The motorcycle’s inception is closely tied to the automobile’s history, with the Reitwagen, developed by Germans Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach, emerging just a year before Carl Benz’s gas engine vehicle patent.
Although the Reitwagen had a modest top speed of 6.8 mph (11 kph) and wasn’t truly functional for transportation, it’s often viewed as the precursor to modern, high-speed motorcycles. This article aims to highlight the fastest bikes of 2024, considering not just speed and acceleration but also factors like market segment, user accessibility, and cost.
The focus initially is on bikes with the quickest 0 to 60 mph acceleration times. Interestingly, even in 2024, some older models remain unmatched in this aspect, suggesting a shift away from prioritizing sheer speed in newer designs.
However, it’s essential to note that real-world acceleration can vary based on rider skill, environmental conditions, and other factors, making manufacturer claims not always attainable in practice. Despite this, certain bikes consistently stand out for their acceleration prowess.
List Of Bikes
15. Suzuki GSX-R1000
The Suzuki GSX-R1000 holds the 2024 title for the swiftest acceleration in production motorcycles. Originating from Suzuki’s Japanese lineage in 2001, it was introduced as the successor to the GSX-R1100.
Categorized in the supersport domain (often referred to by Suzuki as a “liter-class Superbike accessible to all riders”), it remains available today. The latest model boasts a 999.8cc inline-four-cylinder engine, mirroring the original in displacement.
Interestingly, it’s the 2006 model that retains the acceleration crown, clocking a remarkable 2.35 seconds from 0 to 60 mph—a record that stands unchallenged.
This feat, however, demands a skilled rider. While the present-day GSX-R1000 might match this performance, attempting such a feat comes with risks. Priced at $16,149, it’s relatively affordable, but pushing its limits might entail additional costs, especially if modifications are needed for record-breaking attempts.
14. Suzuki Hayabusa
Suzuki, the renowned Japanese motorcycle manufacturer, is notably discreet about the performance metrics of its bikes on its official website. However, it’s widely acknowledged that Suzuki motorcycles, particularly the Hayabusa, are among the fastest in the world.
Introduced in 1999, the Hayabusa, named after the Japanese term for peregrine falcon, didn’t make a conventional debut with standard photo ops and test rides. Instead, it shattered the world record for the fastest production motorcycle. In its inaugural year, the Hayabusa soared past the 194 mph (312 kph) threshold, outpacing the previous record by an unprecedented 14 mph (23 kph).
This achievement places the first-generation Hayabusa on par with the BMW S 1000 RR in terms of top speed. However, the 2024 model is more restrained, with a factory-imposed speed cap of 186 mph (299 kph), catering to the majority of riders who seldom require higher speeds.
Yet, the Hayabusa isn’t just about top speed. It also boasts remarkable acceleration, securing the second spot on the list of fastest accelerating production motorcycles with a time of 2.47 seconds.
Priced at $18,799 for the 2024 model, enthusiasts have the option to override the speed limiter if they crave even greater velocities.
13. Yamaha V-Max
In 1985, Yamaha, another Japanese motorcycle giant, unveiled the V-Max (later known as VMAX). Distinct from the previously mentioned motorcycles and those to come, the V-Max wasn’t a sport bike but a cruiser. Typically, cruisers aren’t associated with jaw-dropping acceleration or top speeds. However, the V-Max defied this stereotype.
Though it was phased out in 2020, the V-Max still holds the title as the third fastest accelerating production motorcycle, achieving 0 to 60 mph in a mere 2.5 seconds. Additionally, it boasted a top speed of 150 mph (240 kph). This impressive performance was powered by a 1,197cc liquid-cooled engine, delivering 120 hp and 113 Nm of torque. The engine also incorporated Yamaha’s V-boost technology, enhancing the engine’s base power by approximately ten percent.
While new V-Max models are no longer available, the used market offers plenty of options, with a 2020 model typically priced up to $20,000. This makes it an enticing choice for enthusiasts eager to validate Yamaha’s performance claims.
It’s worth noting that acceleration on regular roads or tracks differs from quarter-mile strip runs. In 2024, a different set of motorcycles dominate in this category, with both traditional bikes and specialized dragsters showcasing staggering speeds. Continue reading to discover these exceptional machines.
12. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R
While most riders rarely find themselves attempting to shatter acceleration records on a quarter-mile strip, it doesn’t mean standard bikes lack the prowess for such feats when handled adeptly.
