Whether you call them naked bikes or streetfighters, these gifted two-wheelers have nothing to envy from the more celebrated superbikes. European manufacturers have figured out that the recipe for building a top naked bike is simply to strip down a superbike, modify the ECU for more flexibility, and make sure the handlebar and footrests contribute to a more natural riding position. Of course, these racy-looking, scantily clad machines offer little protection against the elements.
Performance isn't just about engine power and straight-line acceleration times; it also involves sharp handling and cornering, excellent braking, and other confidence-inspiring dynamics. Naked bikes are a growing market segment with lots of high-performing models that, in most cases, can break highway speed limits in second gear only.
Here, then, are Moto123.com's top 10 2015 naked bikes:
No. 10
2015 Yamaha FZ-09
The Japanese manufacturer returned to a 3-cylinder configuration with a new 847cc engine that's full of character. The FZ-09 also features a two-piece aluminum frame, gold-finished, inverted front fork, narrow fuel tank, die-cast aluminum swingarm, prominent headlight, and upswept tail. There's nothing quite like it in the Yamaha lineup and the naked-bike segment as a whole, and it can seemingly do it all from cruising to racing to everyday riding.
Learn more about the Yamaha FZ-09.
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Photo: Yamaha |