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[X2X]

Hello.

I am looking to buy used Zero FX with limited budget. I can buy the Zero FX 2016 6.5 (two piece battery) for quite cheap or save some more money and buy newer bike.
What are the advantages of Zero FX 2017 and newer?
I can see that they have single battery with a little more capacity (7.2 vs 6.5). Are there anything else in newer models that can justify paying 50+% more?

Thanks!

[princec]

They improved thermal regulation "a bit" in the later models. The older ones would cut engine power quite soon on full throttle; the newer ones use a different arrangement of magnets in the motor that produce less heat so you can hold it wide open for a bit longer.

Cas

[TheRan]

In addition to that, if you got a 2019 (I think) or newer and it was one of the "11kW" models (only a European thing I think) then while those have the newer motors they also have a lower thermal thermal limit programmed into their firmware so they'll cut the power sooner than a 2017/2018. So, if you can spring for a bike that's a year or two newer it could be worth it, factoring the increased range from the larger battery as well. That said for an FX and what you'll probably be using it for the overheating probably won't be an issue, I have an "11kW" DS and I only lose power if I'm sitting at over like 75mph for an extended period during Summer or if I hold it open at the 86mph top speed for a few minutes. Riding off road or even riding country lanes at speeds around 60 has never been an issue.

Also being one of the bikes with the removable battery has its advantages. You can take them off the bike to charge them, ride with just one for a lighter bike and a bit of space to stash some stuff, replace one if it goes bad, or even replace both in the future with the 3.6kW/h modules to get you the full 7.2 (or maybe even more if Zero ever decides to make more improvements).

[Curt]

Model year 2016 is getting a bit long in the tooth for the batteries. My FX battery percentage indicator drops rapidly from 100% to 50% over the course of ~10 miles, then levels off. It also "magic charges" while turned off, recovering 20-30%. I presume this is because the remaining capacity is calculated from the voltage which is drooping. In the spring when it's warmer, I'll take it out for a range test. I'd estimate about 50 miles, but it's been a long time since I tested it.

The point is, the battery is the biggest part of the motorcycle and it would be a shame to get one that degrades your experience and doesn't last much longer. I shouldn't be saying this, as I'll need to sell mine at some point.