Top 10 Street Bikes of 2023: Pricing & Performance Guide

Ready for an unparalleled journey on two wheels? Dive into our definitive guide to the top 10 street bikes of 2023. Spanning diverse categories, from naked rides to touring marvels, the realm of street bikes offers an exhilarating mix for everyone — whether you're a veteran of the asphalt or just kickstarting your passion.

At RideNow Powersports, we're not just counting down to the #1 street bike this year; we're also delving deep into the distinct types of street bikes that have captured riders' imaginations. With cutting-edge features, competitive pricing, and aesthetic brilliance, these bikes are engineered for unmatched rides. So, strap on your helmet, and let's journey through 2023's game-changers in the street bike arena. We're here to elevate your riding narrative, ensuring every twist and turn is memorable.

Breaking Down Street Bikes by Type

While the world of motorcycles is vast and varied, when we zero in on street bikes, the landscape becomes more defined. These aren't just any motorcycles; they often carry the allure of 'adventure bikes'. As we delve deep into these distinct types, our goal is to guide you through their unique characteristics, helping you determine the ideal fit for your riding aspirations.

Cruiser

The first type of street bike is the cruiser. Cruisers are the quintessential street bike. They’re comfortable, powerful, and stylish. Cruisers are great for long rides, commuting, and just tooling around town. But because they’re so comfortable, they’re not the best choice for high-performance riding.

Sportbike

The second type of street bike is the sport bike. Sport bikes are designed for speed and agility. They’re light and quick, with powerful engines. Sport bikes are great for riders who want to get the most out of their ride. But because they’re so light and quick, they can be difficult to ride in traffic and on long trips.

touring bike

The third type of street bike is the touring bike. Touring bikes are designed for long-distance riding. They’re comfortable, with plenty of storage space for all your gear. Touring bikes are great for cross-country trips and long weekend rides. But because they’re so big and heavy, they can be difficult to maneuver in traffic and tight spaces.

dual sport bike

The fourth and final type of street bike is the dual sport bike. Dual sport bikes are designed for both off-road and on-road riding. They have all the benefits of a street bike, with the added bonus of being able to take on dirt roads and trails. Dual sport bikes are great for riders who want the best of both worlds and for dual purposes. But because they’re so versatile, they can be more expensive than other types of street bikes.

Now that you know the different types of street motorcycles, you can decide which one is right for you. If you want a powerful and agile bike for speed and performance, a sports bike is the way to go. If you want a comfortable bike for long rides and commuting, a cruiser is the way to go. If you want a bike for long-distance riding and cross-country trips, a touring bike is a way to go. And if you want a versatile bike that can handle both off-road and on-road riding, a dual sport bike is the way to go.

Counting Down the Best Street Bikes of 2023

#10. Yamaha YZF R3

Base MSRP for this Street Bike at $5,499

Making an entrance at #10, the Yamaha YZF-R3 is not just any 300cc motorcycle; it's a testament to precision engineering and stellar design. Echoing the aerodynamic flair of the MotoGP® YZR-M1, its sleek R-Series styling stands out with vibrant new colors and graphics. But it's not just about looks. Dive beneath its silhouette and you'll find a high-revving supersport engine, delivering Yamaha’s championship-winning performance with an exhilarating high-rpm range.

Balancing its fierce engine, the R3 is equipped with advanced suspension, offering impeccable handling for any road condition. Its compact chassis, tipping the scales at a nimble 375 pounds, ensures agility whether you're navigating city streets or hitting the racetrack. With a comfortable seat height of 30.7 inches and the muscle of a 321cc liquid-cooled, DOHC inline twin-cylinder engine, the YZF-R3 is both a visual treat and a rider's dream.

This is RideNow Powersports' choice for riders craving style, performance, and unmistakable Yamaha DNA.

#9. KAWASAKI NINJA 400

Base MSRP for this Street Bike starts at $5,299

Stepping up the game in the world of street bikes, the Kawasaki Ninja 400 is where performance meets elegance. Its liquid-cooled, DOHC engine promises both power and efficiency, designed for those who crave an adrenaline rush on the streets. But it's not all about speed—safety is paramount, and the Ninja 400's ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) ensures confident braking in unpredictable conditions. With its tailored ERGO-FIT®, riders of all sizes experience a custom, comfortable feel.

