Fastbikes mag does it again and pulls out all the stops with their Magnificent 7 test of the fastest/quickest 7 bikes in the world. On the distinguished list are the 2 top bikes for each japanese bike maker.
Kawasaki's ZX-10R and ZX-12R Ninja's
Honda's CBR1000RR Fireblade and CBR1100XX Blackbird
Suzuki's GSX-R1000 and GSX-1300R Hayabusa
Yamaha's YZF-R1
Test were pretty straight foward...overall comparison with all out speed and acceleration tests to see how bright each bike shined. In the Top speed category, the ZX-12R took high honors putting down a 184.5mph pass while the Suzuki Hayabusa took 2nd with a 181.9mph pass.
In the 1/4 mile, the ZX-12R came out with an 11.13 while the Hayabusa came in with an 11.43. But the Hayabusa shined in other acceleration tests, namely the 0-140mph with a 10.84 compared the the ZX12R's 11.13.
On the roads, they ZX12R was said to look like an upscaled ZX-9R with a peaky motor with the characteristics of a 1000cc bike rather than the big bore 1200 that it is. This is attributed to the relatively short stroke (55.4mm)and large bore (83mm) engine that churns up a class leading 165bhp. One fine point on the ZX12R is the ram air which is relagated as the best in it's class. Brakes were said to be strong but fading was a problem after continuous abuse. Handling was said to trump that of the CBR1100XX and Hayabusa as well, allowing it to be the sportiest of the Hyperbike class.
The Hayabusa has a slightly different philosophy, with the gruntiest motor of the bunch, churning out a whopping 99ft lbs of torque with no distinct powerband...just power everywhere peaking out at 156bhp. The brakes were less than impressive again this year, still a step behind the Kawasaki ZX12R. Fueling and the gearbox however were flawless according to the testers. The Hayabusa's heavy weight adds to the stability in the corners and at high speeds, allowing you to use more of that torque sooner... but you'll need it considering the Hayabusa takes the most muscle to negotiate turns.
