The debate between motorcycle enthusiasts and sports car aficionados about which is faster has raged for years. Generally, the fastest cars in the world slightly outpace the top motorcycles. However, in many everyday situations, motorcycles often come out on top due to their agility and acceleration capabilities.
Speed Records and Real-World Performance
The highest official motorcycle speed recorded is 376 mph, achieved in 2010. Despite this impressive feat, motorcycles face challenges at extreme speeds, such as maintaining stability and keeping the rider securely on the bike. In contrast, the ultimate land speed record for any vehicle stands at 763 mph, achieved by a jet-powered car, while the fastest wheel-driven car reached speeds of 458 mph. When comparing high-end production models, the Kawasaki Ninja H2R holds the motorcycle record at 249 mph, yet it’s outstripped by the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport’s 304 mph as the fastest street-legal production car.
Practical Speed: Everyday Riding vs. Racing
While Formula 1 cars can outperform MotoGP bikes on racetracks due to superior downforce allowing faster cornering, the situation reverses on public roads. An entry-level sport bike can navigate corners quicker than nearly all standard cars, offering a thrilling ride for a fraction of the price. Additionally, motorcycles can navigate through traffic more efficiently via lane splitting and filtering, often making them quicker in urban settings than even the fastest cars.
The Verdict: It’s About More Than Just Speed
Historically, motorcycles have enjoyed a better power-to-weight ratio than cars, making them faster off the line. This advantage is a key reason why many police forces initially used motorcycle units. When choosing between a motorcycle and a car, the decision often boils down to personal preference and the specific needs of the driver. Both vehicles serve different purposes and excel in different scenarios, making them unique tools for different automotive jobs.
In the world of motorcycling, speed and design intertwine to craft machines that aren’t just vehicles but are true statements of innovation and thrill. Among these, Buell motorcycles have carved a niche, and they are known for their unique design and blistering performance. Let’s zoom through the top 10 fastest Buells ever made, where engineering …
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In the world of motorcycling, speed and design intertwine to craft machines that aren’t just vehicles but are true statements of innovation and thrill. Among these, Buell motorcycles have carved a niche, and they are known for their unique design and blistering performance. Let’s zoom through the top 10 fastest Buells ever made, where engineering excellence meets the rush of the road.
Buell Blast
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A starter to the exhilarating world of biking, the Buell Blast offers a friendly 98 MPH top speed. Beginners will find it perfect for gaining confidence on two wheels, while its agile handling and distinctive minimalist design provide a hint of adventure.
Buell S1 Lightning
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Combining power with maneuverability, the Buell S1 Lightning achieves a top speed of 124 MPH. Riders will appreciate its muscular appearance and raw power, capturing the essence of a classic American sports bike with a strong street presence.
Buell XB9S
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The Buell XB9S can soar up to 130 MPH. Riders love this model for its compact design and responsive handling, which make it ideal for darting through traffic and cruising on the open road.
Buell X1 Lightning
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Featuring an aggressive stance, the Buell X1 Lightning speeds up to 133 MPH. Heads turn due to its raw, industrial aesthetics and the powerful engine rumble, making it a choice for the bold.
Buell XB12S Lightning
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Attaining a top speed of 140 MPH, the Buell XB12S Lightning epitomizes top-tier performance. Its impressive handling matches its speed, favored by those who demand agility and power in one sleek package.
Buell XB12R Firebolt
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The Firebolt captures lightning in a bottle with a top speed of 155 MPH. A perfect blend of track-ready performance and road-going functionality, its striking design and precision engineering make it a sportbike standout.
Buell 1125CR
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As one of Buell’s fastest motorcycles, the 1125CR tops Buell’s 160 mph. Aggressive styling and exhilarating performance are designed for riders who demand speed and yearn to stand out.
Buell RW750
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The RW750 is designed for racing and can reach a maximum speed of 178 MPH. Every aspect of its design screams race-bred lineage, providing an unfiltered racing experience for the purist.
Buell 1190RX
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Buell’s 1190RX is one of their most advanced creations yet, capable of going up to 183 MPH speeds. This model combines cutting-edge technology with breathtaking speed, tailored for thrill-seekers and high-performance enthusiasts.
Buell XBRR
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At the top, the Buell XBRR dominates with a staggering top speed of 202 MPH. This limited-edition track monster is coveted by speed junkies and collectors alike, featuring advanced aerodynamics and a heart-stopping performance that crowns it the fastest Buell ever made.
So, you want to buy a used motorbike and think you can’t afford a good one? Luckily, the used market hides a treasure of incredible machines just waiting for your $5,000 budget. We’re talking reliable rides with surprising power, classic styles that never go out of fashion, and features that allow you to cruise comfortably. Read to learn about 15 excellent bikes that won’t break the bank.