Further complementing its stature, the Ninja 400 comes with the Economical Riding Indicator, maximizing fuel efficiency without compromising on the thrill. This bike isn't just a mode of transport; it's a statement of style, innovation, and power.

Embrace the future of street bikes with the unwavering prowess of the Ninja 400.

#8. Yamaha YZF R6

Base MSRP for this Street Bike starts at  $12,699

Prepare to be captivated by the Yamaha YZF R6—a motorcycle that embodies both power and legacy. From its M-shaped front air intake, reminiscent of racing legends like the Yamaha YZR-M1 MotoGP® factory race bike, to its aerodynamically perfected bodywork, this bike is a head-turner on streets and tracks alike.

The R6 isn’t just about looks; it's a symphony of engineering. Delve deeper and you'll find a compact Deltabox chassis, paired with a slender magnesium subframe and a hand-sculpted aluminum fuel tank, each component meticulously designed, bearing testimony to Yamaha's racing dominance. But it's the heart of the R6, the high-performance 599cc engine, that truly steals the show, promising not just rides but adrenaline-packed experiences.

If you're seeking a blend of style, performance, and exclusivity, the track-only Yamaha YZF-R6 RACE awaits—a machine that doesn't just meet expectations but surpasses them.

#7. Kawasaki Z125 PRO

Base MSRP for this Street Bike starts at $3,399

Say hello to the Kawasaki Z125 PRO—a dynamic sensation dominating the street bike realm. Beyond just a mini-bike, this machine symbolizes sheer delight, nimbleness, and forward thinking. Tailored for novices, mini-bike enthusiasts, or those seeking a unique flair in the compact segment, this bike is a delightful revelation.

Powered by a robust 4-stroke, 1-cylinder, SOHC, air-cooled engine, coupled with a polished 4-speed transmission, the Z125 PRO delivers a ride that harmoniously blends grace with thrill. Distinctive in its urban-centric design, it flaunts a capacious two-gallon fuel reservoir complemented by outstanding mileage, preparing you for city adventures or leisurely weekend escapades. The 31.7-inch seat height promises a comfortable journey, while Kawasaki's innovative Smart Regulator technology elevates the bike from mere power to intuitive brilliance, adapting seamlessly to diverse landscapes. For the experienced riders out there, don't be surprised if the Z125 PRO charms its way to the top of your list with its endearing spirit.

#6. YAMAHA YZF-R1

Base MSRP for this Street Bike starts at $17,999

The Yamaha YZF-R1 embodies Yamaha's dedication to blending innovation with peak performance. Since its pivotal redesign in 2015, the R1 has consistently been a leader, amassing accolades like the repeated honors in Cycle World’s Superbike Shootout. The heart of this champion is its powerful 998cc inline-four-cylinder engine, pushing out an impressive 190 horsepower. What sets this machine apart is Yamaha's iconic cross-plane crankshaft technology, taking inspiration from the formidable YZR-M1 MotoGP® race bike, ensuring every twist of the throttle results in pure exhilaration on the road.

The R1’s prowess isn't limited to its engine. Incorporating cutting-edge Digital Superbike Technology, it boasts features like the cableless ride-by-wire Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T®) system, offering unmatched levels of control and responsiveness. Coupled with elite superbike brakes, ABS, and the steadfast grip of Bridgestone® RS11 tires, the YZF-R1 establishes itself as an unparalleled experience on two wheels, delivering both legacy and raw thrill in every ride.

#5. HONDA CBR500r

Base MSRP for this Street Bike starts at $7,299

The Honda CBR500R stands as a testament to the perfect blend of power and practicality in the realm of sportbikes. Boasting a potent 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, this machine harnesses Honda's storied legacy with impressive low-end horsepower and torque. Thanks to the advanced Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI), riders are promised a throttle that's consistently responsive, delivering unparalleled power, performance, and fuel efficiency in harmony.

Yet, it's not just what's under the hood that speaks volumes. The CBR500R’s sleek, racetrack-inspired bodywork doesn't merely serve aesthetic pleasures; it embodies the very spirit of sporty dynamism. Whether you're weaving through city traffic or cruising expansive highways, its top-tier suspension and standard anti-lock brakes ensure a ride that’s as thrilling as it is secure.

In the CBR500R, Honda offers not just a sportbike, but an experience, ensuring every ride is nothing short of memorable.

