The rapidly expanding adventure motorcycle market receives a new player today from Zero Motorcycles: the all-electric DSR/X. If the prospect of a battery-powered ADV bike sounds far-fetched given range anxiety and a general lack of charging station infrastructure, rest assured that Zero recognizes exactly how much of a challenge the DSR/X faces and tried to pack it full of features to quell concerns.
The company’s largest-ever standard battery holds 17.2 kilowatt-hours of charge, which translates to claimed range estimates of 180 miles in the city, 85 miles at 70 mph, and up to 200 miles on mixed surfaces typical of an ADV bike. No true standard for measuring electric motorcycle off-road range exists quite yet, so Zero also cautions that more aggressive riding might result in closer to 155 miles of range. With Level 2 charging capabilities, the DSR/X manages a nearly full charge (0 to 95 percent) in two hours or as little as one hour when equipped with an optional 6kW rapid charger.
Riding Impressions
On road, the large battery pack’s low mounting placement results in smooth straight-line speed right up to the DSR/X’s electronically limited 112-mph top speed, while also contributing to competent handling for a 544-pound bruiser (note that figure is before adding any accessories). Unlike Zero’s sportier S and SR models, the motor control unit of the DSR/X mounts above the battery to improve ground clearance.
Most importantly, among electrics, Zero managed to combine peppy throttle response without sacrificing precise modulation of the 100-horsepower electric motor—especially crucial while riding on dirt, when all 166 pound-feet of torque might easily overpower tire traction. Bosch contributed the DSR/X’s Motorcycle Stability Control system, now with 10 discreet drive modes thanks to an additional toggle between Street and Offroad traction control and ABS settings while in Eco, Standard, Sport, Canyon, and Custom modes. The Bosch system includes automatically linked front-to-rear braking and a helpful Vehicle Hold Control feature that works in conjunction with Zero’s handy reverse gear.
Fiddling through all the various settings takes a bit of an adjustment period but definitely proves worth the while, since each mode also tweaks the amount of automatic regenerative braking. The DSR/X uses only a single forward gear, though, so Zero’s decision to forego a left-hand brake lever in place of a non-existent clutch emerges as one potential nitpick while standing on the pegs plowing the big bike through dirt and gravel. But, in general, thoughtful design of the bike’s ergonomics results in a comfortable ride even after a long day in the saddle and initial impressions suggest that Zero’s build quality concerns look to be a thing of the past.
On rutted surfaces or washboards, the bike’s heft combines with decent, if not particularly refined, suspension to smooth out most smaller bumps. Adjustable Showa forks allow for nearly eight inches of travel, while the rear features a beefy pre-load adjustment knob (albeit somewhat hidden behind the rear foot pegs) plus rebound and compression dials.
In place of a growling V4 that powers the Ducati Multistrada or the burbling V-twin of the Harley-Davidson Pan America, the main soundtrack of the DSR/X resembles more of an F1 race car’s whine emanating from the carbon-fiber reinforced 25-millimeter drive belt. Zero hopes the near-silent electric motor will attract nature lovers. Under hard acceleration or at higher cruising speeds, the drivetrain whir provides a futuristic backdrop; during slow-speed dirt riding, more of a choppy brake-disc drone develops. To minimize customer concerns about belt stretch and wear as grit and grime work into the drivetrain, a novel row of holes in the rear sprockets filters out the gunk (though Zero will still sell a chain kit for those holdouts willing to convert to an EV, but who doubt the reliability of such a system).
Riding on Pirelli Scorpion Trail II tires that lean toward adventure touring more than true off-road use, the DSR/X requires some concentration in lower traction environments to avoid wheelslip even with Offroad selected for the TC and ABS settings—an optional set of knobbier Rally STR tires should provide much more dependable grip. And a full set of 23 new accessories specifically built to transform the DSR/X into a more dedicated long-range expedition bike or legit trail-runner includes saddlebags, a larger windscreen, a skid plate, wire wheels, fog lights, and more.
Electric Adventure?
Whether the droves of buyers turning to the ADV format will accept an all-electric motorcycle remains to be seen, even if the DSR/X offers range on par with the large gas tanks typical among the competition. Much like bringing along a Jerry can, Zero provides an optional Power Pack that adds nearly seven more kilowatt-hours of charge capacity (while sacrificing much of the 7.4 gallons of built-in storage, however). And much like Jeep and Rivian have devoted significant investment to building EV chargers near trailheads across America, Zero partnered with Backcountry Discovery Routes to improve access to charging infrastructure.
