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Zero Motorcycles Forum | 2013+ / Noob with questions.
« on: May 23, 2014, 01:37:20 AM »
Howdy all and thanks in advance for any insight you all might have.
I am considering purchasing a 2014 Zero DS 11.4 and will likely be going in for a test ride soon, but figured I might be able to get some insight here first.
First of all about me, I grew up riding dirt bikes and motorcycles in my younger years, but sold off my last bike ~15 years ago (500cc Kawasaki) and have not really done any riding since.
I am a big guy, 6'5" ~315lb.
My intentions are for a commuter bike and for a lot of neighborhood, city driving with a bit of limited highway driving. I expect over 90% of my riding would be on roads, but I can see the need for the occasional trail ride or dirt road.
Based on my research, I think the Zero DS 11.4 seems pretty favorably reviewed and should meet my range needs.
I acknowledge that there seems to be a premium paid for an electric bike and I could probably save some money going with a gas powered bike, but I think I am willing to eat that premium for the novelty of having a much quieter bike and not needing to rely on gasoline. I am also not a tinkerer so the idea of reduced maintenance appeals to me.
So I guess my initial questions are, have I landed on the right bike for my needs?
Am I too big for this bike? Should I expect any noticeable reduction in performance(range or speed) due to my weight?
Is there any negotiating in price with these bikes, or should I pretty much expect to pay the retail sticker price?
Thanks.
I am considering purchasing a 2014 Zero DS 11.4 and will likely be going in for a test ride soon, but figured I might be able to get some insight here first.
First of all about me, I grew up riding dirt bikes and motorcycles in my younger years, but sold off my last bike ~15 years ago (500cc Kawasaki) and have not really done any riding since.
I am a big guy, 6'5" ~315lb.
My intentions are for a commuter bike and for a lot of neighborhood, city driving with a bit of limited highway driving. I expect over 90% of my riding would be on roads, but I can see the need for the occasional trail ride or dirt road.
Based on my research, I think the Zero DS 11.4 seems pretty favorably reviewed and should meet my range needs.
I acknowledge that there seems to be a premium paid for an electric bike and I could probably save some money going with a gas powered bike, but I think I am willing to eat that premium for the novelty of having a much quieter bike and not needing to rely on gasoline. I am also not a tinkerer so the idea of reduced maintenance appeals to me.
So I guess my initial questions are, have I landed on the right bike for my needs?
Am I too big for this bike? Should I expect any noticeable reduction in performance(range or speed) due to my weight?
Is there any negotiating in price with these bikes, or should I pretty much expect to pay the retail sticker price?
Thanks.