Wildguzzi.com

General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Rick in WNY on February 25, 2019, 02:08:43 PM

Title: The new Zero
Post by: Rick in WNY on February 25, 2019, 02:08:43 PM
They've released the specs.

https://www.zeromotorcycles.com/zero-srf/

Harley better be afraid.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Gliderjohn on February 25, 2019, 02:38:20 PM
Going to be interesting watching this for the next few years. Looks like Zero has it together quite well. :popcorn:
GliderJohn
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: fotoguzzi on February 25, 2019, 02:40:11 PM
Yikes 140 FP of torq?  :bow:
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: rdbandkab on February 25, 2019, 02:46:02 PM
200/220-ish range with a 1 hour "optimal" charging time.
She ain't cheap though!
(https://i.ibb.co/t30MpJN/zere.jpg)
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Ncdan on February 25, 2019, 02:48:45 PM
Like most all electric vehicles, cars or bikes, the range without a stop and charge makes it impractical, for my use anyway. Road trips are seldom just 200 miles or under.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on February 25, 2019, 03:26:56 PM
Yikes 140 FP of torq?  :bow:

and 110 hp. Instantly available.  :thumb:
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: rocker59 on February 25, 2019, 03:32:52 PM

She ain't cheap though!
 

$18999 - $20999 may not be cheap, but it's a bargain as compared to the H-D offering.

Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: bad Chad on February 25, 2019, 03:42:20 PM
Like most all electric vehicles, cars or bikes, the range without a stop and charge makes it impractical, for my use, anyway. Road trips are seldom just 200 miles or under.

It’s not aimed at you.   It’s aimed at the vast majority of motorcycles that travel less than 150 miles a day.   I can see the price of the HD Live Wire dropping quickly after they sell the initial builds to the small group of HD early adopters.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: LowRyter on February 25, 2019, 04:03:13 PM
I think Vespa might be as concerned as Harley.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: inditx on February 25, 2019, 04:04:31 PM
I’m sure it would be a rush to ride!
Not gonna plop down $20 large though......yet
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: JJ on February 25, 2019, 04:46:34 PM
OK Lannis...you win! :wink: - I removed my comment...and won't use the "GG" term ever again on this forum! :cool: :boozing:

Here is one for you, however, on a different note!


(https://i.ibb.co/bHyBvtq/Screen-Shot-2019-02-25-at-3-40-36-PM.png) (https://ibb.co/bHyBvtq)
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on February 25, 2019, 04:48:39 PM
Quote
but I for one, and not quite ready for the transition... :huh:

JJ, you need to ride a high performance electric bike. All that power and instantly available torque is seriously addicting. Before I test rode the previous gen Zero SR, I thought I wouldn't like it. I was seriously wrong..
That said, the technology isn't quite there, yet. It is advancing more rapidly than most think, though. GM is dropping most of their line to concentrate on electrics. BMW.. I could go on.
Need I say, we *need* to do this.. and.. seriously invest in renewable energy?
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Lannis on February 25, 2019, 05:09:23 PM
OK Lannis...you win! :wink: - I removed my comment...and won't use the "GG" term ever again on this forum! :cool: :boozing:

Here is one for you, however, on a different note!


(https://i.ibb.co/bHyBvtq/Screen-Shot-2019-02-25-at-3-40-36-PM.png) (https://ibb.co/bHyBvtq)


No possible comment to that ... It's true!
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: JJ on February 25, 2019, 05:14:46 PM
JJ, you need to ride a high performance electric bike. All that power and instantly available torque is seriously addicting. Before I test rode the previous gen Zero SR, I thought I wouldn't like it. I was seriously wrong..
That said, the technology isn't quite there, yet. It is advancing more rapidly than most think, though. GM is dropping most of their line to concentrate on electrics. BMW.. I could go on.
Need I say, we *need* to do this.. and.. seriously invest in renewable energy?

