Pushing the Boundaries of Motorcycling

2010 is right around the corner, and the hot topic in the automotive world is alternative fuels. Be it hydrogen, clean diesel, natural gas, or electricity. There is no doubting that alternative fuels are the future of the automotive industry. Some are pushing for it due to the belief of Global Climate Change, to combat our dependency on oil, or even just a means to find a cheaper source of fuel.

So what does that mean for the motorcycling world?  Will the way we view motorcycles be forever forgotten? It’s not for certain at this time. Change usually comes in gradual steps, often facing criticism and skepticism. Hiccups always surface with new technology and ideas.

The electric motorcycle is already here, and is in the process of making a name for itself in a petrol driven world. Zero Motorcycles Inc. of Santa Cruz, Ca already has an electric motorcycle line up. The eco-friendly company has 4 models in its fleet, spanning from dirt to street. The Zero S (Street model) features an aluminum frame that weighs no more than 30 lbs and is powered by a brushed permanent magnet electric motor with a proprietary lithium-ion battery. Sounds pretty nifty for a bike that doesn’t even weigh 300 lbs. besides the fact that the power plant is revolutionary compared to a internal combustion engine, there are other  features that fail to fit the mold of the traditional motorcycle. For example, the bike has no clutch; instead the bike features a single speed electric motor that can race up to 60 mph (top speed) in under 5 seconds. The only drawback that stands out for most electric vehicles, be it motorcycle or automobile, is its range. The Zero S has a range of up to 50 miles. That’s great for short commuting, but if you’re looking to take extended trips, be prepared to take extended breaks. It takes 4 hours to recharge the battery pack. All in all, if you’re looking to for a cheap eco-friendly local commuter the Zero S is a new, trendy alternative that costs only $9,950 (tax credit applies from government stimulus)

The Zero S

If Zero Motorcycles Inc. could be considered the pioneer of the modern electric motorcycle, then Mission Motors is the revolutionary of the industry. How does an electric motorcycle that can reach 150 mph and only  takes 2 hours to charge sound? Sounds fun and fast. The Mission One has the title of being the fastest electric powered motorcycle at the Bonneville salt flats, and it claims this title without making a sound (one of the attributes of and electric engine) . Unlike the Zero S, the Mission One has a clutch lever. I am still unsure why it does though, since it too has only one speed. Despite this engineering confusion, the speed figures don’t lie, and I still remain impressed with the bike. Aside from the specs of the Mission One, this bike epitomizes the “Motorcycle of Tomorrow”. The design looks as if it is 20 years or so ahead of its time, simple yet so detailed and complex. Currently, the Mission One isn’t out in mass production, but if you are one of those who want to turn heads be prepared to fork out $68,995 to own one of the first 50 units sometime next year.

Mission One- The Future is Around the Corner

These two companies will most certainly be the forerunners in a new and growing industry. There is no denying it, fossil fuel is out and green is in. Maybe you don’t agree with certain viewpoints of the argument, but with a worldwide push to alleviate our dependency of oil, it is inevitable.  I myself have my apprehensions. Wheres the noise, the rumble, and the vibration of those raging pistons? At this point in the industry, the electric motorcycle is a niche market. I hope that for those who come across a rider on a Zero, you don’t look to them as riding a lil smug-cycle, but if you come across someone riding a Mission One its okay to hate them. They own a $68K bike! They can take the hating. In the end, despite what powers the wheels, eco-riders are looking for the same experience as the rest of us. Sure it’s not a big V-twin or an in-line 4, but he or she is still on 2 wheels and that qualifies them to join the fold.

Keep the paint up, and the rubber down