Zero Engineering Type 9 Softail

Just the Facts

Zero Engineering, from Okazaki City, Japan, has been sculpting metal since 1992. Over the years the company has perfected its signature no-frills, vintage, old-school styling that all custom bike enthusiasts can appreciate. Zero’s United States facility in Las Vegas services the US, Canada, Latin America, and China, and handles assembly and mild modification of the Japanese mothership’s designs. Zero’s first two models, the Type 5 and Type 6 Samurai Choppers, were an immediate hit that feature Zero’s original springer frontends and rigid gooseneck frames. Late 2011, Zero introduced its first Softail model to the lineup, the Type 9, which still features the springer frontend, but its geometry has been completely redesigned to provide better rideability. Most notable with the Type 9 is Zero’s new multi-link rear suspension setup, which masks the rear mono-shock brilliantly to give the appearance of the stylish rigid frame.

No Frills, Pure Attitude
You won’t find any chrome on the Type 9. Black, polished, and brass finishes throughout give it a distinctive vintage appeal. The new 2.6-gallon tank promises more than 100 miles of fun before stopping for gas until the next leg of your ride.

Rolling Stock
The Type 9 sits on dual spoke wheels, a 16x5-inch in the rear and a 18x4.5-inch up front, to give it an aggressive stance. Wrapped in traditional, classic Avon Speedmaster tires, the laced wheel and tire combo really completes the vintage package.

Engine-nuity
The Type 9 comes standard with an S&S 96ci Evolution-style mill available in natural finish or black with machined fins. Customers can also choose the S&S 124ci engine for an additional cost. For California residents, the Type 9 is available with a 50-state, CARB-certified engine from 96 ci to 124 ci. The S&S powerplant is coupled with a Rivera Primo five-speed transmission available in a polished or black finish. Transferring power from the S&S engine to the trans is a 3-inch open beltdrive with underslung guard rail to keep you protected.

Multi-Faceted
Zero Engineering has been developing its multi-link suspension setup for the past two years. According to Zero, the multi-link suspension works by pivoting twice—once from near the tail to the absolute end of the bike and again to about 2 inches inside the frame. The pivoting motion works in a moon shape and keeps tension on the chain throughout the motion. Its swingarm keeps tension on the rear and is tunable by adjusting the shock under the seat. Coupled with Zero’s springer frontend the Type 9 provides a bare-bones aesthetic with well-researched performance for tearing up the twisties and looking cool as hell doing so.