2012 Japanese Superbike Shootout - Road Test

[@SmokinZen]

I think any of these bikes can make you happy without feeling you missed out on something. The best bike is the one that is yours.

[@Aliens_AmongUs]

You know what. That's true. Your bike is your baby.

[@1982rbc]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/bZ2zkolpjLl0rNE

[@Godric_71]

It couldn't have been put any better. Motorcycles are very personal things and whichever one makes you happy, is the perfect one. 😷🏍💨👍

[@axs7689]

Well said what you ride now

[@cbr600rrturbo]

one thing I like most about the CBR is no traction control

[@MegaTechpc]

Fact is, most riders can't even come close to utilizing the full potential of any of these bikes, especially on the street. Considering that the differences between them can only really be demonstrated at 9/10's or more of their capabilities its safe to say that for 99% of riders out there you can just pick your favorite looking bike of the four and be more than happy with it! Me, I love everything about the R1 from its looks to its sound to its comfy seat! I don't care one bit that its heavier and less powerful than the others here because at the end of the day its still so much more capable than I am that none of those shortcomings matter at all. If, after you watch this video you have the idea that the R1 is in some way "slow", go ride one some time and I guarantee you'll wise up real quick!

[@FiredEmpire]

I 200% agree with you!

[@africanhistory]

people forget this and lose themselves in specs and torque, and dyno readings (b serious) -- It is the same with phones and Cameras. Mega pixel talk when they talking selfies of them self. What difference does all of that make to a novice? I ride an R6 and apart from one or two complaints, when in this lifetime am I even riding at a level to feel any of the top spec of the bike?

[@markwinchester3005]

8yrs ago & STILL an absolute bullseye of a comment. 90+% of owners will NEVER use anywhere close the full potential (power/handling/braking) of these superbikes on the street. Its just not possible.

[@gonzotopia1]

Jesus Christ, if I had a dollar for every time I heard them say "traction control", I could buy one of those bikes.

[@andyzedd3236]

Would be nice to have an updated video 10 years later

[@mrnicktoyou]

Btw, the Suzuki clearly has the best engine of all these bikes. All the torque of the Honda but also the top end of the Kawasaki.

[@CycleCruza]

I have a 2012 cbr1000rr and this bike is awesome. You don't need the bs electronic rider aides.

[@nomellocreampig]

The government needs to pass a law making it required, it is making my insurance high with all of these people that don't know how to ride and crashing.

[@huhfkrhf]

ok I am sold Cruza. I am def going with the 2012 Blade (Nuff said) LOL

[@d1sturb3d119]

nomellocreampig Or better yet keep dumb people off high performance bikes by requiring them to work up the CC ladder.

[@kinghigh303]

How's it feel to ride? I'm coming off a 2005 zx6r 636 an I can't decide between the fireblade or zx10r

[@d1sturb3d119]

kinghigh303 I have the anniversary edition. Power comes down low, so it's nice and easy to ride. Controls need some adjustment but the bike is nice. Honestly buy the bike that makes you look back when you walk away. I can see why people would like zx10, it's gorgeous and has a lot of detail around the controls but the cbr was special for me. I love hondas. And the display is a nice clean look too

[@axs7689]

I don't know why I'm addicted to watching these.

[@axs7689]

I'm still addicted

[@ReynoldsPetroleum]

You guys really listened and stepped up the production value. Thanks!!! 60 seconds into the video and I'm already hooked!

[@xAKALISx]

Absolutely agree! The hell is a new rider doing buying a 1000CC "superbike" !? I started out on an 07 600RR and that is still pushing it for a beginning rider, the newer bikes are just getting faster. Got an 07 1000RR now and love it to death, Honda please stay grounded on your products and keep a racing bike, a racing bike!

[@CycleCruza]

Screw electronics, just more crap to malfunction. Stick with reliability and a winner, Fireblade!

[@everythinggaming7938]

ABS is always a plus no matter what people say

[@CarmineD187]

CBR is the best street bike ZX is the best track bike. But in the end 95% of people won't be able to tell the difference between any of these bikes performance wise. So go with the one that looks best to you and second most important thing is ride them all and see which one you are most comfortable on.