Available in Sage Green or White Pearl, the DSR/X starts at $24,495 before accessories. And Zero promises that unlike much of the motorcycle and automotive industry, DSR/X bikes will hit dealer floors worldwide after orders open today, September 13.
There’s no doubt when the weather turns colder as we settle into winter, stouts take center stage. And while we enjoy all its iterations: standard stout, imperial stout, and robust barrel-aged stouts, we think this malty, chocolate-filled beer’s close cousin deserves a little respect as well. Of course, we’re talking about the oft-overlooked porter. And the best porters, oh buddy, they’ll have you rethinking your seasonal bevvie of choice.
For those uninitiated, the porter style had its genesis in England like many other iconic beer styles. It first appeared in the 1700s and is (you guessed it) named after porters—individuals tasked with transporting luggage.
A confusing origin story
“Stout is the direct descendant of porter. In the 1700s, it was common to use the word ‘stout’ to refer to a bolder, higher-alcohol version of any beer style, much in the same way we use the word ‘imperial’ today,” says Zach Fowle, advanced cicerone and head of marketing for Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. in Phoenix, AZ. “Porter was the most popular beer of the day, and over time, “stout porter” became a popular variant. But by the late 1800s, demand for regular porters evaporated, and stout porter shortened simply to stout.”
But more has changed between the 1800s and today than just our penchant for wearing top hats. “Today, most brewers seem to market beers as either stout or porter based on vibes, rather than on any notable stylistic differences,” he says.
Specifically, porters are known for their dark, almost pitch-black color and rich, sweet flavor profile. If you were to drink a porter and a stout side by side, you might even have difficulty discerning the differences between the two.
Stout versus porter is an enduring topic of discussion in the brewing industry. “While there’s no debating the porter came first—and stout used to be called stout porter, so it was a stronger version of a porter—the lines have become very blurred over the years,” says Rob Lightner, co-founder of East Brother Brewing in Richmond, CA.
“I would venture that even among professionals, a blind taste test would often yield inconclusive results,” says Lightner.
The difference between porters and stouts
Porters tend to be on the milder, more chocolatey end of the spectrum, Lightner says, whereas stouts are typically a little stronger and more roasty. Of course, this isn’t a hard and fast rule
Fowle agrees, “Porters tend to be fruitier, sweeter, and less bitter than stouts, with cocoa and caramel flavors in balance with dark malt bitterness. And stouts are usually hoppier, drier, maltier, and more coffee-forward—and may even have a touch of acidity.”
Whether or not they fit neatly into boxes, one thing’s for sure: both make for incredible cold-weather brews.
“As the nights grow longer, drinking a light, summery beer just doesn’t seem right,” says Fowle. “Porter is the perfect style for the transition to winter: warming and toasty yet not too heavy, with flavors of coffee, chocolate, and pie crust that correspond with autumn weather and holidays.”
It’s the perfect time to broaden your repretoire. Sweet, robust, warming, and well-suited to the season, here are the best porters to drink now.
1. Deschutes Black Butte Porter
There are few porters more well-respected than Deschutes’ iconic Black Butte Porter. It’s brewed with Cascade and Tettnang hops as well as 2-row, Chocolate, Crystal, and Carapils malts as well as wheat. This 5.5% ABV year-round offering is great for cold-weather drinking because of its mix of roasted malts, coffee, and chocolate. It’s a robust, subtly sweet beer perfect for imbibing on a crisp fall night.
The key to 360-degree muscle: 90-degree eccentric isometrics. It might seem like we’re throwing a lot of geometry at you, but the concept behind time under tension (TUT) is simple, says Joel Seedman, PhD, owner of Advanced Human Performance: “Perform the lowering phase of a movement in a slow, controlled fashion, usually 3 to 5 seconds; pause in the stretched position, typically around 90 degrees; then perform the lifting phase in a powerful yet controlled fashion.” Believe us, a time-under-tension workout can humble even seasoned lifters…Eccentric isometrics are like the pressure cooker of training.
“Rather than mindlessly performing slow-tempo reps, you’re using the increased time under tension as a means to fine-tune your body mechanics and alignment, which requires more mental engagement and focus,” Seedman adds.
If you want to forge functional muscle mass and strength while simultaneously bulletproofing the joints and connective tissue, give this 10-move, full-body eccentric isometrics workout a go.
Directions
Perform the following moves as 90-degree eccentric isometrics following the above protocol. Use heavy weight, but not at the detriment of proper form. Rest 60 to 90 seconds between sets and 2 minutes between circuits. Perform once every 2 to 4 days for optimal results.
