https://www.topspeed.com Sport Bikes feature sleek, aerodynamic designs, powerful engines, and are built specifically for speed and performance. Thanks to a wide variety of manufacturers, including Kawasaki, Suzuki, Ducati, KTM, and others, there is a sport bike available for every skill level from beginner to weekend racer. Fri, 08 Sep 2023 16:21:27 GMT en-US hourly 60 A few months back, we told you trusted Japanese sources suggest Suzuki is readying a GSX-8R. It’d be based on the new 776cc platform to compete in the hot middleweight sport bike segment. And now, we finally have confirmation on the matter. That too, right from the horse’s mouth, as Suzuki has certified its upcoming GSX-R.

]]> Fri, 08 Sep 2023 16:21:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/confirmed-a-suzuki-gsx-8r-is-in-the-works/ After what felt like an eternity, Aprilia has finally entered the sub-500cc sport bike segment with the all-new 2024 RS 457. The motorcycle is already making huge headlines around the world. And for all the right reasons. However, this is a super competitive segment, and the Aprilia RS is taking a stroll into a jungle full of predators. The biggest one, particularly in America, is the Kawasaki Ninja 400. It has led proceedings for several years, thanks to its simple, trustable, and exciting nature. So will the Ninja prey on the RS? Or will Aprilia take over Kawasaki’s throne? While only time will that, here’s how these compete against one other.

]]> Fri, 08 Sep 2023 13:20:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/new-aprilia-rs-457-vs-kawasaki-ninja-400-is-there-a-new-sub-500cc-sport-bike-king/ If you’re in the market for an entry-level sport bike, you’ll be surely spoiled for choice. But all the key players have remained more or less unchanged in recent years, and it’s high time someone else matches up to them. Lucky for you, Aprilia is here to do just that. After several sightings, the Noale Factory has finally taken the wraps off its all-new small-capacity sport bike, the RS 457. It checks all the right boxes and aims to disrupt its rivals–Japanese, Chinese, or European. For good reason too, as it bears the company’s auspicious ‘RS’ acronym that has given us popular offerings like the RSV4 and RS 660.

]]> Thu, 07 Sep 2023 16:30:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-new-aprilia-rs-457-is-here-to-set-the-sport-bike-segment-ablaze/ It all began in early 2023 when spy shots of a striking Aprilia sport bike broke the internet. No, it wasn’t a new RSV4, or some special edition RS 660, but an entry-level motorcycle. What followed was a series of sightings in the company’s hometown (Italy) as well as India. Clearly, the Noale factory was picking up pace, which hinted an official reveal wasn’t all that far.

]]> Wed, 06 Sep 2023 15:16:28 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/2024-aprilia-rs-440-all-you-need-to-know-ahead-of-its-launch/ Aprilia recently teased the upcoming RS 440 on their Instagram handle, and we can’t keep calm. The beginner sportbike segment has gotten more exciting than ever, and a sub-500cc sport bike from the Italian marque has the potential to change the game entirely, given the brand’s reputation for building radical, focused sport bikes that constantly set benchmarks in their respective segments. Aprilia has done a terrific job keeping the RS 440 hush-hush, but there have been a few spy shots floating around on the internet. We already know a few things about the upcoming bike, and our expectations are soaring.

]]> Mon, 04 Sep 2023 23:01:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/everything-we-want-to-see-on-the-aprilia-rs-440/ We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again - all bikemakers want a piece of the middleweight sport bike pie. And for good reason, given how popular the segment has become in the past few years. While we all expect names like Suzuki and KTM to jump aboard soon, it looks like CFMoto is about to pull the rug from under its rivals. That’s because the bikemaker has showcased a triple-cylinder sport bike - called 675SR - in its hometown, China.

]]> Mon, 04 Sep 2023 13:20:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/spied-cfmotos-triple-cylinder-sport-bike-seems-like-a-yamaha-r7-killer/ It’s happening! Aprilia has finally dropped a teaser for the much-anticipated RS 440. As you’d expect, it reveals little about the motorcycle but there are some cues to confirm it’s indeed the company’s sub-500cc sport bike. To jog your memory, the motorcycle has been spied a few times already. These first came to light in early 2023 on Indian turf, followed by more recent sightings on Aprilia’s home turf, Italy.

]]> Thu, 31 Aug 2023 18:57:09 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/get-ready-the-aprilia-rs-440-is-just-around-the-corner/ Suzuki has been around for a long time in the conventional sense along with the others from the Big 4. With considerable racing success in MotoGP and WSBK along with other world racing series, they have come a long way, being one of, if not the most economically successful two-wheeled manufacturers in history.

]]> Wed, 30 Aug 2023 21:00:29 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/top-suzuki-gsx-models-of-all-time/ The modern sport bike market of today is a vast one featuring some great, performance-oriented machines that can give elite supercars a run for their money. While it can be safely assumed that owning one of these top-of-the-line motorcycles is on every biking enthusiast’s bucket list, there are very few who can actually realize this dream. The reason is simple – most high-performance sport bikes cost an arm and a leg to own. One could buy themselves a pretty decent sedan for the same kind of money – and that’s exactly what most people end up doing (read: life happens).

