One thing motorcycles never fail to deliver—unlike most other vehicles on the road—is speed. When it comes to hitting the open road and taking in the countryside, nothing compares to planting your feet on the pegs and feeling that surge of acceleration. A reliable cruiser will always give you solid performance in just about any weather, even when riding in winter—but some bikes go beyond that, offering an extra kick that turns every ride into a full-on thrill. Here’s our list of what we believe are the fastest motorcycles on the market right now.

1. Dodge Tomahawk

This 640kg metal monster isn’t just fast—it’s also one of the most expensive motorcycles in existence. Built with a mix of aluminium, steel and titanium, the Tomahawk stands out visually with twin wheels at both the front and rear for added stability and aggressive design. At its heart lies a massive V10 Dodge Viper engine, cranking out an astonishing 500 horsepower.

The Dodge Tomahawk can clock up to speeds of 420 mph (676 km/h), making it one of the fastest motorcycles built so far.

So, why isn't it more popular? First, it's more of an engineering proof of concept than a vehicle for the mass market. You can buy one, but each Tomahawk is made to order and can cost anywhere up to US$550,000.

The prohibitive price tag of the Dodge Tomahawk, coupled with it being far from street legal, guarantees you won't be seeing it on the road anytime soon. Even on the track, the top speed of this motorcycle would be too much for the average rider to handle. Nonetheless, the speed and power of the Dodge Tomahawk are legendary, and seeing one in action is an exhilarating experience.

2. Kawasaki Ninja H2R

In terms of production motorcycles, the Kawasaki Ninja H2R is perhaps the fastest currently on the market. This motorcycle can hit speeds up to 250 mph (402 km/h) thanks to its liquid-cooled 998cc supercharged inline-4 engine that outputs 326 horsepower. Add to that a lightweight and aerodynamic frame, and you can see why this motorcycle is known for both speed and performance.

Like the Dodge Tomahawk, the Kawasaki Ninja H2R isn’t street-legal and is built exclusively for the track. But what it can do on the track puts it in a league of its own—far beyond most other production motorcycles. It’s no surprise that it’s a favourite among professional racers, including the legendary Kenan Sofuoglu.

The other drawback of the Kawasaki Ninja H2R is its hefty price tag. At around US$59,100, it costs nearly as much as a modern luxury car. Even so, the H2R remains highly sought-after and often sells out fast. If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on one, know that you’re gaining an incredibly powerful and valuable asset.

3. MTT Y2K 420RR

The successor to the popular MTT Y2K Turbine Motorcycle, the MTT Y2K 420RR is one of the most powerful superbikes around. It features a repurposed Rolls-Royce Allison 250-C20B Turbine Engine with an output of 420 horsepower. With this setup, the motorcycle can reach top speeds of 273 mph (439 km/h).

Another unique feature of the MTT Y2K 420RR is that its turbine engine is designed to run on a variety of fuel types. It can run on diesel, kerosene and even alcohol-based biofuels. All in all, the MTT Y2K 420RR is a marvel of engineering, with performance that matches its powerful look and sounds.

Like the Dodge Tomahawk, the MTT Y2K 420RR is not a production motorcycle and can only be made to order. Each one can fetch around US$100,000, so make sure you invest in good motorcycle security! However, unlike the previous two motorcycles listed, the MTT Y2K 420RR is street-legal, although chances are you'll want to test its highest speeds on the track first.

4. Lightning LS-218

While the Kawasaki Ninja H2R may be the fastest production motorcycle currently available, the Lightning LS-218 certainly gives it a run for its money. In fact, the Lightning LS-218 is the fastest production electric motorcycle around, hitting speeds as high as 218 mph (351 km/h) on the track.

The Lightning LS-218 is powered by a liquid-cooled IPM direct-drive electric motor that can put out 241 horsepower. It can go from 0 to 60 in less than two seconds and has beaten traditional fuel-driven motorcycles in races at Pikes Peak and Le Mans, proving that electric motorcycles can more than compete on the track.

Unlike the previously listed motorcycles, the Lightning LS-218 is a production motorcycle and street-legal. However, it does come with a hefty price tag of around US$50,000. Even so, the Lightning LS-218 is an incredible motorcycle in terms of speed and performance and demonstrates the future that electric-powered engines can provide.

5. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R

While it may not match the raw speed of the newer H2 series, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R remains an outstanding machine and a favourite among riders. Powered by a liquid-cooled, inline 4-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower, this bike rockets from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 2.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 208 mph (335 km/h). It’s no surprise it’s earned the nickname of Quarter Mile King.

In addition to its powerful 1,441cc engine, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R features a lightweight, aerodynamic monocoque aluminium frame that's designed for superior handling on the track. Other features like ABS brakes and traction control allow for better performance, both on the road and on the track.

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R is one of the most popular sportbikes in Japan currently, and compared to the other bikes we've mentioned, it's considerably less expensive at around US$17,599. A worthy investment if you want a motorcycle that offers superior handling, as well as performance and speed.

6. Suzuki Hayabusa

Once crowned the King of Speed, the Suzuki Hayabusa was introduced in 1999 and quickly claimed its place among the fastest production hyperbikes ever built. The original model was so powerful it could hit 194 mph (312 km/h) on the track, which was an eye-watering figure at the time. Since then, a gentleman’s agreement between the four major Japanese manufacturers has capped top speeds at 186 mph (299 km/h)—still more than enough to take your breath away.

With its 1,340cc inline four-cylinder engine producing 188 horsepower, the Suzuki Hayabusa can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in under three seconds, really impressive by any standard. But it’s not just about raw speed. The Hayabusa is also engineered for exceptional handling and aerodynamics—in fact, its smooth ride and ergonomic design make it a solid choice for long-distance touring as well.

The Suzuki Hayabusa remains an incredibly popular hyperbike and is relatively inexpensive compared to other similar motorcycles, coming in at around US$19,399. Whether on the track or on the road, the Suzuki Hayabusa remains a popular choice for many.

7. Ducati Panigale V4 R

Before the introduction of the Panigale V4 R, the Ducati brand was starting to lose its speed advantage over other manufacturers on the track. With the introduction of the powerful 998cc Desmosedici Stradale V4 engine, Ducati was not only ready to reclaim its crown but did so in style in several World Superbike races.

Equipped with a V4 engine capable of producing up to 240 horsepower, the Ducati Panigale V4 R is built for elite performance. Its lightweight, aerodynamic aluminium chassis, adjustable Öhlins suspension, and advanced power modes make it one of the fastest and most high-performing motorcycles on the track. At full throttle, it can hit top speeds of 199 mph (320 km/h).

Built for speed and precision, the Ducati Panigale V4 R is one of the most popular motorcycles in the world of superbike racing. The cost of purchasing one can set you back US$44,995, but for what it offers you on the track, the price may well be worth it.

8. MV Agusta Rush

Built by Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta, the Rush is a combination of gorgeous Italian style and superior performance. From its 998cc inline four-cylinder engine, which generates up to 208 horsepower, to its strong but lightweight aluminium, titanium and carbon fibre body, the MV Agusta Rush is truly a work of art.

Although the MV Agusta Rush weighs in at 186 kg, it still packs a punch with a top speed of around 186 mph (300 km/h). With superior handling and Öhlins semi-active suspension at the front and rear that changes depending on road conditions, the MV Agusta Rush is one of the best streetbikes around.

Originally planned as a limited edition of just 300 units, the MV Agusta Rush isn’t easy to find. But if you do manage to come across one, be prepared to pay around US$53,000. It’s a serious investment but a worthy addition to any motorcycle enthusiast’s collection.

9. BMW S 1000 RR

The BMW S 1000 RR has been turning heads since it first hit the superbike scene back in 2009. It quickly became one of the most powerful machines BMW has ever built and has stayed a fixture in the Superbike World Championship ever since. Riders love it for the way it balances serious power with precise control—no small feat on a bike this fast.

Under the fairings, you’ve got a 999cc four-cylinder, four-stroke engine with water and oil cooling, pushing out up to 205 horsepower. That’s enough to hit 188 mph (303 km/h) on the track. Throw in advanced ABS, traction control and Dynamic Damping Control, and it’s easy to see why this bike is still a top performer.

