The landscape of sports bikes has evolved, moving away from the dominance of screaming 600cc engines. However, the middleweight sports bike category is far from diminished. In fact, it’s experiencing a resurgence, offering an exciting array of models that blend performance, agility, and modern technology. If you’re searching for the Best Sports Bike that delivers exhilarating rides without the extreme demands of liter-class machines, then the 2024 middleweight segment is where you should be looking.
Bikes like the Aprilia RS 660 and Yamaha R7 have redefined what a middleweight sports bike can be, injecting fresh excitement into the class. With new contenders continuously entering the market, such as the Suzuki GSX-8R and Triumph Daytona 660, this category is brimming with variety and appeal. Let’s dive into the top 10 middleweight sports bikes of 2024 that are setting the pace.
Top 10 Middleweight Sports Bikes of 2024
10. MV Agusta F3 800
MV Agusta F3 800 RR Experience Italian artistry and performance with the MV Agusta F3 800 RR, a premium middleweight sports bike.
| Price | Engine | BHP | Torque | Weight | Seat Height | Fuel Cap. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £16,800 | 798cc | 147bhp | 65lb ft @10,100rpm | 186kg | 830mm | 16.5L |
The MV Agusta F3 800 stands as a symbol of premium middleweight sports bikes. This Italian machine is not just a motorcycle; it’s a statement of exotic elegance and thrilling performance, equally at home on winding roads and race tracks.
Powered by a refined 798cc triple-cylinder engine, succeeding the earlier 675cc version, the F3 800 unleashes a potent 147bhp. This power output allows it to outperform many rivals in its class and even challenge larger displacement bikes. Coupled with a satisfying surge of torque, the MV Agusta F3 800 provides a unique riding experience. While it might not possess the razor-sharp agility of the Aprilia RS 660, the F3 800 offers an unmatched sense of exclusivity and excitement. Despite its premium price tag, the MV Agusta F3 800 delivers an experience that justifies its cost for riders seeking the pinnacle of middleweight sports bike luxury and performance.
9. Zero SR/S
Zero SR/S 2023.jpg Step into the electric future of sport riding with the Zero SR/S, a high-performance electric sports bike.
| Price | Battery | BHP | Torque | Weight | Seat Height | Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £20,700 | 17.3kWh | 110bhp | 140lb ft | 235kg | 787mm | 142 miles |
While Energica has been a pioneer in merging electric power with sports bike dynamics at the high end, Zero Motorcycles takes a more accessible approach with the SR/S. This model represents a less intimidating entry into the electric sports bike realm.
The Zero SR/S is a sportier evolution of the well-established SR/F roadster, though some may find its aesthetics less cutting-edge than its technology. Its fully faired design sets it apart from its naked sibling, but the bulky fairings and somewhat dated headlight area might not create the best first impression, especially considering its premium price. With a price tag that significantly exceeds its petrol-powered rivals like the Honda CBR650R and Kawasaki Ninja 650, the Zero SR/S requires a strong commitment to electric mobility to justify the cost. However, the substantial savings in running costs and the appeal of emission-free riding are definite advantages for environmentally conscious riders seeking a unique and powerful sports bike experience.
Visordown Review | Zero SR/S [2020]
8. KTM RC390
KTM RC390 Experience agile handling and sporty aesthetics with the KTM RC390, a lightweight and fun entry-level sports bike.
| Price | Engine | BHP | Torque | Weight | Seat Height | Fuel Cap. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £5,699 | 373cc | 43bhp | 27lb ft @7,000rpm | 166kg | 824mm | 13L |
KTM, a dominant force in MotoGP, has channeled its racing spirit into the RC 390. While the brand might be missing a direct successor to the RC8 superbike, the RC 390 (and its smaller sibling, the RC 125) keeps the flame of KTM’s sporty DNA alive in the learner-legal category.
The latest generation RC 390 boasts refreshed styling, drawing inspiration from KTM’s MotoGP efforts, and enhanced features. While the core mechanics remain similar, including the spirited 44bhp 375cc single-cylinder engine and the nimble chassis, the ergonomics have been improved. The previous generation’s cramped riding position is now more accommodating, making the KTM RC390 a more versatile and enjoyable machine. It remains a potent weapon on tight, winding roads, offering exhilarating performance that belies its displacement, making it a top choice for riders seeking an engaging and accessible sports bike.
7. Honda CBR650R
Honda CBR650R Enjoy the versatile performance of the Honda CBR650R, a well-rounded and accessible four-cylinder sports bike.
| Price | Engine | BHP | Torque | Weight | Seat Height | Fuel Cap. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £8,599 | 649cc | 94bhp | 46lb ft @9,500rpm | 208kg | 810mm | 15.4L |
Honda’s CBR650R is deliberately designed to evoke the spirit of the classic CBR600F, a bike renowned for its all-around brilliance and broad appeal throughout the 1990s. Like its predecessor, the CBR650R aims to be an affordable and user-friendly sports bike, offering a balance of practicality, sporty capabilities, and value.