]]> Wed, 30 Aug 2023 19:00:28 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/5-used-sport-bikes-to-buy-now-and-5-to-avoid/ In early 2023, we brought you pictures of China’s first inline-four superbike built by local giant QJMotor. And eight months later, it appears the motorcycle is finally set for production. We say this because type-approval documents of the sport bike (called SRK1000RR) have surfaced on the internet. These give us a first insight into the motorcycle’s specs, some of which are…well…disappointing.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 14:15:30 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/leaked-chinas-first-liter-class-sport-bike-seems-a-bit-disheartening/ With nearly 16 million two-wheelers sold last year, India is the biggest motorcycle market in the world right now. And if you’re a bikemaker, these are some serious customers for you to lure in. That’s why all your favorite manufacturers–Harley-Davidson, BMW, Yamahai–make special efforts for the world’s most populous country.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 17:15:28 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/motorcycles-sold-in-india-thatll-make-americans-jealous/ It’s 1985 and a full seven years before the Honda CBR900RR FireBlade will appear, but Suzuki has already pointed the way to the future of the sports bike with the GSX-R750. A smooth but punchy four-cylinder engine allied to a light and nimble chassis, at a time when liter-plus sports bikes were heavy and with questionable handling. Despite the increasing popularity of the 1,000cc sports bike from the early 1990s-onwards, the GSX-R750 has remained one of the benchmark sports motorcycles, one that few rivals could match back in 1985 and that few can match today for the price. Devoid of excessive electronic interventions, the GSX-R750 is one of the purest motorcycles you can buy today and offers a riding experience few other motorcycles can match for the price.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 13:01:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/reasons-why-the-suzuki-gsx-r750-is-a-supersport-legend-and-models-that-prove-it/ Honda’s has come a long way since 1992 when they introduced the first generation 893cc CBR900RR. The model continued for 10 years seeing displacement increases to 918cc and then 954cc which had a completely redesigned body and frame. The seventh generation of the CBR1000RR also known as the FireBlade in some countries was introduced in 2004 and had been designed keeping the World Superbike Championship in mind.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 23:00:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/2024-honda-cbr1000rr-r-everything-we-know-so-far/ Next year marks the 40th year of continuous production for the iconic GSX-R moniker. And we believed that was a good enough occasion for Suzuki to update its flagship GSX-R1000 after six long years. So when its USA division skipped the liter-class bike from its 2024 lineup, we had high hopes the bikemaker was finally answering our requests. Plus, our hopes were backed by several patent filings by the factory, most of which showed a new Gixxer. Little did anyone know, we were setting ourselves up for disappointment because Suzuki has now introduced the 2024 GSX-R1000 in America.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 13:15:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-2024-suzuki-gsx-r1000-is-here-and-its-not-what-any-of-us-wanted/ Sport bikes sit at the top of the motorcycle pyramid — they offer the best performance, handling, and technology. However, the best sport bikes, like the Ducati Superleggera V4 or the Yamaha YZF-R1, are not suited for everyday use, and they can cost you (and your best friend) an arm and a leg.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 13:01:28 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-sport-bikes-under-ten-grand/ The land of the free and the home of the brave is well known globally for its cruisers but what you probably didn’t know is that it occasionally has made some mighty fun and quick sportbikes as well. That’s right – just like that tenth dentist, there have been a few American motorcycle manufacturers who disagreed with the status quo and wanted to stay ahead of the curve, so to speak, so they designed and manufactured sportbikes that could put a grin on your mug when going around a corner as well.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 17:01:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/fastest-american-sport-bikes/ The Triumph Daytona 675 was Britain’s answer to the much-popular 600cc supersports from Japan. And boy, did it match up to its four-cylinder contemporaries in all aspects. Sharp dynamics, likable power, sleek design, and of course, a cracking triple-cylinder mill earned it a big fan following, even in its relatively short decade-long life. So ever since the bikemaker pulled its plug in 2017, we’ve been dreaming about a new ‘tona.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 18:11:30 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/spied-the-triumph-daytona-660-is-set-to-make-the-yamaha-r7-anxious/ If you’re in the market for an entry-level electric motorcycle, you’ll end up looking at a variety of commuter-type nakeds. But what about sport bike fanatics? Don’t you deserve something striking to start your EV journey? Well, you do, and Chinese giant QJ Motor has whipped up an EV that fits the bill well. Called the OAO Pro (alternatively RX), it promises to be a perfect entry-level sport bike which makes it a serious problem for the upcoming electric Kawasaki Ninja.

]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 16:12:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-electric-kawasaki-ninja-already-has-a-chinese-rival/ At a time when all of its contemporaries have abandoned the 600cc class, Kawasaki dropped a bomb for the upcoming model year. It overhauled the much-popular Ninja ZX-6R, giving us the ONLY Euro-5 compliant 600cc screamer of late. Updates also included a new design, improved electronics, and better features, all of which made the supersport its best self yet.

]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 14:15:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/2024-honda-cbr600rr-vs-kawasaki-ninja-zx-6r-battle-of-the-og-supersports/ When you see lists of motorcycles for tall riders, they're almost always consist of adventure touring or dual sport bikes. But not all tall riders want to ride these types of motorcycles. Just like not all short riders want to ride tiny cruisers like the Honda Rebel 300.

]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 01:00:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-sport-bikes-for-tall-riders/ Google ‘green motorcycle’ and you’ll find an assortment of Kawasaki Ninjas. That’s how deeply rooted the color is in the Japanese company’s heritage. But it’s always a good idea to try something new, and Team Green has done just that. How, you ask? Well, by unveiling special editions of the Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-6R that can beat Ducati at its own game.

]]> Sat, 19 Aug 2023 14:21:24 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/these-sexy-kawasaki-ninjas-can-beat-ducati-at-its-own-game/ Lady Gaga wore a meat dress, Carly Rae Jepsen released Call Me Maybe, Disney’s Frozen deafened us, and we all debated whether a dress was blue or golden — the 2010s were undoubtedly some interesting years. But for bikers, the years weren’t all about memes and questionable trends; they were a transition period where motorcycles transitioned from old analog beasts to modern, polished engineering specimens.

]]> Sat, 19 Aug 2023 13:00:24 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-sports-bikes-of-the-2010s/ Barring the updated Hayabusa, Suzuki’s sport bike efforts have been dismal at best in the past few years. The GSX-R1000, in particular, has been in a sorry state since its last major update came way back in 2017. What was once a class leader in the much-competed liter-class segment, currently sits at the bottom of the food chain with dated features and technology.

]]> Fri, 18 Aug 2023 17:16:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/2024-suzuki-gsx-r1000-what-we-know/ Speed in the 21st century is not necessarily something that manufacturers like to shout too loudly about. Back in the late 1990s, Japanese manufacturers signed a gentleman’s agreement to limit top speeds to 186mph (300km/h) to stave off any anti-sports bike legislation from the Europeans. Even today, top speeds are rarely quoted by either manufacturer or even independent media outlets, such as MV Agusta simply listing their bikes as faster than 186 mph.

]]> Thu, 17 Aug 2023 01:00:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-fastest-sports-bikes-in-the-world/ Somewhere towards the end of 2018, BMW Motorrad had introduced the ‘M Motorsport’ range of performance-oriented motorcycles, similar to the company’s existing automobile range. The very first superbike to make its debut in this elite range of machines was the BMW M 1000 RR in September 2020. Unfortunately, upon its initial release, the bike didn’t fare too well as it was only thought of as a carbon-fiber upgrade to the much-loved BMW S 1000 RR, but with a much heftier price tag.

]]> Wed, 16 Aug 2023 11:00:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/bmw-m-1000-rr-everything-we-know-so-far/ The 1990s was the decade when the sports motorcycle came of age: every sports bike that has come since had its origins in the designs and the engineering of the 90s. This was the decade when the Japanese finally got their act together and, following the lead of Honda, started down the path of light weight and compact dimensions, while huge leaps were made in suspension and braking technologies, although electronics were a way off in the future. It wasn’t just the Japanese, however: the 1990s was the decade that saw a small Italian manufacturer take its first steps towards world domination, with not only the Monster, but also the iconic 916 that itself re-wrote some of the sports bike rules. It was a golden age for the sports bike and here are ten of the best.

