The 10 Most Notoriously Dangerous Motorcycles & The 10 Safest
Safe & Reliable Or Thrilling & Dangerous? Take Your Pick
No matter how you slice it, motorcycles aren't the safest way to get around, with even the safest requiring some degree of thrill-seeking qualities. Others, however, have garnered a reputation for their perilousness, offering untamed power and unpredictable handling. Based on parameters like raw speed, aerodynamics, torque, and safety features, here are the 10 most dangerous motorcycles ever made and the 10 safest.
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1. Suzuki Hayabusa
The Suzuki Hayabusa was the fastest production bike in the world when it was first introduced in 1999. Its combination of raw power, torque, and lightweight body makes for an especially treacherous motorcycle.
2. Ducati 1098
Another monster on the road, the Ducati 1098 has a top speed of around 174 miles per hour and a 180-horsepower engine. Its high torque and stiff chassis make it unforgiving.
3. Kawasaki H2 750
The Kawasaki H2 750 earned a reputation as one of the most dangerous bikes of the 1970s due to its light frame and tricky handling. Its 74-horsepower engine was more than the light frame could handle, and its acceleration was brutal for its time.
4. Kawasaki Ninja H2R
The Kawasaki Ninja H2R is one of the most dangerous production motorcycles in the world because of its extreme power and speed, which can overwhelm inexperienced drivers. Its aerodynamic and lightweight design allows it to reach extreme speed, and it can be unforgiving at maximum acceleration.
5. Yamaha V-Max
The Yamaha V-Max is infamously dangerous due to its powerful engine and low-end torque, which gives it explosive acceleration. It's also a heavier bike, making it less agile and harder to control around tight corners.
6. Suzuki GSX-R1000
The Suzuki GSX-R1000 isn't for the faint of heart or novice riders. It's a powerful bike with a 200-horsepower engine, a lightweight frame, and aggressive, unforgiving handling.
7. Harley-Davidson V-Rod
The Harley-Davidson V-Rod is dangerous not because of its speed, but because of its heavy weight combined with high torque and cruiser ergonomics. The low-end torque can launch the bike aggressively, and the weight and design make for difficult maneuverability.
8. KTM 1290 Super Duke R
Nicknamed "The Beast," the KTM 1290 Super Duke R is known for its immense power and torque. It's lightweight with sharp, responsive handling that can be unforgiving at high speeds.
9. Suzuki TL1000S
The Suzuki TL1000S has a powerful, high-torque engine and a lightweight chassis that requires skill to handle. Its higher center of gravity can make it twitchy and unpredictable at high speeds.
10. Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory
The Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory is a high-performance superbike known for its immense but treacherous speed. Its combination of power, acceleration, and sharp handling makes it a high-risk bike.
Now that we've talked about some of the most notoriously dangerous motorcycles ever made, let's cover the safest options.
1. Honda Super Cub
The Honda Super Cub is an excellent motorcycle for novice riders because of its modest power output and compact, maneuverable design. Its upright ergonomics offer good visibility, and it has a smooth, easy-to-use throttle.
2. Yamaha V-Star
The Yamaha V-Star is considered one of the safest motorcycles you can buy because of its moderate power and non-aggressive, casual design. The engine delivers smooth, predictable power, and the low center of gravity makes for a stable and relaxed ride.
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3. Kawasaki Versys 650
The Kawasaki Versys 650 combines manageable power with forgiving handling and good stability, making for a relatively safe ride. It's ideal for beginners and commuters looking for a lower-risk motorcycle experience.
4. BMW G310R
The BMW G310R is a safe beginner motorcycle known for its agile handling and moderate power. It offers smooth, controllable acceleration and modern safety features, making it perfect for commuting or casual rides.
5. KTM 390 Duke
The KTM 390 Duke is considered one of the safest motorcycles for its manageable power and responsive handling. Its engine is only 44 horsepower, making it ideal for novice riders, and its upright seat position makes for good maneuverability and visibility.
6. Honda NC750X
The Honda NC750X offers predictable acceleration and not too much power, making it a relatively safe and easy-to-handle motorcycle. It has a low center of gravity, a smooth throttle, and good traction control.
7. Harley-Davidson Street Glide
The Harley-Davidson Street Glide isn't a beginner motorcycle, but it's one of the safer options for more experienced riders due to its cruiser design. With a low center of gravity, good stability, and predictable acceleration, it's built for distance and comfort more than blistering speed.
8. Kawasaki Ninja 400
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is a safe motorcycle with manageable power and agile handling. Its upright seating position and balanced chassis make it highly forgiving.
9. Yamaha Tracer 700
The Yamaha Tracer 700 is the perfect bike for learning, commuting, and low-risk everyday riding. It has moderate power, a stable chassis, and smooth suspension.
10. Royal Enfield Himalayan
The Royal Enfield Himalayan is considered a safe motorcycle mainly due to its low power output and forgiving handling. It has a sturdy, stable frame and good control suitable for less experienced riders.
