Electric Motorcycles, the Future? | 2024 Zero DSR & SR Review

[@richardstewart6900]

I like some of the idea of electric bikes - powerful, quiet, smooth. They've been around for ages in Trials with kids bikes and now some adult bikes. But for the sort of road riding I'd want to do the range, charging infrastructure and re-charge times just aren't there yet. Especially not at those prices.

[@BikeMatters]

Totally get you! Electric bikes are great for short rides, but the range and charging still need work for longer trips

[@tomblewomble3369]

I ride a BMW CE 04. People don't understand the realities of riding an electric motorcycle. Unless you only ride on tour you aren't riding it until empty. It is very likely you'll make your commute, run your errands and plug it in when you get home. No faffing at petrol stations and every time you get on you have a full tank. I commute to and from central London twice a week and it costs £5 per month in electricity. The handling of electric motorcycles is superior. They have smooth rapid acceleration, regenerative braking is brilliant, its close to silent and there's no vibrations or heat. I couldn't imagine switching to petrol.

[@BikeMatters]

The BMW CE 04 is a top electric scooter, and if your use is well within the range restrictions then it's a lovely scooter to ride around - though a tad expensive! Did you ride petrol before your CE 04?

[@tomblewomble3369]

@@BikeMatters Only during training. I've been on electric for over 2 years now. You pay more for new tech and the BMW brand commands a premium too, but I have no regrets. I hope they bring out a version 2 with double the range and CCS charging.

[@mellymoo_eats]

I like the Zero S since you can ride it with a CBT, but the price tag is steep.

[@Sodacake]

I just don't see electric motorbikes taking off until battery tech improves to give more range at the same or less weight. New developments from CATL will tell the tale about the viability of electric bikes.

[@RalfDuke]

17,000 quid for a motorcycle that you can ride for 1-2 hours a day before having to charge it for half a day?😂😂 Electric motorcycles are ideal for people who don't want to ride a motorcycle. They are products that practically nobody wants. Here in Germany, just 200 Zeros were registered in 2023, half of which are dealer demonstration vehicles. My prediction: Zero will be bankrupt by the end of 2025 at the latest.

[@BikeMatters]

I understand your concerns about price, range, and charging time. As battery technology advances, these issues could improve. Also, the electric motorcycle market is evolving, and future innovations could make a difference.

[@tamoghnasen5158]

Is it available in India?

[@bloodynorahvan2203]

Why is the charging time so awful on these? It's not like the tech doesn't exist

[@davidrochow9382]

The way governments are going soon you won't have a choice. In at least two countries that I know of after 2035 that's all there will be. To bad if you have no where to charge it as you live in a high rise and there's no where to plug it in. Also with what you are saying about drive distance and charging time a lot of people won't even want them and a lot of country towns will suffer as all the people that go for a ride and stop there for lunch won't as they don't have the distance in them.

[@BikeMatters]

You're right, charging infrastructure is a major concern, especially for those in high-rises or rural areas. The shift by 2035 could definitely pose challenges for long-distance riders and smaller towns.

[@aidan6557]

Damon motorcycles seems cool. 200mph top speed and 200 mile range. Until u see the 25k-45k price tag 💀

[@BikeMatters]

Damon motorcycles sound cool with those specs, but with a price tag ranging from $23k to $45,000, you'll need a large wallet, but given the technology in that bike, could the price justify it?

[@dwn2634]

Still far too expensive for ubiquity.

[@BikeMatters]

True, bikes like the Zero DSR and SR are pricey.

[@bobritter7197]

Nope.

[@dresmart432]

These ain't the future of two whealers !! 1st. No noise , no fun !! 2nd. No noise, more accidents !! 🤔

[@BikeMatters]

Interesting take! But do you really think noise is the only thing that makes riding fun or safe? What about all the new tech in electric bikes to improve safety and performance?

[@dresmart432]

@@BikeMatters :-) Let me explain my take : when you are riding on legal roads with gas motorcycle, the car drivers allways let you pass or maneuver on your behalf, because they hear your noise. If you are with a electric motorcycle/bike/scooter, despite of all safety / tech stuff, WHAT will draw the drivers attention ??!! Please let me know :-)

[@vstromanqc]

I have 36K km on my HD Livewire in 3 summers. Yes, I need some planning of long rides and it will take more time than a petrol bike to do it. With DC charging, my stops are 30-40min which is not too bad. I would like more a DSRX style for my next bike for more range and more comfort on bad roads.