Agreed...and if ever get the opportunity, I will definitely go for it! :thumb: :cool:
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: blu guzz on February 25, 2019, 05:34:55 PM
The problem I see is the audience that might be most excited about this is up to their asses in student debt. 
I never paid $20k for a bike, but that is not in my future.  There are some well off riders who will pick these up as a novelty, but I just don't think there will be enough of an audience for those for the next few years.  Being interested in the environment, I applaud their effort. 
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Aaron D. on February 25, 2019, 06:29:29 PM
Nice looking bike and decent spec. Price is actually pretty good for the state of affairs.

Need? I'll believe that we are serious about need when the campaign to fast track nuclear plants gets going.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: bad Chad on February 25, 2019, 06:42:18 PM
It’s a big country fellas.   You start out with 325 million, you only see t sell a few thousand to get things rolling.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Gliderjohn on February 25, 2019, 08:28:40 PM
From blu guzz:
Quote
The problem I see is the audience that might be most excited about this is up to their asses in student debt. 
I never paid $20k for a bike, but that is not in my future.  There are some well off riders who will pick these up as a novelty, but I just don't think there will be enough of an audience for those for the next few years.  Being interested in the environment, I applaud their effort.

I think with sales and technology improvements that they will come down in price, at least to some extent. For example I recently paid $199 for a 32" high def smart TV. I also recently saw a reproduced ad for a 1964 22" color TV for $639 at the time and using an inflation calculator that would be over $5,200 in todays dollars. Time will tell.
GliderJohn
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Motormike on February 25, 2019, 08:41:42 PM
Yes, it's true that electric vehicles can be quite fast off the line...all that electric motor torque in an instant.  Unfortunately, if you ride it like you stole it, the range drops off disproportionately. Far more so than a comparable ICE.  I was once at Road Atlanta for a BMW car club event (just helping out). There was a Tesla doing laps (quietly!).  As I recall, he did about three full sessions, and then he was done for the day.  Meanwhile, the "old fashioned" gasoline cars refueled and kept right on going.  Every real-world review I've ever read about electric cars or motorcycles indicates the real usable range is quite different than the advertised range.  You know, kind of like manufactures advertised "horsepower" "empty weight" etc. 
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: kingoffleece on February 25, 2019, 08:48:43 PM
I'd wager with that torque it eats rear ties for lunch.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: pete roper on February 25, 2019, 11:37:59 PM
JJ, you need to ride a high performance electric bike. All that power and instantly available torque is seriously addicting. Before I test rode the previous gen Zero SR, I thought I wouldn't like it. I was seriously wrong..
That said, the technology isn't quite there, yet. It is advancing more rapidly than most think, though. GM is dropping most of their line to concentrate on electrics. BMW.. I could go on.
Need I say, we *need* to do this.. and.. seriously invest in renewable energy?

Abso-bloody-lutely!

Look guys, Chuck has ten years on me, I'm older than dirt, but I can see the future too and hopefully it won't contain nasty, old fashioned IC engines!

Twenty five years ago how many of us would of dreamed we'd be walking around with supercomputers in our pockets that allow us to do pretty much everything, (No, watching porn isn't compulsory!) and access information, accurate or otherwise, instantly?

The future is coming and it should be better, cleaner and more beneficial for all!

Bring it on!

Pete
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: oldbike54 on February 26, 2019, 12:31:25 AM
 Every seven years fellas , every seven years .

 Dusty
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Muzz on February 26, 2019, 03:03:53 AM
I reckon that an electric small bike (say Honda 100 style or even the Cub) would be absolutely ideal around town.  Biggish wheels and a ton of low down snot.

Here in Christchurch our council has been putting in cycle ways left right and center, to the detriment of road traffic I must add.  One goes past our drive, and I am noticing a dramatic increase in the number of electric pushbikes using it.  Even quite elderly (actually, at 70 I guess that's me :rolleyes:) are using them to be able to get somewhere at a reasonable speed.

