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From Zero to Hero Patricia Stiemke Despite the grumblings of many in the motorcycle community, I have been interested in electric bikes ever since they made an appearance on various media platforms. I have been chasing test rides for more than a year, first on a Harley Davidson Livewire as they look pretty awesome, and then the Zero as they are becoming more widely available. The rollout of the Livewire has been an absolute joke and I had to give up in the end as the closest dealership that finally had one of these in the showroom is in central London and I am not willing, under any circumstances, to test ride anything in those traffic conditions. It would be about as much fun as getting slapped by a fish. I have to say though, the salesman on the phone was very nice and gave me a lot of information. I think he was just glad to talk to someone more in-depth about this model. I was initially drawn to the Zero at one of the EAMG’s monthly meets when two models were standing there looking suitably heavy and camouflaged. I think this was almost two years ago. Unfortunately, I always had to temper my enthusiasm as the prices for these bikes has not come down significantly under £10,000 and that is more than I’ll ever be able to afford for a bike. Yes, there is a government subsidy of £950 but that is a drop in the ocean really. The model I am really keen on is the Zero SR/S with the 14.4 kW/h battery. It is a fairinged bike, which is essential for my riding style. The suggested retail price is £19,590 for the standard version and another £2000 on top if you want the premium version. The premium model has a faster charger essentially. That being said, I also test rode the S1000RR last year and an H2 the year before that and I made no excuses about being able to afford either of them. So, never to be deterred, I was planning a road trip to Diss, just northeast from Bury St. Edmunds for a test ride at the English Electric Motor Company. They have the unique distinction of having an electric off road track near the premises and also have a micro brewery attached to the premises. It sounded like a good day out in any case. Enter the pandemic.
www.eamg.org.uk