Best Time-Under-Tension Workout for Total-Body Strength
Circuit 1
A. Barbell Back Squat
Set a squat rack up with heavy weight, then grasp bar and step under it. Squeeze shoulder blades together, then stand to unrack bar and step back with feet shoulder-width apart. Inhale, hinge at hips and slowly bend knees to 90 degrees. Pause, keeping natural arch in low back, then extend through hips to powerfully stand. 3 x 4-6 reps
B. Renegade Row
Start in the top position of a pushup with hands shoulder-width apart on moderate-to-heavy dumbbells (shown). Explosively drive right elbow back to row dumbbell toward ribs while balancing on opposite hand and feet. Pause, then slowly lower weight, stopping a few inches above floor. Switch sides after all reps are done. 3 x 5 reps each side
Circuit 2
A. Dumbbell Bentover Row
Stand with feet hip-width apart, holding two moderate-to-heavy dumbbells in front of thighs, palms facing you. Push hips back and hinge torso forward so it’s nearly parallel to floor, soft bend in knees. Dumbbells should be near shins. Drive elbows back to row weights toward ribs. Pause, then slowly lower down for 3 to 5 seconds. 3 x 4-5 reps
B. Incline Dumbbell Chest Press with Legs Raised
Set an adjustable bench to a 30- to 45-degree angle and lie back with dumbbells in either hand. Engage core and lift legs off floor, flexing feet. Press weights overhead, palms in. Slowly lower to 90 degrees, staying tight and compact. Pause, then drive weights up directly over chest. 3 x 4-5 reps
Circuit 3
A. Dumbbell Bulgarian Squat
Stand lunge-length in front of a flat bench, holding heavy dumbbells in each hand by your sides, palms facing in. Rest the ball on top (shoe’s laces) of your right foot behind you on the bench. Slowly lower your body until your front thigh is parallel to the floor. Pause, then drive through your heel to stand. Switch sides after all reps are complete. 2 x 3-4 reps each side
B. Single-leg Romanian Deadlift
Stand with feet hip-width apart holding dumbbells or kettlebells. Drive right leg up, foot flexed, knee aligned with hip, making a 90-degree angle. Hinge at hips as you slowly lever your torso toward floor, lowering weights and driving right leg back for counterbalance. Hold, then squeeze glutes to reverse. 2 x 3-4 reps each side
Circuit 4
A. Pullup
Hang from a pullup bar using an overhand grip with legs extended and feet flexed. Engage lats and draw shoulders down your back, then pull yourself up until chin is higher than hands. Pause at the top, then slowly lower. Pause at bottom, then reset before your next rep. 2-3 x 4-5 reps
B. Kneeling Overhead Barbell Press
Hold a bar with moderate-to-heavy load at shoulder level with forearms perpendicular to floor. Kneel at end of bench with feet flexed to grip edge for support. Inhale, engage your core and glutes, then press the bar overhead, pushing your head forward so it passes your face, exhaling at the top. Slowly lower until elbows are at 90 degrees, then hold to maintain tension. Begin your next rep from here. 2-3 x 4-5 reps
Circuit 5
A. Dumbbell Pushup
Place hands on dumbbells (this provides greater range of motion) at shoulder width and feet wider than shoulder width with just toes touching the ground. Keep head neutral and hips high to increase tension on core, chest and tris and reduce stress on spine. Slowly lower to the floor. Stop once elbows hit 90 degrees, pause, then push up to start. 1-2 x 6-8 reps
B. Biceps Curl
Stand with feet hip-width apart with moderate-to-heavy dumbbells in each hand hanging by sides. Engage biceps to curl the weights up, keeping upper arms still. Pause at the top, then lower slowly. Don’t let arms drop all the way down to keep greater time under tension on biceps. 1-2 x 6-8 reps
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If you haven’t picked up a jump rope since elementary school, you’re missing out on a fantastic cardio workout. Not only will you burn a ton of calories in a short amount of time—200 to 300 calories in 15 minutes—but jump ropes can also improve your coordination and agility. Better yet, jumping rope doesn’t require much space, so it’s easy to do at home, and it’s often more mentally stimulating than jogging or swimming.
Choosing a Jump Rope
When deciding which jump rope is best for you, it’s important to determine what your goals are. While lightweight speed ropes are popular for cardio-focused training, weighted or drag ropes will be best for those focused on strength training.
No matter what your training goals are, we’ve got you covered with this roundup of 10 jump ropes from top brands including Crossrope, TRX, Rogue, and more.
The Best Jump Ropes of 2022
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