Determining the fastest production motorcycle over a quarter mile can be challenging due to the limited number of bikes tested in this context. However, historical data places the Kawasaki ZX-14R at the pinnacle.
A proud member of the iconic Ninja series from the Japanese manufacturer, the ZX-14R debuted in 2006 as Kawasaki’s most potent sport bike. The initial model, equipped with a 1,352cc engine, churned out 190 hp. Its successor, boasting a 1,441cc engine, ramped up the power to an impressive 208 hp.
The ZX-14R’s claim to fame in our list stems from its 2012 performance, post the introduction of the larger engine. It clocked a staggering 9.47 seconds over the quarter mile, reaching speeds nearing 153 mph (246 kph).
Kawasaki continues to champion the model as the “quarter mile king.” Those interested can acquire the 2024 version, with prices starting at $16,599 for the ABS variant.
11. Ducati Desmosedici RR
Often hailed as the “Ferrari” of the motorcycle world, Ducati has crafted numerous remarkable bikes throughout its history. Among them, the Desmosedici RR stands out prominently.
Introduced in 2001 as the “world’s first MotoGP replica,” only 1,500 units of this masterpiece were ever produced, making it a coveted gem among collectors today.
However, its allure isn’t just about rarity. The heart of the Desmosedici RR, a 989cc engine, delivers a staggering 200 hp at a dizzying 13,800 rpm. This power propels the bike down the quarter mile in a mere 9.49 seconds. While this is closely matched by the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R, it notably outpaces the popular Suzuki Ninja H2, which clocks 9.62 seconds for the same distance.
The impressive performance is further accentuated when considering the bike’s lightweight design, weighing in at just 171 kg (377 pounds).
As the street-legal counterpart of the Desmosedici MotoGP bike, the RR initially carried a hefty price tag of $72,500. However, its value has only appreciated over time. In Europe, some units are now fetching upwards of 85,000 euros, translating to over $92,000 based on current exchange rates.
10. Suzuki-Powered Top Fuel Bike
May 2022 is etched in history as the month when the “fastest motorcycle pass in drag racing history” was achieved. The man behind this monumental feat is drag racing icon Larry “Spiderman” McBride, who rode a Top Fuel motorcycle he crafted around a Suzuki engine.
McBride’s name is synonymous with drag racing excellence. Active on the drag strip since the 1980s, he has shattered numerous speed records at various American venues. His most recent and unparalleled record was set during a Top Fuel Motorcycle exhibition race at the Virginia NHRA Nationals in 2022.
The motorcycle, powered by a heavily modified Suzuki engine, boasts an astonishing 1,700 hp. This immense power propelled McBride to a record-breaking speed of 268.38 mph (431.91 kph), slightly surpassing his previous record of 265.95 mph (428 kph) set a few months earlier at South Georgia Motorsports Park.
What makes this achievement even more remarkable is McBride’s age. At 64 years old when he set the record, he defied expectations and even expressed ambitions to reach 270 mph (434.5 kph) in the future.9.
9. Silver Lightning
While internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycles have their drag-specialized counterparts, electric bikes are no different. Although road-going electric bikes like the Lightning LS-218 are swift, they can’t compete with drag-optimized variants, such as the Silver Lightning. Notably, the similarity in names between the two is purely coincidental.
Silver Lightning is a custom drag bike brainchild of the Danish drag racing team, True Cousins. Completed in 2019, this beast is powered by LiPo batteries and dual electric motors, together generating a whopping 1,300 hp.
The team showcased the bike’s prowess at the Santa Pod Raceway in the UK, aiming to shatter an eight-year-standing record of 6.94 seconds. Rider Hans-Henrik Thomsen did just that, setting a new benchmark of 6.86 seconds for the quarter mile, reaching a top speed of 191 mph (307 kph).
Given the magnitude of this achievement, it’s likely that the Silver Lightning will retain its title as the fastest electric drag bike for some time.
8. BMW S 1000 RR
Motorcycles are inherently designed for racing, and the BMW S 1000 RR stands as a testament to this ethos. Launched in 2008 for the Superbike World Championship, it has since transitioned to commercial production but remains true to its racing roots.
BMW Motorrad hails it as the “Superbike of Superlatives.” Many also recognize the S 1000 RR as the world’s fastest production motorcycle in terms of top speed, especially when considering that other contenders, like the Kawasaki Ninja H2R, aren’t fully road-legal.
