When I first seen Zero CEO Sam Paschel remove the cover off the company's latest electric motorcycle, it was on a cool summer morning overlooking the pier in Santa Cruz, California. I was immediately taken by the Zero FXE's design. But I also know that a decent bike requires more than a slim figure. I could only tell if the FXE was truly worth the attention by putting my leg over the shiny new metallic steed and hitting the open road.
Fortunately, less than an hour later, I was doing just that.
The Zero FXE is based on the same platform as the Zero FXS, a street-oriented supermoto-style electric motorcycle that first caught my eye a few years ago.
The FXE has taken the place of the FXS, but fans of the latter will be pleased to learn that they share many of the same components.
The 7.2 kWh battery is still there (but according to industry norms, it should be a 6.3 kWh pack).
The motor is the same ZForce ZF75-5, which produces 34 kW of power. And the performance numbers are nearly identical, with a top speed of 85 mph (136 km/h) and a maximum range of 100 miles (161 km) in the city and nearly half that on the highway.
During my test ride into the redwood-studded mountains above Santa Cruz, I put the bike through its paces, ranging from canyon carving to daily commuter use.
Despite sharing many of the same underpinnings as the preceding FXS, the FXE has some unique features that go below the surface.
In recent years, the FXE has benefit from a number of Zero's technological advances. The FXS's dated display has been replaced by a colour screen from the SR/F and SR/S, which gives riders a far more elegant interface. It connects to the bike's Cypher II operating system and gives the FXE a much-needed kick into the next generation.
The FXS's dual bug-eyed headlights have been replaced by a much better light cluster that improves the bike's look.
The most significant change, though, is the new design. You may add me to the "fan" list, and I believe it adds greatly to the FX line's urban capabilities. The FXS has always looked a little like a dirt bike with street tyres, but the FXE's redesigned body fits right in.
It's a matter of taste if you think it's "affordable." Because of the additional improvements, it's a little more expensive than the FXS at $11,795 before state and federal tax credits. It is, however, one of the most affordable highway-capable electric motorcycles in the United States. It may face competition from new models in the future, but for now, it's one of the greatest values in town.
And it's "in town" where I believe the motorcycle's true beauty lies. It's best suited for usage as a city commuter bike that can also be used on the highway.
Its top speed of 85 mph makes it useful for hitting just about any road you can ride on at legal speeds, though it won't want to stay there for too long.
However, a normal commute of 10-15 minutes in the suburbs, 20 minutes on the highway, and another 10-15 minutes in the city is perfect for a small, nimble, and cost-effective electric motorcycle like the FXE.
If you live in a state where filtering or lane splitting is permitted, you can try shaving several minutes off each of those estimates. Even if you have no choice but to ride in the lane, you'll benefit from easier and less expensive parking, lower fuel expenses, and more enjoyable commutes.
The fact that your daily commuter car is also a strong, fun electric motorcycle is an added bonus. We're not talking about SR/F power levels here. The bike, though, is under 300 pounds and still has 46 horsepower and grin-inducing torque.
Every time I did it, I was nearly crazy with happiness at being able to twist my wrist and launch so powerfully on what otherwise seems to be such a small and simple bike. Working your way into the carve turns on a bike that feels like it doesn't weigh much beneath you only adds to the surprise feeling.
This isn't an electric bicycle, but it also doesn't appear to be particularly heavy. To be honest, it'd be the finest starter or beginner motorcycle for anyone who is interested in electric motorcycles but doesn't want to jump in with a heavy or powerful flagship bike like an SR/F, SR/S, or LiveWire. Don't get me wrong: those bikes are fun. I've ridden all three, and right now I'd rather be riding them than typing on my computer. Those bikes, though, are powerful powerhouses that can get you into more trouble.
If you're looking for trouble, you'll find it on an FXE as well, but the bike is far more balanced and suitable for most riders. That, in my opinion, is what makes it such a fantastic everyday e-moto. It's fast-paced and fun without being overdone. Some riders will be turned off by the short range, but if you're looking for a commuter and don't need to travel more than 50-100 miles to work, it can still meet your needs. I wouldn't take it on a trip, but I'd ride it to work every day and have fun with it on weekends.
 electric motorcycle that will demolish your daily commute.){kind=link}
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