SANTA CRUZ, CA, (June 25, 2012) – Zero Motorcycles, the global leader in the electric motorcycle industry, today announced the company’s popular urban motorcycle, the Zero XU, meets the strict criteria of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) and is currently being utilized in the organization’s many motorcycle training programs. Zero becomes the first electric motorcycle manufacturer in the United States to provide consumers with a new and unique learning experience at MSF courses. By eliminating shifting, heat, exhaust, clutches and noise, riders find themselves immersed in the single task of improving their actual riding skills.

“The Zero XU successfully completed a pilot program on two training courses in Washington state and Florida. Students and instructors alike found the motorcycle to be highly responsive and handle nicely,” said Mark Cummings, fleet manager – North America, Zero Motorcycles. “The XU allows students to enhance their skills and concentrate on the fundamentals of riding, while still experiencing the look and feel of a traditional motorcycle. Course operators also love that there is very little upkeep in terms of maintenance and, of course, no fuel to add or other fluids that can run the risk of spillage.”

The Zero XU reduces the total cost of ownership for any MSF school by eliminating all routine powertrain maintenance and the need for refueling. The motorcycle can be plugged into any standard outlet and, if needed, can be ‘quick’ charged with an optional accessory. The Zero XU power pack is quickly swappable, can be easily removed for off-site charging and the cost of recharging is often around one penny per mile. With a majority of training sessions being held in small closed-course areas, the absence of exhaust and noise eliminates several training concerns and opens up new training venue possibilities.

“What a fantastic training tool! The Zero XU blends a lightweight motorcycle feel and posture with an electric motor to ‘twist-n-go.’ The suspension, gearing, braking and overall performance would be very favorable as a training cycle. These bikes should prove to be an ideal bridge of motorcycling, environmentally friendly green vehicles and the social scooter scene. What a fantastic ride,” said Kyle McCarty, RiderCoach, trainer/chief instructor, Motorcycle Safety Technical Specialist, Department of Licensing in Olympia, Wash.

About Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF)
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation® is the internationally recognized developer of the comprehensive, research-based, Rider Education and Training System (MSF RETS). RETS curricula promotes lifelong-learning for motorcyclists and continuous professional development for certified RiderCoaches and other trainers. MSF also actively participates in government relations, safety research, public awareness campaigns and the provision of technical assistance to state training and licensing programs. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation is a national, not-for-profit organization.

About Zero Motorcycles
Zero Motorcycles is committed to transforming the motorcycling experience by bringing to market highly innovative electric motorcycles that offer exceptional value and performance. Zero is powered by innovation, driven by passion, guided by integrity, and measured by results. Through extensive research, insight and experience, Zero combines the art and science of motorcycle development to create and manufacture products that excite consumers and inspire brand loyalty. Zero is determined to be the preeminent global electric motorcycle company.

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For more information on Zero Motorcycles or to learn more about its complete motorcycle line including the Zero S, Zero DS, Zero XU, Zero MX and Zero X motorcycles, visit: http://www.zeromotorcycles.com.