Zero Motorcycles Announces 2011 Product Line with Comprehensive Upgrades and a Quick-Charge Option Across All Four Models

SANTA CRUZ, Calif., Feb. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Zero Motorcycles today announced its highly anticipated 2011 product line alongside a strategy for continued leadership of the global electric motorcycle industry. The only company to offer a complete lineup, Zero Motorcycles has made sweeping technical improvements as well as added a contemporary new look to each of its four models, including a complete overhaul of the Zero S and the Zero DS. Every model is now 'quick-charge' capable using an optional upgrade that allows the motorcycles to charge nearly twice as fast. In addition, for the first time on an electric motorcycle, riders can now take advantage of J1772 public charging stations by using an optional accessory. This offers riders greater mobility by giving them access to a rapidly growing network of charge stations. The entire lineup is equipped with upgraded suspension systems, a more intelligent and rugged Z-Force powertrain, more precise charge indicators, new higher performance brakes and industry-standard component features to provide owners with more aftermarket options. Other highlights to the product line include street legal configurations of the dirt bikes and a new maintenance free belt drive for the street and dual sport models.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110208/LA44018)

"During the past year, our Engineering and Manufacturing teams have benefitted from experienced new leadership and the results are clear. In close coordination, they have been working overtime to design and build the world's finest collection of electric motorcycles," said Gene Banman, CEO of Zero Motorcycles. "Our 2011 model line is composed of exceptionally high quality electric motorcycles that balance performance, range, weight, affordability and availability. We are excited to announce such major changes across the entire model line and to also be setting new industry standards in the way we report on our motorcycles' performance specifications."

Nearly every component of the Zero S and Zero DS has seen major upgrades and improvements. With a bold and completely new look, the street and dual sport models will become the world's first production electric motorcycles to feature a maintenance free belt drive system. The quiet operation of the drivetrain, when combined with each of the motorcycles' overall improvements, yields a sophisticated silence during riding that speaks to their overall solid build quality. Zero has also increased the capacity of the power packs by 12.5% to improve the motorcycles' range. Among the other upgrades are more robust wheels, a new HB Performance braking system, tires with better grip, more robust hardware, new aggressive profile foot pegs and an integrated ignition switch and lock. Unique to the Zero S, it has been lowered by two inches to improve street handling and the new overall package gives it an eye-catching naked look.

Zero Motorcycles has also made major changes to its off-road line. For the first time, the company will deliver street-legal configurations of both its trail and motocross dirt bikes, Zero X and Zero MX respectively. The ability to legally ride the electric off-road motorcycles on the street opens countless new possibilities for enthusiasts as well as a new market for Zero. Street-legal versions include additional components such as headlights, taillights, sidestands, dashes, sensors and different gearing.

Both the Zero X and Zero MX are better performing and more robust than ever before. They have stouter wheels, new tires, a more robust HB Performance braking system, new aggressive foot pegs and an integrated ignition switch and lock. Their motors are energized using a beautifully refined aluminum power pack that is highly durable and easy to swap in less than sixty seconds. To maximize control, Zero has customized each motorcycles' suspension internals to give them a more fluid and compliant motion under rough conditions. Unique to only the Zero MX, the 2011 model uses a motor mounted Z-Force Air Induction System to cool its new and more powerful Agni motor. Designed to ride harder, faster and longer, it represents the most competitive dirt bike that Zero has released to consumers.

The Zero S, Zero DS, Zero X and Zero MX are all available now through Zero Motorcycles' website and will begin shipping in March. Zero operates on a strategy of building a 'better motorcycle' wherein each model balances performance, range, weight, affordability and availability.

*Zero S and DS - Some states and provinces offer additional incentives. Every Zero model comes with a two year limited warranty.

**A Federal tax credit can be applied to the street-legal versions of MX and X off-road models if they are purchased with a second power pack. Some countries or states may offer incentives. The Zero MX and X comes with a two year limited warranty.

For press information, videos and photos go to www.zeromotorcycles.com/press.

For more information on Zero Motorcycles or to learn more about its complete product line including the Zero S, Zero DS, Zero MX and Zero X motorcycles, visit: http://www.zeromotorcycles.com/.

SOURCE Zero Motorcycles