]]> Tue, 15 Aug 2023 01:00:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-sport-bikes-of-the-1990s/ Ever since the first superbike rolled off the assembly line, and virtually destroyed an entire motorcycle industry, we've been obsessed with them. By today's standards, the venerable Honda CB750 isn't all that fancy. Because these days, superbikes have grown a reputation worldwide for their track-derived tech, speed and an overwhelming amount of power.

]]> Mon, 14 Aug 2023 00:00:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-most-powerful-superbikes-in-the-world/ By the late 2000s, the Japanese were comfortable in their domination of the 1,000cc superbike market, with only Ducati able to mount a consistent challenge. The thought of staid old BMW coming to the party was laughable: so much so, that no-one bothered to think about it. But, as we all now know, BMW did come to the party and bowled over the establishment as if they were skittles at a bowling alley. If World Superbike racing success - one of the major drivers of the exercise in the first place - eluded BMW, then they more than made up for it with success on the road, leaving its rivals floundering in its wake, wondering just what had happened.

]]> Sat, 12 Aug 2023 19:00:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/evolution-and-history-of-the-bmw-s-1000-rr/ The world of motorcycles is a lot like the world of food. One item that’s a staple in some places doesn’t guarantee popularity at the other end of the world. After all, for different cultural needs, you need different products. This is also the case with motorcycles.

]]> Sat, 12 Aug 2023 17:50:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/motorcycles-sold-in-japan-thatll-make-americans-jealous/ Today, it is incredibly non-politically correct to talk about outright top speed, as if ignoring the subject means that today’s performance motorcycles don’t have a top speed at all. There was a time, however, when top speed was what sold motorcycles as much as chassis dynamics and track prowess or racing success. Arguably the first ‘hyperbike’ was the 1988 Kawasaki ZX-10, with a top speed of 167mph but the one everyone really remembers is the Suzuki Hayabusa, with its near-200mph top speed. The ‘Busa is still with us and, if its wings have been clipped a little, it is still blisteringly fast and a reminder of the days when speed was king.

]]> Sat, 12 Aug 2023 15:01:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-fastest-production-motorcycles-ever-built/ Back in the 1980s, Suzuki changed the sport bike landscape for the better with the introduction of the GSX-R750. Nearly 40 years later, it is still with us today, albeit only in the American market. The supersport possesses an irresistible mix of smooth four-cylinder power and nimble handling. Few - if any - sport bikes could match it back in 1985, and it's the same story in today's times. It remains one of the purest and most analogue sport bikes on the market, and although it hasn’t been updated since 2011, that is no reason to overlook it today. Also, if it lacks the electronics that have become such an essential element of modern motorcycles in general, that could be because it is so well-balanced and has a lot of passive safety built in through the behavior of its chassis, suspension, brakes and the smooth power delivery.

]]> Fri, 11 Aug 2023 13:01:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/reasons-why-the-suzuki-gsx-r750-is-the-best-supersport/ Out of all the leading bikemakers, Kawasaki is the only one that seems to care about small enthusiast-oriented motorcycles. The globally hit 2024 Ninja ZX-4RR is a fitting proof, and now, the 2024 ZX-25R is here to cement the above statement further. Though it’s not a global product, Team Green has still given its small screamer some notable updates that make it better than ever. Let’s dive in.

]]> Thu, 10 Aug 2023 16:20:54 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-new-kawasaki-ninja-zx-25r-is-more-powerful-than-the-ninja-400/ Paton is a well-known Italian motorcycle manufacturer that has been producing high-performance motorcycles for racing and street use for decades. This iconic motorcycle company has a long history of taking part in many motorcycle championships such as the Isle of Man TT, MotoGP, and other high profile motorcycle racing events. Paton motorbikes and the Isle of Man TT race, the most famous road race in the world, have a long history dating back to the early 1960s. Back in the day, Paton's race motorcycles were breaking all kinds of records and winning races.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 19:00:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-love-about-the-paton-s1-r-lightweight/ Be it the game-changing CBR900RR or the current flagship CBR1000RR-R, the Honda CBR moniker has birthed some cracking motorcycles. Among this list also lies the once-class-leading CBR600RR, which has somewhat faded away in recent years. It’s only available in a handful of markets (including America) but has received no updates in the past decade.

]]> Tue, 08 Aug 2023 13:20:30 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-new-honda-cbr600rr-is-a-kawasaki-ninja-zx-6r-rival-you-will-crave/ Think fast motorcycles, and you will end up daydreaming about the Kawasaki Ninja H2. Armed with a supercharger, the hyper sport bike boasts 230 horsepower with the promise to take you to seriously illegal speeds seriously quickly. But what if we said you could match up against this rampant beast with a Harley-Davidson? As shocking as it sounds, Australia’s House Of Horsepower has done exactly that. The shop excels at building beastly turbo Harleys, one of which has taken on the supercharged Ninja H2 in a drag race. Read on to know who wins.

]]> Mon, 07 Aug 2023 17:16:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/drag-race-turbo-harley-davidson-matches-up-to-a-kawasaki-ninja-h2/ Does the motorcycle world need yet another superbike? Don't we have enough from the likes of BMW, Kawasaki and Ducati? Who are these machines even for? Can anyone truly ride the Panigale V2 as it was meant to be ridden, while on their way to and from work? These are all valid questions, but perhaps they are besides the point. Because superbikes aren't meant to be sensible. They aren't ever going to be reasonable. No average rider could ever really use, let alone afford, one. Because you definitely cannot get the best out of them going from red light to red light.

]]> Mon, 07 Aug 2023 01:00:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-crighton-cr700w-just-might-be-the-purest-track-superbike-ever-made/ The entry-level inline-four segment has made a sort of comeback. Full credit here goes to Kawasaki’s two sub-500cc screamers, the Ninja ZX-25R and ZX-4RR. But now that someone’s proven it’s possible in this era, it’s not long until Team Green’s contemporaries jump aboard the bandwagon. One of the most likely candidates is Honda, which could add an inline-four screamer to its globally renowned CBR lineup. What could it be, you ask? Well, designer Syaldilah Rizkia thinks it could be a CBR250RR-R, and it’s something we certainly dig.

]]> Sat, 05 Aug 2023 17:45:24 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-honda-cbr250rr-r-is-an-inline-four-screamer-kawasaki-should-worry-about/ If you haven’t heard the word ‘Kramer’ before, don’t be surprised. Based in Bavaria, Kramer is a boutique motorcycle manufacturer, solely focusing on the niche everyone craves, but only a few can get—race bikes. It produces limited quantities of its motorcycles, each loaded with nothing, but the highest quality components.

