Best Super Sport Bikes
Based on 115 reviews
Honda CBR500R
4.6 (29) Summary
Mat R NSW 8 posts
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Excellent AllrounderI have owned my 2020 CBR500R for just over 12 months. It has been a great economical bike and easily does long rides or quick jaunts through the twisties. Comfortable seating position and with adjustable front and rear suspen... Read moresion, you can really dial in your preference for how you want the bike to feel.
I’ve owned bigger displacement motorcylces and I find I don’t miss the extra power at all. I’ve owned smaller displacement bikes and this bike really outperforms them so don’t listen to too much of the hype about it being like a 300. It isn’t. The bike feels full size and gets plenty of comments on how it looks. People can’t believe it was a $10k on the road bike. That’s Honda detail and quality.
I’ve got 450km to the tank which is good going from the 17.1lt tank.
Whether you be a learner or experiences looking to downsize, this bike is it.
Yamaha YZF-R3
4.9 (18) Summary
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Cameron NSW 110 posts
An ideal first motorbikeThis is the second least powerful learner approved (LAMS) supersport bike from Yamaha.
It sports a 321cc inline twin-cylinder motor, athletic fairings and dynamics that make this a popular option amongst first time riders.
... Read more Producing 30.9kW (41hp) @ 10,750rpm and 29.6Nm @ 9000rpm from a mere 321cc, this isn’t a slow bike for learner riders. I’d compare the combination of this power with a lightweight chassis (167kg) to a Mazda MX-5 or Subaru BRZ. Acceleration is immediate, with a healthy amount of low end torque for a LAMS bike, thanks to that inline twin setup. Additionally, a high revving motor helps increase the overall enjoyment of riding this bike. The YZF-R3 is obviously more softly sprung, making it far more comfortable to make it your daily rider. Without being overly aggressive, this superport is easily thrown into corners, and is one of the best ways to introduce yourself to riding. Despite its supersport looks, the YZF-R3 impressed me with its fuel efficiency. It averaged around 5L per 100km during my time with the bike; that’s an excellent figure that allowed me to rarely have to visit the pump, compared to my Ducati. Warranty is 24 months and servicing costs are set by the individual dealers but service intervals are every 10,000km, with valve checks every 40,000km. Highway riding can also be a little precarious as cross winds gently guide the bike side to side, thanks to it being so lightweight. Obviously, there’s no cruise control available on this bike (I’d be surprised if there was), so your wrist can feel exhausted by the end of an extended highway ride. In addition, the engine has a radiator to keep the temperature of the motor down, making it a pleasant ride in bumper to bumper traffic, compared to the furnace that I call my Ducati, which is strictly air-cooled. If you’re looking for your first supersport and you’re not sure if 600cc will be too much money and power, well you’re looking at a bike that should be at the top of your list. It looks great, it rides even better and will make you fall in love with riding, rather than resenting ever completing your riders test at the local testing centre. *Disclaimer - I work for ProductReview as their independent car and motorbike expert. I borrow new cars and motorbikes from manufacturers and owners to review. I am not paid or incentivised by these brands to post reviews. I write and create content to provide insight and information about any new or used vehicle I can get my hands on.
It sports a 321cc inline twin-cylinder motor, athletic fairings and dynamics that make this a popular option amongst first time riders.
