Ah, the Sportbikes. It has so many names; adventure bikes, sports bikes, dirt bikes, the list goes on. These are the types of motorcycle optimized for their flashy colors, top speed, high-revving engines, full bodywork, excellent braking, and superb cornering on paved roads, typically at the expense of comfort and fuel economy by comparison with other motorcycles. 

2023's Best Sports Motorcycles

If you're in the market for a new sports motorcycle, you've probably noticed that there are a lot of options to choose from. With so many different bikes available, it can be tough to decide which one is the best fit for you. Luckily, we're here to help. In this post, we'll take a look at some of the best sports motorcycles on the market and help you choose the right one for you.

When it comes to sports motorcycles, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind. Firstly, you'll want to consider what kind of performance you're looking for. Are you looking for a bike that's purely focused on speed and agility, or one that's more balanced and versatile? Secondly, you'll need to think about what kind of budget you have to work with. There are some great options available at a variety of different price points, so it's important to find something that fits within your budget.

Finally, you'll also want to think about what kind of riding you plan on doing. If you're mostly going to be riding on the street, you'll likely want a different bike than someone who plans on doing a lot of off-roading. With all of that in mind, let's take a look at some of the best sports motorcycles on the market. 

Here’s RideNow’s list of the best street bikes on the market for 2023. 

1. Kawasaki Ninja 400

Ninja 400

The Kawasaki Ninja 400 manages to offer ample thrills despite being a friendly beginner bike. The bike looks much bigger in flesh and embodies a mélange of design styles inherited from the Ninja H2 and the ZX-10R superbikes. The pointed fairing lends a combative look with the twin LED headlamps and the H2 fangs.

The tail lamp lifted off the ZX-10R provides the tail section a minimalistic appeal. The compression ratio is ratcheted up to 11.5:1, giving the Ninja 400 a slight nudge in power over its predecessor, the Ninja 300. And the all-new 399cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin motor delivers a torque of 28 lb-ft at 8,000rpm.

2. Yamaha YZF-R6

YZF R6

Yamaha has addressed a few issues in the updated R6, working on the dated suspension, electronics, and styling. The aerodynamics get a boost, with claims of an 8 percent reduction in drag because of the new fairing; and mirror-integrated indicators.

The combination of the YZF-R1M inspired modern bodywork, the M1 MotoGP inspired air intake, and the dazzling R1 LED headlights makes the bike stand out in the looks department. However, the powerful DOHC, 599cc, 16-valve heart of the old R6 remains unchanged, apart from the tweaks to meet the new emission standards.

3. Yamaha YZF-R3

YZF-R3

The 2020 Yamaha YZF-R3 is an all-around adaptable machine fully ready for track duty or daily commute, on your command. It is hard to argue with a counterpoised parallel twin that comes with a curb weight of 375 pounds, a compact wheelbase of 54.3-inch, KYB suspension, and 17-inch wheels.

4. Suzuki GSX-R750

GSX-R750

The original 1986 Suzuki GSX-R750 was a game changer in the sportbike segment. The GSX-R750 remains a proficient sportbike for street riders looking for punch and exhilaration of the 14,500rpm top-end and 130 hp at the back tire.

5. Suzuki Hayabusa

Hayabusa

One of the fastest production motorcycles, Suzuki’s Hayabusa – a big bike with a low stance, has a definite appeal for larger riders. Its efficient aerodynamics, power, and acceleration place it a notch above other bikes in its class. 

Add to it the silky smoothness of the 1,340cc inline-four and an ample 5.5-gallon fuel tank. After this, all one needs to turn the Hayabusa into a sports-tourer is hard luggage and cruise control. 

6. Honda CBR1000RR

CBR1000RR

The 2020 CBR1000RR is Honda’s most powerful and track-focused Fireblade till now. The all-new 1000cc inline 4-cylinder engine, designed and built from scratch with more grunt than any other Fireblade, is at the heart of the bike. As a result, the engine cranks up more power than any other inline-four, producing 214bhp at 14,500rpm.

7. Suzuki GSX-R600

GSX-R600

The Suzuki GSX-R600 features an inline 4-cylinder 599cc liquid-cooled engine delivering 104 hp and 44 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed manual transmission makes GSX-R600 a solid player in the sportbike mid-segment.

8. Honda CBR300R

CBR300R

The 2020 Honda CBR300R may be the smallest CBR, but this sportbike packs sufficient power to excite both beginners and experienced riders. And apart from being brisk and spry, it is economical too. The 286cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled four-stroke engine dispenses a healthy 30.5 hp and 19.8 lb-ft of torque.

Style-wise, the CBR300R takes after the rest of the CBR-family with dual headlights and an aerodynamic fairing.

9. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R

Ninja ZX-6R

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R Ninja is a pedigree sports bike, with one of the longest production runs. The fast-revving motor, sharp steering, robust acceleration, pliable suspension, and trustworthy brakes; all combine to make the ZX-6R a great motorcycle, both on the racetracks and the backroads.

A 636cc engine produces 128bhp and 52 lb-ft torque. You get updated styling, suspension, electronics, instruments, and headlights in the new ZX-6R. But a tiny change of fitting a smaller drive sprocket with 15 teeth in place of the older one with 16, has made a significant difference in performance and riding experience.

10. Kawasaki z400

Kawasaki z400

The 2020 Kawasaki Z400 is a fun bike in a small package. A fiercely authentic supernaked, the Kawasaki Z400 ABS exudes fresh street style and is immediately recognizable in a crowd with its compact chassis and aggressive styling. Comfortable, balanced, and capable, the Z400 ABS offers a visceral riding experience that’s sure to turn heads. It features a parallel-twin 399cc engine and assists and slipper clutch.

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