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Makes And Models => Zero Motorcycles Forum | 2013+ => Topic started by: bergercurtis on July 19, 2019, 11:56:57 PM

Title: New to the EV world
Post by: bergercurtis on July 19, 2019, 11:56:57 PM
Hello,

I'm pretty new to the EV world. My brother has owned a self built e-bike (pedal assist, probably only a ~1kWh battery system) for many years and it has always interested me. I've always been a motorcyclist, owning anything from a Honda Shadow bobber to KTM enduros to various super sports. Working for a motorcycle dealership in Colorado now, we recently took on Zero motorcycles and I'm infatuated after riding their lineup. I'm about ready to buy- torn between the FXS and SR/F. I have a 20 mile one way commute 5 days a week, and I think either would be the perfect bike for my situation. I like the SR/F for the longer range and level 2 charging, but I wouldn't need it for the majority of my riding, and the price is rather steep. It does have quite a premium fit and finish over the more barebones FXS. Outside of commuting I often ride out into the mountains around us, and would definitely appreciate a longer range for that. I don't really want a 14.4 anything outside of the SR/F as they really feel much heavier and slower without the 75-10. I wouldn't mind that weight on the SR/F as it is nice and low, extra motor output to boot. Any input from owners of either? Also, where are most of you from? I see lots of CA and NV, anyone from CO?
Title: Re: New to the EV world
Post by: flattetyre on July 20, 2019, 12:05:33 AM
Welcome. Nice location. FXS and SR/F are about as different as you can get. The FXS is very much smaller, lighter and much better for anything that doesn't require fast or far. I have a FXS and for the riding I do it is awesome.

I would totally recommend the FXS, and for now a gas bike on the side if you really need something for longer rides.
Title: Re: New to the EV world
Post by: Bill822 on July 20, 2019, 12:06:53 AM
I live in Texas but will be moving to the mountains next year. I look forward to bringing my SR/F along but I'll bring gas bikes too. Long uphill pulls are tough on your range. Was just in Colorado driving my Volt and saw this. I found more charging in Estes Park than on my last visit but charging can still be sparse in the mountains.  If you can get to the top of a pass the ride down the other side should be a blast.
Title: Re: New to the EV world
Post by: Jarrett on July 20, 2019, 12:21:02 AM

I would totally recommend the FXS, and for now a gas bike on the side if you really need something for longer rides.
Can't believe I'm saying it, but I think I agree with flat tire.

Also, FX if you want to hit some trails up there.  FXS if not. 

SR/F is an expensive and fantastic bike... for 60-70 miles.  That's a REALLY fun 60-70 miles though.
Title: Re: New to the EV world
Post by: bergercurtis on July 20, 2019, 12:26:11 AM
Yeah, I have a 2018 KTM 690 Enduro R that I have a spare set of Warp 9 wheels for supermoto. I usually ride dirt on weekends and commute on supermoto wheels during the week. Not the best 'longer distance' bike with no wind protection and gearing ideal off the highway, but I don't do much motorcycle touring anyways. For stuff far away, I usually load the 690 into the bed of my truck and seek out trail systems or passes and drive there, ride, and camp or just make a day trip out of it. I don't want an FX because I'd be tempted to try stupid stuff off-road and they aren't quite as sturdy as a true enduro bike. I'd rather have an old, cheap 250/450 to thrash and not be as concerned about breaking it. Riding off-road we really push bikes to the limits. I ride my 690 like it's a MX, real enduro, and rarely a trials bike. We hit jumps, find hillclimbs, and really kinda abuse bikes off-road. 

The FXS seems to be a great fit for a fun commuter. I do like the thought of being able to travel to Denver on the SR/F and level 2 charging, as well as being a more premium bike. Either way, I don't think I'll be disappointed.
Title: Re: New to the EV world
Post by: willbrunner on July 20, 2019, 02:45:16 AM
Welcome!  I lived in CO for four years, and I would go with the SRF for the canyons. The FXS is awesome 0-40mph, but from 40 up the SRF rules. Also the range would be nice for some of the loops there.