Once you twist the key and the speedometer performs its self-check sweep, there's no vibration or exhaust note to tell you where the power lurks within that narrow frame-- when it comes to feedback, there's nothing but silent operation for the rest of your two-wheeled experience. Twist the right handgrip, and there's a subtle jerk forward as the motor engages and directs power through the clutchless single-speed transmission. Unlike the 185 pound X model, the S weighs in at 297 pounds, which makes low-end acceleration considerably more modest. The good news is that it's a heck of a lot harder to wheelie the thing; the bad news is, it takes a bit more patience to build up steam. Parking lot speeds are attained with scooter-like acceleration, but higher velocities accumulate more rapidly, with the majority of responsiveness found above roughly 30 mph.
Unlike the DS (dual sport) model which has nearly double the suspension travel, the S feels more planted in turns, offering responsive and secure handling. Once momentum is gained and the S gets on its way, it's easy to settle into a rhythm while riding roads like the tight canyons that run through Santa Cruz, where I tested the bike. Though it takes a few miles to become accustomed to the sensations of riding an electric motorcycle on the road, the feeling of near silent propulsion is actually rather fun, though it also requires you to remember that cars and animals don't necessarily know you're coming due to the lack of noise making exhaust; I had one moment where a squirrel was hanging out in the middle of the road, and I had to honk the Zero's horn to make it aware of my approach.
Despite the inherent quirks of electric mobility, the Zero S is a considerable step up in terms of rideability; it feels more substantial than before thanks to its mechanical improvements, it rides with more sure footedness, and the ergonomic tweaks make it more maneuverable.
Though I didn't quite hit its claimed 67 mph top speed due to relatively short straightaways, that number seemed believable based on the way it was pulling at around 60 mph. But if there's one specification that might be cause for concern, it's the estimated range of 43 miles. I started my ride on a bike with a 4/5 charge, and after roughly 10 miles of hard, wide-open throttle riding, the battery meter dropped to about 1/3 remaining; though this would be satisfactory for errand running and quick jaunts, it could be problematic on long commutes or trips where you don't have the luxury of a quick recharge.