You’ll find the S 1000 RR tearing up everything from the Isle of Man TT to MotoGP’s CRT class. And if you’re thinking of picking one up, be ready to shell out around US$30,000.

10. Yamaha YZF-R1

First introduced in 1998, the Yamaha YZF-R1 is one of the oldest on this list and something of a veteran among sportbikes. But while it has gone through a few upgrades over the years, there is a reason this classic motorcycle still makes the list of fastest motorcycles, thanks to its incredible engineering.

The Yamaha YZF-R1 comes with a CP4 998cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine with a maximum power of 200hp. Although the gentlemen's agreement between the big four Japanese manufacturers states that the motorcycle cannot go past 186 mph (299 km/h), there's no reason to doubt that it can exceed that speed.

In addition to speed on the track, the Yamaha YZF-R1 offers the reliability and stability many have come to expect from long-standing Japanese manufacturers. With a price tag of US$27,699, it may well be a worthwhile investment for first-time motorcyclists.

11. Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade

The Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade has earned a reputation for being a machine built for experts on the track. While it may not be a good choice for the novice, experienced riders will find the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade is a powerhouse of performance, reliability and speed.

Built with a 998cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder engine with a six-speed transmission, this machine delivers over 200 horsepower. Officially, the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade reaches a speed of 186 mph (299 km/h) on the track, but in reality, it can go much higher.

With Öhlins Smart Electronic Control suspension, Brembo Stylema R radial-mount four-piston callipers, and three selectable ABS modes, the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade is built to be fierce, both on the track and on the road. It’s a tough, high-performance machine that doesn’t mess around. Entry-level models start at around US$16,999, making it one of the more accessible superbikes in its class.

12. Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory

Aprilia might not be as big a name in the motorcycle industry as some of the other names listed here. However, this Italian manufacturer makes some of the most powerfully fast and aerodynamic motorcycles in the world of MotoGP, including the mighty Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory.

The Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory is powered by a liquid-cooled, 65-degree 1,099cc engine that can deliver 217 horsepower. Along with its semi-active electronic suspension system and aerodynamic design, this motorcycle can easily reach speeds of 199 mph (320 km/h).

The Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory is perhaps most comparable to the MV Agusta Rush in terms of design and features but has the advantage of being half the cost. You can pick one up today for only US$25,999.

13. BMW M 1000 RR

While BMW's S 1000 RR series remains a popular choice in the world of superbike racing, the newer BMW M 1000 RR model offers several tweaks that make it a viable contender for the motor racing crown.

Both models feature the same advanced electronic features, aerodynamic design and high performance on the track. However, the 999cc four-cylinder four-stroke inline engine has been tweaked to produce up to 218hp. The BMW M 1000 RR can reach 62 mph (100 km/h) in less than three seconds, reaching a top speed of 195 mph (314 km/h).

The only real downside to choosing the BMW M 1000 RR over the S 1000 RR is the price tag. At around US$42,895, it’s a serious investment. But for those who can afford it, the speed and power of this motorcycle will more than make up for the cost.

14. MV Agusta Brutale 1000 RR

The latest motorcycle in the Brutale series by the acclaimed Italian manufacturer, the MV Agusta Brutale 1000 RR, more than lives up to its brutal name. While the design features the sleek and beautiful hallmarks of Italian engineering, the power and speed of this vehicle validate its tough reputation.

For a motorcycle to earn the Brutale name, it has to have a powerful engine to match. The MV Agusta Brutale 1000 RR meets that criterion with a 998cc four-cylinder that can push out 208hp. This allows the motorcycle to reach speeds of 189 mph (304 km/h), putting it in the realm of many top superbikes.

The MV Agusta Brutale 1000 RR is an incredibly popular motorcycle in Europe, and purchasing one could set you back around US$33,098. If you can get your hands on one, however, it'll be more than worth the financial outlay.

15. Bimota Tesi H2

The Bimota brand may not be well known in the world of motorcycle manufacturing, but it does have its loyal fans. Admittedly, the Italian manufacturer doesn't necessarily make all parts in-house and sources them from other manufacturers. Nonetheless, it's what Bimota does with these parts that counts—and with the Bimota Tesi H2, they have created a truly impressive bike.

