Photo: Zero Motorcycles
About one year ago we reported on Zero Motorcycles working on a military-spec version of its MMX bike, a two-wheeler which promised to make a noticeable change in the workflow of the law enforcement authorities and other special forces. The LAPD has bought such a Zero MMX motorcycle and is testing it both on and off the road, during a pilot test which may lead to the acquisition of more e-bikes in case the results turn out to be satisfactory.
It’s no news that bikes are significantly better when it comes to streaking through busy traffic and their superior acceleration can but an early end to a pursuit. With electric power, things are even better, as the e-bikes deliver almost their entire torque instantaneously, being capable of reaching high speeds much faster than those powered by traditional internal combustion engines. As for a comparison with a police-spec Harley, we don’t even want to go there…
Still, there are plenty of more advantages to going electric, with the maintenance and running costs being only a fraction of those common motorcycles come with. Lower noise levels and silent idling amidst crowds are also big selling points for these patrol vehicles, while their zero emissions allow officers to ride them indoors, as well.
The special force Zero MMX delivers 68 lb-ft (92Nm) of torque and can reach a top speed of 85 mph (under 137 km/h), with underwater operating capabilities, as well. It can go in 3.2 feet-deep (1m) water and still run perfectly, adding to the expanded usability in really tough scenarios. The military-spec bikes can be started without a key for faster deployment, and come with a power reserve and override switches, as well as being IR-ready for both rear and front beacons.
Just like you’ve probably guessed, the power packs are quickly exchangeable and the bike is supplied with a CHAdeMO fast-charging system for increased operational readiness. Also a no-brainer, they’re not going to be available to civilian customers, so unless you’re a cop or special taskforce military, the closest you’ll get to the Military MMX is being chased by one.
Still, there are plenty of more advantages to going electric, with the maintenance and running costs being only a fraction of those common motorcycles come with. Lower noise levels and silent idling amidst crowds are also big selling points for these patrol vehicles, while their zero emissions allow officers to ride them indoors, as well.
The special force Zero MMX delivers 68 lb-ft (92Nm) of torque and can reach a top speed of 85 mph (under 137 km/h), with underwater operating capabilities, as well. It can go in 3.2 feet-deep (1m) water and still run perfectly, adding to the expanded usability in really tough scenarios. The military-spec bikes can be started without a key for faster deployment, and come with a power reserve and override switches, as well as being IR-ready for both rear and front beacons.
Just like you’ve probably guessed, the power packs are quickly exchangeable and the bike is supplied with a CHAdeMO fast-charging system for increased operational readiness. Also a no-brainer, they’re not going to be available to civilian customers, so unless you’re a cop or special taskforce military, the closest you’ll get to the Military MMX is being chased by one.
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