Bought used 2013 zero ds. Bike would emit noise while coming to a stop that sounded like rubbing metal but could not determine source. Now I'm pretty sure it was the forks. Was adjusting suspension and discovered fork oil leaking out of left fork at the bottom after short ride. Fortunately, able to clean up oil before it got on front rotor. Leaked a teaspoon amount in a short time. Discovered that this was a common problem with web search, that could lead to fork becoming loose (see youtube video in first link). Http://electricmotorcycleforum.com/boards/index.php?topic=3790.0 http://electricmotorcycleforum.com/boards/index.php?topic=6487.0 http://electricmotorcycleforum.com/boards/index.php?topic=3784.0 bike only has 4k miles on it. Oil on rotor is a safety issue, bike braking performance will diminish. Fork oil leaking out of fork can affect handling, which may result in a crash. Fork become loose could result in a crash.
The worst 2013 Zero DS problems
Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.
- Suspension1
Problems by type
Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.
- Suspension1
Recalls 1
Electrical system: software
- What is wrong
- Zero Motorcycles Inc. (Zero) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 XU, S, DS, and model year 2013 FX motorcycles. The affected motorcycles have controller firmware that, as a result of certain system faults, may shut off power to the motor.
- Risk
- A sudden loss of power to the motor may increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Zero will notify owners, and dealers will update the controller firmware, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in mid-January 2014. Owners may contact Zero at 1‑888‑786‑9376.
Recall number 13V635000 · Recall details
Technical service bulletins for the 2013 Zero DS 1
Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.
What 2013 Zero DS owners say
Most recent owner complaints, unedited.
Compare the 2013 Zero DS
Other model years
Questions about the 2013 Zero DS
Is the 2013 Zero DS reliable?
Owners have filed 1 complaint about the 2013 Zero DS, close to a typical DS model year.
What is the most common problem with the 2013 Zero DS?
Suspension, with 1 complaint.
How many recalls does the 2013 Zero DS have?
1 recall, covering electrical system.
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