13 Most Terrifying Motorcycles Of All Time

Riding a motorcycle is exciting, but some bikes are outright wild beasts, challenging even for the pros. These motorcycles aren’t just fast—they’re fierce, and they demand respect.

In this article, we spotlight some of the most formidable motorcycles on the market. Known for their raw power, tricky handling, or a reputation for adrenaline-fueled rides, these 13 bikes are not for rookies or the timid.

Brough Superior SS100

The Brough Superior SS100 was a powerhouse back in the 1920s. While most bikes of the time managed just 15 horsepower, the SS100 boasted between 50 to 75 horsepower, depending on the model. It was immensely powerful for its era, akin to attaching a rocket to a barely suitable frame. The bike had its issues, though: a shaky chassis, poor grip tires, and unreliable brakes. Despite these dangers, earning it the nickname “Rolls-Royce of motorcycles,” it became legendary, even though it was involved in several fatal accidents, including the death of the famed TE Lawrence.

2019 Suzuki Hayabusa

The Suzuki Hayabusa is renowned not just for its speed but as a symbol in the motorcycle world, capable of high speeds while still being smooth enough for long trips. However, its ease of purchase poses a risk. Beginners can easily buy one, and with nearly 200 horsepower, it can be overwhelming. In inexperienced hands, the Hayabusa is a recipe for trouble. It’s extremely fast and not forgiving to motorcycle newbies.

Kawasaki H2 750

Introducing the original Widow Maker: the Kawasaki H2 750. In the 1970s, this motorcycle was all about excess, packing over 75 horsepower into a frame that struggled to keep up. The chassis was prone to twisting, and the brakes were hardly reliable. Kawasaki attempted improvements, like adjusting the steering and extending the swingarm, but the bike remained a hazard. It was designed for thrill-seekers who pushed the limits.

1997 Suzuki TL1000S

The Suzuki TL1000S had the potential to be a standout sportbike, but its rear suspension system became its downfall. The large V-twin engine didn’t leave space for a traditional rear shock, prompting Suzuki to opt for a Formula 1-style solution. Initially, this provided a crisp, responsive ride. However, as the rear shock’s oil heated up, the damping decreased, resulting in a soft and unmanageable ride mid-journey. Imagine dealing with a powerful sportbike that suddenly feels like it’s drifting through turns—it’s a sure recipe for trouble.

1970 Kawasaki H1 500 Mach III

The Kawasaki H1 500 Mach III is both a legend and a cautionary tale. Adored by vintage bike lovers but daunting for the uninitiated, it’s known for its raw power and light frame. The Mach III delivers an exciting yet intimidating ride due to its unpredictable nature and aggressive performance. Riders must remain vigilant, as it can swiftly demonstrate why it’s viewed as a perilous beauty on two wheels. While it’s a coveted item for collectors, it requires expert handling to master its notorious traits.

2017 BMW HP4 Race

The BMW HP4 Race is a genuine track monster, designed for those who are seasoned and fearless. Weighing only 146 kg and boasting 215 horsepower, it outperforms most extreme motorcycles. It’s characterized by intense, unbridled power that reacts instantly to the throttle, requiring a firm grip and immense nerve. Particularly challenging during corner exits, the HP4 Race tests even the most proficient riders with its potent power delivery. This bike isn’t just fast—it’s ferocious.

Ducati Streetfighter 1098 S

The Ducati Streetfighter 1098 S is a marvel of motorcycle design, transforming the core of a superbike into a bare, fierce streetfighter. It resembles a 1098 superbike stripped of its fairings, slightly less powerful but still intense, with wide handlebars for an assertive riding stance. This bike epitomizes high-spec, from its performance to its appearance. However, it’s crucial to respect its power; without electronic aids, handling it relies solely on the rider’s skill. Overlook this, and the 1098 S will quickly prove who’s really in control.

2005 Hyosung GT650R

The 2005 Hyosung GT650R might have looked like a decent bike on paper, with enough performance and comfort to turn some heads. But in the real world, it’s another story. This bike is infamous for its problematic transmission that’s tougher to shift than a rusted bolt, and it has a nasty habit of jumping out of gear when you least expect it. If you somehow get past the gear-shifting ordeal, brace yourself for the next challenge: brakes and a clutch that are about as reliable as a chocolate teapot. Riding this bike isn’t just a test of skill—it’s a test of luck.

Harley-Davidson V-Rod

The Harley-Davidson V-Rod was a beast of a machine, built with some serious muscle, courtesy of a collaboration with Porsche. It’s the Harley you’d want for tearing up straight roads with its hefty power output. But take it to the twisties, and you’re in for a rude awakening. With only 30 degrees of lean angle, if you get too cheeky in the corners, you’ll scrape its belly and possibly send yourself skidding across the pavement. This bike was built long and low, more for looks and less for hooks, making sharp turns a gamble.

1985 Yamaha V-Max

The Yamaha V-Max burst onto the scene as a power cruiser designed to dominate the quarter mile. With its focus squarely on straight-line speed, it delivered exhilarating performances at drag strips. However, away from the controlled chaos of racing, the V-Max was less than stellar. It handled like a nightmare, offering little to no confidence in turns. The brakes? They felt woefully inadequate, more suited to a moped than a muscle bike packing 145 hp and 83.1 lb-ft of torque. Without any modern electronics to manage its brute force, riding the V-Max was like riding a wild bull—thrilling but potentially disastrous.

Harley-Davidson Sportsters (Early 70s)

1973 Harley Davidson Sportsters — By Yesterdays Antique Motorcycles, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=7929512

The early 70s were a turbulent time for Harley-Davidson, especially after the takeover by the American Machine and Foundry Company. It was during this era that the Sportster models rolled out, and they weren’t exactly shining examples of motorcycle excellence. These bikes struggled with reliability—engines that were neither fast nor dependable, and handling that felt as vague as it was heavy. Ironically, their unreliability was a sort of safety feature; they often broke down before they could get you into a crash.

1995 Vincent Black Shadow

The Vincent Black Shadow was not just a motorcycle; it was an icon of its era, combining stunning looks with heart-racing performance. Yet, for all its beauty, it was a beast to handle, especially around bends. The Black Shadow had a chassis that wasn’t keen on tight turns, often feeling more like it was twisting away from them rather than leaning into them. Its brakes were equally uncooperative, treating riders’ urgent requests to slow down with indifference.

1997 Bimota V-Due

The 1997 Bimota V-Due was introduced as a sleek, race-ready motorcycle that promised high speeds and cutting-edge performance. However, it also earned a less desirable reputation over time due to its erratic handling. Despite a respectable output of nearly 100 horsepower and 60 lb-ft of torque, the V-Due was notoriously unstable at high speeds. Its performance was further marred by a problematic fuel injection system, leading to jerky acceleration and a generally unreliable ride.