I must add that my trusty rusty still relies on the twin cylinder radial engine to get to where I want to go. :grin:
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Luap McKeever on February 26, 2019, 04:22:46 AM
That price is not bad if you consider you'll never have to buy fuel or oil. And the only maintenance you have to do on these things is the brakes and tires.  I'd own one in a second if I lived in a warm climate town. I'd ride it to work etc. Keep my Guzzi for longer trips.

FWIW, I rode a Zero at Brookside when they were open. I was very impressed. Power is stupid...and right now! I don't remember what model I rode, but I was told it had a 200 mile range and a 30 minute charge on regular 110. Heck, I could travel cross country on that. You could just "refill" it almost anywhere. 
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: weevee on February 26, 2019, 04:29:14 AM
Review here: https://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/zero/exclusive-2019-zero-sr-f-review-first-ride.html

Vid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9N4yrvg6-ao
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: twowheeladdict on February 26, 2019, 05:59:30 AM
The electric bikes are interesting, but when you read the detailed specs you see that for us that live in the country the range is a whole different story than those who use in the stop and go city.

When you look at the gas powered bikes you can buy for the same (or less) money, you have to really want an electric motorcycle. 
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Rough Edge racing on February 26, 2019, 06:09:50 AM
 Hmm, no clutch, no gear shift, no vibration, no sounds of internal combustion, no interest....That and I'm way to cheap to spend the money...
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Johncolleary on February 26, 2019, 07:12:22 AM
I rode the live wire when it was traveling around and was totally amazed at the power but the range is the deal killer.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Rick in WNY on February 26, 2019, 07:13:57 AM
My daily commute... 42 miles each way. There are two routes I can take, basically the same length.

One is 20 miles of 55mph 2-lane followed by 18 miles of 70mph 4-lane followed by a couple miles of city riding.
The other is 40 miles of 55 mph 2-lane followed by a couple miles of city riding.

My point being, electric bikes have finally gotten to the point where they have the ability to handle my daily commute. Now, one thing I noticed... Zero bumped up the power, torque, and range on this new bike, but they did it the hard way.

It's running the same 14.4 battery pack as the last gen.

This means they increased range by increasing efficiency rather than strapping more batteries to it. They keep this up, they're going to be so far out in front other brands will have a hard time catching them.

I've run the numbers, the lack of maintenance and consumable items on an electric bike vs a motor-cycle means it would cost me $1000 less per year to run an electric vs a conventional motorcycle. Yes, most of that is gasoline. That's also me and my riding, which now that I'm approaching the end of hauling kids to school (youngest graduates in June) means I'll be using my bikes more... to the tune of 10K miles per year. If I kept it for the 5 years the powerpack is under warranty... well, it's effectively a $15,000 bike due to the reduced ownership cost. This is what you need to look at with electric vehicles... the total annual operating cost.

As for range, well, Zero posts numbers based on multiple values. City riding, 55mph cruising, 70mph cruising, and mixes. Thing is, from people who own Zeros, the factory numbers are accurate or if wrong, a little conservative.

For me, a good electric bike would do everything I'd need as a commuter. YMMV.

Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: trippah on February 26, 2019, 08:39:26 AM
and should we get a "green" government anytime soon, they might adopt a tax break to help electric vehicles prosper.  (Much like tax breaks for insulted windows etc a decade ago).
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: rocker59 on February 26, 2019, 08:53:14 AM
and should we get a "green" government anytime soon, they might adopt a tax break to help electric vehicles prosper.  (Much like tax breaks for insulted windows etc a decade ago).

No need to wait for that which will never come.  You can already claim tax credits for EVs.

https://www.energy.gov/eere/electricvehicles/electric-vehicles-tax-credits-and-other-incentives
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: rocker59 on February 26, 2019, 08:54:59 AM

I've run the numbers, the lack of maintenance and consumable items on an electric bike vs a motor-cycle means it would cost me $1000 less per year to run an electric vs a conventional motorcycle. Yes, most of that is gasoline. That's also me and my riding, which now that I'm approaching the end of hauling kids to school (youngest graduates in June) means I'll be using my bikes more... to the tune of 10K miles per year. If I kept it for the 5 years the powerpack is under warranty... well, it's effectively a $15,000 bike due to the reduced ownership cost. This is what you need to look at with electric vehicles... the total annual operating cost.
 

