With the emphasis of a sport bike being on speed, acceleration, braking, and maneuverability, there are certain
design elements that most motorcycles of this type will share. Sport bikes have comparatively high-performance engines resting
inside a lightweight frame. The combination of these help maintain structural integrity and chassis rigidity. Breaking systems
combine higher performance brake pads and multi-piston calipers that clamp onto oversized vented rotors. Suspension systems
are advanced in terms of adjustments and materials for increased stability and durability. Front and rear tires are larger
and wider than tires found on other types of motorcycles to allow higher cornering speeds and greater lean angles. Fairings
may or may not be used on a sport bike; when used, fairings are shaped to reduce aerodynamic drag as much as possible and
provide wind protection for the rider. The performance of some stock sport bikes is so high they can be used on a race track
without modification.
These overall design traits mean sport bikes are less practical for street use than other motorcycles. There
are few extra features or comforts like those present on touring motorcycles such as center stands, provisions for saddle
bags, large windshields, or fairings providing protection from rain. Rider position and ergonomics are compromised in favor
of weight distribution and aerodynamics. This generally means higher foot pegs that move the legs closer to the body and more
of a reach to a lower set of hand controls which positions the body and weight forward and over the tank.
The term crotch rocket is slang for some types of sport bikes, mainly super sport and super bikes. The name is
derived from the way the rider sits on the bike and from the speed and acceleration of which these bikes are capable. A sport
bike's foot pegs and shifter are located farther back than a conventional or 'cruiser' motorcycles; this puts the rider in
a position that is more streamlined and aerodynamic and places the rider's crotch in very close contact with the seat, but
the term is more commonly associated with a Pocket bike or Minimoto
The term crotch rocket is sometimes associated with squid, a subset of motorcyclists who may be inclined to choose
sport bikes over other types of motorcycles, among other reasons due to their higher performance.
Classes
Although not officially recognized by any major motorcycle organization, the different variations of the sport
bike can generally be grouped into several different classes, each containing unique features to that class.
E entry-level sport bike
Entry-level
Entry-level sport bikes are designed to introduce motorcyclists to the sport bike design. They are relatively
inexpensive, lightweight, and durable. There are minimal to no fairings installed to cut down on cost and maintenance if the
motorcycle is dropped. Although capable of more power, the engines are usually detuned for longevity and durability. Entry
level sport bikes can usually accommodate riders of all heights and weights.
Examples include the Suzuki GS500 and Kawasaki Ninja 500R/250R.
Small-capacity
Small-capacity sport bikes typically have engine sizes ranging from 125 cc (7.6 cu in) to 400 cc (24.4 cu in),
but are also produced in as little as 50 cc (3.1 cu in) (sometimes designed/tuned for persons carrying a restricted/learner's
license). Small-capacity sport bikes are available in both 2-stroke and 4-stroke cycles, although production of 2-stroke sports
bikes has diminished due to tight emission laws and agreements. Generally small and light, they can suit the shorter rider;
the light weight partially offsets the performance drop due to their lower power. Short wheelbase and lightness means handling
characteristics are often on par with that of the typical high-capacity sport bike.
Also relatively new but gaining popularity is the new 450 super single class. A 450 Super Single is a single-cylinder
450 cc dirt bike that has been converted into an entry-level road racer. The frame, subframe, swing arm, motor and transmission
are all stock, but the wheels, tires, suspension and bodywork have all been modified for on-track use. These bikes are also
being modified in Australia for street legal use and are the fastest restricted/learner legal bikes available as the current
laws prohibit 2-stroke 250 cc bikes.
Examples include the Aprilia RS250 and Honda CBR125R.
Super sport
Super sport bikes (also known as middleweight sport bikes) are designed for optimal performance on a race track.
They are generally built around a high revving, small displacement powerplant that is usually sized around 600 cc (36.6 cu
in) to 800 cc (48.8 cu in). Most super sport bikes will carry a wet weight between 375 lb (170 kg) to 450 lb (204 kg) and
produce around 110 bhp (82 kW). Because of how strongly focused super sport bikes are on race track performance, riders below
5 ft 3 in (1.6 m) in height will generally not be able to flatfoot (the placement of both feet completely flat on the ground
while sitting on a motorcycle) these types of sport bikes. Taller and heavier riders may find the rider ergonomics in the
default position to be cramped and uncomfortable.
Examples include the Honda CBR600RR, Suzuki GSX-R600 and Triumph Daytona 675.
Super bike
Super bikes are large displacement super sport bikes. They have characteristics similar to the smaller super
sport bikes which are mainly focused on race track performance, but are powered by larger engines that are usually sized around
800 cc (48.8 cu in) to 1,200 cc (73.2 cu in). A typical super bike will carry a wet weight between 400 lb (181 kg) to 480
lb (218 kg) and can produce 180 bhp (134 kW). Super bikes with a displacement very close to 1,000 cc (61.0 cu in) are sometimes
referred to as litre bikes. Motorcycles in this class are usually eligible to participate in Superbike racing.
Examples include the Ducati 1198, Honda CBR1000RR, and Yamaha YZF-R1.
Hyper sport
Hyper sport bikes are very large-displacement sport bikes with a strong emphasis on top speed and acceleration.
They are typically powered by motors displacing 1,100 cc (67.1 cu in) to 1,400 cc (85.4 cu in). Hyper sport bikes are bigger
and heavier than super bikes, with wet weights generally of around 500 lb (227 kg). The increased weight compromises racetrack
capabilities in favor of stability at speeds that can exceed 180 mph (290 km/h). This compromise also allows manufacturers
to design much more comfortable rider ergonomics.
Examples include the Honda CBR1100XX, Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14, and Suzuki Hayabusa.
Sport touring
Main article: Sport touring
Sport touring bikes are designed for riding longer distances, and are typically more comfortable than the average
sport bike. Sport touring bikes are typically heavier, less powerful, and less performance-oriented than super sport bikes,
but have more storage space, more comfortable rider ergonomics, and better practicality. Depending on the emphasis on these
touring capabilities, sport touring bikes can range from super sport bikes with more comfortable rider ergonomics to full-featured
touring motorcycles with sport bike-like capabilities and features.
Examples include the BMW R1200RT, Honda VFR800, and Yamaha FJR1300.