Yamaha YZF-R1 – From $3500
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Even in the used market, the Yamaha YZF-R1 punches above its weight, offering a true supersport experience at a surprisingly affordable price. A screaming 4-cylinder engine cranks out over 150 horsepower, propelling you forward with exhilarating acceleration. The R1 boasts top-shelf suspension and brakes, giving you the confidence to explore the bike’s limits safely.
Honda CBR650F – From $4000
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The Honda CBR650F’s 4-cylinder engine delivers around 90 horsepower. This power is matched by a relaxing riding position suitable for cruising the highway and carving up canyons. The bike offers bulletproof reliability and low maintenance costs, making it an excellent choice for new riders or those seeking a dependable daily commuter.
Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 – From $3000
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This is an American icon wrapped in two wheels. Its air-cooled 48- 48-horsepower V-twin engine churns out a distinct rumble and offers a comfortable riding position with a low seat height. Harleys are known for their laid-back cruising style and unmistakable sound, although vibration can be intense at higher speeds.
BMW R 1200 GS – From $3900
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The GS is renowned for its comfortable ergonomics, long-distance capabilities, and off-road prowess. The 100-horsepower 2-cylinder engine and electronically adjustable suspension make it a versatile bike for exploring the world. However, the large size can be intimidating for new bikers. Additionally, BMWs are known for being more expensive to maintain compared to Japanese motorcycles.
Benelli TNT 135 – From $2800
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Made in China, the Benelli TNT 135 features a single-cylinder engine with 13 horsepower. Its weight and low center of gravity make it perfect for zipping around town or navigating tight city streets. This is a budget-friendly option for everyday transportation thanks to its fuel efficiency.
Kawasaki Ninja 400 – From $3500
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New riders and those looking for a sporty yet manageable bike will be satisfied with the Ninja 400. The 2-cylinder engine packs 40 horsepower, offering enough thrill for beginners while remaining controllable. Moreover, it features an aggressive sportbike style with a comfortable riding position that’s more upright than some race-replica motorcycles.
Ducati Scrambler – From $5000
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This stylish head-turner boasts a classic look with a retro vibe. Its low seat height makes it suitable for people of all sizes. Don’t be fooled by the vintage aesthetics, though. The Scrambler packs a modern punch, thanks to the 2-cylinder engine that delivers 75 horsepower.
Suzuki SV650 – From $4500
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The 2017 Suzuki SV650 is a middleweight motorcycle that perfectly balances sportbike excitement and touring comfort. Its 2-cylinder engine delivers 70 horsepower in a comfortable riding position with upright handlebars that reduce fatigue on longer rides. Wind protection and luggage options make it great for weekend getaways or commuting.
Yamaha V Star 250 – From $3500
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It is a lightweight cruiser famous for its 23-hp single-cylinder engine. Its relaxed riding position inspires confidence in shorter bikers. However, with minimal features, it’s best suited for casual cruising and not ideal for long distances or highway travel with strong winds.
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-11 – From $4900
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This retro motorcycle was once the undisputed king of speed, with a monstrous 4-cylinder engine that pumps over 140 horsepower. Experienced bikers and collectors who appreciate motorcycling history will be amazed by its brutal power. Yet, the 1990 Ninja ZX-11 is a handful to control and requires a very experienced rider.
Triumph Street Triple 675 – From $3500
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If you’re seeking a fun and stylish motorcycle, the British Triumph Street Triple 675 won’t disappoint you. Possessing a unique 3-cylinder engine that delivers 106 horsepower, this bike is carving up canyons or weaving through city traffic. Nevertheless, some might find the 3-cylinder engine slightly buzzy at higher RPMs than a traditional 4-cylinder.
Royal Enfield Classic 350 – From $3500
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This simple and elegant motorcycle delivers 20 horsepower for a laid-back cruising experience. The low seat height and upright position make it perfect for riders of all sizes who enjoy soaking up the scenery. While some might find the power lacking, the Classic 350 makes up for its iconic design, legendary reliability, and low maintenance costs.
KTM 200 Duke – From $3500
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Explore the city streets with the single-cylinder KTM 200 Duke. The 25 horsepower, sharp handling, and aggressive ergonomics make it a blast to flick around corners. Fuel efficiency is another strong point, making it a budget-friendly option for everyday transportation. However, the lightweight chassis and minimal wind protection limit its highway capabilities.
Triumph Bonneville – From $3200
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Retro lovers can enjoy this classic-looking motorcycle with its timeless design. It boasts a fuel-injected 2-cylinder engine with 65 horsepower, blending classic aesthetics with modern performance with standard features like ABS. The Bonneville is perfect for cruising and exploring backroads. However, some might find the power underwhelming for highway travel.