... Read more Producing 30.9kW (41hp) @ 10,750rpm and 29.6Nm @ 9000rpm from a mere 321cc, this isn’t a slow bike for learner riders. I’d compare the combination of this power with a lightweight chassis (167kg) to a Mazda MX-5 or Subaru BRZ. Acceleration is immediate, with a healthy amount of low end torque for a LAMS bike, thanks to that inline twin setup. Additionally, a high revving motor helps increase the overall enjoyment of riding this bike. The YZF-R3 is obviously more softly sprung, making it far more comfortable to make it your daily rider. Without being overly aggressive, this superport is easily thrown into corners, and is one of the best ways to introduce yourself to riding. Despite its supersport looks, the YZF-R3 impressed me with its fuel efficiency. It averaged around 5L per 100km during my time with the bike; that’s an excellent figure that allowed me to rarely have to visit the pump, compared to my Ducati. Warranty is 24 months and servicing costs are set by the individual dealers but service intervals are every 10,000km, with valve checks every 40,000km. Highway riding can also be a little precarious as cross winds gently guide the bike side to side, thanks to it being so lightweight. Obviously, there’s no cruise control available on this bike (I’d be surprised if there was), so your wrist can feel exhausted by the end of an extended highway ride. In addition, the engine has a radiator to keep the temperature of the motor down, making it a pleasant ride in bumper to bumper traffic, compared to the furnace that I call my Ducati, which is strictly air-cooled. If you’re looking for your first supersport and you’re not sure if 600cc will be too much money and power, well you’re looking at a bike that should be at the top of your list. It looks great, it rides even better and will make you fall in love with riding, rather than resenting ever completing your riders test at the local testing centre. *Disclaimer - I work for ProductReview as their independent car and motorbike expert. I borrow new cars and motorbikes from manufacturers and owners to review. I am not paid or incentivised by these brands to post reviews. I write and create content to provide insight and information about any new or used vehicle I can get my hands on.
Suzuki GSX-1300R Hayabusa
5.0 (12) Summary
Vincent Tan VIC 4 posts
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Most Value-for-money Superbike for the Street - Docile, Sleek, Classy, Reliable & Ferociously FastI owned a Gen 2 2010 Busa. Great bike for the street, daily commute, reliable and relatively cheap. It's a Fast executive's ride - Classy & insanely rapid. The smooth curve of this bike is not found in any other bikes around.... Read more Best feature is the in-gear acceleration; there is no need to drop gear for overtaking. Twist the throttle in any gear and it just surges ahead. It's not an outlandish bike but one with l-finesse, much like the Lexus. Most of the time you wouldn't want to speed but when you need to move in to fill the gaps in traffic, there is no stopping you. Thereafter, you would want to enjoy the ride at legal speed and be admired again. Comfort-wise, for those who are used to riding a road bicycle or triathlon bike, you wouldn't feel the strain on your wrist at all. But if you are so used to upright bikes, long distance touring on this Gen 2 may feel a bit taxing on your wrist. However, if you know how to use one hand occasionally and ride, this wouldn't be a problem at all.
If you love doing simple maintenance yourself, you can change the oil easily without removing the fairing. However, do NOT overtighten the plug! (23 Nm max). Otherwise the internal threads gets stripped easily. However, if you want to change the oil filter, than you would need to remove one side of the fairing. It is not difficult but you have to be wary and careful how you pull out the fairing once the screw/clips are removed as it is held by slot in points. Slight tug (pull) at those points are needed to dislodge them.
Absolutely no regret owning this Busa and always look forward to riding it!
Yamaha YZF-R1
4.8 (8) Summary
John66 NSW
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Best Supersports BikeI've owned my Yamaha R1 for just over a year now. 2016 anniversary. The bike sounds amazing with its cross plane engine. More than enough power at 200hp. If you're looking for fuel efficiency, look elsewhere, this monster dri... Read morenks petrol like a car if you're driving in an urban setting. Not for the faint hearted as it can be jerky at slow speeds and does get hot in start stop driving lock traffic.
Pillion passengers will be very uncomfortable on the small seat. But overall the bike is top tier and reliable.
Suzuki GSX-R1000
5.0 (6) Summary
Marty
GSX-R1000More
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Suzuki 2005 (K5) Godzilla. King of BeastsI have a boot in both camps...Ducati and Suzuki.