#4. Suzuki GSX-R750

Base MSRP for this Street Bike starts at $12,849

The 2023 GSX-R750+ isn't just a motorcycle; it's Suzuki's emblematic masterpiece in the world of sport bikes. Stemming from a groundbreaking debut in 1985, it encapsulates the essence of Suzuki’s championship-winning pedigree. Whether it's the elegant finishes like Pearl Brilliant White or the punchy performance in every twist and turn, the GSX-R750+ is the dream amalgamation of aesthetics and adrenaline-inducing power.

This bike is an orchestra of advanced engineering. Its 750cc, fuel-injected, four-cylinder engine harmoniously melds the power of a heavyweight with the vivacity of a nimble racer. With the added finesse of the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (S-DMS), riders are given the reins to mold their experience, harmonizing their desires with the road's embrace. Underlying this masterpiece is a meticulously crafted twin-spar aluminum frame paired with Suzuki's state-of-the-art Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) fuel injection and lightweight titanium alloy valves.

This is more than just a ride; it's a GSX-R750+ experience, redefining the zenith of sport bike excellence.

#3. HONDA CBR600RR

Base MSRP for this Street Bike starts at $12,099

The 2023 Honda CBR600RR isn't just another bike—it's a statement. Embodying Honda's illustrious history of performance-driven sport bikes, it sits confidently alongside icons like the Suzuki GSX-R600 and Yamaha R6. Every rev of its 599cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder engine echoes Honda's racing heritage, delivering a punchy response that's further amplified by dual-stage fuel injection. Two sets of injectors per cylinder ensure an exhilarating high-rpm ride while maintaining efficiency at lower speeds.

But there's more to this masterpiece than raw power. The CBR600RR's lightweight design complements its scalpel-sharp handling, making every twist and turn an experience to remember. Whether you're making tracks on the asphalt or winding down scenic routes, this bike promises both thrill and precision. Available in ABS and non-ABS variants, the CBR600RR beckons those who demand unparalleled performance and style in one sleek package.

#2. Suzuki GSX-R600

Base MSRP for this Street Bike starts at $11,699

The 2023 Suzuki GSX-R600 stands out as a testament to Suzuki's dedication to relentless innovation and unparalleled performance. Evolving from the trailblazing GSX-R750 unveiled in 1985, the GSX-R600 continues Suzuki's proud tradition, offering a sublime fusion of race-winning capabilities and streetwise demeanor. Its compact and potent 599cc, four-cylinder engine responds with vigor at every throttle twist, delivering a riveting power surge right up to the redline. Coupled with advanced suspension and precision brakes, this machine pledges a riding experience marked by agility and responsiveness. 

Suzuki's design ingenuity is further highlighted by the engine's architecture, wherein the top end is inclined forward to optimize cylinder head charging and enhance power output. Beyond sheer power, the GSX-R600 equips riders with the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (S-DMS), granting the ability to fine-tune the engine's power delivery to match the demands of varying terrains and moods.

Whether it's a track day challenge or a city sprint, the Suzuki GSX-R600 remains the quintessential choice for those seeking precision and elegance in a middleweight Supersport.

#1. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R

Base MSRP for this Street Bike starts at $10,699

Claiming the #1 spot on our curated list, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R is the embodiment of sheer performance blended seamlessly with advanced technology. As a testament to Kawasaki's triumph in World Superbike racing with three consecutive championship victories, this superbike brings the adrenaline of the racetrack directly to the streets.

Beneath its sleek exterior lies a beast: a 4-stroke, In-Line Four, DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled engine. Pushing out an impressive 130 horsepower and soaring up to 16,000 rpm, the ZX-6R is a force to be reckoned with. But there's elegance in its strength. Advanced Engine Management Technology, from Assist & Slipper Clutch to Kawasaki Quick Shifter, ensures riders experience precision, responsiveness, and control in every twist and turn. And with features like the Intelligent Anti-lock Brake System, safety and performance go hand in hand. For those who refuse to settle and crave the pinnacle of motorcycle engineering, the 2023 Ninja ZX-6R is the definitive choice.

final thoughts

The evolution of street bikes this year has been nothing short of astounding. As we've navigated through the best offerings of 2023, it's clear that manufacturers are continuously raising the bar, melding innovation with passion. Each bike we've delved into offers a unique blend of performance, aesthetics, and technology, ensuring that every enthusiast finds their perfect match.

As you contemplate your next ride or simply dream of the open road, remember that the perfect companion might be just a click away. Ride safe, and may your journeys be as limitless as the horizon.

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