Evolving through several updates, including engine capacity increases and refinements, the CBR650R adopted Fireblade-inspired styling in 2019, further enhancing its visual appeal. This model has become a popular choice, blending Honda’s renowned engineering with a touch of the coveted Fireblade mystique, all while maintaining a reasonable price point. The CBR650R may not offer the most extreme performance, but it provides a balanced and enjoyable riding experience suitable for both novice and experienced riders alike. It’s a Goldilocks option in the middleweight sports bike class – not too aggressive, not too tame, but just right for many riders.
Visordown Review | Honda CBR650R [2021]
6. Kawasaki ZX-4R
2024 Kawasaki ZX-4R. Relive the high-revving thrill with the Kawasaki ZX-4R, a unique four-cylinder sports bike in the 400cc class.
| Price | Engine | BHP | Torque | Weight | Seat Height | Fuel Cap. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £8,699 | 399cc | 79bhp | 29lb ft @13,000rpm | 189kg | 800mm | 15L |
Kawasaki, like other manufacturers, initially scaled back its middleweight sports bike offerings as the demand for four-cylinder 600cc machines waned. However, Kawasaki is making a bold return to the segment with the ZX-4R range, including the ZX-4R, RR, and SE variants.
The ZX-4R, with its 400cc four-cylinder engine, isn’t a complete throwback to the 600cc era, but it delivers a significant 79bhp punch and, crucially, recaptures the exhilarating soundtrack that defined the classic middleweight supersports bikes. While it might not lead in torque or fuel efficiency, the ZX-4R’s competitive price point and the sheer joy of riding a high-revving inline-four make it incredibly appealing. For riders seeking a unique and thrilling sports bike experience reminiscent of the golden age of middleweights, the Kawasaki ZX-4R is a standout choice.
5. Suzuki GSX-8R
2024 Suzuki GSX-8R Experience balanced performance and modern design with the Suzuki GSX-8R, a promising new contender in the middleweight sports class.
| Price | Engine | BHP | Torque | Weight | Seat Height | Fuel Cap. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £8,899 | 776cc | 82bhp | 60lb ft @6,800rpm | 205kg | 810mm | 14L |
The Suzuki GSX-8R arrived on the scene in 2024, following the introduction of the GSX-8S and V-Strom 800 DE, all powered by Suzuki’s brand-new 776cc parallel-twin engine – a notable development for the brand.
The 776cc 270-degree parallel-twin engine impressed with its torquey character in the lower rev range, a trait that is expected to be a significant advantage for the GSX-8R. While a full review of the 8R is still pending, its lineage from the GSX-8S suggests that it will be a strong contender in the middleweight sports bike category. With a competitive price point, the Suzuki GSX-8R is anticipated to offer a compelling blend of performance and value, making it a motorcycle to watch closely in the evolving middleweight segment.
4. Yamaha R7
Yamaha R7 Embrace the sporty heritage of Yamaha’s ‘R’ series with the R7, a modern and accessible sports bike for road and track.
| Price | Engine | BHP | Torque | Weight | Seat Height | Fuel Cap. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £8,910 | 689cc | 72bhp | 49lb ft @6,500rpm | 188kg | 835mm | 13 L |
The Yamaha R6, a supersport icon, is no longer in production for road use, but the spirit of Yamaha’s ‘R’ series lives on with the R7. Initially resisting the supersport class downsizing trend, Yamaha eventually transitioned the R6 to a track-only model, paving the way for the R7 to take its place as the brand’s premier middleweight sports bike.
However, the Yamaha R7 is more of a spiritual successor than a direct replacement for the R6. It’s best described as a ‘warm’ sports bike, utilizing a 682cc engine that prioritizes user-friendly power delivery over outright high-revving thrills, producing a modest but enjoyable 72.3bhp. While it may not match the R6’s extreme performance, the R7 effectively captures the essence of engaging sports bike dynamics in a more accessible package. Moreover, the Yamaha R7’s significantly lower price point compared to the R6 makes it an attractive option for riders seeking the ‘R’ series experience without the premium cost.
Visordown Review | Yamaha R7 [2021]
3. Kawasaki Ninja 650
Kawasaki Ninja 650 Discover the value and versatility of the Kawasaki Ninja 650, a rider-friendly and fun middleweight sports bike.
| Price | Engine | BHP | Torque | Weight | Seat Height | Fuel Cap. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £7,599 | 649cc | 67bhp | 47lb ft @6,700rpm | 193kg | 790mm | 15 L |
The Kawasaki Ninja 650, with its twin-cylinder engine and approachable nature, might not boast headline-grabbing specifications compared to some rivals, but it offers a compelling combination of value and enjoyable performance in the middleweight sports bike category.
