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[valnar]

There are many posts around the Interwebs about leaving a motorcycle in the sunlight (like while you work), and although we already know it's not ideal, what specifically makes it better or worse for electric motorcycles?

If I had to leave a Zero in direct sunlight for 8 hours, what does that do to the motor and batteries?
Robert

[NEW2elec]

The heat can hurt the battery chemistry.  The motor isn't damaged but in theory it would start it at a higher temperature so closer to thermal cut back but that's a stretch.    I use this.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/All-Weather-Motorcycle-Cover-Motor-Bike-Outdoor-Indoor-Waterproof-M-Snug-Fit/141965828657?fits=Make%3AZero&hash=item210dd2a231:g:YjsAAOSwlfxXF6fJ

There are of course nicer ones but this works for me.  It covers my top box as well nice and snug with one extra bungee cord.

[valnar]

How does this not turn it into an oven?  (Probably a dumb question, but I've never used one)

[NEW2elec]

Well it's bottom part is at least some what reflective.  The top part is nylon water resistant (not proof) with little vents at the handle bars.  It's like cowboys wearing hats to keep the sun off even though it keeps some head heat in.  The bike is cooling down after it's off so no insulating internal heat.    I'm not charging by the way it's just parked.

[togo]

I imagine the shaded battery is better than the sun directly on the battery,
since there's a smaller temperature gradient.

[valnar]

It’s my Work parking lot so it can look silly if needed; it doesn’t have to be secure.  I wonder if they make an umbrella to attach to the handlebars or seat or something similar.

[Curt]

If looking silly doesn't matter, they do make these stretch shades for different models.
https://www.skn-it.com/
Kind of pricy though.

[valnar]

That might work! Thanks.

[NetPro]

The stretchy one would be perfect if they made it a bit longer on the side to cover the battery fully.
I am sure something could be sewn there to extend the shadow area but maybe the manufacturer can make a new model specifically for Zero's if there is enough demand.

[BigPoppa]

They’re pricey but I’ve used Geza Gear covers on my bikes for the past decade or so. I have one on order for my Energica which I’ll use when I have my bike parked outside at work (when charging it’s in a parking garage).

On my Triumph Trophy, which has been parked outside while at work year round, it does a fantastic job of keeping the bike cooler in the summer time.

[Curt]

Two other reasons for covering the bike --

1. The vinyl seat will be destroyed and need to be reupholstered in 2-3 years.

2. At least if you have an FX, fender melt (if you care!)

[togo]

I'd recommend an inexpensive cover to provide shade.

[Richard230]

I'd recommend an inexpensive cover to provide shade.

And a silver-colored one might be a good idea, too.