The year is rapidly coming to a close, which means the new crop of production motorcycles for 2015 is right around the corner.
However, an impressive bike is either super-fast or super-luxurious. It seems that it is never both at the same time. For the time being, here is the top 10 fastest motorcycles in the world 2015 that can be found on the market today.
1. Kawasaki H2 / H2R
Without doubt, this supercharged machine—in track-only H2R form or as a street-legal H2 model—is at the top of our must-ride list. Simply put, no other production motorcycle is supercharged, and we absolutely need to feel the otherworldly accelerative effects of that chain- and gear-driven blower, which spins at 10 times the speed of the crankshaft and transforms this new-from-the-ground-up Kawasaki into a bona fide 200-plus-mph machine. A full suite of electronics will keep that front wheel on the pavement, while top-notch suspension and brakes will undoubtedly do their best to give these heavy H2s an agility that suitably complements their insane straight-line abilities.
2. Suzuki Hayabusa
The series kicked off in 1999 and with the introduction of the of the 1340 cc engine capable of a maximum output of 197 HP, the Hayabusa was capable of reaching 248 MPH. Such power is difficult to match at truly earns the number two spot.
3. Kawasaki Ninja H2, 197.1bhp
Kawasaki claims 197bhp for the new, supercharged H2. And hits it precisely. Weirdly, it also claimes 197bhp for the ZX-10R, which the EPA reckons makes ‘only’ 177bhp.
4. Yamaha YZF-R1
Yamaha knows how to build a superbike. Case in point: the all-new Yamaha YZF-R1, whose 998cc 4-cylinder engine is a technical marvel boasting a cross-plane crank, titanium connecting rods, big valves, higher 13.0:1 compression, and compact combustion chambers. Yamaha tells us this latest R1 was developed largely on the track, and parts such as its magnesium wheels, LED lights, and titanium exhaust prove that Yamaha has been serious about keeping weight in check. Fully fueled and ready to ride, the R1 tips the scales at a claimed 439 lb. The R1M, with Ohlins Electronic Racing Suspension, is also available, but Yamaha says fewer than 500 of these limited-edition models will be available.
5. MV Agusta F4RR, 197.1bhp
Scarily, MV Agusta has an even more powerful F4 waiting in the wings, just in case the existing bike’s true 197.1bhp isn’t enough for you.
6. Husqvarna 701 Supermoto
KTM has big plans for Husky. It wants to see the historically Swedish marque become the number three motorcycle in all of Europe by 2019. Leading the way is the new 701 Supermoto, which Husky revealed at the EICMA show in Milan. If there ever was an example of fun on wheels, the 701 Supermoto is it. With its narrow chassis, KTM-based 690cc single-cylinder engine, big brakes, top-notch WP suspension, and grippy rubber, the 701 looks should be a delight around town, thanks to upright dirtbike-style ergonomics and a playful personality that will allow skilled riders to slide the back wheel into turns and then loft the front with every power-on exit. Look for the 701 Supermoto to arrive late this summer.
7.Ducati 1199 Panigale/Panigale R, 181.0bhp
It’s slightly surprising to even see the 1199 Panigale homologated as a 2015 model, since it’s effectively being replaced by the new 1299 version. However, even the old bike is still strong enough to make the top 10.
8. Aprilia RSV 1000R Mille
The 1000R Mille is an Italian bike using an Australian engine. It is one of their most famous models that is still being used in competitions, especially the RSV 04 model. The engine is only 998 cc but can reach 175 MPH. It is capable of a maximum output of 141 HP at 1000 RPM which sets it a bit back in terms of power but the speed of the bike makes it worth of being listed in the eighth position.
9. Suzuki GSX-S1000 ABS
This is a 2016 model we expect to see in Suzuki dealers this summer. Essentially, this new Suzuki is a street roadster with the heart of the legendary GSX-R1000, but with camshafts tuned for better low and midrange response. Suzuki’s idea was to make a powerful run-around street bike, one that has comfortable everyday ergonomics and full suite of electronics that enhances rider safety without stealing any of the fun. Three-mode traction control and ABS are standard on this machine, which has an all-new aluminum frame and servo-actuated exhaust valve that enhances combustion at low rpm. A comparison test with the Kawasaki Z1000 is in order as soon as we can get our hands on the new Suzook.
10. Kawasaki Ninja
For about one decade, the Ninja model held the trophy of being the fastest bike that went in production. The series is still being produced today and there is no sign of Kawasaki discontinuing it. The currently available model uses a 11.352 cc liquid cooled engine capable of reaching 186 MPH or 299 KMPH. These numbers made it the fastest consumer available bike for quite some time and still remains one of the most known models of the manufacturer.