Zero Motorcycles XE and XB First Look

Zero Motorcycles enters the electric pure dirt bike space with the new XE ($6,495) and XB ($4,195). The X-line aims to provide riders with a lower barrier of entry due to simplified ease of use. With the absence of a clutch and transmission, operators can focus on throttle control and brake application, eliminating the stress of gear position and clutch modulation.

Zero’s XE is the higher-performing motorcycle of the two. A swappable 4.3kWh lithium battery with 74V and 58Ah powers a permanent magnet motor producing a claimed 468 lb.-ft. of rear wheel torque and 20.1 hp. Rider aids include three ride modes (Eco, Sport, Rain), switchable traction control, and hill hold settings that can be accessed via a 2.4-inch full-color TFT display. Claimed range is 65 miles at 31 mph with a top speed of 53 mph.

The XE’s chassis is comprised of a forged aluminum frame and swingarm with fully adjustable suspension providing 8.5 inches of travel up front and 9.8 inches of travel at the rear. Traditional off-road wheel diameters (21-inch front, 18-inch rear) with CST knobby tires ensure the XE is capable of tackling most off-road terrain. Braking components include a 240mm front rotor, a 220mm rear rotor, both squeezed by dual-piston calipers. Seat height is manageable at 35.4 inches and the claimed curb weight is 223 pounds. Estimated charge time of the swappable battery is 5.5 hours when connected to a 110V or 220V outlet.

In Europe, the Zero XE will be sold as a street-legal motorcycle for 6,500 euros including tax, in the US, it’s dirt only for both modes.

The XB is Zero’s entry-level trail bike. A smaller 2.4kWh lithium battery with 74V and 32Ah powers a permanent magnet synchronous motor producing a claimed 10 hp and 274 lb.-ft. of rear wheel torque. Zero’s new XB has a claimed 40-mile range at 31 mph with a top speed of 47 mph. The XB receives the same electronics suite as the XE, including three ride modes (Eco, Standard, Sport) and switchable traction control with adjustment via the 2.4-inch full-color TFT display. There’s also hill hold and a tip-over sensor, same as the XE.

The XB also utilizes a forged aluminum frame and swingarm, but the seat height is shorter than the XE at 32.7 inches. Claimed curb weight is 139 pounds. The XB’s removable battery has an estimated charge time of 3 hours. Wheel sizes are 19 inches front and rear with CST knobby tires. Fully adjustable KKE suspension offers 7.7 inches of travel upfront and 6.9 inches of travel at the rear. Braking components include a 220mm front rotor, a 203mm rear rotor, and dual-piston calipers.

Zero’s XB will be sold as a street-legal motorcycle in Europe for 4,500 euros including tax.