]]> Sat, 05 Aug 2023 14:20:24 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/meet-the-kramer-890rr-a-beastly-sport-bike-all-of-you-will-crave-but-only-a-few-will-get/ The Kawasaki Ninja is an iconic name in modern motorcycling, representing speed and cutting-edge technology. The Ninja lineup offers a range of sports oriented motorcycles with a rich racing heritage in events like MotoGP, and the Superbike World Championship. The First Ninja appeared in 1984, and set new standards for sport bikes. Over the years, Kawasaki has continued to produce high-performance Ninja models that offer high efficiency and reliability, and are easily recognizable by their often-green color schemes. Even if you ask someone unfamiliar with motorcycles to name a sports bike, there's a high chance they'll mention a "Ninja".

]]> Thu, 03 Aug 2023 23:00:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-versions-of-the-kawasaki-ninja/ Born on the racetrack, but made for the street, the Honda CBR650R is a remarkable machine that derives characteristics from the famous super bike CBR1000RR - also known as the "Fireblade". The CBR650R is the sporty successor to the old CBR650F middle weight sports tourer, and it carves a special place in the hearts of bikers who crave the freedom of full-throttle rides.

]]> Wed, 02 Aug 2023 17:01:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-like-about-the-honda-cbr650r/ The Triumph Speed Triple RR is arguably one of the fastest cafe racer bikes out there. With nearly 180 ponies in its arsenal, it promises to keep you entertained, be it in a straight line or in the twisties. But horsepower numbers can always get better and Jody Millhouse from Thornton Hundred is a firm believer in the very notion. So when he got his hands on a RR, the custom bikemaker couldn’t help but boost the sport bike’s performance. The result? A supercharged Speed Triple RR with 400 horsepower, which we believe is the world’s most powerful one yet.

]]> Tue, 01 Aug 2023 16:25:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/this-supercharged-triumph-speed-triple-rr-is-a-400-hp-beast-you-cant-miss/ After years of prowess in the naked, ADV, supermoto, and motocross segments, KTM is finally ready to leave its comfort zone. The bikemaker is gearing up to foray into the middleweight sport bike segment with the much-anticipated RC 990–a first for the Austrian giant since its inception. We already brought you its first spy shots in late 2022, and the motorcycle has now been spotted once again. The new test mule shows some significant differences from last time, all of which make the bike more drool-worthy. Here’s everything you should know.

]]> Tue, 01 Aug 2023 13:20:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/spied-the-ktm-rc-990-just-got-more-enticing/ Since the KTM RC 390 first appeared on the scene, it’s been a force to reckon with in the entry-level sports bike segment. It truly took the fight to the dominant Japanese giants then and recently underwent an overhaul to breeze past its rivals in several aspects. But it looks like Team Orange isn’t satisfied, as the company is already brewing a new RC 390 as we speak. The upcoming bike has been spied testing in Europe, revealing several changes over the current model.

]]> Mon, 31 Jul 2023 13:20:24 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/latest-spy-shots-of-the-2024-ktm-rc-390-will-leave-your-jaw-dropped/ Launching in 2002, now over 20 years ago, the Mazda RX-8 is both a loved and hated car all at once. Lasting until 2012, a rotary successor to the RX-7, the RX-8 is perhaps not as sought after. The RX-7 was produced from 1978-2002, selling nearly 400,000 units in the United States alone in its inception year, and the third-gen FD RX-7 is arguably the most popular now.

]]> Sun, 30 Jul 2023 18:00:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/heres-why-the-mazda-rx-8-is-such-a-misunderstood-rotary-sports-car/ We have some good news If you’ve always wanted to feel like WSBK racers. Kawasaki has introduced an uber-limited edition of its flagship superbike called the Ninja ZX-10RR WSBK Edition. It takes direct inspiration from the company’s crème de la crème race bike ridden by its factory riders, Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes. There are a handful of extra components as part of the package, all of which aim to make you feel like Jonny, albeit on the street. To jog your memory, Team Green and Jonathan Rhea are the most WSBK successful duo this century with six titles in the bag.

]]> Sun, 30 Jul 2023 15:21:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/kawasakis-new-ninja-will-make-you-feel-like-jonathan-rea/ There is a strong argument for restricting the modern sports bike solely to the track, where you can indulge in every last ounce of its speed and dynamics, which are extensive, to the full. Not everyone has the means to own a bike for track use and another for the road, however, and so, if a sports bike is the only bike they want, then they’ll have to learn to keep the performance in check when riding it on the road. Some of the smaller-displacement sports bikes are perfect for road use while others should either be restricted to the track or are already only track-legal. Here’s five of the best of each.

]]> Sat, 29 Jul 2023 21:00:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/sport-bikes-that-are-great-for-the-street-and-that-should-stay-on-the-track/ Ever since Yamaha pulled the plug on the YZF-R6, there’s been a gaping hole in its YZF lineup. Yes, we know the R7 did some damage control, but it sits awfully close to the 42-HP R3 and a bit too far from the 200-HP R1. It’s safe to say the bikemaker needs another sport bike, and there are several official filings to confirm a YZF-R9 is well in the works.

]]> Sat, 29 Jul 2023 14:16:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-yamaha-yzf-r9-just-became-a-reality-but-theres-a-catch/ More than any other category of motorcycle, the sport bike is the one that has undergone the most change in the past 50 years. In the early 70s, a sport bike was relatively unknown as a model in its own right. Bikes such as the Triumph Trident 750 or the Honda CB750 were certainly ‘sporty,’ but no manufacturer was making a motorcycle in the manner of today’s race-replica superbikes. By the 80s, things were changing and fairings were becoming the defining element of a sport bike, along with increased performance from 1000cc+ engines and improved chassis technology. In the 90s, Honda redefined the sport bike with the first of the CBR900RR FireBlade models, a recipe that every other Japanese manufacturer followed.

]]> Thu, 27 Jul 2023 01:00:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/top-10-cheapest-sport-bikes-money-can-buy/ The Ducati Panigale and the BMW S 1000 RR are two of the hottest liter-class sport bikes in the world. They lock horns in a number of aspects and look the part in their own ways. But what’d happen if these two reproduced to form an offspring? Well, as weird as that thought may be, there is an answer to the question. It comes straight from Chinese bikemaker QJ Motor, who’s introduced the 2023 SRK600 RR–a 600cc sport bike that looks explicitly identical to both the Panigale and the S 1000 RR.

]]> Wed, 26 Jul 2023 17:20:24 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/this-sport-bike-looks-like-a-love-child-of-the-ducati-panigale-and-bmw-s-1000-rr/ Sports bikes have become more powerful and faster over the years, with improved performance and safety technology. Motorcycle manufacturers have specifically designed and tuned the superbikes with cutting-edge technology, powerful engines, lightweight frames, and aerodynamic fairings that make them blistering fast and highly nimble around corners. As much fun as sports bikes are to ride on the road, you can unleash them on the racetrack to experience their true capabilities and potential inherited from their race bike pedigree. With a budget of $20,000 there are many fast super bikes available on the market which offer a great value, stunning looks, incredible performance, and a thrilling ride.

