The Faster The Deadlier
High Performance Comes At A Cost
“Supersport” motorcycle enthusiasts prize such high-performance machines as this Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R, but a study finds that these drivers are being killed at a much greater rate than those who ride other types of bikes. An insurance industry study released Tuesday that found that motorcyclists were three times more likely to die when riding a high-performance racing bike than a hulking Harley-Davidson. So-called supersport motorcycles have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among young riders looking for an extremely fast, lightweight bike like the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R, that have top speeds in excess of 150 mph.
The Kawasaki Ninja and the Harley Electra Glide provide a vivid example of how motorcycles can differ in power and weight. According to institute figures, the 2006 Ninja generates 111 horsepower and weighs 404 pounds. The Harley produces 65 horsepower and weighs in at 788 pounds. The smallest supersports typically have 600-cubic-centimeter engines. The biggest models top 1,200 or even 1,400 cubic centimeters and can reach speeds approaching 200 mph. Riders say the Kawasaki ZX-10R can hit 110 mph in first gear.
The increase in fatality rates for a class of bike associated more with older riders shows that inexperience comes into play at both ends of the age spectrum. More and more baby boomers are realizing their wishes and buying motorcycles, especially the big cruisers, yet have no real experience on them. The results of their inexperience, especially as their reflexes slow, are more crashes and deaths. Nationwide, motorcycle registrations climbed 51% from 2000 to 2005, according to the institute. Registrations of supersport bikes jumped 83% in that period.
Did they really need a study to show that speed is deadly?
June 27th, 2008 at 1:56 am
You say «“Supersport” motorcycle enthusiasts prize such high-performance machines as this Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R», but they are Aprilia ^^