BDR and Zero Motorcycles
Join Forces to Power Electric ADV Riding!
October 17, 2022
BDR and Zero Motorcycles
Seattle, WA – (October 17, 2022) Charging headfirst into the future, the adventure motorcycling non-profit Backcountry Discovery Routes® (BDR®) announced a multi-year partnership with Zero Motorcycles®, the worldwide leader in electric motorcycles and powertrains. Building on a shared vision of preserving riding opportunities and driving positive economic impact for neighboring communities, the Zero-BDR partnership includes OEM sponsorship of upcoming BDR and BDR-X routes. This exciting new alliance will raise awareness of and help grow the network of charging stations along 13 existing and future BDR routes.
With its all-new DSR/X model, Zero’s impressive entry into the Adventure Bike category represents an increasingly important opportunity for adventure riders to explore the backcountry with minimal impact while taking advantage of the unmatched power delivery and reliability inherent in EV (Electric Vehicle) technology.
Potential concerns about the ability of EV bikes having the range required for true backcountry exploration will be put to the test by BDR on multi-day, long-distance scouting and filming expeditions. Most notably, the DSR/X will be challenged during the creation of the upcoming Northern California BDR (CABDR-North) and the Black Hills, SD BDR-X routes slated for release in the next two years.
“We are excited to partner with Zero Motorcycles to help launch this new dimension to the adventure riding experience, and increase awareness of and access to EV charging infrastructure along outdoor recreation routes across the U.S. The reality, as futuristic as it may seem, of electric powered adventure motorcycles is now. Being at the forefront of the EV movement along with Zero Motorcycles presents major opportunities for the BDR and our community to help create an eco-system where EV ADV becomes the norm.”
“The DSR/X is the world’s most capable electric motorcycle and BDR is the first and most trusted name in adventure mapping for powersports, so joining the two was a natural and seamless union. Combining the DSR/X with the support, resources, and infrastructure that comes with this partnership makes electrified adventure riding tangibly within reach for riders everywhere.”
Adding to its vast resources of off-pavement route planning, BDR has enhanced its website’s interactive maps to now display EV charging stations within a 25-mile radius of all BDR routes. This new feature will make EV ADV ride planning easier and give riders confidence in their ability to explore some of the best backcountry roads on an electric motorcycle.
Zero’s DSR/X is the world’s first true electric ADV model. Boasting category leading ground clearance and exceptional range, it features a 19-inch front wheel, luggage capable frame, and rugged suspension package that is perfect for exploring multi-day BDR routes and beyond.
As technology for charging and range improves at lightning speed, so do opportunities for OEM’s, advocacy organizations, public land managers, and government agencies to work together for the broader benefit of the outdoor community. Always at the forefront of expanding outdoor access, BDR’s partnership with Zero is a precedent-setting effort and one that both organizations’ leadership hope will have a sustainable and positive impact on outdoor recreation and local communities alike.
Stay tuned for more exciting developments from BDR and Zero Motorcycles at RideBDR.com/Electric.
“As I threw my leg over the Zero DSR/X, I realized that the ground beneath me was off camber and the bike was leaning far to the left. I immediately worried that it would be difficult to level the bike, but it was effortless. A simple twist of the throttle (no clutch, no shifting) and I was off, quietly headed down a dusty California forest road.
Void of noise and vibration, I felt my entire body immediately relax even as my speed increased, and its massive torque propelled me to the crest of a formidable hill. The DSR/X feels very planted, and it eases into corners inspiring confidence. The smooth and effortless ride must be experienced to be appreciated – it’s a magic carpet ride.”
“I recently had a chance to ride the Zero DSR/X for four days on BDR-type backroads and quickly realized that it is a highly capable adventure bike. The extra weight sits low so it was not noticeable and the ability to accelerate quickly and brake hard reinforced my confidence in all situations.
I had a blast on the DSR/X on all types of roads from narrow paved twisties to rocky double-track. I’d encourage ADV enthusiasts to ride one of these machines and experience the fun factor for themselves.”
BDR ROUTE INTERACTIVE MAP
BDR has enhanced its website’s interactive maps to now display EV charging stations within a 25-mile radius of all BDR routes. Below is a sample route map of the Colorado BDR (COBDR). To see all BDR routes at a glance, visit the BDR Main Interactive Map.
BDR x Zero Partnership Video
Backcountry Discovery Routes and Zero Motorcycles join forces to power electric ADV riding, raise awareness of and help grow the network of charging stations along existing and future BDR routes.
How To Find EV Charging Stations on BDR Routes
It’s now easier than ever to RideBDR on an electric motorcycle! Watch the short video and learn everything you need to know about finding electric charging station information along all thirteen BDR routes!
Scouting CABDR-North
with Zero Motorcycles
A behind the scenes look at scouting the upcoming Northern California BDR (CABDR-North) with BDR’s Ron West and Zero Motorcycles’ Trevor Doniak.
About BDR
Backcountry Discovery Routes® (BDR®) is a 501c (3) non-profit organization that creates off-highway routes for adventure and dual-sport motorcycle travel. The organization’s work includes promoting rider education and safety campaigns, driving economic relief to rural communities, and encouraging responsible motorcycle travel in the backcountry. BDR delivers turn-key trip planning resources to the community including GPS tracks, digital maps, travel information, route condition updates, YouTube videos, Q&As, and other information – all available 24/7 on www.RideBDR.com.
Since 2010, BDR has created routes in Washington, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, Idaho, New Mexico, Nevada, the Mid-Atlantic region, Southern California, the North-East region, Wyoming, and soon in Oregon.
About Zero Motorcycles
Zero Motorcycles® is the global leader in electric motorcycles and powertrains. Designed and crafted by hand in California, Zero Motorcycles combines Silicon Valley technology with traditional motorcycle soul to elevate the motorcycling experience for intelligent, innovative riders around the world.
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