+ VIDEO & GALLERY The Model S is the original Zero electric motorcycle, the longest surviving in the Californian manufacturer’s range. And it continues into 2024 but as an all-new motorcycle.
The Zero S fits into the 11kW A1 category (up to 125cc in petrol powered bikes) and is thus a very important bike in the range.
The Model Year 2024 Zero S is claimed to offer the best battery value in the industry thanks to its 14.4 kWh battery – twice the capacity of the previous model – and an all-new electric motor that gives better efficiency.
The key figures are:
- Top speed 86mph
- Peak torque 132nm
- City range 154 miles
- Optimal charge time 1.3 hours
Electric motor
The all-new Z-Force 75-7 motor is Zero’s latest in a long line of enhanced thermal efficiency, passively air-cooled, interior permanent magnet AC motors.
The 2024 Z-Force 75-7 shares the exterior motor hardware of the powerhouse SR/F to shed heat fast but utilizes different interior architecture to maximise power and drastically reduce weight. The result is overall cost savings in the naked street electric class.
Chassis design
The 2024 Zero S features the proprietary concentric motor and swingarm pivot design, providing optimal architecture to ensure constant drive-belt tension and maximum torque delivery to the rear wheel.
A custom-designed, large-bearing swingarm pivot allows ample space for the high-performance motor while allowing a slim chassis waist to enhance rider ergonomics and bike manoeuvrability.
Electronic controls
The 2024 Zero S is updated with Zero’s latest Cypher III+ operating system with a suite of downloadable performance upgrades. Bosch Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC) pairs power with control.
Cypher III+ is the conductor behind an orchestra of instruments propelling the Zero S. Add new Cypher Features through the NextGen app such as Rain, Eco, Standard, Sport, and Canyon modes. Not exactly right for you? Wel, you can customise the settings.
The app also gives Bike Status & Alerts, Charging, Ride Data Sharing, and OTA System Updates.
Licence
Riders holding an A1 licence with a CBT (compulsory basic training) enables anyone 17 and up to ride one of our 11kW models, including the S 11kW. A car driver’s licence enables the holder to ride 11kW motorcycles after taking and passing the CBT.
Battery pack
The Z-FORCE 14.4 kWh lithium-ion battery requires no maintenance or upkeep. Riders can extend their range even farther with the available Power Tank accessory (dealer install required).
Rapid charge
Zero’s Rapid Charge System is customisable for various charging levels but the baseline for the 2024 Zero S is a 3.0 kW charger.
To get even faster charging you can elect to have your dealer install the available Rapid Charging Module accessory and boost your onboard charging power. Alternatively, you can use the included EVSE cord to charge the Zero S from any standard wall outlet for an overnight charge.
Suspension
The S features Showa suspension components, including a Showa 43-mm Big Piston Separate Function (BPF) front fork with adjustable preload, compression, and rebound damping, as well as a Showa 40-mm piston, piggy-back reservoir rear shock with adjustable preload, compression, and rebound damping.
Carbon belt
The Zero S uses a belt drive system from long time Zero partner, Gates Carbon Drive. The Gates Carbon Drive is a clean, quiet and low-maintenance alternative to chain drives.
Fast facts
City range 154 miles (248 km)
Low-speed highway commuting 113 miles (182 km)
High-speed highway commuting 101 miles (162 km)
