Backcountry Discovery Routes and Zero Motorcycles join forces to power electric ADV riding
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.” –Inna Thorn, BDR Executive Director
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.
“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.” —Dan Quick, Communication Director, Zero 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.
Photos by Spencer Hill
