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Makes And Models => Zero Motorcycles Forum | 2013+ => Topic started by: Davidg86 on December 06, 2017, 11:54:22 PM

Title: Torque like an Alta
Post by: Davidg86 on December 06, 2017, 11:54:22 PM

I have a Zero FX I bought in 2016. Its an awesome bike but the soft bottom end is my only gripe.

I haven't updated the firmware or anything but has Zero offered any modes with more Torque like Alta and the electric motion trials bikes have?

I've looked through the forums but haven't seen anything.

Title: Re: Torque like an Alta
Post by: KrazyEd on December 07, 2017, 07:45:16 AM

Nothing significant that I am aware of without spending a boatload of cash
Having someone reprogram it is also a possibility to get more torque earlier

Title: Re: Torque like an Alta
Post by: Curt on December 07, 2017, 08:39:38 AM

I wonder if it's a software limitation vs. a true power limitation. As I understand it, DC motors have the highest available torque at zero RPM, so it seems likely to be a software limitation. In that case it is definitely too conservative and might unnecessarily affect customer buying decisions.

An alternative solution would be to adjust sprocket sizes like @rayivers.
http://electricmotorcycleforum.com/boards/index.php?topic=6803.0

Title: Re: Torque like an Alta
Post by: Davidg86 on December 07, 2017, 09:54:06 AM

99% sure it’s just a computer tune. I just don’t know why Zero doesn’t give the option to have that poppy bottom end. I’m surprised it’s not a more common topic.

I understand Zero is  going for reliability, safety and runtime but it kinda ruins the bike for me. The initial pull on throttle feels like a CRF50. I’d give up 20 miles of range and some snapped belts to be able to really whip this thing.

Thanks for pointing me towards that sprocket thread. I might try that as a last ditch. I was staying away from the chain drive because the belt silence and smoothness is so wonderful.

Title: Re: Torque like an Alta
Post by: Curt on December 07, 2017, 12:31:03 PM

Quote from: Davidg86 on December 07, 2017, 09:54:06 AM

I’d give up 20 miles of range and some snapped belts to be able to really whip this thing.

In a heartbeat!

Title: Re: Torque like an Alta
Post by: rayivers on December 07, 2017, 10:46:22 PM

Just FWIW, here are the Alta final drive ratios & rear-sprocket torque figures I calculated (my bike's now the same torque as the Alta MX):

MX  12:53 (4.4:1,  450 ft/lbs) 
EX   13:53 (4.07:1, 416 ft/lbs)   
SM   15:50 (3.3:1,  338 ft/lbs)

As mentioned in the sprocket thread linked above, pretty much all I hear on the street now is tire noise, along with some motor whine above 20mph or so.

Ray

Title: Re: Torque like an Alta
Post by: NEW2elec on December 07, 2017, 10:56:28 PM

Also remember Alta runs at 350 volts and Zero runs at 116.