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Vroom, Vroom

KTM RC8
The KTM RC8 is the revelation of 2008. It is simply stunning and for all the right reasons. The engine is powerful and usable, handling shames Japanese and Italian superbikes, looks totally different from the norm and is extremely appealing. KTM claims 150bhp from its own designed and built V-twin. The torque curve is flat and juicy with power at the top end of the rev scale. The RC8’s premier level of handling will flatter any riding style.


Honda CBR1000RR
Since 1992 the name FireBlade has conjured up visions of a hard-charging superbike with attitude. The 2008 FireBlade comes with attitude from its rev-happy engine, race-like steering (quick, responsive), stability and supremely balance chassis. Responsive and precise throttle control makes for good wheelies, blinding corner exit speed and neat shot of adrenaline. There’s still a good dose of midrange torque, but top-end zing is what the Blade delivers.

Kawasaki ZX-10R
The new Kawasaki ZX-10R scores an easy five out of five; it surely must be the fastest production 1000cc bike of the current crop. But this ZX-10R is not all about Kawasaki’s new blistering engine and head-banging attitude, it’s controllable and handles much better than the previous ZX-10R and despite the blistering pace is actually easier to ride. Not for the faint-hearted, the new ZX-10R is a true superbike for the road. If you want torque and bottom end power, then look away now.

BMW HP2 Sport
The BMW HP2 Sport is expensive and rightly so considering this is the finest sporting package BMW has rocked up with. The BMW HP2 Sport gives up a claimed 128bhp to make this the most powerful Boxer engine ever. The power figure comes from a higher rev ceiling thanks to a new four-valve, double-over-head-cam design and lightweight pistons and superb electronics. Put this all together and you get a punch-laden lump that will hit high 120mph all day every day.