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[Vertigo1]

I am absorbing tons of info about the Zero bikes reading these forums, thanks to everyone for the great questions and answers!

Back to topic, I have a question that is in line with the resale subject.

What is the upgradability like for these bikes? Is there any way to "bolt-on" some of the new technology that improves range onto one of the older bikes at a reduced cost? It would seem that this is probably something that could help with resale value assuming that the computer/battery/motor could be interchangable and that the rest of the bike holds value as a platform for future range improvements.

I have figured that it would take me approximately 80,000 miles when fuel is above $3.50/gal to leverage the savings on gasoline into the cost of the bike when compared to my current vehicle.

I am looking at the DS ZF9 for commuting on a 60 mile (mostly city) round trip and it would be great if there were a cost-effective way to improve the range a few years down the road as it seems the real-world tests would put me awfully close to the limits on this bike if I were not to charge while at work. I am confident enough in it to give it a shot as it stands, and find a way to charge at work if necessary, but it would be nice to be able to buy a little peace of mind in a few years without having to buy a new bike before the previous one has leveraged its value.

[rotoiti]

If you took a rebate/incentive (like CA $900 EV rebate) you're locking yourself into owning this bike for 3 years. I'd say "rebated" bikes will start appearing around early 2015 at the earliest.

[oobflyer]

It will be interesting to see the Empulse specs which are due out in just a couple of days.

I put my name on the reservation list for an Empulse when Brammo first unveiled it a couple of years ago, but in January, after waiting for almost two years, I bought a Zero ZF9 instead. I have over 2,000 miles on it now and I love the ZF9. My only criticism is the exaggerated range claims (count on about 50% of what is advertised), but to be fair - all EV companies advertise the "best case scenario" range. For the Zero they claim 114 miles/charge, but this is at an average speed of 20 MPH (see the post, 'Real World Range' for more info).

If you get the Zero I highly recommend getting the optional "high speed" charger, which will charge the bike in about 4 hours, vs. overnight. I used it last weekend for a longer ride and found that I could add about two 'bars' on the fuel gauge for 45 minutes of charging; not bad.

When I bought my bike there was no negotiating - so if you can get a break on the price - so much the better. In any case you won't regret riding an electric bike; no gas, low maintenance... and you are helping the economy, the environment... and enjoying the commute!

One last thought - I got my $900 rebate from California, but at no time during the application process was I asked to "keep the bike for three years". I never signed anything to that affect nor agreed to anything like that, so I'm not sure where that idea came from.

[rotoiti]

One last thought - I got my $900 rebate from California, but at no time during the application process was I asked to "keep the bike for three years". I never signed anything to that affect nor agreed to anything like that, so I'm not sure where that idea came from.

From the CVRP Applicant Requirements, point 5:

"5. Retain ownership of the vehicle for a minimum of 36 consecutive months immediately after the vehicle purchase or lease date. Rebate recipients who do not retain the eligible vehicle for the full 36-month ownership or lease period will be required to reimburse ARB all or part of the original rebate amount."

[oobflyer]

Ah - I didn't read the fine print