[@CycleCruza]

One thing that makes Honda bikes great is they don't have all of the electronic shiz. That's why they are #1 in reliability. I hope they never add the electronics gadgetry bs.

[@2cool0]

2012 was an awesome years for bikes!!!!! awesome designs, color cordination, and look of it was sooo nice for every bike with out a doubt

[@PWD65]

I personally love the 2009-2012 r1 looks.

[@rtiger20]

TC is great when racing around corners. In my case though I've been doing a lot of straight line racing so I just turn TC off completely. I'd love to really put my new 10r out on the track though just to get a real feel of it^_^ I'm sure the 10r has way more than 160 to the back wheel though. I've beaten a 08 gsx-1000r that was equipped with a flash ECU, power commander, and a yoshi slip on. He was putting 170hp. Walked down a 08 busa that just had a PC3 with the hot bodies gp exhaust as well

[@ChrisBOMtoATL]

Hi, Can anyone please help me with the background music/ song used?? need it urgent

[@RNickeyMouse]

Very nice editing work,

[@ShadingPencil]

when are you guys going to do a superbike shootout for the 2013 liter bikes?

[@jamesony]

Is it possible to buy a bike say a 125cc - 250cc (street legal) which have a high pitched exhaust note? A lot of the smaller bikes sound like dirt bikes... Any suggestions would be much appreciated!!! cheers

[@deydsonable]

this site would be Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA ?

[@SkyzTh3Limitt]

Owning a 2008 ZX14 with the secondary flies removed, I could see how traction control could be useful on the street on a curvy road with unknown conditions (oil spills, gravel, wavy tarmac) I have had the rear step out more than once when getting a bit too aggressive with exit throttle. The bike make so much torque even below 3krpm that it is easy to spin the tire. After riding a 2012 ZX14R with Trac and ABS, it is very confidence inspiring on the street. A hindrance on the track for sure.

[@chnkaw001]

Hi, Can you guys make an update review on megelli 2012 please? I know you guys did but thats a 2 years ago version (2010). Much appreciated.

[@autopiacarcare]

one thing that is worth pointing out, the Euro version of the ZX10R puts out almost 10 hp more than the US version due to noise regulations. By simply cutting a wire (known as the Ivan Wire Mod) you get full Euro power. This makes a HUGE difference in power and gives the Kawi about 15 hp more than the Gixxer and nearly 25 more than the R1.

[@vrossi8452]

R1 any day ..

[@mohamednajee4357]

Where to get this background music in mp3...plz help

[@micego46]

good review. and i love that Big Gigantic is playing in the background.

[@GalpersKCCO]

Are you sure you aren't thinking of the YCC-T system? That's the Throttle Control system. The guy in the vid is talking about a full on ECU controlled traction system... New to the 2012 bike. If TCS came on the 2009 R1 where is the link to your proof?

[@Ndamza]

Random question: Does anyone know the name of the song playing in the background?

[@buca9696]

Who needs a million riding modes and useless electronics that sooner or later will break anyway?

[@CarmineD187]

I own a 2012 CBR1000RR with C-ABS, it's an amazing street bike. I think T.C. is more for the inexperienced rider. Honda focused more on Control, waight reduction, and balance for there new 2012 model. Guess they figured if your getting on a liter bike your coming to the game with a little bit of experience.

[@ZeroBoostBuick]

Yes, oil (and sand) on the road can be overcome with good rider input. I never ride on the road thinking it's a perfect tarmac and all the cars can see me... If I crash on the road I never blame the conditions, I blame myself for not adjusting my riding to the conditions.

[@ChrisBOMtoATL]

Guys anybody knows the background score or title, plz help me with the name

[@SuperbikeShaun]

The traction control system was developed for racing use. It's purpose was to keep the racer driving forward out of corners, primarily to help with tire wear and wet weather conditions. And you do realize

[@Mockle07]

I'm generally "anti" electronic aids... but you make a good point. My issue is that if the manufacturers start making bikes that NEED electronics to make them ridable (and arguably we're right on that line now with these bikes) they will eventually make the TC etc non-switchable. And to be honest, what's the point of giving a bike more power if you need to reign it in with electronics?