I was so fortunate in purchasing, by my reckoning, the finest, unmolested example of the mighty K5 Gixxer, in Australia. Utterly bog standard and in the blue/black/white li... Read more
very with only 8,400 klms on the clock. As is; it is an amazing beast. Light. Ultra power and decent torque for a Jap bike. That said, the OEM suspension is a tad harsh, be that as it may you could try to dial it out, however I went a different route. Kyle Engineering in the USA fabricated me custom Ohlins fork cartridges (NOT the Ohlins FGK119 cartridges which are discontinued). These are one-off, never to be made again cartridges, utilising Ducati the 848/1098/1198 30mm ‘slave’ cartridge cylinders and 10nm springs for my weight. I also purchased the Ohlins rear shock (sprung to suit my weight) and and bloody expensive Ohlins steering damper. The TOKICO calipers are fine. Just swap out the pads for FERODO pads. Front and rear. There’s no real purpose to re-gear it with sprockets...unless you want to mono the sucker like a 22 year old. That said, I’ve purchased the frame brace and the optional body panels to suit once the frame brace is installed. Suzuki didn’t realise what they had made until 2009 or so, 4 years after the fact, and indeed, that they had built one of the most classic and potent Suzuki road-going Superbikes ever made. Period.BMW S1000R
4.6 (5) Summary
theaussiedon QLD 4 posts
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Great bike, reliability is an issue 2018 modelI purchased a brand new 2018 s1000r sport late May. The bike is absolutely amazing! I easily clocked up the first 1000kms in a week of pure riding bliss. I have had an issue that made the bike unrideable, the fuel pump failed... Read more. Bike has 3000kms on it. Now I'd be livid if it wasn't for what I would consider the best customer service I have ever had. My local BMW dealership in Brisbane have bent over backwards too get to the bottom of the problem. Parts are being flown in from Germany and they have provided me a loan bike for the duration. Outstanding customer service. I'm sure once the bike is back (now been 2 weeks) I can give it the full 5 stars.
Kawasaki Ninja 1000
5.0 (4) Summary
Bradj NSW 24 posts
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Very nice.....perfect BikeI purchased the latest model Ninja 1000SX and just clocked up the first 1000k's. The bike has ticked every box so far and I am very happy with my decision to buy one. Sold my FJR1300 and DL1000 and wanted something completely... Read more different and that is what I got. Very quick and nimble with the latest technology and an amazing blend of power and handling. Has a high quality build in my opinion, without breaking the bank. The interesting thing is it looks like a typical sports bike, but has an upright riding position which makes it very comfortable. Most of my rides are long distance, so comfort was an important factor and having cruise control is a real benefit. There are a few things I add or change, such as the fitting a radiator guard and changing the can to a Yoshi Alfa. Had to purchase the OEM rear rack so I could fit a Shad top-box. The rack was expensive but I had no choice. The OEM top box or side cases are very expensive, which forces a buyer to look at aftermarket gear. Overall though, very happy with my new bike. Super smooth and the gearbox and shifting is exceptional.
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
4.5 (4)
Michelle SA 5 posts
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I LOVED MY NINJA!I had my Kawasaki ZX600 2010 for two years and loved it so much!
Powerful and it sounded great . I would recommend this bike for anyone that wanted to upgrade from having a 250cc or something .
I no longer have this bike as i had to sell it but i know that the owner is enjoying his time on it!!
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Yamaha YZF-R6
4.3 (4)
robin SA 49 posts
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amazing bike, but tough on your backThis is an amazing bike build amazing handling. Acceleration and speed would blow your mind. But this bike is not ideal for long rides as the sitting position and would make your back very sore . Riding in the city might be a little bit challenging because of the riding position as it compromises handling on low speeds.
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Honda CBR650R ABS
4.0 (4) Summary
Bill Ashfield 30 posts
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Great bike with some issuesI love my CBR650. If you're LAMS rider though I really don't see the point of this thing. Get a Ninja 400, CB400, Duke 390 ... anything other than this. It's way overpriced (new) and very heavy. It has pretty bad vibes at 6000rpm (which kinda of defeats the point of a 4-cylinder!). Show details
Honda CBR600RR ABS
4.7 (3)
Julz NSW 6 posts
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Immediately need one on full licenceI bought the 2008 version the day I got my full licence. Been reading so much hype about it and let me tell you it definitely lives up to it. So far it is the best bike I've owned in my favourite colour black/red and I don't plan to ever sell it!
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Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R
4.7 (3)
deb SA 19 posts
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A BIKE THAT DOES IT ALLKawasaki ZX14R is one hell of a machine. The way it corners. Power from the engine is enormous. The handling is unreal. Top speed is phenomenal and how fast it gets there. Very comfortable to ride. Irons out the bumps and potholes on the road very well. It is more like a touring bike than a super bike. It is definitely a keeper.
