ElectricMotorcycleForum.com
Makes And Models => Zero Motorcycles Forum | 2013+ => Topic started by: turbojet on June 04, 2016, 11:03:21 PM
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I've seen several posts on tools needed to work on the Zero. I would recommend a standard wrench and socket set including socket allen head and torx wrench sets. However I was thinking, what don't I need to work on this bike. Let's see, oil filter wrench, spark plug wrench, feeler gauges (anyone remember these?), chain tool, oil drain pan (and receptacles for the oil). What else, transmission fluid, chain oil, clutch oil. Carb tools. What about a timing light? (not every modern motorcycle has fuel injection and a computer control module. My 2014 Suzuki DL650 is using state of the art 1996 technology. Despite the hype for high tech ADV bikes many around the world travelers recommend getting the most simplest ICE bike you can find so you can fix it in Bolivia.)
Anything I forgot?
It many ways working on the Zero is like working on a bicycle (except that a voltmeter might be needed). As an ex-bicycle mechanic I've always enjoyed working on bicycles due to the fact they are cleaner and simpler machines. However bicycles take many specialized tools to work on them (cassette remover, crank remover, pedal wrenches, headset wrenches, cable stretcher, third hand, etc). It appears Zero might have leap frogged the bicycle industry in some ways. My next commuter bicycle will probably have a Gates belt drive and internal geared hub. There are even CVT hubs out there for bicycles. ::)
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Replace the chain tool with a belt tension gauge.
You are also going to need a "cheater plug" (three prong to two prong converter) for the breaker popping on-board Zero charger.
Use a timer plug to take advantage of discounted off-peak electricity rates.
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While it is true that the Zero is almost maintenance-free, ICE bikes are pretty darn good these days. My Honda has 8000 mile service intervals which I can live with. The only thing I wish I didn't have to maintain is that darn chain!
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You need all the tools, plus more electonics tools, plus tools (software) that you can't buy... you'll also need diagrams and specs you can't get.
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You need a CAN BUS adapter, which uses EIA/TIA-232 serial communication to talk to your computer and CAN protocol to talk to your motorcycle.
http://electricmotorcycleforum.com/boards/index.php?topic=5364.msg38174#msg38174 (http://electricmotorcycleforum.com/boards/index.php?topic=5364.msg38174#msg38174)