Since these are top-tier supernakeds from their respective manufacturers, all five machines use excellent cycle parts, although, if we are to split hairs, then – on paper, at least – the Ducati and Triumph come out in front of the others. One thing to note is that all bikes here come with electronic suspension (either as an optional extra or on a higher variant), except for the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP. The Hornet is also the only bike to use a slightly slimmer rear tyre and ever-so-smaller front brake discs – not that it’s any worse for it – in line with its relatively tame output.

Big TFT displays, a comprehensive suite of rider aids and creature comforts such as cruise control and heated grips are all part of these bikes – if not as standard, then at least as an accessory. Again, the European bikes have that extra bit of finesse in the implementation of their electronic rider aids in comparison to the Japanese bikes, with things like switchable ABS and lean-sensitive intervention. In particular, the Ducati Streetfighter V4 really does set the benchmark when it comes to electronic rider aids and the company’s racing pedigree really does shine through in this regard. 

 

There’s no competing with the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP when it comes to sheer bang-for-buck here, although you could argue that in comparison to these bikes, it can feel a little out of its depth in some aspects. The S 1000 R’s starting price undercuts its European counterparts but if you start going through BMW’s accessory catalogue, the price will firmly be in Ducati territory. Speaking of the Ducati, the Streetfighter V4 that is currently on sale in India is not the latest-generation model and when that one comes in, expect the prices listed above to rise. But as things stand as of the publishing of this piece, the supercharged Kawasaki Z H2 is the most expensive bike here.