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MV Agusta F3
3.8 (4) Summary
Eye for detail Perth 21 posts
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A flawed masterpieceI have been riding Ducatis for a while and got a 2016 F3 RC 800 a year ago. This is a real change to the Ducatis and an absolute blast to ride. The handling is amazing and the ergonomics perfect for a smaller person and rea... Read morelly quite comfortable for this style of bike. Getting it out on the open road is a revelation.
I can't give it five stars though because it has issues, quite a few of them that have either occurred to me or are well known. I'll go through the main ones:
- It needs a steering damper. It has a very short wheelbase which gives it the nimble handling but does cause head shake under power. I would not trust one at speed without a damper. This is an easy fix though - buy an ohlins kit and factor it into the price you will pay.
-Mirrors. They are sort of functional and you can get a bit of a rear view but you will be doing a lot of chicken wing moves. This is not uncommon though, my real issue is their design. They have a bolt setup which means you think they are adjustable and you move the actual mirror around a bit. Don't do this though as it will loosen the fixing bolt and eventually it will fall off and you cant get to the nut to put it back on. My right side one also vibrates a lot.
-Sprag clutch. This is a well documented issue which means you can easily be left stranded and the bike won't start. Ive done 5000km and thankfully haven't had this problem - yet.
-Electronics. The electronics are generally a bit wonky and all sorts of things can go wrong. I have had the exhaust valve malfunction come up just recently and am hoping it is a once off.
-Parts availability - if stuff has to come from Italy you could be in for a wait but I have been able to get what i need eventually. Prices are very high though.
- Suspension is just OK. If you are particularly light or heavy you will probably need to sort it.
After all that you would think it's a crap bike but they are so amazing to ride and imho look so good that I am prepared to put up with these issues. You might also hear about throttle issues but they appear to be sorted from 2016 as I am quite happy with mine (I stick to normal mode). Its an absolutely fantastic bike but would not recommend it if it will be your only bike. Its a perfect second or track bike.
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R
5.0 (2) Summary
DIYguy NSW 2 posts
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Kawasaki is known for building bulletproof motors. I own a ZX-10R 2005 modelI always customize my motorcycle to suit me the best way I can, I will make a customized seat (usually lower with better quality foam and a nonslip covering) quality leavers that I find more comfortable, I can help myself bee... Read moren a spraypainter by trade I will respray the bodywork and wheels add better exhaust system (titanium muffler that will not burn a pillions leg even after track riding) . 2 eg photos me doing a burnout 40 years ago and my ZX-10R 2005 model that I own today. My ZX10 is not for beginners or intermediate riders, this bike requires complete smoothness from the throttle and clutch control mixed with braking and body positioning that will not cause undue shifting to the bikes geometry or you could find yourself running wide or even out of road! ( no ABS, traction control, or other modes like city or weather options ) It can reach a speed of 160km in 1st gear so it is more of a weapon! But I love it.
Honda CBR600RR
5.0 (2) Summary
Chris S. NSW 9 posts
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Love at first rideThis is a fun bike to own. Light, nimble, powerful and well mannered. I had zero mechanical problems with my bike over 9 years. I actually preferred it over the CBR1000RR after test riding both. Well done Honda. It just needs the suspension tuned for the rider to get optimum performance out of the crate. Show details
Ducati Panigale 899
4.5 (2) Summary
Danny.i NSW 17 posts
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Fantastic !This 899cc bike does 0 - 100km in 2.5/ 2.6 seconds and is Absolutely beautiful, Almost everyone looks at it and men and women come compliment the bike.
Over 100km there are bikes that are faster, But on the street unless you ... Read moreare facing a Dodge demon or the Famous Tesla roadster Ain't nothing beating you in a 0 100km sprint. The $200,000 tesla roadster which I haven't even seen one of does 0 - 100 in 2.0 seconds and I don't think paying $185,000 more for 0.5 seconds is worth it. 899 Panigale all the way for me.
Over 100km there are bikes that are faster, But on the street unless you ... Read moreare facing a Dodge demon or the Famous Tesla roadster Ain't nothing beating you in a 0 100km sprint. The $200,000 tesla roadster which I haven't even seen one of does 0 - 100 in 2.0 seconds and I don't think paying $185,000 more for 0.5 seconds is worth it. 899 Panigale all the way for me.
