The fastest mid-capacity sports bikes of 2024

Middleweight sports bikes exist in a sweet, Goldilocks zone. They’re not too heavy, don’t cost an arm and a leg, and can be surprisingly usable on the streets. They’re also deceptively fast. Sure, liter bikes are known for dominating the racetrack. But every single time they approach a corner, a fast rider on a middleweight can carry the same corner speed.

These mid-capacity bikes are also much more user-friendly when it comes to riding and everyday commuting. The ergonomics aren’t as punishing, and you’re much more likely to travel through most of your gears between lights. Plus, the cost of owning one isn’t as prohibitive as something like the Honda CBR1000RR-R SP.

Pound-for-pound, middleweight sports bike owners seem to have more fun on the track and the street than any other rider. These intrepid squid missiles are built to deliver maximum joy, at a comparatively inexpensive price. In the market for one? Then, allow us to help you make the right choice via this list of the latest and greatest middleweights (arranged by their top speed). We’ve used our proven methodologies to put it together.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including CycleWorld, MotorCycle News, and Motorcycle.com.

10 Yamaha YZF-R7

Top Speed: 130 MPH

Yamaha bummed out all of us when it pulled the plug on the brilliantly wild YZF-R6. The parallel-four speedster was in a class of its own, and its owners continue to refuse to part ways with their examples even today. To plug that gap (sort of), Yamaha rolled out the YZF-R7 a few years back. This parallel-twin-powered bike was much friendlier to ride, cheaper to build, and easier to maintain.

Did it reach the same high peaks as the R6? Sadly, no. But that doesn’t mean it’s not a great bike in its own right. So if you’re looking for a beginner middleweight that will deliver the goods, there may not be a better place to start than the R7.

Engine Specifications

9 Triumph Daytona 660

Top Speed: 130 MPH*

It’s way too soon to celebrate the return of the legendary Daytona, as there have been no real-world speed tests reported as of now. However, the platform that the new Triumph Daytona 660 is built on has been around for a few years in the forms of the Trident and Tiger Sport 660. While we don’t have the Daytona top speed available to us yet, the Tiger Sport 660, which has the same engine, will hit 130 miles per hour with no problem. With that in mind, what Triumph did deliver is a mature, minimalist sports bike, powered by a triple engine that’s full of character. And that’s not nothing.

Engine Specifications

8 Kawasaki Ninja 650

Top Speed: 130.5 MPH

Kawasaki’s lineup of Ninja bikes continues to dominate the racing scene. Ever since its debut in the 1980s, the Ninja has been synonymous with fast motorcycles. To non-riders, when faced with the question of which bike was in front of them, a sporty green bike inevitably meant a Ninja. That’s how popular these Kawasakis have become. The name and the look have permeated popular culture, and Team Green knows it.

And what of the Ninja 650? Well, there’s a reason it is one of the most lovable mid-capacity offerings for a lot of riders. Its comfortable riding triangle, punchy engine, and un-intimidating nature all contribute to its popularity. Though, if we’re being honest, it’s not the best middleweight Ninja on this list. That honor goes to….you’ll find out.

Engine Specifications

7 Suzuki GSX-8R

Top Speed: 134 MPH

Just as Triumph is continuing to develop its 660cc platform, Suzuki is betting on its newest 776cc parallel-twin engine. Featured in several Suzuki models, the 776cc power plant is now in a proper middleweight sports bike. The GSX-8R looks fantastic, bringing the loved Suzuki lineup of racers into this decade. And since this is Suzuki’s latest model, it also comes with all the newest tech the manufacturer could afford to cram into the package. And all of that comes in under $10k, which is about as competitive as it gets these days.

Engine Specifications

6 Honda CBR650R

Top Speed: 135 MPH

The CBR650R has been in Honda showrooms for a few years now. It’s neither the fastest middleweight in the lineup nor is it the most striking. But give respect where it’s due, as the CBR650R is a great option for riders looking to level up from their beginner bikes. Because with the Honda, you know you’re going to get a reliable machine, with a low cost of ownership, and a top speed of 135 miles per hour. These are things that a lot of the bikes, preceding it on this list, can’t say.

Engine Specifications

5 Aprilia RS 660

Top Speed: 140 MPH

But what if you want something a little more interesting, exotic, and Italian? Something that won’t break the bank, but has a decidedly European vibe about it? Look no further than the Aprilia RS 660. With an engine that purrs with a low rumble (unlike anything the Big Four can manifest in their bikes), the RS 660 is a singular experience. It is universally loved for its handling capabilities, friendliness, and ample usable power. Yes, it may cost a bit more than the bikes above, but boy is it worth it!

Engine Specifications

4 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R

Top Speed: 144 MPH

The 650 is not the only Ninja in Kawasaki’s middleweight lineup. We do, of course, have to consider the supersport ZX-6R. To put it lightly, this is no beginner bike. It is putting down some serious horsepower out of its inline-four engine. Kawasaki makes it specifically for riders who want to ascend the ranks of racers at their local track or dare to attempt some action in the big leagues. This is a serious machine, for serious enthusiasts. And if you’re not careful, this monster will make you pay for any moment of inattention.

Engine Specifications

3 Honda CBR600RR

Top Speed: 160 MPH

The other side of the supersport coin is Honda’s CBR600RR. But where the ZX-6R is a wild thrash of an experience, the Honda is stoic, poised, and controlled. And yet, it can shame the pants out of the rest of the middleweights on the track with its handling and top speed of 160 miles per hour. Make no mistake, this baby Fireblade is as close as you’re going to get to having your own MotoGP track experience at this price.

Engine Specifications

2 MV Agusta F3 800 RR

Top Speed: 165 MPH

If the Aprilia RS 660 is not Italian enough for you, you can always dive into the pool of crazy MV Agusta bikes. Their lineup of triple-cylinder racers is truly out there, in looks and riding experience. And if the retro-inspired Superveloce is too vintage for you, then the sufficiently modern F3 RR is right there for the taking.

But let it be known, it is not cheap and will cost a limb to take home. So you best be sure that you’re willing to take it on the racetrack. Because replacing the fairings on this singularity would be an expensive proposition.

Engine Specifications

1 Suzuki GSX-R750

Top Speed: 170 MPH

It is obvious now, that the Mack Daddy of all squid missiles would be none other than a Gixxer. Embraced by generations of seasoned professionals and lawless hooligans alike, the GSX-R750 has ascended the steps of glory to the top of the peak. Introduced in the dark ages of the early 1980s, this Gixxer has nothing left to prove to anyone. Whether it’s the immaculate inline-four, the blistering top speed, or its fearsome reputation for devouring other middleweights, the GSX-R750 is the only choice you have left if speed is your drug. The 750 is the pusher that will lead you to ecstasy.

Engine Specifications