Through continuous refinements, the Ninja 650 remains a quality machine that delivers plenty of fun. Its 67bhp 649cc twin-cylinder engine provides lively performance, staying true to the Ninja lineage. The engine thrives on revs and is complemented by a well-balanced chassis that, while not as track-focused as the ZX-6R, offers entertaining handling on twisty roads. The Kawasaki Ninja 650 stands as a testament to the fact that a best sports bike doesn’t always need to be the most powerful or expensive; it can also be about delivering a genuinely enjoyable and accessible riding experience.
Visordown Review | Kawasaki Ninja 650 [2020]
2. Triumph Daytona 660
A sport bike being ridden along a canyon road Experience the return of a legend with the Triumph Daytona 660, a poised and powerful middleweight sports bike.
| Price | Engine | BHP | Torque | Weight | Seat Height | Fuel Cap. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £8,595 | 660cc | 95bhp | 51lb ft @ 8,250rpm | 201kg | 810mm | 14L |
The Triumph Daytona 660, a highly anticipated model, finally arrived in early 2024. Based on the successful Trident 660 and sharing its 660cc three-cylinder engine, the new Daytona starts with a strong foundation.
Similar to the Suzuki GSX-8R, a full road test of the Daytona 660 is still awaited. However, given the Trident 660’s proven competitiveness against rivals like the Yamaha MT-07 and Kawasaki Z650, there’s every reason to believe the Daytona 660 will be a serious contender in the middleweight sports bike scene. Packing 95bhp and offered at a competitive price, the Triumph Daytona 660 is impossible to overlook in this class. Its blend of Triumph’s signature styling, potent performance, and competitive pricing positions it as a top choice for riders seeking a distinctive and capable best sports bike.
1. Aprilia RS 660
Aprilia RS660 riding up Alpine mountain road Discover the class-leading Aprilia RS 660, a game-changing middleweight sports bike with unmatched agility and technology.
| Price | Engine | BHP | Torque | Weight | Seat Height | Fuel Cap. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £9,550 | 659cc | 100bhp | 49lb ft @ 8,500rpm | 183kg | 820mm | 15L |
The Aprilia RS 660 has generated significant excitement in recent years, and for good reason. Upon its release, it quickly established itself as a benchmark in the middleweight sports bike category.
The Aprilia RS 660 carves out a unique space in the market. It deviates from the shrunken superbike formula of the ZX-6R/R6, offering a distinct proposition. With 100hp and a remarkably light weight, it surpasses the performance of 650 Ninja/CBR650R models while remaining more accessible than traditional supersports machines. The result is a motorcycle that stands in a class of its own, potentially influencing other manufacturers to adopt its formula of low weight, responsive power, and exceptional handling. Aprilia further elevates the RS 660 with advanced technology derived from its RSV4 superbike. The RS 660 is not just a best sports bike; it’s a potential class-saver, setting a new standard and inspiring a new generation of middleweight sports motorcycles. Its success is paving the way for a family of models, including the Tuono naked bike and Tuareg adventure bike, solidifying Aprilia’s position as an innovator in the motorcycle industry.
Visordown Review | Aprilia RS 660 [2020]
Top 10 Middleweight Sports Bikes of 2024 | Key specifications and technical details comparison
| Price | Engine | BHP | Torque | Weight | Seat Height | Fuel Cap | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | MV Agusta F3 800 R | £16,800 | 7988cc | 147bhp | 65lb ft @ 10,100rpm | 186kg | 830mm |
| 9 | Zero SR/S | £20,700 | 17.3kWh | 110bhp | 140lb ft | 235kg | 878mm |
| 8 | KTM RC390 | £5,699 | 373cc | 43bhp | 27lb ft @ 7,000rpm | 166kg | 824mm |
| 7 | Honda CBR650R | £8,599 | 649cc | 94bhp | 46lb ft @ 9,500rpm | 208kg | 810mm |
| 6 | Kawasaki ZX-4R | £8,699 | 399cc | 79bhp | 29lb ft @ 13,000rpm | 189kg | 800mm |
| 5 | Suzuki GSX-8R | £8,899 | 776cc | 82bhp | 60lb ft @ 6,800rpm | 205kg | 810mm |
| 4 | Yamaha R7 | £8,910 | 689cc | 72bhp | 49lb ft @ 6,500rpm | 188kg | 835mm |
| 3 | Kawasaki Ninja 650 | £7,599 | 649cc | 67bhp | 47lb ft @ 6,700rpm | 193kg | 790mm |
| 2 | Triumph Daytona 660 | £8,595 | 660cc | 95bhp | 51lb ft @ 8,250rpm | 201kg | 810mm |
| 1 | Aprilia RS 660 | £9,550 | 659cc | 100bhp | 49lb ft @ 8,500rpm | 183kg | 820mm |