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6RR
4.0 (2)
r3d_ang3l
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GoodWhile I'm still learning about motorcycling this bike is brilliant to take corners and stopping on a dime. Feels safe and lets me get right down while giving it some throttle!
Bought this as my first big bike.. gives the 1000cc are little kick up the bum! loved everything about it ..
had a crash and it broke it two!!
Bought this as my first big bike.. gives the 1000cc are little kick up the bum! loved everything about it ..
had a crash and it broke it two!!
Aprilia RSV 1000 R
5.0 (1)
B0NDIE
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Grin factor +After 4 years without a bike I started my hunt for a new bike. For the past 6 years I had thought that the CBR1000RR was the only bike for me. Coming off my 1996 GSXR600 SRAD that was described as a bike that "does not suffer... Read more fools gladly" I was excited to ride a bike with 67% more power. What a let down. The bike was SO well sorted that it really was boring. I felt like you would sit on it and suddenly you would arrive at your destination. When I finally took the Aprilia for a ride my world changed. I hopped off the bike and my hands were shaking. My heart pounding and my head hot from concentration. The beauty of the design is a pleasure to look at and I have to wonder why I dont see more of these on the road.
Gucci spec as standard with an Ohliens shock and steering damper. Oz forged wheels. More carbon than you can wave a stick at. Smooooth power delivery with a punch up top. Fit and finish top notch
the swapping of the indicator and horn standard means lots of beeping when you are getting used to it. standard pipes are very quiet... serves a purpose but I would rather some LOUD!
Benelli TNT 135
4.0 (1) Summary
Mark Sims 135 posts
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Benelli TNT135 - Micro bike but maxi funI traded in a big bike for this undersized pseudo Italian. Those reading this review will know that it is designed in Italy and made in China. They no longer make the 135, because of European regulations and have returned to… Read more · 1 the original sized motor. The rest remains the same.
The good points is that the motor is smooth and it will keep up in traffic. The motor revs to 10K and that will probably get you somewhere near 100Klm/hr if you're not too weighty. The construction is pretty good. Lots of plastic but that isnt unusual these days. The tyres are said to be crappy chinese copies but they're fine in fine weather. I havent tried them in the wet.
The gear changes are smooth and neutral is pretty easy to find. The clutch is light and you hardly need it going up the gears. The big plus of these bikes when they came out was that they had 5 gears while the Japanese small fry had 4, but the rest have caught up. I've ridden a Honda Monkey and it has a much better seat - see bad points.
The handling is predictable. When I get on the bike, I'm increasing the overall weight significantly, as most adults would, so you dont really lean into corners.
Bad points?
The seat.....unbelievably badly designed. The seat has two parts and the rider basically sits on the join between them on the strap for the rear passenger.
Anyone 6 foot should look away when they see one. They're not for you.
Bumps....small wheels, big bumps. Ouch they hurt.
Overall, a great bike if you want to commute around town
Yamaha YZF-R7
4.0 (1) Summary
Cameron NSW 110 posts
YZF-R7LAMore
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The R1 for LAMS ridersThis is the most powerful ‘supersport’ learner approved motorcycle you can buy from Yamaha.