Did you factor the cost of electricity to keep the bike charged? 
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: kingoffleece on February 26, 2019, 08:55:26 AM
There are several stories published from moto journalists about riding electric bikes across country.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Tusayan on February 26, 2019, 08:58:31 AM
Even where tax credits don't exist and you can't avoid income tax by buying an electric vehicle, legal tax avoidance remains a huge part of the attraction for most electric vehicle buyers... especially in areas where gas or diesel tax would otherwise be as much as 3/4 of the (let's say) $6 per gallon pump price for fuel.  The future in some of those areas is very likely to include tracking of your vehicle by GPS and being billed (literally) in direct proportion to how much you move your body by car or bike from one position to another.  That will give the civil libertarians something to think about, and will negate much of the current fuel cost savings.

In the here and now (for the time being) you can enjoy paying no tax on the coal or natural gas etc that indirectly fuels your electric bike but the time to refuel, regardless of range, is to me a huge restriction on the pleasure of using the vehicle.  Every trip away from home has to be pre-planned around long charging breaks, and changes to the itinerary involve recalculation of an entire day, not just a two minute stop to refuel for a revised destination.  I cannot imagine using such a limited vehicle for an Alps tour, which is the most preplanned riding I do, and I'll continue to treasure the flexibility and spontaneity of riding a gasoline powered bike - even if I can't avoid tax in doing so.

Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on February 26, 2019, 09:17:19 AM
Did you factor the cost of electricity to keep the bike charged?

Setting up the charger for "off peak" hours is a considerable savings. Actually, electricity is cheap. Figure out how much it costs to run (for instance) my house generator with the power out burning 2 gallons per hour around the clock.  :shocked:
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on February 26, 2019, 09:23:44 AM
Quote
Hmm, no clutch, no gear shift, no vibration, no sounds of internal combustion, no interest....

That was my thought too.. until I rode one.  <shrug> It was like a Lario with more than double the horsepower and *torque,* excellent brakes and suspension. The only real issue is that I couldn't have ridden it home. I'll bet charging stations will be here sooner than most think. Naturally, there will be push back from the oil companies until they figure out how to tax the sun.. :evil: :smiley:
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: rocker59 on February 26, 2019, 09:27:36 AM
There are several stories published from moto journalists about riding electric bikes across country.

The short range of most motorcycles is already a PIA, stopping to fuel every two or three hours on a trip.  Planning around gas stops is already a hassle on a motorcycle because of that short range.  Add in planning around electric charging stations and time to recharge, and I'll pass on trying to take a trip with ANY electric vehicle.

Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: rocker59 on February 26, 2019, 09:30:23 AM
Setting up the charger for "off peak" hours is a considerable savings. Actually, electricity is cheap. 

Maybe so, but most people don't consider the cost of electricity when considering EV.

And someone pays for the electricity to refuel the EVs.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on February 26, 2019, 09:38:09 AM
The short range of most motorcycles is already a PIA, stopping to fuel every two or three hours on a trip.  Planning around gas stops is already a hassle on a motorcycle because of that short range.  Add in planning around electric charging stations and time to recharge, and I'll pass on trying to take a trip with ANY electric vehicle.

True. Now. The infrastructure will have to catch up. Right now, though, I'll bet an electric would work for me in SoCal. My "normal" ride might be 20 miles of lane splitting, 60 miles of twisty fun, and 20 miles of lane splitting home.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Tusayan on February 26, 2019, 09:38:27 AM
someone pays for the electricity to refuel the EVs.