]]> Wed, 26 Jul 2023 17:00:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/fastest-sport-bikes-under-20000/ The motorcycle industry is evolving, and gone are the days when you could only go fast with a top-spec superbike. Nowadays, you can go fast even with beginner-class motorcycles under 400cc. Of course, these sub-400cc motorcycles won’t be breaking any land-speed records, but they are sure to go fast enough to give you an adrenaline rush. Some of them even punch way above their class and beat motorcycles that cost a lot more. So, if you are a new rider looking to go fast on a crotch rocket, here are the fastest sport bikes under 400cc that you must check out.

]]> Wed, 26 Jul 2023 02:00:23 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/fastest-sport-bikes-under-400cc/ Bimota was founded in 1973 in Italy, and has a storied history. One of the founding members is a certain Massimo Tamburini, a name that any motorcycle enthusiast has heard many times over, in conjunction with other premium Italian motorcycle brands such as Ducati, MV Agusta, and Cagiva. Bimota started off building customised chassis for motorcycles. These premium chassis were built around production engines, and they worked with Japanese brands like Suzuki, Honda, and Kawasaki. Later they began working with Yamaha and Ducati motors as well. They then experienced quite a few highs and lows, ending with bankruptcy. A half century later, Bimota’s history seems to have come full circle – Kawasaki Heavy Industries now has a majority stake in the brand, and they are once more building a custom motorcycle chassis for an existing engine. The engine in question is that from the Kawasaki H2R in all its supercharged glory, which lends the ‘H2’ in the Bimota Tesi H2 name. The Tesi H2 is an ultra premium product and has us salivating over its many details that wow us. Despite its entire run already being sold out, the Tesi H2 remains a product worth talking about in great detail. Here are ten things we love about the Bimota Tesi H2.

]]> Wed, 26 Jul 2023 01:01:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-like-about-the-bimota-tesi-h2/ At its essence, motorcycles are always dancing on the fine line between speed and comfort. There are fast sportbikes that you’d hate taking on a long-distance tour, and the most comfortable sport tourers don’t feel composed at high speeds or corners. Comfort and speed are two ends of the spectrum, and manufacturers often let go of the other in pursuit of one.

]]> Tue, 25 Jul 2023 19:01:24 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/sport-bikes-that-are-actually-comfortable/ The 1,000cc superbike segment is the one category all motorcycle enthusiasts have either dreamed about or still dream about (that’d be us). And this class has had many defining moments since its inception. Out of these, one of the most pivotal ones came in just before the 21st century, when Yamaha debuted the YZF-R1. It redefined the segment for several reasons (more on that in a bit), shaping the liter-class category to what we drool over.

]]> Tue, 25 Jul 2023 13:25:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/yamaha-yzf-r1-25-years-of-the-true-blue-superbike/ Aprilia is a manufacturer that usually stays away from the limelight and distinct chatter. Partly because their portfolio is small, and how often can you upgrade 4 motorcycles anyway? But lo and behold, the Italian brand is set to introduce an all-new motorcycle on its books and one that promises to create a lot of hype. Say hello to RS440!

]]> Tue, 25 Jul 2023 11:00:24 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-aprilia-rs440-looks-all-set-to-shake-up-the-entry-level-sport-bike-market/ Time was when the 600cc sports bike was as important to manufacturers as their 1000cc bigger brothers and there were some pretty spectacular models on the market. Then, for various reasons, including rising costs and insurance premiums, not to mention a general contraction of the sports bike market, they disappeared one-by-one, and we all thought that was the end of it. But a closer look reveals a healthy number of middleweight sports bikes which, if they lack the general insanity of the likes of the Yamaha YZF-R6, Suzuki GSX-R600 and Honda CBR600, still offer brilliant performance and dynamics in a user-friendly and affordable package. If speed and thrills are your thing, then perhaps less really is more.

]]> Sun, 23 Jul 2023 13:00:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/great-middleweight-sport-bikes-in-2023/ Sport bikes are often track-ready machines with similar tech and components to racing bikes. These motorcycles are designed and developed to offer the same performance, speed, and handling as racing bikes on which they are primarily based.

]]> Thu, 20 Jul 2023 21:00:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/fastest-sportbikes-over-20000/ Motorcyclists have always loved chasing speed and the manufacturers have done their best to deliver. In decades gone by, it was enough to simply put a larger and more powerful engine in an existing chassis that might also be used for more mundane models.

]]> Thu, 20 Jul 2023 13:00:22 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-sport-bikes-to-buy-ranked/ Last year, Yamaha created a few headlines when it filed a trademark for the name ‘XSR-GP’. The moniker hinted at a new sport bike based on its globally renowned XSR900. Fast forward to 2023, and the project seems ever closer to production now. Why, you ask? Well, because Team Blue has subtly added fuel to the fire with an XSR900 prototype shod with a retro fairing. That’s a pretty clear hint at what’s coming if you ask us.

]]> Tue, 18 Jul 2023 17:20:20 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/a-yamaha-xsr900-based-sport-bike-is-on-the-horizon/ Chinese bikemaker CFMoto has already treated us with several new motorcycles in just the first half of 2023. And it seems the bikemaker has an even bombastic second half planned. That's because the KTM partner is readying a full-blown sport bike for the niche but popular liter class segment. The superbike—let’s call it the CFMoto 1000 R—will be the company's first four-cylinder motorcycle and also its first foray into the big sport bike segment. For reference, the bikemaker's current flagship is the 450SR (called 450SS in America) which competes in the entry-level segment.

]]> Mon, 17 Jul 2023 17:20:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/spied-a-liter-class-cfmoto-superbike-is-brewing/ Love it or hate it, the era of inline-four middleweight sport bikes is ever closer to its demise. All leading bikemakers have jumped ship to twins and Suzuki remains the only Japanese giant without a twin-cylinder sport bike. But that could change soon. It appears the Hamamatsu-based company is readying such an offering, as claimed by our buddies at Young Machine (a reputable two-wheeler publication in Suzuki’s home). The idea also explains the company’s lack of focus on the GSX-R600 and GSX-R750, both of which have had no significant updates in over a decade. Let’s dive in.

]]> Sat, 15 Jul 2023 17:50:21 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/get-set-a-suzuki-gsx-8r-could-be-coming-to-surprise-you/ Yamaha revived memories of the legendary YZF-R7 OW02 when it unveiled a new model sport bike with a similar name in 2022. The previous version produced in the late 90s remains one of Yamaha's most iconic motorcycles. However, the new Yamaha R7 motorcycle significantly differs from the original in functionality, purpose, and design. Besides, Yamaha is now focusing on addressing people's interest in function over form.

