Performance is a word that’s thrown around a lot for marketing purposes, leaving the average bike enthusiast confused as to which models really live up to it. You have to remember that performance isn't just about engine power and acceleration times; it also involves handling, cornering, braking, and overall riding dynamics. What's more, the latest electronic aids, which are trickling down from top-level bikes to more mainstream models, now elevate performance, control, and safety to unprecedented levels.

Here are the top 10 highest-performing bikes on the market according to Moto123.com:

10 - Yamaha VMAX
After turning heads with fantastic looks and intimidating power for a quarter of a century, the VMAX got a do-over in 2009 and now delivers more thrills than ever thanks to a big, 1,679cc V4 engine that cranks out 197 hp, not to mention an impressive 122 lb-ft of torque. Yamaha desperately wanted to regain the title of most powerful dragster, while making the VMAX more manageable.

Photo: Yamaha