The Zero DS and DSR models were good introductions to the company’s dual sport motorcycle lineup, with overall weights that weren’t that far off their ICE-powered counterparts in addition to decent power outputs (the DS had 46 hp at 4,300 rpm and 78 lb.-ft. of torque, the DSR’s motor put out 70 hp at 3,500 rpm and 116 lb.-ft. of torque). The DSR came with a 14.4kWh battery, but the DS was only equipped with a 7.2kWh unit, which limited real-world range to under 80 miles. In true dual sport fashion, both the DS and DSR were sans fairings or windscreens of any sort, although Zero did come out with a Black Forest version of the DSR in ‘20 that came with lockable hard cases, an adjustable touring-style windscreen, a touring saddle, a pair of accessory bars, hand guards, LED auxiliary lights (for off-road use), and a headlight protector. With its smaller battery, the DS scaled in at 317 pounds, while the DSR weighed 419 pounds; the DSR Black Forest Edition weighed in at 498 pounds.
For 2024, Zero is taking both the DS and DSR into full adventure mode, with both bikes getting a large upper fairing and much more enclosed cockpit behind the tall windscreen, reminiscent of the DSR/X. The DS gets the 14.4kWh battery (twice the capacity of the previous unit), while the DSR’s battery is now a 15.6kWh pack. Power from the DS’ new motor has also increased and is now rated at 68 hp at 4,500 rpm with a stout 97 lb.-ft. of peak torque, while the DSR’s motor has been upgraded to 80 hp at 3,650 rpm and a stump-pulling 144 lb.-ft. of torque. Both bikes’ top speed increases to 104 mph, and their ranges increase respectively with the larger batteries; the DS’ claimed city/highway mix (which is more reflective of real-world mileage) range is 107 miles, while the DSR’s claimed city/highway rating is 100 miles. Unfortunately, with those larger batteries comes increased weight; the DSR jumps from 419 to 534 pounds, while the DS balloons from 317 to 527 pounds.
The 2024 Zero DS is available in Quicksand starting at $15,995, and the 2024 Zero DSR is available in Silver starting at $19,995.
- Energica Experia, $23,750 (base model)
- 2025 Can-Am Origin, $14,499
- LiveWire S2 Del Mar, $15,499
- CSC RX1E, $6,995
- Kawasaki e-1 ABS, $7,899
- Kawasaki Ninja 7 Hybrid, $12,499