]]> Fri, 14 Jul 2023 17:00:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-like-about-the-yamaha-yzf-r7/ GSX-R is a moniker home to some cornerstone superbikes. Be it the 1985 GSX-R750 (it set the world land speed record) or the GSX-R1000 K8 (it served as the foundation of the BMW S 1000 RR), the history of the Gixxer is no short of iconic. Come 2024, the popular name is all set to complete 40 years, which begs a question we all want the answer to - what does Suzuki have in store for this momentous occasion?

]]> Fri, 14 Jul 2023 13:20:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/gixxer-fans-rejoice-a-new-suzuki-gsx-r1000-is-around-the-corner/ More often than not, we as motorcyclists tend to gravitate towards the biggest, baddest, and best-looking motorcycles our money can buy. It's about the style, the ride, the 0 - 60 times, and about how we look in other motorcyclists’ eyes. The likes of the Panigales, the H2s, and what have you. But every once in a while, there comes along something unsuspecting, something we aren’t usually accustomed to. These bikes come to the market, serve their time and when the manufacturers see that they haven’t been received well, they’re taken out of the running.

]]> Mon, 10 Jul 2023 19:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/most-underrated-sport-bikes-ever/ Over the last 43 years, Honda has broadened their two-wheel Motorsports base worldwide with their street-going racing machines. From the “MT125R” of 1976 to the “RS125R”, which ceased production with the 2009 model, Honda has won numerous championships with the Honda RS125R. Developed for the FIM Grand Prix road racing competition in the Moto3 class, the Honda NSF250R replaced its predecessor which raced the 125cc class until the end of 2011.

]]> Mon, 10 Jul 2023 17:00:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-just-found-out-about-the-honda-nsf250r/ Unfiltered fun, peppy performance, sporty looks–there are several reasons why entry-level faired bikes are popular. And because of this, it’s like a pizza most bikemakers want a slice of. The biggest portion currently belongs to Kawasaki with full credit to its chart-leading Ninja 400. It goes fast and looks the part, an experience further amped up by its issue-free reliability.

]]> Sat, 08 Jul 2023 14:20:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/why-the-upcoming-aprilia-rs-440-means-trouble-for-the-kawasaki-ninja-400/ If you dig entry-level motorcycles, the past few days must’ve felt like a dream come true. Harley-Davidson and Triumph unveiled their small-capacity motorcycles, both catering to the 300-500cc roadster segment. But what about sport bike fans? Well, fret not, as Aprilia will soon answer your prayers. The Noale factory has a sub-500cc sport bike–likely called the RS 440–in the pipeline which has been spied testing in a production-ready guise. This is its first clear sighting, post the test mule seen in India at the start of 2023.

]]> Thu, 06 Jul 2023 17:15:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/aprilias-entry-level-sport-bike-spied-in-production-ready-guise/ The majority of us started our riding careers on small displacement motorcycles before we progressed to something bigger and better. What bike we chose for those first steps reflected how we defined motorcycling and one category of motorcycling that has always been well catered for in the world of beginners’ bikes is sports bikes.

]]> Wed, 05 Jul 2023 18:00:20 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/great-sport-bikes-for-beginners/ Anniversaries are special occasions, worthy of celebrations. And when it’s a 25th, you just need to make it count. That’s what Suzuki is doing with its iconic flagship bike, the Hayabusa. 2023 marks the motorcycle’s 25th birthday, so the bikemaker has announced a limited edition to commemorate the feat. It comes ripe with unique touches all around, such as a special Orange/Black paint, a golden chain adjuster, and a color-matched cowl as standard equipment.

]]> Tue, 04 Jul 2023 17:15:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/suzuki-hayabusa-25-years-of-the-most-iconic-world-s-fastest-motorcycle/ The ‘American Dream’ is a belief that through hard work and perseverance, you can rise from your deepest woes. And in the American motorcycle world, Buell is perhaps the flagbearer of this belief. It was founded in 1983, sacked by Harley-Davidson in 2009, and rebirthed just two years ago (in 2021), only to come back stronger than ever. So marking this rollercoaster 40-year journey, the American bikemaker has now unveiled the Hammerhead 1190 Freedom Edition. And it’ll infuse a sense of patriotism in you.

]]> Fri, 30 Jun 2023 13:15:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/this-new-buell-might-be-the-most-american-superbike-yet/ Honda not only makes some of the most reliable motorcycles in the world, but also some of the best sportbikes in the business. Its CBR series of sportbikes caters to all sorts of riders, ranging from the humble 150 cc CBR150R to the mighty 999 cc Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade. But if you’re looking for a mid-range Honda sportbike then the Honda CBR500R could be a great option for you.

]]> Wed, 28 Jun 2023 15:00:24 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-like-about-the-honda-cbr500r/ Aerodynamic wings were once a rarity, not just on road-legal superbikes but even on MotoGP machines. Fast forward to today, they are everywhere you see, be it most liter-class bikes or flagship streetfighters all have them. However, these are barely useful on the road, and it’s only fair someone made them more feasible in this respect. In an attempt to do just that, Bavarian giant BMW Motorrad has filed an interesting patent that gives these wings a new purpose.

]]> Tue, 27 Jun 2023 14:15:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/bmw-motorrad-has-a-bewildering-new-use-for-aerodynamic-wings/ Almost directly translated from the Japanese word for ‘lightning’, the Honda Fireblade (or FireBlade, depending on the year) has got to have one of the coolest names ever for a vehicle. When the CBR900RR first went on sale, Bill Clinton became the President of the USA and Rage Against The Machine had launched their first album. Now over three decades old, the Fireblade has seen numerous versions go on sale. Which of these are our favorites, though?

]]> Mon, 26 Jun 2023 17:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-versions-of-the-fireblade/ British giant Triumph Motorcycles has been an integral part of Hollywood. It has several big franchise tie-ups under its belt since we’ve seen its bikes jump around in James Bond movies, escape criminals in Mission Impossible, and even outpace dinosaurs in Jurassic World. The same trend carries forward into 2023, as the latest movie where a Triumph makes a cameo is the soon-to-come Heart Of Stone. That too, with none other than Gal Gadot in the saddle.

]]> Sun, 25 Jun 2023 15:15:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/this-sexy-triumph-motorcycle-just-made-its-netflix-debut-underneath-gal-gadot/ After several spy shots and rumors, Kawasaki finally took the wraps off the 2023 Ninja ZX-4R earlier in the year. We had all the bragging rights since America became one of the first markets to receive the motorcycle. In fact, Team Green’s U.S. division had already started dispatches while other markets waited in awe for a simple price announcement. But as they say, the longer you wait, the hotter you date, and Kawasaki has certainly proven this theory right. That's because the Japan-spec Ninja ZX-4R seems more impressive than the American-spec in a few aspects. Read all about it below, and we can bet it'll leave you green with envy.

