive and longer lasting powertrain.
Pricing information:
Each Zero Motorcycles model is 100% electric and, as a result, is sometimes applicable to receive government rebates or credits. Zero sells its motorcycles through dealerships and, in states or countries without dealerships, sells motorcycles through its website. Each motorcycle comes with a two year limited warranty and will begin shipping in February. Zero and its dealers will accept pre-orders from customers who would like to secure a new 2012 electric motorcycle. The complete pricing for each model is below.
Zero S
MSRP: (ZF6) $11,495* | €11,495**
MSRP: (ZF9) $13,995* | €13,995**
Zero DS
MSRP: (ZF6) $11,495* | €11,495**
MSRP: (ZF9) $13,995* | €13,995**
Zero XU
MSRP: $7,695* | €7,695**
Zero X
MSRP: $9,945* | €9,945**
Zero MX
MSRP: $9,495* | €9,495**
*Does not include local shipping, applicable taxes, PDI, or road registration fees.
**Includes Product, Shipping, and VAT. Does not include PDI or road registration fees.
About Zero Motorcycles
Zero Motorcycles is committed to transforming the motorcycling experience by bringing to market highly innovative electric motorcycles that offer exceptional value and performance. Zero is powered by innovation, driven by passion, guided by integrity, and measured by results. Through extensive research, insight and experience, Zero combines the art and science of motorcycle development to create and manufacture products that excite consumers and inspire brand loyalty. Zero is determined to be the pre-eminent global electric motorcycle company.