Most electricity is generated from fossil fuels that certainly aren't free, but the fundamental cost per Horsepower-hour is lower for an EV because of higher fuel efficiency of a power plant versus a small engine.  The larger saving to the consumer, varying by location, is fuel tax avoidance. With that in mind, the taxpayers are supplementing the cost of operation for EV owners, as with other tax avoidance allowed by government to encourage certain behaviors.  Once EVs are better established the gates will close behind the consumer, and taxes on EV movement will be introduced.  For now a consumer buying an EV is trading higher initial cost and the inconvenience of charging against effectively doubled mpg and fuel tax avoidance.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: rocker59 on February 26, 2019, 09:45:17 AM
   For now a consumer buying an EV is trading higher initial cost and the inconvenience of charging against effectively doubled mpg and fuel tax avoidance.

Good point on the Fuel Tax avoidance one currently enjoys while not burning gasoline on the roads.

Similarly, I've wondered when States would begin licensing or taxing bicycles, for the same reason.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: bad Chad on February 26, 2019, 09:47:55 AM
It's clear these bikes are not meant to be high mile slab eaters, so I hope I can stop reading, "yea they might be good for local riding but not touring!"

But they have crossed the line into practical, fun locomotion for what and where they are intended, and they will only continue to improve.  Most motorcycle riders in the US do not ride hundreds of miles a day, most motorcycle riders could easily live with a bike with a 145 mile range.   Just like most auto drivers in the US could do the same.   Yes, I understand that still leaves millions of motorist who don't fit that scenario, happily for us, we still have fine ICE too.  I think there great, and would like to own one someday, but I'm not about to get rid of my favorite mile eating twin!
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Tusayan on February 26, 2019, 09:59:34 AM
Good point on the Fuel Tax avoidance one currently enjoys while not burning gasoline on the roads. Similarly, I've wondered when States would begin licensing or taxing bicycles, for the same reason.

In Europe where fuel tax is $3-4/gallon or so, avoiding it is a BIG DEAL for the EV consumer, and that plus income tax credits is still a big factor in locations where price at the pump is based moreso on the cost of production.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Rick in WNY on February 26, 2019, 10:31:15 AM
Did you factor the cost of electricity to keep the bike charged?

Yup. I have a whole spreadsheet in Excel on the costs. The "fuel" cost of an electric bike where I live comes out to about $300 for the 10K miles I'd be riding it. That's a whole lot cheaper than gas... The rest is the lack of fluids, filters, and other maintenance items. End of the day, it's still a spreadsheet, only 1/2 of which is hard numbers (real cost of gas/riding my existing bikes) but it's still encouraging.

I could buy one and love it... Would it replace my gas engine bikes, nope. It's not supposed to. But it would make for a nice mileage sponge for my commute.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: twowheeladdict on February 26, 2019, 11:27:32 AM
and should we get a "green" government anytime soon, they might adopt a tax break to help electric vehicles prosper.  (Much like tax breaks for insulted windows etc a decade ago).

I think the companies build in the tax break to their price.  There is no way a Zero motorcycle should cost what it does. 

My only interest in an electric motorcycle would be for exploring the woods in a near silent way.  Enjoy nature a little more. 

Otherwise, not caring about 0-60 acceleration times.  If less power equated to more range I would take that.  Give me a transmission so the motor doesn't have to spin up as much to maintain 55 mph.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: kingoffleece on February 26, 2019, 11:28:55 AM
Our own Moshe Levy commuted on an electric bike for an entire riding season in the North east.  He wrote a very detailed article last year on the results.  Very informative.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: dguzzi on February 26, 2019, 11:55:50 AM
I simply cannot give it a pass on style...done been hit with the ugly stick; opened up a can of ugly beans; grew up on the ugly farm; went fishin' in ugly creek.  You get the idea.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: LowRyter on February 27, 2019, 01:22:25 PM
I'd sure like to what the urban scooter market will look like in 10 years, particularly in Europe.

As I said earlier, I think Vespa will be affected before Harley. 
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on February 27, 2019, 08:14:17 PM
Quote
I think the companies build in the tax break to their price.  There is no way a Zero motorcycle should cost what it does. 

