Austria’s Gas Gas distributor BLM Motorrader converted a TXT Pro petrol engine Gas Gas to electric and had trials rider Dieter Rudolf take it for a ride over a few cars and crates. The motor looks like an Agni or Lemco but Google translation of the Motorrad-Reporter article mentions the motor is a brushless DC. Batteries of undisclosed chemistry are tucked nicely between the frame spars and everything is packaged nicely. The electronics appear to be nailed down enough for Rudolf to scale cars and wheelie with out too much drama. However, there was no mention that I could find of Gas Gas changing their name to Electric Electric and mass producing the bike.

Find out more and see the video of Dieter on the electric Gas Gas TXT after the break.

Originally from: PlugBike.com

We knew the time would come when one of the major manufacturers started entering the electric motorcycle space, and it seems KTM is set to be the first to produce an full-sized electric offering with its Freeride near-series prototypes. After initially showing their prototype electric motocross bike in 2009, KTM has teased us with two new images of an electric MX and supermoto with a promise to release more information March 26th, at bikes’ unveiling at the 2010 Tokyo Motorcycle Show.

KTM says that “in one year’s time will transfer the ‘Ready to Race’ sporting spirit of the brand into a series model fit for the 21st century.” That translates to us that KTM will debut both bikes as 2011 model year motorcycles. Although still a considerable amount of time away, the Austrian company is the first major motorcycle manufacturer to give the American based electric startups a run for their money. Watch out Zero and Quantya, Team Orange is entering the fray. Check back in a week for more information.

Originally from: Motorcycle Journal

Could you think of a better place to launch a new product line other than at Daytona Bike week? Zero Motorcycles an industry leader in electric motorcycles is blazing the path for others to follow with this historic unveiling. Launching 4 different electric motorcycles the Zero S, Zero DS, Zero MX, and Zero X. What better way to get your product right into the publics eye than displaying them at such a popular motorcycle venue.

Among the most significant advances on the 2010 Zero S and DS is the revolutionary Z-Force™ Air Induction System. A platform for performance, this system allows Zero to produce more horsepower from lighter and more compact motors by increasing the airflow through the heart of the motor. Zero is also introducing a new throttle technology that modulates the increased power to provide riders with exacting control over the acceleration. All 2010 motorcycles are powered using Z-Force™ power pack technology with new and more precise cell monitoring. The cumulative result of all this technology is a longer power pack life, more power, greater acceleration off the line and superior handling.

The Zero S is priced at $8,995 (after a 10% U.S. federal tax credit). Some states and provinces offer additional incentives. Consumer financing is available in the United States for those who qualify. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States at the end of March. The Zero S comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

The Zero DS is priced at $8,995 (after a 10% U.S. federal tax credit). Some states and provinces offer additional incentives. Consumer financing is available in the United States for those who qualify. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States at the end of April. The Zero DS comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

The Zero MX starts at $8,295. Some countries or states may offer incentives. Consumer financing is available in the United States for those who qualify. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States at the end of March. The Zero MX comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

The Zero X starts at $7,495. Some countries or states may offer incentives. Consumer financing is available in the United States for those who qualify. The motorcycle can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States at the end of March. The Zero X comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

Originally from: 2WheelTuesday

ANTA CRUZ, Calif., March 11 /PRNewswire/ — Zero Motorcycles, the global leader in the electric motorcycle industry, announced today that motorsports television personality Ralph Sheheen has been selected to serve as spokesperson for the brand as Zero Motorcycles embarks on its first ever multi-city road tour. In combination with the launch of its entire 2010 product line that is currently in full swing, the Zero Motorcycles national road tour begins in New York, NY, and will travel across the country showcasing all four of Zero’s high performance electric motorcycles including the Zero S, DS, MX and X. The new 2010 product line includes more power, color graphics, the Z-Force™ Air Induction System, new throttle technology and improved suspension.

“Ralph Sheheen understands motorsports and sees Zero as a company that is changing the face of the motorcycle industry,” said Gene Banman, CEO, Zero Motorcycles. “As a well respected member of the motorsports community Ralph has become a household name for motorcycle enthusiasts. His endorsement and support will help us bring attention to this rapidly growing segment of the industry.”

Originally from: PRNewswire

Zero Charges Forward: Electric motorcycle company hires top talent from BuellZero Motorcycles, the little electric motorcycle manufacturer that could, has announced the hiring of former Buell Vice President of Engineering Abe Askenazi. Coming off of a 14-year stretch with Buell, Askenazi will no doubt bring a level of experience and insight to Zero beyond its years. With funding at an all time high and the obvious future in electric vehicles, the transition from combustion to current should be rewarding for both Askenazi and Zero. Click past the break to view the complete press release.

Source: Auto Blog