Rennie Scaysbrook | February 25, 2019
2020 Zero SR/F First Look. — Zero has today unveiled their all-new SR/F electric motorcycle. In a huge step for the Santa Cruz-based company, the 2020 Zero SR/F claims a massive 140 ft-lb of torque and 110 hp thanks to the new ZF75-10 motor and ZF14.4 lithium-ion battery, a vastly reduced charging time and a 200-mile range with the addition of the Zero Power Tank.
Zero’s been hard at work for many years developing the SR/F concept and then production model, as it makes a concerted effort to convert riders onto electric propulsion, as can be seen by the conventional naked bike styling and steel trellis chassis.
The 2020 Zero SR/F battery can be charged to 0-95 percent in one hour—if you use three separate charging devices. Zero calls this the Rapid Charge System. It aims to make more use of the growing network of Level 2 charge stations around the country. The Rapid Charge System “provides a platform that allows for up to three independent charging modules. This enables unique adaptability and the fastest recharge capacity in Zero’s lineup,” says Zero’s release.
Bosch MSC Now in Use
As for the electronics, there’s plenty on offer. Zero’s fitted the Bosch MSC (Motorcycle Stability Control) that works in conjunction with the new Cypher III operating system. Cypher III is the bike’s brain and integrates all the systems in use and lets you alter the four different riding modes in Street, Sport, Eco, Rain, with up to 10 programmable custom modes.
The MSC takes care of ABS and cornering brake control, traction control, and drag torque control.
One thing Zero is particularly proud of is the new app. Zero has long been a fan of app control for their bikes, and the new version allows riders to monitor bike status and alerts, charging, ride data sharing, system upgrades and updates for the Cypher III system.
Zero says the app/connectivity is free for the first two years with the purchase of a new SR/F. However, presumably after this period, you’ll have to subscribe to it.
A 2020 Zero SR/F with a 3 kW Rapid Charger starts at $18,995. The premium 2020 Zero SR/F model with 6 kW Rapid Charger, fly screen, heated hand grips, and aluminum bar ends will cost you $20,995.
Stay tuned for a review on the 2019 Zero SR/F soon in Cycle News.
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