Is an electric motorcycle the bike of the year?

The Zero SR/S offers slick style, smooth, instant, powerful acceleration, and up to 320 kilometres (200 miles) of driving range. — Photo courtesy Zero Motorcycles

2020 has been a wild ride. For riders bold enough to try something a little different, they’ve experienced a jolt this year in the form of the electric 2020 Zero SR/S motorcycle. The Zero SR/S proves you don’t have to compromise performance, styling, or riding habits on a motorcycle powered by electricity.

This is the best motorbike to date from Zero Motorcycles, a 14-year-old, Santa Cruz, California-based company that recently signed a massive deal to provide Polaris with electric technology.

The Zero SR/S offers slick style, smooth, instant, powerful acceleration, and up to 320 kilometres (200 miles) of driving range. You plug it in using a cord that attaches where the gas tank cap would be. A full charge takes just 80 minutes, which is super quick compared to cars. It’s inexpensive to charge, too, costing just over a toonie for a full charge. It’s also really fast.

The Zero SR/S plugs in using a cord that attaches where the gas tank cap would be. A full charge takes just 80 minutes, which is super quick compared to cars. It’s inexpensive to charge, too, costing just over a toonie for a full charge. — Photo courtesy Zero Motorcycles

A single, air-cooled motor powers the Zero SR/S with 110 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque. With normal driving in Eco mode, the base model of the bike will get up to 259 kilometres (161 miles) of range in town. Sport and Street modes tighten and quicken responses on the brakes and throttle.

This futuristic-looking sport bike strips out all distractions. The electric motor is nearly silent, with none of the rumbling, vibrating, and oil spewing of a conventional motorbike.

The Zero SR/S is an electric motorcycle with all the capability, looks, and convenience of a conventional one.

What do you think? Would you purchase an electric bike? Which motorcycle was your favourite this year? Use the hashtag #BestMoto2020 and show off your pick. 

Technical specifications:

• Top speed (max)—200 kilometres per hour
• Peak torque—140 FT-LB
• Optimal charge time—80 minutes
• 320 kilometre range—With power tank
• 100% electric powertrain—Low maintenance
• Cypher III—Operating system
• 259 kilometres—City range
• Clutchless direct drive—Transmission
• 229 kilograms—Curb weight
• Bosch—Motorcycle stability control
• 787 millimetres—Seat height
• 5 years/unlimited kilometres—Power pack warranty