Honda Grom vs. Zero Electric Bike: 500 Miles on $20 Challenge

The $20 Road Trip Challenge

• 🚀 Zack and Ari embark on a 500-mile journey from Los Angeles to San Francisco with a budget of only $20.
• 🎯 Their challenge is to test the efficiency of two very different motorcycles: a gas-powered Honda Grom and an electric Zero S bike.

Motorcycle Efficiency Showdown

• 💡 The Honda Grom boasts a claimed 160 miles per gallon, while the Zero S claims an equivalent of 380 MPG.
• ⚡ Ari's electric bike faces the challenge of charging time and the availability of free charging stations.
• ⛽ Zack's Grom is constrained by California's expensive gasoline prices.

Navigating Challenges and Costs

• ⚠️ Early challenges included the Grom's limited highway speed and Ari's search for free charging at locations like Whole Foods and a local college.
• ⛰️ Uphill climbs significantly impacted the electric bike's range, forcing frequent stops for charging.
• 💰 Zack spent $4.19 on his first gallon of gas, noting it was already under the expected budget.

The Journey Continues: Nightfall and Budget Meals

• 🌃 The riders faced nightfall, rain, and the constant threat of range anxiety as they pushed towards their destination.
• 🌭 To stay within budget, they opted for cheap food, including 46-cent bananas and an $3.97 pack of hot dogs and buns.
• 🔌 Free charging remained a critical element, with stops at a city hall and municipal office, though often occupied or slow.

Reaching San Francisco on a Shoestring

• 🏁 After two days and over 480 miles, both riders arrived in San Francisco, having spent less than $20 each.
• 💰 Zack's final expenses included $5.72 for a small amount of gas and $11.60 for a minimum pump purchase, while Ari relied heavily on free electricity.
• 🌮 The journey concluded with a budget-friendly taco meal in the Mission district, proving that an adventure can be had on minimal funds.