Zero DS 2014, Owner'S Manual

Page: 110 / 128

Troubleshooting
6.12
Cold and Hot Weather Considerations
Cold Weather
Cold Weather operation of the motorcycle has no
permanent impact on its battery pack/cells; however, the
rider may see a reduction in range due to the effect cold
temperature has on the amount of energy the pack/cells
can release. The colder the weather, the greater the effect;
so that, as compared to operation in 80°F (27°C) ambient,
at 30°F(-1°C) ambient the rider could experience a
temporary reduction in range of up to 30%.
In extreme cold weather the motorcycle may also
experience a temporary reduction in power and,
correspondingly, achieved top speed.
It is not recommended that the motorcycle be ridden while
its battery temperature is below 23°F(-5°C). If it is, its
battery needs to be put on the charger at a temperature
above 32°F (0°C) as soon as the ride is concluded. It is
worth noting that the Battery Management System (BMS)
will not allow the battery to be discharged below -22°F
(-30°C), which is the absolute lowest discharge
temperature prescribed by the cell manufacturer.
Storage of the motorcycle for the winter in a non-heated
garage is acceptable, as long as:
1. the coldest temperature in the garage does not fall
below -31°F (-35°C)
2. the battery is left on the charger continuously
3. the battery is initially topped off at a temperature above
32°F(0°C)
Storage temperatures below -31°F(-35°C) may result in
accelerated permanent decay of the battery performance,
and hence it is not recommended. Above this temperature,
working as a system with the BMS, the charger will ensure
the battery survives winter storage with no permanent
damage, even if the temperatures dip well below freezing
for weeks at a time. Note that, to prevent battery damage,
the BMS will prevent the charger from charging the battery
at a temperature below 32°F(0°C). Again, as long as the
battery was initially topped off by the charger above
32°F(0°C) and remains on the charger through the winter
at temperatures above -31°F (-35°C), the system will
guard the battery from damage.