The Bimota Tesi H2 uses the same units as the Kawasaki Ninja H2R, which is currently the fastest production bike on the market. The 998cc supercharged inline-4 engine produces 231 horsepower. It clocks in at a top speed of 186 mph (299 km/h) on the track but may go even higher when pushed.

Being custom-built by hand for the European market, the Bimota Tesi H2 isn't the easiest motorcycle to come by. On top of that is the hefty price tag of US$72,000. Still, for a one-of-a-kind motorcycle that packs a punch, this is a good investment.

16. KTM RC 8C

Austrian manufacturer KTM has been a leader in high-performance motorcycles for years and has recently outdone itself with the KTM RC 8C. Specially designed for track racing, this motorcycle is well-built for quick acceleration.

The KTM RC 8C packs an 890cc LC8c parallel-twin engine that’s been fully tuned for track performance. It puts out up to 135 horsepower and can hit speeds of around 180 mph (290 km/h). Built on a lightweight steel trellis frame designed by Krämer and equipped with fully adjustable suspension, this bike is as close to MotoGP as most riders will ever get.

The KTM RC 8C is rare, with only 100 units made, and the price of one will cost you around US$41,500. However, if you can find one, it'll more than compete with many of the other motorcycles listed here.

17. Norton V4 SV

While the Norton V4 SV isn't quite as fast as the previous model, the Norton V4 RR doesn't have the litany of faults that made that particular model so infamous. Thankfully, the British manufacturer has redesigned the V4 to create a superior machine that still performs amazingly on the track.

Norton has revised its 1200cc V4 engine, which can now produce a maximum power output of 185hp. This still packs a punch, with top speeds clocking in at 180 mph (290 km/h).

Along with superior handling and suspension, as well as a lightweight carbon fibre and aluminium body, the Norton V4 SV well and truly makes up for the sins of its predecessor. Just watch out for the US$54,000 price tag.

18. Energica Ego+ RS

When it comes to top-of-the-range electric motorcycles, few come close to those made by the Italian manufacturer Energica. For technical achievement and speed on the track, the Energica Ego+ RS is a brilliant addition to the superbike family.

The Energica Ego+ RS comes with a powerful EMCE motor that can produce up to 169hp and a top speed of 170 mph (274 km/h). While that might not be as fast as some of the other motorcycles listed here, the Energica Ego+ RS can also reach speeds of 62 mph (100 km/h) in less than three seconds, giving it an advantage in the field.

Along with superior performance, long battery life and a sleek and aerodynamic design, the Energica Ego+ RS is one of the best-performing electric motorcycles around. The average price for the Energica Ego+ RS is US$30,200.

19. Zero SR/S

Another rising star in the world of electric motorcycles, the Zero SR/S is a sportbike that combines the aerodynamic performance and high speed of a superbike with the comfort of a touring bike. As such, the Zero SR/S offers something for everyone.

Let's focus on the speed. The Zero SR/S comes with a Z-Force 75-10 air-cooled motor, along with a 17.3kWh lithium-ion battery. It can produce 110 horsepower, a top speed of 124 mph (200 km/h), and can go from 0 to 100 in just a few seconds.

Perhaps the Zero SR/S won't be competing in any superbike races anytime soon, but for a bike that you can take to the track, as well as enjoy leisurely rides on the road, the Zero SR/S checks all the right boxes. At US$20,995, it's certainly on the less expensive side compared to others on this list.

20. Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS

Last—but definitely not least—is the impressive Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS. This British-made motorcycle combines refined style, high-tech features and powerful speed to make it a favourite for many motorcycle enthusiasts.

The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS contains an 1160cc triple-cylinder engine offering 177 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful motorcycles in the Triumph range to date. It can certainly give some of the motorcycles on this list a run for their money, reaching top speeds of up to 165 mph (266 km/h).

The latest model of the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS hasn't changed much from earlier versions. But with performance this good, it doesn't need to. At only US$18,895, it's a relative bargain.

Conclusion

The world of motorcycle racing never stands still—new models are always pushing the limits of speed and performance. But for now, the bikes on this list represent the peak of what’s possible, both on the road and the track. If you love the thrill of raw power, none of these machines will disappoint. Twist the throttle, and you’ll know exactly why they’re in a league of their own.