You have to realize how much it truly costs to build from the ground up. Motus learned that lesson the hard way. The first adopters always are the ones to finance tech stuff. Remember people giving $6500 for a big flat screen tv not very many years ago? You can now buy better ones for well under $1000. It's all about economy of scale.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: TimmyTheHog on February 28, 2019, 05:18:37 PM
As much as I would miss the vibration and the sound of the IC engine vehicles, I welcome the change to "greener" side for the sake of the future.

I like longer travel and will do it when I have the chance...so charge time is kinda a bummer for the electric vehicles for now. But give it another 5~10 years, I am crossing my fingers that will change.

Now, in Taiwan, one of the scooter company is now working together with the government and became the "official" electric scooter of choice for the government therefore has the funding to build charging infrastructures to charge their scooters.

So they "solve" the "charging" issue by having replaceable battery stations everywhere.

So if you are almost out of juice, you can ride to a nearby station, pay for the replaced battery and re-insert your old one in. VOILA! quick 5 mins "charge".

But again, for that to work in North America, you will need to have nearly all the manufactures agreeing on the format of the replaceable battery as well as working together on building multiple infrastructures to support this idea. After all, North America is HELLA BIGGER than Taiwan, therefore, the infrastructures will definitely be WAY bigger to achieve this.

But one can dream...
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Muzz on February 28, 2019, 05:54:26 PM
Say if (when) they get the battery tech up to speed so that a bike can do a good distance on a charge.....  If I did 10,000kms a year on my Breva which does 23km/lit, that's roughly 434 lits of fuel. I pay just under $2-30 per lit for premium, so my annual fuel bill would be  about $1000 (NZ). That is not including any other stuff like filters and oil.

You can get out here a 300watt perc mono solar panel for $400, so in a year that would be 2.1/2 panels worth of gas. On an 8 hour day that would be 6kw generated (give or take).

When our vehicles start becoming main stream electric I can well see some advantages in going solar, especially now that Perovskite crystal ones are getting the longevity problems sorted and the lab efficiencies have overtaken silicon.  These are being touted as being much cheaper to produce as well. (Guzzi content :wink:)

Being retired and not needing a vehicle every day would mean it could be charged during daylight hours.  Going solar would actually start to make financial sense as well then.

I would miss the V twin rumble though! :grin:
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Ncdan on February 28, 2019, 06:10:50 PM
Good point on the Fuel Tax avoidance one currently enjoys while not burning gasoline on the roads.

Similarly, I've wondered when States would begin licensing or taxing bicycles, for the same reason.
The bicycle tax was just introduced in NC this week. We'll see if it passes.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: lucian on February 28, 2019, 06:52:36 PM
I see no reason they couldn't make an electric bike sound and feel like a real MC.  All it would take is a speaker, and a vibrator under the seat. I'm sure gears could be simulated electronically as well. You could even make the vibrator portable so you could toss it under your hotel mattress.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Muzz on March 01, 2019, 01:45:38 AM
You could even make the vibrator portable so you could toss it under your hotel mattress.

Whatever rips ya shorts.... :evil:
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Aaron D. on March 01, 2019, 06:00:24 AM
The speaker idea is being used in cars to give them a throaty exhaust note.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Rick in WNY on March 01, 2019, 07:07:49 AM
The speaker idea is being used in cars to give them a throaty exhaust note.

Yup. That's been a thing for a while.

https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a15117726/faking-it-engine-sound-enhancement-explained-tech-dept/ (https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a15117726/faking-it-engine-sound-enhancement-explained-tech-dept/)
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: LowRyter on March 01, 2019, 09:04:36 AM
The speaker idea is being used in cars to give them a throaty exhaust note.

I think they put that on my '14 Accord.  Wind it out in 2nd gear and it sounds like a Ferrari.  It does sound cool but I don't think it's real.