If you’re chasing the big bike aesthetic, but have a few years left on your learner licence, this is one of the most popular options... Read more for a lot of first-time riders. The construction quality of the pedals, levers, wheels and decals scream longevity and should pass the test of time with ease. But, I think Yamaha should have done a better job of organising the cables around the handlebars, as they distract from the superior build quality evident throughout the R7. Ride away pricing for the R7 is $14,049. That’s going to shock a lot of first time riders and those used to spending hours online looking at used bike prices. However, it’s not extremely dear when entering the 600cc new bike club. Plenty of competitors offer larger displacement learner bikes at this price point, but really is it worth spending a few more dollars to graduate from the 300cc club to this? That depends... For those doing lots of highway riding and more frequent longer rides on weekends, you’ll reap the benefits of more torque and a bigger frame. However, it’s not really for those who mainly commute and rarely hit up those twisty back roads on their days off. A lot of riders will be tempted to opt for a louder pipe, but I think the R7’s stock sound offers enough feedback without being overly obnoxious for a learner bike. The CP2 655cc parallel twin motor in the R7 produces 38.3kW (52hp) and 57.5Nm. That larger torque figure will be more appealing to larger riders or those who have already had some experience riding. Pick up feels immediate, with that wave of torque reaching its peak at 4,000rpm. However, that’s a fair way from the peak power delivery of 38.3kW at 8,000rpm. You can feel that torque peel back as you run up the rev range, but it’s not something that feels like a dealbreaker by any means. The upside down KYB forks handled the weight transfer of the R7 with excellent precision. Additionally, the rear shock’s placement is designed to keep the weight of the bike more centred, allowing for even greater control when cornering. I averaged around 4L per 100km; the R7 is surprisingly fuel efficient for a larger displacement bike. The warranty is 24 months, unlimited parts and labour. Servicing costs are set by the individual dealers, but service intervals are every 10,000km, with valve checks every 40,000km. Although the R3 needed a little more encouragement via the throttle when entering freeways and getting up to speed, I found it to be more than appropriate as a learner bike. The R7 exists for more power and more bikes. It’s for riders who know they don’t want anything less than 600cc. It’s for riders looking for a little more speed and performance, and a more ‘grown up’ looking motorcycle. If you’re on the fence about spending more on the R7, just get the R3. However, if you’re looking for a bike that feels closer to riding the full-fat R1, the R7 is an excellent step in the right direction. *Disclaimer - I work for ProductReview as their independent car and motorbike expert. I borrow new cars and motorbikes from manufacturers and owners to review. I am not paid or incentivised by these brands to post reviews. I write and create content to provide insight and information about any new or used vehicle I can get my hands on.
If you’re chasing the big bike aesthetic, but have a few years left on your learner licence, this is one of the most popular options... Read more for a lot of first-time riders. The construction quality of the pedals, levers, wheels and decals scream longevity and should pass the test of time with ease. But, I think Yamaha should have done a better job of organising the cables around the handlebars, as they distract from the superior build quality evident throughout the R7. Ride away pricing for the R7 is $14,049. That’s going to shock a lot of first time riders and those used to spending hours online looking at used bike prices. However, it’s not extremely dear when entering the 600cc new bike club. Plenty of competitors offer larger displacement learner bikes at this price point, but really is it worth spending a few more dollars to graduate from the 300cc club to this? That depends... For those doing lots of highway riding and more frequent longer rides on weekends, you’ll reap the benefits of more torque and a bigger frame. However, it’s not really for those who mainly commute and rarely hit up those twisty back roads on their days off. A lot of riders will be tempted to opt for a louder pipe, but I think the R7’s stock sound offers enough feedback without being overly obnoxious for a learner bike. The CP2 655cc parallel twin motor in the R7 produces 38.3kW (52hp) and 57.5Nm. That larger torque figure will be more appealing to larger riders or those who have already had some experience riding. Pick up feels immediate, with that wave of torque reaching its peak at 4,000rpm. However, that’s a fair way from the peak power delivery of 38.3kW at 8,000rpm. You can feel that torque peel back as you run up the rev range, but it’s not something that feels like a dealbreaker by any means. The upside down KYB forks handled the weight transfer of the R7 with excellent precision. Additionally, the rear shock’s placement is designed to keep the weight of the bike more centred, allowing for even greater control when cornering. I averaged around 4L per 100km; the R7 is surprisingly fuel efficient for a larger displacement bike. The warranty is 24 months, unlimited parts and labour. Servicing costs are set by the individual dealers, but service intervals are every 10,000km, with valve checks every 40,000km. Although the R3 needed a little more encouragement via the throttle when entering freeways and getting up to speed, I found it to be more than appropriate as a learner bike. The R7 exists for more power and more bikes. It’s for riders who know they don’t want anything less than 600cc. It’s for riders looking for a little more speed and performance, and a more ‘grown up’ looking motorcycle. If you’re on the fence about spending more on the R7, just get the R3. However, if you’re looking for a bike that feels closer to riding the full-fat R1, the R7 is an excellent step in the right direction. *Disclaimer - I work for ProductReview as their independent car and motorbike expert. I borrow new cars and motorbikes from manufacturers and owners to review. I am not paid or incentivised by these brands to post reviews. I write and create content to provide insight and information about any new or used vehicle I can get my hands on.