]]> Sat, 24 Jun 2023 17:15:20 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-japan-spec-kawasaki-ninja-zx-4r-will-leave-you-green-with-envy/ The Yamaha Motor Company’s origins can be traced back to the Yamaha Corporation and its founder, Genichi Kawakami, in 1887, manufacturing pianos and reed organs. It would later be contracted by the Japanese government to develop propellors during World War II, but in the aftermath of the war, Yamaha would struggle.

]]> Fri, 23 Jun 2023 13:01:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/reasons-why-the-yamaha-r6-is-the-best-supersport/ Drag racing is a high-adrenaline sport as it is, and when you infuse it with the four-wheeler versus two-wheeler rivalry, things dial up to 11 real quick. As a result, we’ve already seen some fantastic races, be it the Ducati Panigale V4 SP vs Lucid Sapphire battle or the Suzuki SV650 vs Porsche 911 shootout. But the latest addition to this list just might be the most exciting one yet.

]]> Mon, 19 Jun 2023 17:20:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/this-supercharged-suzuki-hayabusa-vs-tesla-vs-koenigsegg-drag-race-is-bonkers/ More than ever sportbikes are increasingly becoming highly-focused track weapons characterized by compact dimensions, excessive power, and razor-sharp handling. Middleweight sportbikes are now equipped with advanced technology like their liter-class counterparts, while the heavy hitters continue to benefit from racing technology. One might question the necessity of so much technology, but that’s the price you pay for today’s modern motorcycles - you want that technology to be present. They might make us look good while we ride, correcting our mistakes along the way, but as motorcycles continue to progress, we need to learn how to ride them better.

]]> Sat, 17 Jun 2023 13:00:20 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-sport-bikes-under-15000/ In times of ever-tightening norms, Kawasaki shook the world with a modern-day 400cc screamer, the Ninja ZX-4RR. It promised to be an exclusive inline-four sub-500cc motorcycle, a collectible for die-hard gasoline enthusiasts, and arguably the most powerful 400cc sports bike in production. But its exclusivity is now under threat.

]]> Thu, 15 Jun 2023 13:20:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/kawasaki-ninja-zx-4rr-vs-kove-450rr-the-inline-four-400cc-screamer-battle/ No matter how fast, close, or dramatic motorcycle track races become, they just can’t beat the sheer thrill of road racing. After all, it’s no short of an enigma to see motorcycles fly by at upwards of 180mph in places you’d otherwise do 50-60mph. And when you talk road races, the Isle Of Man TT has remained the kingpin for well over a century.

]]> Tue, 13 Jun 2023 17:45:31 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/2023-isle-of-man-tt-a-record-breaking-precedent-of-how-fast-motorcycles-have-become/ Unlike inline-four mills, very few manufacturers have shown true prowess in powerful twin-cylinder engines. But if there’s one bikemaker that’s prevailed in the said respect, it has to be Ducati. The Italian bikemaker only made twin-cylinder motorcycles pre-2019 and showed the world its expertise in the craft with some mind-boggling engineering marvels. The crown jewel, however, came in 2018 when the bikemaker took the wraps off the Panigale 1299 R Final Edition. Not only was this the most powerful twin-cylinder motorcycle by Team Red, but it was the company’s last liter-class superbike with the said layout. Here’s a look back at this icon and an opportunity to take one home.

]]> Mon, 12 Jun 2023 15:20:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/meet-ducatis-most-powerful-twin-cylinder-superbike-that-kicks-ass-even-today/ When BMW Motorrad first released the HP4 as a more premium version of the successful S 1000 RR, the company pushed the limits of motorcycle engineering by producing the world’s lightest liter four-cylinder supersports bike in the world at the time.

]]> Mon, 12 Jun 2023 14:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-you-need-to-know-about-the-bmw-hp4-race/ After a month-long tease, Kawasaki has finally put the rumor mill to rest with the introduction of the 2024 Ninja ZX-6R. It marks a new era not just for the nearly 30-year-old 6R moniker, but also for the iconic 600cc screamer class. But times have changed. The sub-700cc sports bike segment now favors a different breed of more versatile twin-cylinder motorcycles, with the Aprilia RS 660 leading the way. It boasts class-leading performance, features, and componentry, all of which will make it a big roadblock in the new ZX-6R’s success. So can the finest supersport screamer out there match up with the finest supersport twin? Well, allow this specification comparison between the 2024 Ninja ZX-6R and RS 660 to answer just that.

]]> Fri, 09 Jun 2023 13:25:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/2024-kawasaki-ninja-zx-6r-vs-aprilia-rs-660-which-is-the-sub-700cc-sports-bike-king/ Despite the sports bike market contracting in recent years, in favor of the likes of adventure bikes, manufacturers still regard them as the flagships of their ranges and spend a lot of money developing them into ever more technological, dynamic and powerful motorcycles. Not only are they getting too fast for the long and healthy life of those who ride them, they are also without compromise and inaccessible for the average rider. Taking the bodywork off a sports bike to create a naked bike might not dial down the insanity by much, but the riding position is at least relaxed significantly, making them a more practical proposition for everyday riding.

]]> Fri, 09 Jun 2023 13:00:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/sport-bikes-we-love-and-naked-bikes-wed-rather-buy/ With half of 2023 in the history books, Ducati is slowly but steadily uncovering its 2024 motorcycle lineup. The SuperSport 950 and the Monster have both received gleaming white liveries and next in line is Ducati’s smallest track-tamer, the Panigale V2. However, the bikemaker has gone the opposite way to introduce a sinister livery that just might land the baby Panigale a role in the next Batman movie. Plus, it even looks reminiscent of the uber-sexy V4 SP2.

]]> Thu, 08 Jun 2023 16:16:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/ducatis-smallest-panigale-goes-the-batman-way-for-2024/ When the Yamaha R1 was launched, it instantly made a name for itself by being one of the most powerful and one of the lightest in its class. The twin-headlamp design was popularized and brought a new design element to sport bikes all over the world. We may be as bold to say that the R1 was the world's first significant fully-faired superbike that set the benchmark for this class of machine in design and performance.

]]> Tue, 06 Jun 2023 17:01:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-love-about-the-yamaha-r1m/ The Ninja ZX-6R has been an integral part of Kawasaki’s roster since 1995. In all these years, it’s undergone several updates, all of which made it one of the finest supersport screamers money could buy regardless of the decade. But its last update came in 2019, and the 6R feels a tad aged in the ongoing decade, especially against the new breed of feature-loaded mid-capacity sports bikes. To counter that, Team Green has now taken the wraps off the 2024 Ninja ZX-6R, overhauled with a bevy of updates from head to toe. More importantly, this shows just how serious the Japanese giant is about internal combustion motorcycles and inline-four mills. Let’s dive in.

