When I purchased my first electric, it was the 2017 Zero DS ZF 6.5. I was thinking it would be a "toy". It ended up being my most used motorcycle out of nine total. It somehow even takes the place of my cars for most shorter trips. I will ride the Zero even when I would not even think about taking an ICE motorcycle for a short run.
I also take this bike on all my RV trips as it's light enough to carry on a dirt bike ramp on the hitch. It can safely use the motor to get itself up the hitch. No clutch and very good throttle response at very slow speeds makes it very easy to get up on the ramp, unlike any ICE bike.
I enjoy this bike so much, I bought the 2017 Zero SR with Power Tank for my Auburn house where it's all pavement and is great for all day rides in the foothills.
I only ride my ICE bikes when I expect I will ride well more than 100 miles or so. I find most of my rides are much shorter.
Anyway, I find them to be practical for most short trips, not just a "toy".
-Don- Reno, NV
I don't have nine bikes (just two) but otherwise I totally agree. My ICE bike sits except for maybe 1 weekend a month when I go on an all or multi- day ride. Otherwise - commuting, run to the store, joy ride after dinner - it's on my BMW C Evolution Scooter. Like you it has reduced my automobile use as well. It's weight (600lbs) is a minor inconvenience and I hope to be able to put it on a hitch carrier when I retire next year and start traveling but I'm not against getting a Kendon trailer either if necessary. Minimal maintenance costs PLUS it saves wear and tear on my other bike. The performance, relative to my previous BMW C650GT is simply amazing.
Courtney in Seattle
2016 BMW R1200GSAW, 2017 BMW C Evolution
