Motorcycle specifications Zero MotorcyclesDS 2014 Secondary destination

The Zero DS combines innovation and passion to create the world's most versatile electric motorcycle. Designed to be agile on muddy terrain and fast on asphalt, the Zero DS embodies a new style of freedom.

on a rocky road or a dusty trail, it will switch seamlessly between the wild and the civilized, depending on your needs, to get you to your destination faster. The Zero DS is responsive on demand, yet elegant when required. Bold yet sophisticated, its design is enhanced by an eye-catching frame that's both rigid and lightweight.

powered by the industry's most advanced technology, the Zero DS is an all-electric motorcycle that can venture onto any surface. Overcoming obstacles and staying in control is child's play, thanks to its direct drive, fully adjustable suspension and robust wheels. In technical riding conditions, Zero's revolutionary Z-Force® motor delivers astonishing responsiveness with a simple twist of your wrist. Like all models in the Zero Motorcycles range, the 2014 Zero DS gives its owner a sense of freedom thanks to a maintenance-free powertrain, running costs measured in pennies per kilometer and powerful acceleration.

new for 2014

the Zero DS takes its inspiration from the revolutionary 2014 Zero S. like the latter, it can now go even further, and features many of the improvements made on the Zero S. Using the new Z-Force® Power Tank accessory, owners of any 2014 Zero DS model can increase the size of their battery by 2.8 kWh, to a total of 14.2 kWh. This corresponds to an urban range of 253 km. Equipped with Zero Motorcycles' Z-Force® motor and a high-voltage power system, the Zero DS offers instant acceleration that's both impressive and incredibly smooth, with no need to shift gears. This sophisticated yet elegantly simple transmission allows riders to venture into more challenging terrain by eliminating peripheral inconveniences such as declutching and shifting gears. The brushless motor is sealed for longevity. It is so efficient that it requires no external cooling system.

for improved handling on both road and track, the Zero DS now features wider forks (43 mm), a completely reworked rear shock absorber and sturdier fork crowns. The fork tees integrate perfectly with the refined instrument panel, which elegantly displays real-time riding data and bike statistics. To enhance ride quality and precision, the torsional rigidity of the chassis has been reinforced. The frame, swingarm and front suspension are now more robust. The steering column and swingarm bearings have been completely redesigned and are larger. In addition, the braking system now offers better control and braking power, with a larger rear disc and a new rear caliper. With a redesigned fairing, perfectly integrated instrument panel and many improved details, the 2014 Zero DS has a rugged yet refined appearance that conveys the exhilarating riding experience it has to offer.

a refined off-road compatible drivetrain

the wheels are designed to be particularly light and strong. Whether off-road or on, the dual sport tires offer tight control and the suspension system, specially designed for the Zero DS, absorbs the roughness of the terrain. The result is a sporty trail bike that's ready for any terrain.

z-Force® battery technology changes the game - Range over 200 km / Life expectancy over 450,000 km

the 2014 Zero DS relies on advanced cell chemistry battery technology and a new configuration. Not only does the ZF11.4 pack deliver autonomies in excess of 200 km, it's also designed to last the life of the motorcycle. The result of cutting-edge research and development is that each battery cell is individually controlled and constantly monitored to ensure optimum durability. The integrated charger minimizes charging time and can work in parallel with the rapid charger. So what does all this mean? That the Zero DS is quite simply a benchmark among production electric motorcycles in terms of acceleration, range, charging time and longevity.

new Power Tank technology - up to 253 km city range

the Z-Force® Power Tank adds 2.8 kWh of battery capacity to all 2014 Zero DS models. Available as an option, the Power Tank can be added at any time, at the time of purchase or at a later date. For example, if you buy a 2014 Zero DS ZF8.5, you could very well place the accessory on your bike years after your purchase and thus have a battery capacity of 11.4 kWh. Another example: if you buy a 2014 Zero DS ZF11.4, you can equip your bike with the Power Tank and have a battery capacity of 14.2 kWh. With this kind of energy storage capacity, a rider can expect a range of 253 km in town or 123 km on the freeway.

z-Force engine - 54 hp, 92 Nm....and incredibly efficient

zero Motorcycles has designed the Z-Force® engine down to the smallest detail, making it compact, efficient and powerful. Accelerating to its top speed of 158 km/h will take your breath away. Fully air-cooled, the engine is designed to give you a fantastic driving experience without regular maintenance. When you slow down, the motor generates energy that is fed back into the battery to extend the range.

chassis and body

aircraft-grade aluminum is used exclusively to build the Zero DS's twin-spar frame. both strong and light, it gives the Zero DS incredible agility, both on and off-road. Designed to have a low center of gravity, the Zero DS is highly maneuverable and responsive. The bike's refined appearance is complemented by a sleek new fairing that gives it a contemporary, dynamic and streamlined look. The fairing's "tank" features an integrated storage compartment that is lockable and removable. The tank area can also be replaced by the Power Tank accessory, which adds 2.8 kWh of battery capacity

wheels and brakes

zero DS wheels are designed to minimize unsprung weight and reduce rotating mass. Developed specifically for the Zero DS, the lightweight construction includes hub, spokes and brake discs. To maximize the wheel's overall strength, the hub is configured with straight spokes. This makes the wheel lighter, stronger and more responsive. For maximum stopping power, the Zero DS is equipped with robust, easily adjustable Nissin front brakes and a new rear brake caliper with a wider disc (240 mm) for greater control at the rear.

suspension

the Zero DS suspension has been developed by Zero Motorcycles to take advantage of the lightweight design of these bikes. Its 43 mm inverted front fork features an external adjustment system for setting compression and rebound damping. at the rear, a rigid diamond-type double swingarm keeps the wheel in contact with the ground, using a rear shock absorber fully adjustable for preload and rebound. The supple suspension combines with the silence of the transmission to deliver an exhilarating ride. You have to try it to understand.

dashboard and controls

the instrument panel is designed by Zero to quickly provide useful and accurate information such as load level, power output and selected riding profile. You can juggle the three riding modes using the ergonomic switch on the right to better determine your riding needs: sport, eco, custom. The dashboard display is a blue backlit LCD screen. It blends in perfectly with the front of the motorcycle. Want more information about your motorcycle while you're riding or at home? Try the Zero Motorcycles app.

zero Motorcycles apps - adapt your ride

with Zero Motorcycles' new app, you can access detailed information about your motorcycle: charging time, average power in watts per kilometer, complete charging cycles and much more. When you're stationary, the app lets you set personalized parameters for top speed, maximum torque and maximum energy recovery when braking. While you're riding, your cell phone transforms into a personalized dashboard, providing you with detailed information about the bike in real time. Thanks to Bluetooth, the app works on iPhone and Android.

clutchless drive - Instant torque with just a little difference

featuring a clutchless direct drive system, the Zero DS is designed for rapid acceleration and maximum efficiency. It delivers powerful, controlled acceleration from any speed between 0 and 158 km/h, without having to shift gears. Thanks to the carbon fiber belt, friction losses are minimal. The Zero DS has a long range, and its powertrain is virtually maintenance-free.

recharge anywhere - in any standard socket

the Zero DS charging system is integrated into the motorcycle and can be plugged into any standard socket. No additional equipment is required for standard charging. This allows you to recharge your machine in your garage, at the office or when you stop off at one of your favorite spots on a motorcycle outing. Plug the Zero DS in at night or when you're at the office, and it's ready when you are. For those interested in a quick charge, the CHAdeMO* accessory recharges the battery in just one hour.

*The bike recharges to 95% in almost an hour.

Credits and images: Zero Motorcycles