]]> Tue, 06 Jun 2023 13:52:50 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-new-kawasaki-ninja-zx-6r-is-the-best-supersport-screamer-you-can-buy/ Riding a sport bike is an exhilarating experience, whether you are jumping the rev limiter on a racetrack or erasing chicken strips on a curvy road. Sport bikes have always been synonymous with performance, speed, and handling. They are meant to push the limits and make you feel something few other things can (like a fighter jet).

]]> Tue, 06 Jun 2023 02:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-sport-bikes-under-twenty-grand/ Summers are the definition of a love-hate relationship for motorcyclists. The clear weather and grippy tarmac make it the perfect opportunity to spend some quality time with your motorcycle, while the harsh sunlight, hot winds, and sweat all contribute to the ‘hate’ side of things. The latter becomes even more prevalent around July/August when the mercury rises to upwards of 100 degrees Fahrenheit. So do you just give in, switch on the AC, sit at home, and let your motorcycle wish for a new owner? Well, of course not. Instead, all you need to do is follow the pivotal tips mentioned below which will help you prepare for these problems and enjoy every mile on your beast.

]]> Mon, 05 Jun 2023 17:20:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/pivotal-tips-for-easy-breezy-riding-in-the-summers/ In a time when most manufacturers have benched their 600cc supersports, Kawasaki is all set to update the Ninja ZX-6R for 2024. Many rumors about the new sports bike have surfaced on the internet, and the latest one comes all the way from the Land Of The Rising Sun. Team Green has filed patents for the ZX-6R’s design in Japan which have now been leaked. These give us an idea of how the new Ninja will look.

]]> Mon, 05 Jun 2023 14:20:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/new-kawasaki-ninja-zx-6r-design-leaked-ahead-of-launch/ When it comes to high-performance motorcycles, there will always be a group that stand above the rest. Built with cutting-edge technology, these motorcycles truly represent the best in terms of engineering and development processes that motorcycle manufacturers have to offer.

]]> Mon, 05 Jun 2023 13:01:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/incredible-modern-sport-bikes-over-20000/ Welcome to the world of sport motorcycles, wherein Yamaha has made a name for itself as an established and formidable opponent for those who desire bikes that are engineering marvels and performatively; the pinnacles of the industry, on both, the road and racetrack. This article gets into the nitty-gritty of a battle between two of the biggest gems in Yamaha’s beautiful sportbike lineup, with the spotlight on two stalwart models: the Yamaha R7 and its forerunner, the Yamaha R6. It’s a showdown between Godzilla and King Kong, the predecessor and the successor, both thriving currently.

]]> Sat, 03 Jun 2023 15:01:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/reasons-why-we-love-the-yamaha-r7-and-why-the-old-r6-is-better/ What Ducati doesn’t know about building both sports and racing motorcycles isn’t really worth knowing. When the 1,103cc Panigale V4 was launched, marking a new era for the company, it immediately fell outside the rules for World Superbike racing, which dictate that a four-cylinder engine - of any configuration - cannot be larger than 1000cc. To circumvent this, the Italian company also launched a 998cc version of the Panigale V4 - the V4R - with more power, myriad detail differences, sharper handling and more race-oriented electronics. A devastatingly effective track weapon, it also has a surprisingly mild and user-friendly side, not that anyone is buying one to go slowly!

]]> Fri, 02 Jun 2023 17:00:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/reasons-why-we-love-the-ducati-v4-r/ The Ninja ZX-4RR has grabbed the most headlines so far in 2023. And for good reason, as it’s the only inline-four 400cc offering currently on sale. But Kawasaki’s happiness might be short-lived as Chinese bikemaker Kove has an answer. Called the 450RR sports bike, it’s an updated version of the pre-production 400RR we showed you last year, with more cubic capacity and performance. All this has been done to make it a direct enemy of the ZX-4RR. Let’s dive in.

]]> Fri, 02 Jun 2023 15:20:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-kawasaki-ninja-zx-4rr-already-has-a-chinese-enemy/ Owning the fastest sports bikes comes with one of two things - just owning a sports bike and keeping it in your living room gives you the simple gratification of ownership and then there are those that want to challenge what the manufacturers say the motorcycle can do.

]]> Thu, 01 Jun 2023 17:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/fastest-sport-bikes-over-1000cc/ With the launch of the Honda CBR900RR in 1992, the Japanese sports bike reached a point of near-perfection that all manufacturers worked to improve further in the following years. By the year 2000, the sports bike craze was in full swing and, while the Japanese held sway at the beginning of the decade, by the end their supremacy was being seriously challenged by European manufacturers, most notably Ducati and BMW. Power outputs were soaring, electronics were starting to make their presence felt and extensive research into chassis and suspension design and construction were turning what were once rather unwieldy machines into finely-honed motorcycles that were virtually able to win races out of the box.

]]> Sun, 28 May 2023 18:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-sport-bikes-from-the-2000s/ The once-sought-after 600cc supersport segment has almost vanished from the two-wheeler market. Yamaha, Suzuki, and Honda have all waved the white flag, with no updates to their 600cc offerings in half a decade. The focus word, however, is ‘almost’, as there’s one brand that’s yet to succumb to the strict emission norms. In fact, it’s going the opposite way, with a refreshed 600cc screamer in the works. Yes, the bikemaker in context is Kawasaki, and the screamer is the Ninja ZX-6R. The motorcycle received its last update in 2019, which all of us thought would be its last. But Team Green has now teased the 2024 Ninja ZX-6R, and here’s all you can expect from it.

]]> Sun, 28 May 2023 13:45:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/2024-kawasaki-ninja-zx-6r-what-can-you-expect-from-the-new-supersport/ Have you ever daydreamed about riding your favorite motorcycles in your favorite battle royale games? Well, if you have, your dream just came true, all thanks to Ducati and PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (affectionately called PUBG). The two pioneers (in their respective spaces) have collaborated for the first time, and as a result, you can now ride a sexy Ducati sports bike to travel in the game. The makers of the game have previously tied up with luxury automotive giants like McLaren, Koenigsegg, and Bugatti, but this is the first tie-up with a motorcycle manufacturer.

]]> Sat, 27 May 2023 17:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/this-sexy-ducati-sports-bike-is-now-available-in-pubg/ On January 29, 1886, Carl Benz filed a patent for a “vehicle powered by a gas engine” and on January 7, 1894, Thomas Edison invented the Kinetograph (A.K.A the movie camera). Since movies and cars burst on the scene around the same time, they were a natural fit. The experts can't agree on the first automobile to appear in moving pictures, but for sure the first car chase was in the 1903 silent film, Runaway Mitch.

]]> Sat, 27 May 2023 14:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/cars-that-were-genuine-movie-stars/ The middleweight sportbike category has its fair share of gems, and there are quite a few types of sportbikes within that category. Some of the products blur the lines between sportbike, sport tourer, and street bike.

]]> Fri, 26 May 2023 18:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/reasons-why-we-love-kawasaki-ninja-650/