OTOH, Mazda studied dozens of mufflers to get the right sound on the Miata.  So using the car's audio system saves R&D costs.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on March 01, 2019, 11:02:39 AM
That's like having a kick lever to start your electric start Harley.. :rolleyes:
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: TimmyTheHog on March 01, 2019, 11:12:51 AM
The speaker idea is being used in cars to give them a throaty exhaust note.

Ya, car been doing this for a while now.

the most noticeable one is the M series for BMW

https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/bmw-m5-generates-fake-engine-noise-using-stereo/
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Shorty on March 01, 2019, 01:40:52 PM
 Y'all  have been dissing Honda and BMW for years about their quiet, practical vehicles. Now you heap praise on electric?  :grin: Talk about a soulless appliance.    :evil:  I would probably like one. After all, I'm a big BMW K75 fanboy.  :thumb:
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: DougG on March 01, 2019, 07:44:21 PM
Here we go again…
In the early 1900’s towns across the world sung the praises of the “horseless carriage”.  Even though these newfangled vehicles were noisy, slow and smelled bad, they had their undisputed advantages.  The towns did not have to shut down main street at least twice a year to “clean the tailings”.  In other words, horse droppings raised the level of the street until they overflowed onto the sidewalks.  When it rained, the smell, the flies and slosh was unbearable. Animal power had reached the logical end of its evolutionary limits.
Now the new horseless carriages (motorized vehicles), are pushing the limits of their evolution.  They consume huge amounts of energy.   Think of the energy consumed in the production of steel, aluminum, plastics, glass, petroleum fuel, etc.  As much as I love them, our present trove of cars and motorcycles are energy monsters.  It’s time to move on, albeit begrudgingly.  We are soiling our air, water and landfills with their production.   
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not a tree-hugger.  I love my cars and bikes.   I will use them until they are no longer viable.  However, I will recognize the future of transportation, just like the town folk did in the early 20th century.

DougG
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: lucian on March 01, 2019, 09:16:51 PM
Here we go again…
In the early 1900’s towns across the world sung the praises of the “horseless carriage”.  Even though these newfangled vehicles were noisy, slow and smelled bad, they had their undisputed advantages.  The towns did not have to shut down main street at least twice a year to “clean the tailings”.  In other words, horse droppings raised the level of the street until they overflowed onto the sidewalks.  When it rained, the smell, the flies and slosh was unbearable. Animal power had reached the logical end of its evolutionary limits.
Now the new horseless carriages (motorized vehicles), are pushing the limits of their evolution.  They consume huge amounts of energy.   Think of the energy consumed in the production of steel, aluminum, plastics, glass, petroleum fuel, etc.  As much as I love them, our present trove of cars and motorcycles are energy monsters.  It’s time to move on, albeit begrudgingly.  We are soiling our air, water and landfills with their production.   
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not a tree-hugger.  I love my cars and bikes.   I will use them until they are no longer viable.  However, I will recognize the future of transportation, just like the town folk did in the early 20th century.

DougG

There is more horses shit here than meets the eye .  ( biting tongue hard)
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Ncdan on March 01, 2019, 10:17:46 PM
There is more horses shit here than meets the eye .  ( biting tongue hard)
👍👍👍
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: pete roper on March 01, 2019, 10:56:25 PM
Sorry Dave. I disagree. The future won't include IC as a mainstream transport motivator.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on March 02, 2019, 06:33:16 AM
Just did the 100,000 mile service on the Prius. It is still mechanically like new. If I live long enough to buy a new car, it will no doubt be electric.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: lucian on March 02, 2019, 07:41:22 AM
No offence to Doug G, I just see this whole electric vehicle thing in a different light. I currently own only two one ton trucks for my business, which currently can not be replaced by electric. Even if they could I don't think it's right that they should be forced on us. Let the free market determine what
choices are available to  people ..