[@Marksman2oo7]

thank you sooooo much, I've been waiting for this

[@yarbaystrength]

For street use, Honda is nr1

[@krysistheabyss]

is say the gsxr is, super comfortable with great street ergonomics.

[@MotoErgoSum]

996 didn't have DTC, ABS, riding modes, much longer service intervals, etc. My 1098 has been pretty reliable (overnight trip from Dallas to Toledo in rain). The Diavel is a beast as well. All manufacturers have horror stories. I know people who've had a Yamaha R6 engine explode before the break-in was finished, Kawasaki ZX-10 throw a chain at 65mph, and a Suzuki which had warranty issues the manufacturer wasn't going to cover. Shit luck sometimes.

[@dazzr6]

I like them all, however, I love my 2013 R1. If you don't like the TCS, well just turn it off. I only use it if I am riding in heavy rain and I set it to 4; I hate it any higher than that. Mode B is was great when I first got the bike and only when I was riding in the rain, but I soon decided that I didn't like the lack of power, which made it feel like a 600cc. Standard mode is fine for rain conditions and set the TCS to level 4. The only thing that I don't like is the throttle can take you by surprise mid corner if you hit a bump, the bike can surge ahead very quickly. It makes the sphincter rather tight!

[@BurntOutTech]

yea that is called a sudden case of religion, happens when you hit an unexpected ice patch also.

[@Aliens_AmongUs]

+BurntOutTech lol

[@N4CR]

Recovered from many sudden slide incidents, worst was standing the rear wheel off the ground, due to particularly fast weight shift/direction change exhaust clearance touchdown, on a sportsbike. For a good half a second, it was a front wheeled 'unicycle', at max lean. There is nothing a traction control system could've done to help in that situation. The critical importance as a rider, is learning how to recover from these situations without traction control. It doesn't always help. But it can!

[@SuperbikeShaun]

Rear wheel and base horsepower are entirely different readings. Brake horsepower is measured directly off the crank, whereas rear wheel is obviously measured at the wheel. Usually around a 15% different in the numbers.

[@OSUBuckeyes1]

I just picked up a brand new GSXR1000. Looks was my deciding factor. The GSXR just looks the best. Not loving the factory pipe, the CBR is much nicer, but it definitely wasn't a deal breaker.

[@industrialkhaos]

The Honda Blade is the king. Forget traction control. Ride to live, live to ride!

[@UBCSWraith]

Ah.... the ZX10R... it's destroying my Honda loyalty!

[@MShazarul]

Haha second that

[@305dadecounty305]

3rd that

[@ih8momjokes1]

fuck that

[@MotoErgoSum]

Once I learned to use my lower body to support my upper body, I was able to do 300 mile Sunday rides on the 1098 easily. Most of that was canyon riding, like the roads in this video (Mulholland, ACH, Palomar, Mesa, Banner, Montezuma, etc). 500+ miles on the Diavel is cake. I did an overnight run to Vegas from SoCal, and came back the following night to be at work the following morning. Best time to rip through Death Valley is after midnight. It's still 118F at 10pm...

[@houseofkrazees96]

why is the kawi in red?

[@Texarmageddon]

andddddd what's that have to do with liter bikes? Your analogy applies to just about any motorcycle that comes with ABS or TC.

[@TerrencePorretto]

Can you talk more about traction control?

[@40yard4and25]

I never ride a sportbike with TC. Is it good in STREETS?

[@zackklein2225]

Great Channel you guys!! Thank you! Money well spent! (:

[@650hpreventon]

Anyone have new or closer to new 2009-2014 r1, I just bought an used 12 r1, what I notice if below 3.5k rpm transmission feels like clunky/ missing a gear feel, or the feel give full power at top gear at when engine making noise because not in higher speed is it suppose to do that? Above 7k rpm engine feels butter smooth. Clutch engage right away so I have to ride the clutch tiny bit more than other liter bike I had.

[@brendanseesall]

why would they not put traction-control on the CBR?

[@nightrider3067]

I dont care about electronics ill control the bike myself

[@encerbikes]

Right on brother

[@Mcali1984]

Exactly.