Nestled within the S 1000 RR is a 999cc 4-cylinder in-line engine, one of the rare motorcycle engines that surpasses the 200 hp mark, delivering 205 hp. It boasts an official top speed of 188 mph (302.5 kph), outpacing several BMW cars off the racetrack.
Owing to its impressive specs, the S 1000 RR remains a favorite among racers in the Superbike World Championship, MotoGP CRT Class, and the iconic Isle of Man TT.
For everyday riders, this motorcycle offers a perfect blend of track and road performance. Its exceptional capabilities come at a surprisingly accessible price, with a current MSRP of $17,895.
7. MV Agusta F4 R 312
MV Agusta, an Italian motorcycle manufacturer, might not be as ubiquitous in daily conversations as other brands, but it has etched an indelible mark in the annals of motorcycle history. One of its standout creations is the F4 R 312.
The F4 designation first emerged in MV Agusta’s lineup in 1999, representing a series of sport bikes, each with its unique allure. The F4 R 312, unveiled in 2007, was a testament to sheer speed. Its name itself, “312,” signifies its top speed in kilometers per hour. While it claimed a top speed of 194 mph, the highest recorded speed was a hair’s breadth away at 193 mph (311 kph).
Under its hood, the F4 R 312 housed a 998cc engine, delivering 183 hp and 115 Nm of torque. Primarily designed as a single-seater for optimal aerodynamics, a two-seat variant was also available for those seeking company on their high-speed adventures.
Excluding the track-specific Ninja H2R, the MV Agusta F4 R 312 stands tall in 2024 as the second-fastest production motorcycle that’s road-legal, trailing just behind the prowess of the BMW S 1000 RR.
6. Kawasaki Ninja H2R:
The Kawasaki Ninja makes another appearance on our list, this time with the H2R, widely recognized as the world’s fastest production motorcycle in terms of top speed. However, there’s a caveat: its staggering acceleration and unparalleled top speed are designed exclusively for the racetrack, making it illegal for regular road use. For street-legal thrills, Kawasaki offers the Ninja H2.
The H2R’s prowess is evident in its output of 326 horsepower with ram-air. To put this into perspective, it surpasses vehicles like the Toyota GR Corolla and the Dodge Charger GT and nearly matches the 2024 Chevrolet Camaro 1LT’s 335 hp. Moreover, this immense power propels a lightweight frame weighing just 470 pounds (213 kg).
Given its specifications, it’s unsurprising that the Ninja H2R can achieve a top speed of 250 mph (402 kph). While its official rating hovers slightly above 200 mph (322 kph), five-time Supersport world champion Kenan Sofuoglu pushed the boundaries in 2016, reaching the 250 mph mark on a factory-spec Ninja H2R equipped with specially crafted Pirelli tires.
Interestingly, despite video evidence confirming this feat, Kawasaki’s official records state a slightly lower speed of 240 mph (386 kph).
Regardless of the exact figures, the Kawasaki Ninja H2R stands unrivaled as the world’s fastest and most potent track motorcycle. Those with a need for speed can acquire this beast for a price tag equivalent to a Mercedes EQB: $57,500.
5. Lightning LS-218
Electric motorcycles, with their immediate torque delivery, often outpace their ICE counterparts in terms of acceleration. This advantage holds true for both street-legal production bikes and drag-specific models.
Leading the pack in the realm of road-legal electric bikes in 2024 is the Lightning LS-218.
Introduced in 2014, the LS-218’s base model features a 15 kWh battery pack, offering a commendable range of 188 miles (303 km). This battery powers an IPM liquid-cooled electric motor.
This motor has propelled the LS-218 to victories at prestigious racing events like Le Mans and Pikes Peak. Boasting 244 horsepower and 220 ft/lb of torque, the LS-218 achieves a top speed of 216 mph (348 kph).
For a time, it wore the crown of the “world’s fastest production motorcycle.” Impressively, it can also sprint from 0 to 60 mph in under two seconds, outpacing even the Suzuki GSX-R1000 in terms of acceleration.
While the Kawasaki Ninja H2R has since claimed the title of the fastest production motorcycle, the LS-218 retains its status as the swiftest production electric motorcycle on the streets in 2024. Those looking to own this electric marvel can expect a price tag nearing $50,000.
4. Dave Campos
For motorcycle enthusiasts, Harley-Davidson holds a revered spot. These Milwaukee-crafted bikes are engineering marvels, aesthetically pleasing in both original and custom forms, and offer a delightful ride. However, they aren’t typically associated with breaking speed or acceleration records.
