Motorcycles: Zero SR/S vs. Yamaha MT-09 SP

Quick Verdict

The Zero SR/S caters to riders seeking electric power with high torque and customizable riding modes, while the Yamaha MT-09 SP appeals to those preferring a traditional gasoline engine with refined handling, premium suspension, and impressive fuel efficiency. The choice depends on the rider's preference for electric versus gasoline power, and their priorities regarding torque, range, and handling characteristics.

The Zero SR/S is an electric motorcycle, while the Yamaha MT-09 SP is a gasoline-powered motorcycle.
The Zero SR/S boasts instant torque and multiple riding modes to adjust performance and regenerative braking.
The Yamaha MT-09 SP is praised for its usable torque, refined ergonomics, and premium adjustable suspension.
The Zero SR/S has a significantly higher torque figure (140 lb-ft) compared to the Yamaha MT-09 SP (68.6 lb-ft).
The Yamaha MT-09 SP offers impressive fuel efficiency at 49 MPG, a feature absent in the electric Zero SR/S.

Key features – Side-by-Side

Attribute	Zero SR/S	Yamaha MT-09 SP
Name	Zero SR/S	Yamaha MT-09 SP
Motor Type	Z-Force 75-10 enhanced thermal efficiency, passively air-cooled, interior permanent magnet AC motor	Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve, 3-cylinder
Engine Displacement	Not available	890cc
Battery Capacity (Zero SR/S)	Maximum: 17.3 kWh, Nominal: 15.1 kWh	Not available
Peak Horsepower	111 hp (83 kW) @ 5,600 rpm	113 hp (87.5kW) at 10,000 rpm (claimed); 117.3 hp (119PS, 87.5kW) at 10,000rpm; 119.0 HP (86.9 kW)) @ 10000 RPM; 107.21 hp at 9,930 rpm (dyno test)
Peak Torque	140 lb-ft (190 Nm)	68.6 lb-ft (93Nm) at 7,000rpm; 93Nm at 7000rpm (claimed); 93.0 Nm (9,5 kgf-m) @ 7.000 rpm; 63.32 pound-feet of torque at 7,030 rpm (dyno test)
Top Speed	124 mph (200 km/h). Sustained top speed is 106 mph (170 km/h)	240km/h (claimed)
Range (Zero SR/S)	City: 171 miles (275 km), Highway (high-speed commuting): 116 miles (187 km)	Not available
Fuel Capacity (Yamaha MT-09 SP)	Not available	3.7 gal (14L)
Weight	518 lb (235 kg)	419 lbs (claimed); 194 kg (wet, claimed); 190 kg (wet); 428 lb (claimed wet weight)
Seat Height	31.0 in (787 mm). Accessory options include a low seat at 30.3 in (770 mm) and a tall seat at 31.9 in (810 mm)	32.5 in (825mm)
Front Suspension Type	Showa 43 mm Big Piston Separate Function (BPF) forks with adjustable spring preload, compression, and rebound damping	41mm KYB inverted fork, adjustable preload, high/low speed compression and rebound; Telescopic forks, 130mm travel
Rear Suspension Type	Showa 40 mm piston, piggy-back reservoir shock with adjustable spring preload, compression, and rebound damping	" Öhlins shock, adjustable preload, compression and rebound damping; Swingarm (link suspension), 117mm travel"
Price	Not available	Not available
Fuel Efficiency	Not available	49 MPG

Overall Comparison

Zero SR/S: 111 hp, 140 lb-ft torque, 171 miles city range. Yamaha MT-09 SP: 113 hp, 68.6 lb-ft torque, 49 MPG.

Pros and Cons

Zero SR/S

Pros:

No notable advantages reported.

Cons:

No major disadvantages reported.

Yamaha MT-09 SP

Pros:

Usable spread of torque across the rev range, making it suitable for both city and spirited riding
Light and powerful engine offering high torque at low rpm
Spacious, well-padded, and nicely upholstered seat
Plush and spacious rider and passenger seat
Refined ergonomics
Brembo Stylema calipers enhance braking performance
Excellent brake feel
Premium, fully adjustable suspension
KYB front suspension can be individually adjusted for compression and rebound damping
Ohlins rear shock features a remote preload adjuster
Renowned for its agility and stability
Smart key system
5in TFT display with Connectivity
Full-color 3.5-inch TFT display
Impressive fuel efficiency of 49 MPG

Cons:

No major disadvantages reported.

User Experiences and Feedback

Zero SR/S

What Users Love

Strong stopping power
Nicely blended regenerative braking

Common Complaints

Highway riding at higher speeds (70 mph) can reduce the range to approximately 70-82 miles

Value Perception

No value feedback reported.

User Recommendations

The Zero SR/S has multiple riding modes (Eco, Sport, Custom, Street, Rain) that adjust throttle map, traction control, and regenerative braking (drag torque).
Eco mode limits power and adds a speed limiter.
Sport mode provides maximum power and instant torque.
A mixed cycle can achieve around 120 miles.
The SR/S has a full-color 5-inch TFT display that shows speed, ride mode, range, and power output.
It integrates with the Zero app for customization, GPS logging, and charging information.
The SR/S suspension is custom-tuned and features Showa components.

Yamaha MT-09 SP

What Users Love

No highlights reported.

Common Complaints

No major complaints reported.

Value Perception

Achieves an impressive fuel efficiency of 49 MPG
Fuel Consumption: 4.6L/100km (measured)

User Recommendations

The engine surges forward with a howl and scream when let off its leash.
The ergonomics are refined, allowing the rider to feel at one with the machine.
Brake feel is excellent and requires little effort at the lever.