[@markwinchester3005]

8yrs ago & STILL an absolute bullseye of a comment. 90+% of owners will NEVER use anywhere close the full potential (power/handling/braking) of these superbikes on the street. Its just not possible.

[@2cool0]

why dont they put turbos that are stock on bikes?

[@Godric_71]

In my opinion, 2012 was a great year for sport bikes.

[@jonzdad1]

The Yamaha looks awesome. Kinda like a scalpel.

[@rEcKLesSzzz]

any1 else's video stopping at 2:41? my video is fully loaded and everything i c the picture but when i click play nothing happens

[@BlackH3Lic0pt3r]

Traction control and ABS are must-have items, especially if you are not experienced, and if you drive these monsters on city streets. For those of you who never owned a big bike, y'all proly have no idea how these functions can save you, but let me tell you it all happens in a couple of nanoseconds for the tires to lose traction... These features can cost you a bit, but believe me, they'll save you a whole lot.

[@GenomeSoldier71]

There are electronic aids on the S1000RR that reduce the amount of power the engine will produce depending on your lean angle. This is supposed to prevent people from losing the bike in a corner. I think something like this is BETTER for the average Joe than an experienced rider, and far from useless. It is certainly more useful than ABS for any rider.

[@MrEdogjohnson]

People don't give Kawasaki enough credit. Everyone immediately wants a Suzuki.

[@Ardknj]

Awesome video and Riding, Bung siahaan are you indonesian ?

[@MrPninja]

shame you guys have the restricted zx10r over there in the US

[@JHallam77]

CBR 1000RR does not lack traction control or electronic aid, it doesn't need it. For the last twenty years Honda have worked on smoothness of power delivery not outright horsepower.

[@cott10r]

I know styling is each to own but it came down to a 2014 gsxr 1K or the 2014 zx10R & i went with gsxr, looks alone the gsxr looks waaay better, i dont need tc or abs so the savings was nice too!!!

[@krysistheabyss]

the gsxr 1000 looks awesome, I wish they could do the same on the 600 and 750 though.

[@michealortiz3350]

@@krysistheabyss 5 years later and they still haven't LOL

[@twowheeldanger]

Strong words from someone who hasn't even ridden a Panigale. The only people who have are Ducati employees (which you're clearly not) or a journalist (which you're clearly not).

[@iiiAwesome]

If you're actually planning on buying an 1000rr, do it. It's a joy to drive ;)

[@Problica]

All they had to say negative about Honda was the missing electronics. To me that a plus!! I have a non ABS model and won’t use my Bazzaz traction control... and modes? Your throttle hand is your modes

[@ErickTheBanditCDO]

good quick review

[@MotoErgoSum]

Triumph Speed Triple, Ducati 1098, and a Ducati Diavel. First two are really sketchy around wet roundabouts or corners with sand/oil/water. Diavel just shrugs it off and keeps rolling. Have you ridden a bike with traction control? Btw, I'm not talking about hitting corners at race pace in the rain. That's just plain stupid. Just saying, DTC/ABS is handy to have if it starts raining or the road ahead has questionable grip, especially loose shit like gravel. Otherwise, I usually ride with it off.

[@binhminhzn]

Yamaha R1

[@spaccaculi85]

professional riders use tc, are they inexperienced?the tc allows you to open the throttle earlier and to be the fastest on track, but it is also a means of security in the event of rain or critical condition of the asphalt.

[@MakeItRayne]

Agreed, but the lack of low end power is a major turn off. Especially if you live in a traffic heavy suburban area.

[@dariusdareme]

Fucking awesome video!! I like the short attention span, maybe a bit too short, but it's the best improvement by far compared to the other videos. Also having lots of people having lots of diferent opinios and quickly spoken, awesome!!!!

[@nimlil]

I think there are some area's that have a graduated licence program. Actually, some of the fastest riders learned on dirtbikes and raced on flat trackers, none of which had traction control. From there you would know how to ride quite confidently and TC would just be an added bonus that one could turn off at ones discretion. Improvments are always a good thing when used properly.

