MOTORCYCLE

2025 Zero XE and XB Are Off-Road Only Electric Motorcycles in the U.S.

November 17, 2024

The Zero XE electric motorcycle delivers 468 lb.-ft. of torque and 20.1 hp, while the XB offers 274 lb.-ft. and 10 hp, catering to both pros and beginners.
Quick charging at just 5.5 hours for the XE and 3 hours for the XB minimizes downtime.
Simplified controls, three ride modes, and adjustable seat heights make both bikes accessible to all skill levels.

Zero Motorcycles has really outdone itself with the XE and XB. These e-motos are breaking down the barriers to trail riding, offering you a way to experience off-road without the steep learning curve.

Unlike competitors like Sur-Ron’s Ultra Bee, which focuses heavily on raw power and extended range, Zero takes a different approach that prioritizes simplicity and accessibility to ensure that riders of all skill levels can enjoy the ride.

No clutch, no gears, just straightforward controls that let you focus on the ride. And if you’re new to dirt biking or a seasoned pro, these bikes are designed to make off-road fun accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

As Sam Paschel, CEO of Zero Motorcycles, explained, “The new X Line brings our highest-performing models to one of the most exciting growth categories in powersports.”

Zero XE: A $6,495 Electric Motorcycle Built for Power and Trail-Ready Performance

For $6,495, the Zero XE gives you an impressive mix of power and practicality. With 20.1 horsepower and 468 lb.-ft. of torque, it’s ready for the trails.

The 4.3kWh swappable lithium battery and permanent magnet motor give you up to 65 miles of range at 31 mph and a top speed of 53 mph. When you’re carving through trails or cruising open dirt paths, the XE delivers the performance and reliability you need to enjoy the ride.

And when you’re riding the Zero XE, you’ll quickly notice how much thought went into making you feel in control, no matter the conditions. Everything about this bike seems designed to give you confidence on the trails.

You get three ride modes, Eco, Sport, and Rain, so you can adjust the bike to suit your environment and comfort level. Switching between these modes, adjusting traction control, and using hill-hold assist is simple with the clear 2.4-inch full-color TFT display.

The aluminum frame, paired with fully adjustable suspension, gives you 8.5 inches of travel up front and 9.8 inches in the rear, so bumps and dips feel easy to manage.

And with its 21-inch front and 18-inch rear off-road wheels wrapped in CST knobby tires, you’ll have the grip you need to stay steady on dirt, gravel, or whatever nature throws your way. It feels like a bike that was made to adapt to you, and not the other way around.

Zero XE electric motorcycle - powered by a 74V 58Ah lithium-ion power pack

Zero XE electric motorcycle - factory-tuned suspension and switchable traction control

The Zero XE is made for you if you value agility and ease on the trail. Weighing just 223 pounds, it’s light enough to handle confidently, and the 35.4-inch seat height makes it easy to hop on, no matter your experience level. Charging the removable battery is simple. Just plug it into a standard outlet, and in about 5.5 hours, you’re ready to hit the trail again.

If you’re in the U.S., you’ll only get a dirt-only version of the Zero XE. However, in Europe, riders enjoy a street-legal option for 6,500 euros, including tax. It’s a feature that might leave you wishing the same option was available stateside.

Brian Wismann, SVP of Product Development at Zero, highlights the XE’s balance between accessibility and performance: “Every detail of these bikes is crafted to deliver performance and thrill, ensuring that the Zero experience is both approachable and exciting for riders of all skill levels.”

Zero XB: Affordable, Lightweight, and Perfect for New Electric Motorcycle Riders

For $4,195, the Zero XB is your entry point into the X Line. It comes with a 2.4kWh swappable battery, delivering 10 horsepower and 274 lb.-ft. of torque. Its 40-mile range at 31 mph and 47 mph top speed may not rival the XE, but it’s more than enough for recreational rides or if you’re new to electric dirt biking.

Just like the XE, the XB gives you three ride modes, switchable traction control, and hill-hold assist, all managed through the same TFT display. It uses the same forged aluminum frame and swingarm but has a lower seat height of 32.7 inches and weighs just 139 pounds. This lightweight design makes it a great choice if you’re a smaller rider or still building your confidence on the trails.

Zero XB 2.4 kWh swappable lithium battery

The XB is built to give you control and confidence on the trail. Its fully adjustable KKE suspension offers 7.7 inches of travel in the front and 6.9 inches in the rear, paired with 19-inch CST knobby tires to keep you steady on any terrain. Plus, the battery charges in just three hours, so you’ll spend less time waiting and more time riding.

In Europe, you can even get the XB as a street-legal motorcycle for 4,500 euros, including tax. This makes it a practical option for riders who want an electric motorcycle that’s just as capable on city streets as it is off-road.

How Do the Zero XE and XB Stack Up Against the Competition?

The electric dirt bike market is growing fast, and Zero’s XE and XB face strong contenders like the Sur-Ron Ultra Bee, Sur-Ron Light Bee X, Rawrr Mantis, and Talaria Sting R. Each competitor brings its own set of strengths, but Zero’s offerings stand out for their accessibility and simplicity.

Sur-Ron Ultra Bee: The Sur-Ron Ultra Bee is a performance-driven option with a peak power output of 12.5 kW (16.8 hp) and 325 lb.-ft. of torque. Its 74V 55Ah battery offers a range of up to 87 miles in Eco mode, making it an excellent choice for extended rides. However, at $6,499, it matches the XE’s price but targets riders looking for slightly higher performance and range.

Sur-Ron Light Bee X: The Light Bee X is another competitive option, priced around $4,500. It delivers 6 kW (8 hp) of peak power and a top speed of 50 mph, similar to the Zero XB in some metrics. With a range of up to 60 miles, it is a versatile choice for riders who prioritize lightweight design and affordability.

Rawrr Mantis: The Rawrr Mantis is a well-rounded option with 10.7 horsepower and a top speed of 50 mph, making it comparable to the Zero XB. Its 65-mile range is on par with the XE, and at $4,499, it’s competitively priced. But if you’re looking for features like swappable batteries or Zero’s advanced electronics, you might find the Mantis comes up short.

Talaria Sting R: The Talaria Sting R lands right in the middle of the competition. It delivers 10.7 horsepower, a 62-mile range, and costs $4,500. Like the Light Bee X, it’s a solid option for those wanting performance at a reasonable price, but it doesn’t offer the same refined rider-focused experience you get with Zero’s models.

Here’s the thing, Zero makes riding simple and enjoyable. With clutch-free controls, swappable batteries, and easy-to-use ride modes, you can focus on the fun instead of figuring out complicated features. The XB is great if you’re just starting out, while the XE gives you the power and range to handle serious trails without feeling intimidating.

Simplifying Electric Dirt Biking for All Riders

Zero’s XE and XB bring a fresh approach to off-road motorcycling by focusing on simplicity, sustainability, and accessibility. These bikes are designed for you, no matter if you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned dirt bike enthusiast.

The XE is your go-to option if you’re looking for serious power and advanced features, while the XB gives you a lighter, more affordable choice that’s perfect for getting started. Zero has built both models with ease of use and sustainability in mind, making off-road riding something anyone can enjoy.

As Paschel mentioned, “Since day one, our mission has been to revolutionize two-wheeled transportation, and we’re committed to delivering on that promise for our growing global community of riders.”

Your choice between the XE and XB comes down to what matters most to you. Do you want the power, torque, and longer range of the XE? Or does the XB’s lighter weight and lower price fit your needs better?

Either way, Zero has taken the guesswork out of electric dirt biking, creating bikes that make the ride more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.