Honda Grom – From $2500
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This pint-sized machine boasts a small but fuel-efficient single-cylinder engine with only 9.7 horsepower. Yet, the Grom is perfect for new and shorter bike lovers thanks to its low seat height and lightweight chassis. Its automatic clutch makes it incredibly easy to master, and its playful handling makes it an excellent city motorcycle.
Lightweight, quick, and stealthy: three things that make an effective reconnaissance vehicle.
As it would turn out, the practical applications of e-bikes go beyond just personal mobility and recreation. E-bikes and e-motorcycles are powerful, easy to ride, are quiet, and these days, boast impressive range. All these attributes are essential from a military standpoint, especially in tactical missions that require the rapid ingress and egress of troops in a stealthy manner.
Indeed, e-bikes and e-motos being used in military settings are gaining popularity. We’ve seen it in action, as electric bikes from the likes of Delfast and ELEEK have been set up for combat duty in Ukraine. This time around, e-bikes could soon play a role in the French military, as the Battle Lab Terre innovation group, part of the French Land Force’s technical section, recently held tests on high-speed e-bikes and electric motorcycles. More specifically, it tested the LMX range of two-wheelers, with the 56 electric bicycle and the 161 electric motorcycle.
Naturally, the goal of these tests was to assess whether or not these two-wheelers could serve any practical application in a military context. For reference, LMX Bikes is headquartered in France, and is known for its high-performance electric two-wheelers. While the results of the initial tests conducted on the two models seem promising, French e-mobility publication Clean Rider reports that the French Army’s Technical Section (STAT) will continue testing these light EVs in 2024. Other metrics such as speed, range, stealth, and other performance variables will be taken into account.
Diving into the specifics of the bikes, the LMX 56 isn’t your typical electric mountain bike. It’s an off-road only machine that packs more than four times the power of even the fanciest e-MTBs on the market. Equipped with a throttle, the LMX 56 delivers up to 2,500 watts of maximum power output and 175 Nm of torque to the rear wheel. It makes use of a conventional chain drivetrain on the right side in combination with a belt-drive on the left side that’s connected directly to the motor. Moreover, its large battery pack promises a single-charge range of up to 62 miles.
Meanwhile, the LMX 161 is marketed as a lightweight motocross bike with premium suspension components, off-road wheels and tires, and a powerful motor. With 9,000 watts of peak power, it pumps out the equivalent of 12 horsepower, or about as much as a 125cc gas-powered motorbike, but with instantaneous throttle response thanks to the electric motor. Furthermore, LMX claims that it weighs just half that of its gas-powered counterparts.
Riding a motorcycle is a beloved pastime among fans of Harley-Davidson, BMW, Kawasaki, and other iconic marques. However, with all the shapes and sizes of modern motorcycles, it can be tricky to pick the right one for you. Fret not; we assembled a list of some of the best cruiser motorcycles of 2023, like the Harley-Davidson Street Bob 114 and Low Rider ST, for you to hit the long road and stick to the scenic route.
The best cruiser motorcycles of 2023 marry power, practicality, and style
A cruiser must be comfortable enough to take on the miles close to home and days away from your own bed. However, for a bike to be one of the best cruiser motorcycles on the market for 2023, it has to be robust, striking, and modular enough to take on long trips and Sunday rides. These are some of the bikes that crush the criteria.
Make and model
Starting price
2023 Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST
$22,199
2023 Harley-Davidson Street Bob 114
$16,599
2023 Indian Chief
$14,999
2023 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT
$10,399
2023 BMW R 18
$14,995
How much does the Low Rider ST cost?
The 2023 Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST starts at $22,199, $4,000 more than the leaner Low Rider S. However, where the Low Rider S is more canvas than a ready cruiser, the Low Rider ST wears a full, frame-mounted fairing, hiked-up clamshell saddle bags for spirited canyon carving, and a ballistically torquey 117-cubic inch Milwaukee-Eight V-Twin.
Sure, the ST is on par with Harley-Davidson’s tradition of high-dollar cruisers. Still, its California Club-style aesthetic and smooth power delivery make it a dream among contemporary cruisers. Moreover, with standard ABS, dual-disc front brakes, and available traction control, it’s a safe bet.
How much HP does a Street Bob 114 have?
The 2023 Harley-Davidson Street Bob 114 develops around 94 horsepower from its namesake 114-cubic inch Milwaukee-Eight V-Twin engine. However, the magic happens with the Street Bob 114’s torque delivery, namely 119 lb-ft at 3,000 RPM.
