What's the worst malfunction a motorcycle can happen while riding a motorcycle? I'd have to say the front brake suddenly locking on or not working at all, but barring that, bum-clenching thought, losing power while riding is right up there.
Right now, this is something Zero Motorcycles owners need to be thinking about. Zero Motorcycles Inc. (Zero) is recalling certain 2023-2024 DSR/X, 2024 DS, DSR, and DSRP motorcycles. Improperly routed key switch signal wires may break, causing a loss of drive power.
Remedy
The firmware will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on September 29, 2025. Owners may contact Zero customer service at 1-888-841-8085. Zero's number for this recall is SV-RCL-025-018. There are potentially 319 units affected, and the NHTSA ID Number is 25V587000.
If you've been following RideApart for a while, you know we like Zero and electric motorcycles in general. The most notable difference between an internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycle and one with an electric powertrain is the insane amount of torque that's instantly available on an electric motorcycle. In all the ways that instant torque makes an electric motorcycle a ton of fun on the road, it also makes it more dangerous if something goes wrong.
Overtaking a slow-moving vehicle while riding a Zero happens almost telepathically, and it's also the worst time for your powertrain to cut out. So if you own any of the models mentioned in this recall, don't wait for the letter to be mailed out later this month. Contact Zero's customer service and go to your local dealership as soon as possible to get an over-the-air update. And while you're on the way, don't put yourself in any situation where you'll need to rely on a fistful of power to get you out.
