A sportbike is a type of motorcycle that is fast, nimble and loud, and requires the driver to be in an aggressive driving position. It's build and purpose has been described as "performance taking precedence over comfort and practicality" a statement embodied by the powerful engines and razor sharp handling these bikes are capable of.
Lightweight, middleweight and superbike, the three main classes of sport bikes, each with their specific riding requirements and performance parameters, catering to riders of all levels of experience and demands. Sportbikes are the running sneakers of motorcycles, compared to the leather boots characteristics of a cruiser bike.
With so many manufacturers producing sportbikes, the choice to which bike to use or buy normally comes down to brand, engine, features and price. However, it is worth considering that not all bikes are made equal, some are good and have retained their value years after, while some, unfortunately are poorly made and have a lot of issues, or are simply not worth the money. This article is a list of those - Here's why you should avoid these sportbikes like the plague.
15 Motus MST
Half fairing, bold exhaust pipes, trellis frame, all in all not a bad design for the Motus MST. No ABS, less than desirable heat insulation and an engine not as refined as the more popular brands and finally the price, at around US$30k, there are other bikes that can do the same for the same or lesser price and better quality and pedigree.
14 Ducati Panigale 1199
It's been a while since the 1199 was introduced and during that time, several comparisons with rival comparable bikes naturally have come out. Price wise, this is a Ducati, so it is expensive, quality wise, it is a Ducati, so electrical issues are expected. Maintenance wise, it is a Ducati, so it will cost you a pretty penny for every service. Pricey and love to be maintained, not really a good combo for a bike owner, unless you're really into Ducatis.
13 Aprilia RSV4
There is something about the design of Aprilia bikes that makes it a favorite among bike lovers. The stance, ride height, contoured fairings and frame is unmistakably Italian, sadly, so is the upkeep cost and parts prices. Which then comes the argument that while not as pretty, Japanese bikes are more reliable and wallet friendly.
12 Yamaha YZFR1
The flagship bike of the Yamaha R series, the R1 is popular 1000cc bike that has the lineage and reputation as a solid sportbike. It was a surprise then, when Yamaha recalled every R1 unit sold in 2018 when problems with its transmission were discovered, and although the required fix was made, the build reputation of the model has been tarnished.
11 Ducati 848
One of the best looking bikes made, the Ducati 848 received acclaim from bike enthusiasts and critics when it was launched. This aplomb however was negated shortly thereafter when various issues including ignition and electrical problems forced Ducati to recall its then-premier bike.
10 1995 Kawasaki ZX6R
A mid 90s bike from Kawasaki, the ZX6R didn't exactly thrill reviewers when it first came out, as the consensus then was its rival models were more powerful and more polished. While not a really bad bike as a whole, the bike was plagued by fuel and electrical problems during its model run.
9 Yamaha YZFR3
The smaller brother of the R1, the Yamaha R3 is a smaller nimble bike that is often categorized as a beginners bike. Unfortunately, this bike has been issued 11 recalls for braking, electrical, fuel, clutch, engine, etc. that have made this bike one of the most problematic models in Yamaha's production history.
8 Ducati Pantah
For a brand as prestigious and expensive as Ducati, there have been several models in their lineup that seem to be not par to what the brand is known for. The Ducati Pantah is one of them, as its 500cc L-Twin engine is only capable of 50Hp, limiting its acceleration and top speed, the two most important characteristics a Ducati must have.
7 MV Agusta F4 RR
Big, bold and powerful, the MV Augusta F4RR is all these and more, a lot more. Owing to its exorbitant price tag that makes the acquisition, maintenance, and repair of the bike prohibitive for those with limited budgets, its well know heat issues add another negative to this bike.
6 Ducati 900SS
A Ducati from the 1990s, the 900SS was a decent model that had the power and resulting acceleration that made it a popular model during its heyday, Unfortunately, the bike does not seem to be built solidly parts including plugs and terminals seem to have a shorter than expected life span, and many examples of the bike are now being sold for parts.
5 Erik Buell Racing 1190RS
When an independent manufacturer creates bikes that disrupt the status quo, it's always a good thing. The Eric Buell Racing 1190RS was a product of this, a high spec, solid bike, it received good reviews when it came out. Sadly as its parent company, Erik Buell Racing is again beset by problems, this bike is now a risky acquisition - service and parts wise.
4 Ducati 748
The Ducati 748 was a gorgeous bike when it first came out. Its noise from to the dry clutch and exhaust made riders swoon after every ignition. Though visually flawless, the problems that came from its easily damaged rims, electrical and radiator issues attest that no bike, even this one is perfect.
3 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 300
The popular Ninja has been one of the top Japanese pocket rockets for decades. The smaller Ninja 300 seems to miss out what made it bigger brothers good. With a menu of issues that have affected several mode years, ranging from its ECU, wiring, ABS, etc., it seems that the better buy would be its bigger capacity siblings.
2 1993 Suzuki GSX R750
A big bike with a big reputation, the Suzuki GSX R750 was meant to compete with the likes of the CBRs and Ninjas of its day. While the GS engines are known for their reliability, it was the clutch and stiff suspension that eroded the overall tally for this bike.
1 The Lightning LS218
This forward thinking bike, owing to its electric power plant should be something all bikers look forward to own, with zero emissions and performance specs to rival the big cc bikes, it's the cost and parts availability that make buying, owning a Lightning LS218 less appealing than it should be.