Automotive Articles

Many people are thinking about alternative energy. They look at gasoline powered cars and think about ways to not only protect the environment but to quiet down the roadways. An electric dirt bike can accomplish this.

One company that produces these is Zero Motorcycles. Zero electric dirt bike is quiet, and performs well. As of August of 2008 they were already back ordered. Of course only 45 had been produced by that time. Their goal is to produce 2000 in 2009. They will also introduce an electric street bike.

An electric dirt bike is ideal for people who want to ride off-road in barren areas near cities. This could include wilderness trails in suburban developments. Normal bikes would draw the anger of neighbors. They’re very loud. But the electric version hums along quietly. That’s why it’s becoming popular.

One issue with an electric dirt bike is the price.  All things equal, an electric bike will cost more than a like gas bike.  These bikes have a short range.  A charge is good for 40 miles.  That’s good for about two hours.  One problem with this is people like to ride for an entire day.  They won’t find a socket out in the wild.

Some veteran off-road riders see the electric dirt bike as a novelty. They don’t think it will last. One rider, also an editor of a motorcycle magazine, said “this is a good second bike, but not something most enthusiasts would want to own as an only bike.” But other people call them sexy and fun.

The founder of zero said he became interested in building an electric dirt bike in about 2002. He was formerly an aerospace engineer, but later became a motorcycle designer. He disagreed with people who think electric cycles are slow and boring. He dislikes off-the-shelf parts so many of the parts on his bikes are custom designed.

The big problem with an electric dirt bike is the battery.  Lithium ion batteries get very hot.  Zero developed a cooling material to pack around the batteries.  It’s a $4000 system that lasts for a little less than 6 years.  The battery takes about two hours to fully recharge.  That’s not bad.  The bike can go 0 to 30 in under 2 seconds.  Many riders like that performance.

Speaking of costs, the zero is about $7,000, this electric dirt bike also costs $300 to ship. They’re only sold online.  The company wants to become a huge concern.

The electric dirt bike will have its day.