[@BamBam-qv7ht]

It's simple. TC is nice to have. Don't like it. Turn it off. Like it, leave it on. The option is always there for rider to choose. R1 is the sexiest bike out of all IMHO but lowest hp with heaviest weight. No thanks until Yamaha does something about it. CBR and Gixxer. Both are good bikes with decent power. But "good" nowadays is not enough. Honda and Suzuki need to pull their heads out of their ass and give the audiences something new. It's getting boring and behind. The only bike that actually worth to purchase and got pretty much the whole package is the ZX-10R. Power, weight, handling, maintaining, price... Unless you're a fanboys or like certain look. It's no brainer that the 10R is the best Japanese liter bike until this day. Cheers.

[@FCKEVRYBDY]

R1!

[@nimlil]

Sounds good, I also move my shoulders over, not just my butt, as well I adjust my weight based on what I feel is happening with front grip.I also like slight inward countersteering pressure thru the turn and smooth gradual inputs and adjustments to keep suspension movements to a minimum so as not to upset the bike more then nessasary. I'm not as smooth in the dirt but I kinda like slamming thru stuff...

[@nimlil]

I grew up in a era when there was no traction control, ABS, lnked brakes, etc. Probably spit more cases and rebuilt more carbs the most. When fuel injection was coming on and poor fueling was the norm, more people were spit off or high siding thier bikes not because of being bad riders but because of the way the fueling would somtimes act like a switch. When learning a track, you can always use the electronics to search out the limits, then shut em off for your fast lap.

[@StraightSuccess]

A true rider doesn't need traction control or power options. A true rider can feel "everything" as feedback is always transmitted through the wrist. Just my opinion.

[@henrik998]

this looks so fun. awesome people with awesome bikes :)

[@logut80]

Sold my 07 GSXR 1K last year but just picked up my '13 Repsol 1k. Now I need the weather to cooperate so I can see how it handles.

[@petercheruiyot4486]

How is when you compare them

[@GreerFried]

Where's the busa?

[@senotrius]

@Edumasta :D about time r1 got a real update

[@twistedkeys1]

I gave you a thumbs up just because you're rnickeymouse!!

[@braindamnage1]

Great video

[@rogeriocolares2470]

qual é a melhor para vocês

[@brandonyoung1239]

traction control is a major selling point these days because people can brag about it, but honestly if you're using TC on the street you are either crazy or are a hamfisted rider who deserves to highside. these newer bikes have such linear powerbands that you should be able to sense and control the back tire like its an extension of your body.

[@geovaniivan8011]

suzuki gsxr the best , for sure

[@braindamnage1]

Yes

[@Kiddomotive]

The cyclops headlight is always cool! :D

[@mamananau]

What's wrong with traction control? You can turn it off and on and apart from that it makes riding safer and simpler.

[@VSUPARHAM]

what about occasional track days, wet riding, and dusty roads. Not to mention weekend drag-strip runs. These are all occasions when a TC equipped bike will excel.

[@mnwildrb]

I own the 2012 R1 and I gotta admit that damn clutch is grabby like they say.

[@jimbo80982]

The first time your back tire playfully slides out :D

[@winterstellar]

Traction control saves lots of lives, of course. That's great.: )

[@2007cls550]

If I wanted a stereo, or a guitar, I'd get a Yamaha. If I wanted a car, I'd get a Honda or a Suzuki. But, If I wanted a motorcycle, I'd get a Kawasaki. ZX10R, simply the best of the whole bunch.

[@usamachinist]

The GPZ1100's and Ninja 900's of the '80's were Red and Black! The green Kawa street bike thing didn't really get going till the mid '90's, Up till then the Kawa dirt bikes were the ones in green! Now if my memory serves me, there was a special edition Eddie lawson green GPZ1100 back in the early '80,s.

[@Sigrafix]

Traction Control on bikes has been around a while and most new high power $10,000+ bikes come with it..

[@NormanFajardoMartinez]

I'd like to see a complete shootout, full tests, between Hypersports Bikes & Superbikes (Europeans and Japaneses)

[@2dL]

R6 in brazil are imported only thru import stores, Yamaha doesnt actually sell them here, and the R6 that we get from those stores are usually not well prepared for our gasoline and a lot of them explode... hahahaha