Japan has long been praised as a powerhouse in motorcycle manufacturing. Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, and Suzuki – known as the “Big Four,” these manufacturers have consistently set the benchmark for speed and performance, and their creations are renowned for innovation, precision engineering, and cutting-edge design.
However, which are the fastest Japanese bikes on the market today?
That’s what the following article covers. It delves into the exhilarating world of the fastest Japanese bikes, showcasing models that have redefined the limits of velocity and agility on two wheels. Whether you’re a speed enthusiast or casual rider, here are the fastest bikes from the country in 2024 from each of the Big Four.
Kawasaki Ninja H2R
Kawasaki excels when it comes to speed. In fact, they have three bike models that slot into the top five fastest from Japan. Yet while the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R and Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR deliver fast thrills, there’s another Ninja variant that sets the bar: the Kawasaki Ninja H2R.
With a stunning 249mph top speed, alongside a 0-60mph time that clocks in at under three seconds, you’re looking at this year’s ultimate sports bike. Monstrous torque and horsepower numbers are the result of the H2R’s 988cc four-cylinder supercharged engine. To stop the bike from taking off – literally – aerodynamic carbon fiber wings are utilized.
The issue: the Kawasaki Ninja H2R is track-only. Fortunately, the Kawasaki Ninja H2 is roadworthy – just keep in mind that it’s capable of only 209mph!
Suzuki Hayabusa
If you know anything about Japanese motorbikes, you’ll be well aware of the iconic Suzuki Hayabusa. Ever since it first hit the scene all the way back in 1999, the bike has been a benchmark for speed and performance. These points were reflected in it being one of the first two-wheelers to almost hit the 200mph mark.
While the current iteration of the Hayabusa has settled at 194mph, this hyperbike remains one of the fastest around. This is despite it being beastly in size compared to other options. Even though it’s massive, the 1,340cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine means the bike accelerates rapidly.
Twenty-five years on, and the Hayabusa is still magic on two wheels.
Yamaha YZF-R1 M
The Yamaha YZF-R1 M is a highly desirable bike for numerous reasons. One of the main reasons is why it finds a place on this list. Alongside a high 186mph top speed, it takes only 2.6 seconds for it to go from 0 to 60mph. Yet that’s not all. It offers high-tech features such as a six-axis IMU, Öhlins gas-charged NPX fork, and dynamic Öhlins racing suspension, making the YZF-R1 M fly around tracks like a dream.
Due to using cross-plane engine technology, the bike is also one of the best-sounding available – Japan or otherwise.
Honda CBR 1000 RR-R Fireblade SP
Rounding out this list is Honda’s CBR 1000 RR-R Fireblade SP. Another long-standing name in the motorcycle world – the first Fireblade came out over three decades ago – this model represents the best of Honda: high performance, agility, and reliability. Utilizing a 999CC liquid-cooled inline-four engine, the Fireblade SP hits a top speed of 186mph. Add in performance enhancers like improved braking and increased throttle linearity and this bike is an ideal choice for either street or track use.
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