The 2015 Zero SR Electric Motorcycle

The 2015 Zero SR Electric Motorcycle

150+ MI RANGE / 300,000+ MI LIFETIME
The 2015 Zero S and Zero SR feature advanced cell chemistry and battery management systems that provide greater capacity and range. Not only does the ZF12.5 power pack enable you to go beyond 150 miles, it is also designed to last the life of the motorcycle. The result of cutting edge research and development, each cell in the power pack is individually controlled and monitored to ensure maximum health. The highly efficient onboard charger minimizes charge time and can work in parallel with Zero’s scalable off-board charging systems.

Zero Motorcycles designed the Z-Force® motor from the ground up to be compact, efficient and powerful. It provides you with exhilarating acceleration to a top speed of 102 mph as configured in the Zero SR. Capable of doing 0-60 mph in under 4 seconds, the Zero SR offers spirited riders an edge in competitive riding. Completely air-cooled, the motor is designed to provide a fantastic riding experience minus the need for any regular maintenance. When slowing down, the motor generates electricity that is channeled back into the power pack to help extend ride times. The Zero SR motor uses higher temperature magnets to ensure better performance during extended durations at higher speeds.

Showa Suspension; Bosch Anti-Lock Brake System; Pirelli Tires; LCD Dash System with Sport, Eco and Custom Riding Modes; App Synchs via Bluetooth to iPhone and Android; Carbon Fiber Belt Direct Drive (No Shifting); Instant Torque at All Speeds; Recharges Through Any Standard Outlet; Equivalent Fuel Economy 462 MPGe (City) 236 MPGe (Highway); Typical Recharge Cost $1.40

Antti Lovag, “Palais Bulles”

Antti Lovag, “Palais Bulles”, Home of Pierre Cardin

Built in 1984 by American graphic designer Pierre Bernard, Palais Bulles, resting on a rocky cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, was acquired by couturier and art patron Pierre Cardin in 1992. Working with architect Antti Lovag, Cardin transformed the original structure into a collection of cellular forms that now a villa which  houses exhibitons of contemporary designers and artists.

Caterham 750 Carbon E-Bike

Caterham 750 Carbon E-Bike

Caterham Carbon E-Bike’s design and material choices were inspired by the firm’s Formula One experience. A 36-volt, 250 Watt brushless motor along with 36-volt, 12 Ah lithium battery powers this electric bike through 8-speed Shimano Nexus gear hub. Alongside motor, E-bike is also fitted with conventional bicycle pedals and is capable of speeding up in the range of 25-50 miles (40-80 km).

Bike’s chassis is a Modular carbon-aluminum frame; available in three different and flexible frame sizes making it adaptable to the size and shape of each rider. Carbon girder forks will keep the front-wheel at the right position while the mono-shocked rear-end ensures efficient delivery of power.

E-bike uses a LED screen mounted on handlebar to provide all the details that a rider needs; speedometer, trip meter and battery status. Carbon E-Bike feature lightweight but strong aluminum rims, laced with stainless steel spokes. The braking system is similarly vigorous, featuring modern disc brakes front and rear. Tires are quite wide, impregnated with carbon-fiber for strength and reliability.

The Tantõ

Awataguchi Yoshimitsu, Tantõ, Mid-late Kamakura Period ca. 1270, Private Collection

The tantõ is a common Japanese single or, occasionally double edged  dagger with a blade length between 15 and 30 cm (6-12 inches). The tantõ was designed primarily as a stabbing instrument, but the edge can be used to slash as well.

The tantõ first began to appear in the Heian period of Japan which extended from 794 to 1185. This period was named for the location of the Imperial Capital, which was moved from Nara to Heian-Kyõ. The blades in this period lacked any artistic quality and were purely weapons.

In the early Kamakura period which ran from 1192 to 1333, high-quality artful tantõs­ began to appear. This Kamakura period brought the emergence of shogun rule. Japanese warlods, shoguns, claimed power from the hereditary monarchy and their scholar-courtiers, giving the Samurai warriors and their lords ultimate control of the early Japanese Empire.

Awataguchi Yoshimitsu was born  around 1229, the son of Awataguchi Kuniyoshi who had founded the Awataguchi School of Kyoto, considered one of the brightest lights in the world of Japanese swords. Yoshimitsu is considered the greatest maker of the tantõ in history. His blades were the most expensive at that time; one thousand pieces of gold were known to have been given to acquire one of his works.