Zero FX and DRS/X 2024 First Ride

Zero Motorcycles is back in Australia after its last attempt to crack the local market ended in 2017. Its 2024 lineup has a range of nine bikes, and we recently had a chance to test ride them at a demo event in Sydney.

My expectations for Zero’s all-electric range were plenty of torque, blistering speed, futuristic tech and styling, and…perhaps…a bit boring. But I’m pleased to report however that every bike in the range feels fun, exciting, and characterful, and none of them feel overwhelmed with tech. In fact, a bit more futuristic tech would be appreciated.  

And what about the deathly silence of an electric motor? Actually, these bikes make an awesome Jetsons-style electric hum while in motion.

All models come standard with J.Juan brakes, Pirelli tyres, and Showa suspension, which add to the characterful dynamic the bikes have on the road. Each bike also comes standard with handlebars, rather than clip-ons. This includes the fully faired SRS and naked SR/F sports bikes, which I found a little disappointing. I would have preferred clip-ons.

But the two bikes I wanted to take a closer look at include the entry level, dirt-bike style FX and the top-of-the-range DSR/X dual sport tourer.

The more affordable FX has awesome styling and presents as a stripped-back, rugged urban explorer. The beady dual front headlights make the FX look like a mosquito and, while riding, it sounds like one as well.

Handling is surprisingly good thanks to a low center of gravity and a light weight of 131kg (according to the official specs). The suspension has enough travel to soak up potholes off-road, but enough progression to feel rewarding in the twisties. But the rear monoshock is a bit too firm for my liking. Likewise, the front brakes are excellent, but the rear is a little underwhelming.

There are three ride modes on the FX: Eco, Sport and Custom. You can cycle through them on the TFT dashboard. Eco is self-explanatory and feels a bit limp wristed. In Sports mode, the acceleration is mental and you’ll get plenty of regenerative braking. Custom can be modified in the Zero smartphone app – a neat feature which can help riders dial in exactly how they want their bike to feel.

Two initial criticisms of the FX are its battery range, which is claimed by Zero to be about 92-164 kilometers depending on the type of riding, and the price, which checks in at $25,500 ride away – quite expensive for an ‘entry-level’ motorcycle.

The DSR/X has Zero’s range-topping 17.3kWh battery which will get you anywhere from 172-288 kilometers of battery range according to Zero.

Like the FX, the handling felt controlled and rewarding. The suspension both front and rear feels comfortable, the front brakes can stop a truck, and the rear…not so much.

Surprisingly, the DSR/X is a void of any groundbreaking features. It has heated grips, a parking mode where the bike can move up to 20km/h forward or reverse, a basic cruise control, hill hold assist, and a mechanically adjustable windscreen.

There are five ride modes to choose from – Standard, Eco, Rain, Canyon and Sport. The mode button is directly above the indicator and, when wearing gloves, it can be hard to distinguish from the other. The ride modes are mostly self-explanatory. Canyon is the highest performance option and will leave anything, even a V4 Streetfighter, standing at the traffic light thinking ‘what the hell happened?’ Don’t ask how I know.

Setting aside the lack of futuristic tech, the biggest problem with the DSR/X is its large $46,800 ride away price tag.

Zero has a great range of uniquely styled, well performing motorcycles. It has the potential to find a solid footing in the Australian motorcycle market, and more affordable pricing will help that cause greatly. I hope to see that change coming in the future.