Compared to 25 years ago todays super bikes are lightyears ahead when it comes to just about everything: Power, economy, reliability, handling, brakes, stability. They are also cheaper now in real terms. The Japanese manufacturers definitely produce the most reliable, that being Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha. If you want something more exotic then Ducati are more reliable than ever before and if you are feeling really adventurous then Bimota are still producing bikes.

Most of the modern super motorcycles are restricted to 300kph or 186mph and generally do 0 to 60 in around 3 seconds with potentially 50mpg economy when riding gently. The only downsides are crashing and hurting yourself or losing your licence!

If the rider is prepared to use their head, they an have their cake and eat it!

Classic superbikes include the Honda RC30, RC45 and NR750, the Yamaha 0W01, Norton 588, Ducati 888 SP3 to SP5 and 916SP and for something different the Bimota Tesi and Furano.