I have no doubt that we will all be forced into ev's by the very same people who have made billions manipulating the cost of everything from our food to our fuel ect. ect. The fact that many people for whom ev's won't cut the mustard,at least currently, will be the ones taxed and penalized to promote the next money grab.  Truckers, farmers, construction workers, boat captains ect, hold on, for here comes a GIANT SCREWING !
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: DougG on March 02, 2019, 07:55:48 AM
Hi all,

Progress will be slow, but it will happen.  I am not dismissing the tremendous design, engineering and manufacturing feats we have seen, and are benefitting from.  I do take a lesson from history though.  If we don't take advantage of our local talents and make the new products that others will buy, than we can be sure that others will make them and we will buy all that wonderful stuff from them...and shutter more of our own factories.  As I said, I love my bikes and cars and will enjoy them s long as possible, but not moving forward equates to moving backward as the rest of the world passes us by.  Simple economic Darwinism.
 DougG

No offense taken, you make a good point, Dave.  And yes, someone will make $ off this new stuff.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on March 02, 2019, 08:18:35 AM
No offence to Doug G, I just see this whole electric vehicle thing in a different light. I currently own only two one ton trucks for my business, which currently can not be replaced by electric. Even if they could I don't think it's right that they should be forced on us. Let the free market determine what
choices are available to  people ..


I have no doubt that we will all be forced into ev's by the very same people who have made billions manipulating the cost of everything from our food to our fuel ect. ect. The fact that many people for whom ev's won't cut the mustard,at least currently, will be the ones taxed and penalized to promote the next money grab.  Truckers, farmers, construction workers, boat captains ect, hold on, for here comes a GIANT SCREWING !

IMHO, the free market *will* determine what happens next. There was no government edict saying you had to get rid of your horse.  :smiley: Truckers will like the instant torque of electric.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Aaron D. on March 02, 2019, 09:16:26 AM
Electric can be a few things- batteries, fuel cells so you can top up quickly, and hydrogen as fuel for IC engines.

All it takes is a few nuke plants and it can happen fast!
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: LowRyter on March 02, 2019, 09:43:00 AM
I think ultimately EVs are the future and will be largely driven by market forces.  EVs are already cheaper by the mile to run.  The practical limitations, like range and recharge will be overcome.  This might happen gradually or quickly with the next big tech move.

The govt will be involved with R&D, infractures, tax and incentives and regulation.  But it seems clear that EVs will be cleaner and cheaper.   And electrical power will continue to become more renewable, cleaner and sustainable.   

OTOH, I don't know what the environmental costs that are associated with the manufacturing and disposal of EV and sustainable electrical generation.  But it seems pretty clear that the advantages will outweigh the costs.

So far as hybrids, well, I wish my diesel pick up had a hybrid system.  Not just for fuel mileage but for built in generator to power my travel trailer.  Why did the automakers miss this?
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: Aaron D. on March 02, 2019, 09:55:18 AM
It's definitely coming if you believe in the Rivian.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: kenvil1 on March 02, 2019, 10:09:47 AM
...I wish my diesel pick up had a hybrid system.  Not just for fuel mileage but for built in generator to power my travel trailer.  Why did the automakers miss this?

I seem to remember that GM once produced a (quasi) hybrid truck for a brief period. Their system may have been used to propel the vehicle only from a stop, however, and perhaps to allow the engine to shut down at idle to save on fuel. I believe it's purpose had more to do with providing battery power in remote areas or at new construction zones to run power tools and lighting.
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: bad Chad on March 02, 2019, 01:22:10 PM
The Rivian trucks may be the real deal.
They are building them just a few miles from me in part of the now defunct Diamond Star motors plant in Normal https://www.freep.com/story/money/cars/2019/02/24/rivian-founder-amazon-tesla/2915832002/
Title: Re: The new Zero
Post by: kirkemon on March 02, 2019, 03:27:09 PM
I rode the Zero a year ago, then the range was about 100 miles.
On the weekends I'll still need more range, for riding to work and back, I'd like something about 100lbs. lighter.

My wife dumped her BMW for a Tesla S 90D 2 years ago, we really don't notice much increase in our electric bill, but savings on gas and maintenance on the Beemer are making up for the price of the Tesla.