While Harleys, like the FXDR and LiveWire, can match other bikes in acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 2.5 and 3 seconds respectively, their top speeds usually cap around 110 mph (177 kph). Harleys are designed for road enjoyment, not necessarily for breakneck speeds. But in 1990, drag racer Dave Campos defied this notion. He combined two 1,500cc Harley-Davidson V-Twin engines, mounted them on a 23-foot long motorcycle, and achieved a jaw-dropping 322 mph (518 kph).
Named the “Easy Rider” (owned by the Easyriders magazine publisher), this remains the fastest Harley-Davidson ever. Remarkably, its creation was partly crowd-funded, with $25 shares allowing buyers to witness the record-setting Bonneville run.
3. Triumph Rocket 3
In the U.S., a 2.5-liter car engine might seem standard. However, in Europe and other regions, such an engine size is substantial, making vehicles with such engines rare due to high taxes. Now, imagine a motorcycle powered by a 2,500cc engine, typically reserved for cars.
Triumph achieved this in 2019 with the Rocket 3, boasting the “world’s largest production motorcycle engine.” An evolution from the 2,294cc engine introduced in 2004, this Triumph became the brand’s most powerful bike, producing 165 hp and 221 Nm of torque.
Despite its massive engine, the Rocket 3’s top speed is 140 mph (225 kph). However, its acceleration is commendable, reaching 60 mph in just 2.73 seconds.
As of 2024, the Rocket 3 stands as the swiftest production motorcycle with such a colossal engine, available starting at $23,895.
2. Dodge Tomahawk
While the Triumph Rocket 3 boasts the title of the production bike with the largest engine, it pales in comparison to Dodge’s audacious creation in 2003. Dodge, typically known for their muscle cars, unveiled a concept motorcycle powered by the V10 engine from the Dodge Viper. This beastly engine churned out a jaw-dropping 500 hp.
Although the Tomahawk remained a concept at Dodge, luxury retailer Neiman Marcus produced nine replicas, selling each for around half a million dollars. Yet, there’s no record of anyone ever riding them.
In theory, the Tomahawk could have achieved a top speed of 420 mph (680 kph) and accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in just two seconds. However, this potential was never realized, leaving the Tomahawk as a tantalizing “what if” in motorcycle history.
1. Ack Attack: The Uncontested Speed King
When defining a motorcycle as a two-wheeled machine designed for one rider, the Top Oil-Ack Attack streamliner stands unrivaled as the fastest motorcycle in 2024.
Holding this title since 2013, Rocky Robinson piloted the Ack Attack to a record-breaking speed of 376.363 mph (605.697 kph) at Bonneville.
This incredible speed was achieved thanks to its dual turbocharged Suzuki Hayabusa engines, producing a combined force of over 1,000 horsepower.
FAQ
Why are electric motorcycles faster in acceleration compared to their ICE counterparts?
Electric motorcycles benefit from the immediate torque delivery of electric motors. Unlike ICE motorcycles that need to build up revs, electric bikes provide maximum torque instantly, resulting in rapid acceleration.
Are there any safety concerns associated with these high-speed motorcycles?
Yes, high-speed motorcycles can be dangerous if not handled properly. They require advanced riding skills, especially when attempting to reach their top speeds. It’s essential to wear appropriate safety gear and be trained to handle such powerful machines.
How do manufacturers ensure the stability of motorcycles at high speeds?
Manufacturers use advanced aerodynamics, suspension systems, and electronic aids like traction control and ABS to ensure stability and safety at high speeds.
Why are some motorcycles, like the Kawasaki Ninja H2R, not street-legal?
Some motorcycles are designed exclusively for the racetrack and may not meet safety or emission standards for regular road use. Their extreme performance capabilities can also make them unsuitable for public roads.
Are there electric motorcycles that can compete with the top speeds of ICE motorcycles?
While electric motorcycles excel in acceleration, their top speeds are currently slightly lower than the fastest ICE motorcycles. However, advancements in battery technology and electric motors are rapidly closing this gap.
Conclusion
The world of motorcycles is a testament to human ingenuity and the pursuit of speed. From the humble beginnings of the Reitwagen to the mind-bending speeds of the Ack Attack, motorcycles have continuously pushed the boundaries of what’s possible.
Whether fueled by gasoline or electricity, these two-wheeled marvels represent freedom, adventure, and the spirit of competition. As technology advances, it’s exciting to ponder what the future holds for the next generation of speed demons on two wheels. Stay up to date with the lates bike and car releases and infomarion.