Better yet, the Street Bob is a customizable prospect among the best cruiser motorcycles of 2023. For instance, the standard passenger pad is easily replaced with a dedicated two-up seat. Also, small modular bags can slip right over the rear fender under the bolting surface of the seat, creating easy, quick storage. Finally, the Street Bob, including the newer 114 models, is almost too tempting to outfit with forward controls, different bars, or even a detachable windshield.
How much horsepower does a 2023 Indian Chief have?
The 2023 Indian Chief, a logical rival for Harley-Davidson’s Street Bob 114, produces 111 horsepower and 108 lb-ft of torque from its air-cooled Thunderstroke 111 V-Twin. As a result, the Chief outmuscles the Street Bob 114 by 17 horsepower but fails to match the Milwaukee-Eight’s 119 lb-ft of torque.
Better yet, the Chief is versatile on the road with standard rear-cylinder deactivation, keyless ignition, and different riding modes. Further, for those who don’t love the standard Chief’s aesthetic, Indian offers the platform in a Sport, Bobber, or highway-ready Super Chief.
The Kawasaki Vulcan 900 is a budget-friendly bruiser among the best cruiser motorcycles of 2023
A comprehensive list of the best cruiser motorcycles of 2023 wouldn’t be complete without a budget-friendly option. Enter the 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT. What the Vulcan 900 lacks in displacement, it makes up for in accessibility.
With a curb weight of 657 lbs and a seat height under 27 inches, the Classic LT is a manageable cruiser motorcycle for any rider. Better yet, the Classic LT can be highway-ready with a windshield and leather saddle bags.
A BMW R 18 is your retro ticket to cruiser motorcycle magic
For those who think a cruiser motorcycle starts and stops with a V-Twin engine, think again. The 2023 BMW R 18 packs an 1,800cc (110-cubic inch) Boxer engine instead of the traditional twin. However, cylinder orientation doesn’t dissuade the R 18 from being one of the best cruiser motorcycles on the market.
With 116 lb-ft of torque from a classically-styled BMW cruiser, the R 18 is an easy alternative to segment competition like the Indian Chief and Harley-Davidson Street Bob 114.
The auto world is filled with slang terms that get flung around with such frequency we all use it, but some may not know exactly what it means. This also applies to the motorcycle world, and one of the terms we often use without a definitive definition is “crotch rocket.” So what is it, exactly, and how did the term originate?
What is crotch rocket slang for?
So what is a crotch rocket, exactly? Typically it is slang for any high-performance sport bike.
Urban Dictionary delves a little deeper saying, “A specific type of motorcycle, typically distinguished by its aerodynamic ‘hunched-over’ seating position and high power-to-weight ratio. Often favored by stunters, who choose the bikes because they are light and easy to perform tricks (such as wheelies and stoppies) on.”
They’re designed to be aerodynamic and achieve this by the rider crouching low to the frame, which means less drag. Crotch rockets are more for short races, and aren’t exactly known for comfort. Many can go from 0 to 60 in less than three seconds, and can even reach speeds in excess of 200 mph.
While you obviously can’t hit a highway in the U.S. and reach these types of speeds without getting a ticket, you can push your bike to the limit on racetracks. This is very dangerous, however, and not recommended unless you are in a race and trained to handle a bike at that type of speed. Even then, going over 200 mph could lead to an accident, and is not advised.
A surprisingly interesting history
Braaap Junkie reports it all began back in 1984 with the Kawasaki GPZ900R. It took six years of tweaking, modifying, and going back to the drawing board to get it just right, but Kawasaki persevered and eventually released the inspiration for all future crotch rockets.
At the time of release, the GPZ900R was the fastest bike in the world and could hit speeds of 121.65 mph in 11.8 seconds. While that sounds slow now, it was earth-shattering back in 1984.
Kawasaki would use the GPZ900R to go on and create the Ninja line. While Kawasaki may be responsible for the basic design of the crotch rocket, it’s far from the only automaker that produces them now.
What are some of the most popular crotch rockets?
After seeing the success of the Kawasaki GPZ900R, and perhaps taking it as a challenge that Kawasaki now had the fastest bike in the world, other automakers began to release their own line of performance street bikes.
Suzuki and Honda are just two manufacturers who jumped on the bandwagon. Ducati has also gone above and beyond to make luxury motorcycles that are a work of art, and well known in the racing world.
There are several crotch rockets on the market now that are very affordable, and depending on your situation could make more sense than buying a car. Some of these include the Yamaha YZF-R3, KTM RC 390, Kawasaki Ninja 400, Honda CBR500R, Kawasaki Ninja 650, Yamaha R7, Honda CBR 650R, and the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R.
If you’re interested in speed above all else, you’d have a hard time doing better than a crotch rocket. If, on the other hand, you’re looking for something to go on long rides in the mountains or cross-country, then you’ll want something built more with comfort in mind.
