There are generally two ways to get your hands on a high-performance motorcycle. The first is to get yourself a brand-new one, loaded with all the modern features and electronics. Such a bike will cost you a bomb, though, especially if you’re looking for something with triple-digit horsepower. Even mid-weight sports bikes have crossed the $10,000 mark, while superbikes can easily set you back twice as much. For most of us, the hefty price tag puts that kind of performance out of reach.
That’s where the second way comes in: used motorcycles, which can save you thousands of dollars while offering nearly modern performance. Sure, you might have to spend a bit of money on service or a new set of tires, but the sheer horsepower-per-dollar value of some used bikes is unbeatable. Classifieds are full of hidden gems that offer plenty of performance for under $5,000. From exotic Italian supermotos to one of the fastest bikes ever made, here are ten used hidden gems you can buy for less than $5,000.
To give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from authoritative sources, such as Suzuki Cycles, Kawasaki, and Honda Powersports. Used listing prices are sourced from JD Power, CycleTrader, and auction sites. The models are listed based on their power figures, from lowest to highest.
1999 Kawasaki ZRX1100
Power Output: 106 HP @ 8,700 RPM
Long before modern retro motorcycles tried to recreate old-school designs, Japanese manufacturers offered big-bore UJM bikes that combined the muscle-bike looks of the ‘80s with modern inline-four performance. These bikes used superbike engines, detuned for street use, and replaced aluminum frames with steel ones. Of that era, the ZRX1100 is perhaps the best example. Despite having only 106 horsepower, the ZRX1100 remains a proper hoon machine, which is said to be entertaining for most riders. It’s also a stunning bike to look at, especially in its R variant, which featured a bikini nose fairing with a square headlight.
2013 Ducati Hypermotard 821
Power Output: 110 HP @ 9,250 RPM
When it was launched, the Hypermotard 821 was a one-of-a-kind bike that combined a supermoto character with a powerful L-twin engine. Even today, it can do donuts around most present-day supermotos. While this generation addresses its predecessor’s issues with a more comfortable riding position and a larger fuel tank, it may not be a practical choice for some. So, for most riders, the Hypermotard 821 is a good second bike, not a daily driver. Don’t forget to look out for models that are due for the dreaded desmo service; many owners sell the bike just before it’s due because it’s a costly affair.
2005 KTM Super Duke 990
Power Output: 120 HP @ 9,000 RPM
In the naked segment, KTM is known for its precise and torquey Super Duke motorcycles, and it all began with the Super Duke 990. Back in the day, this bike was more powerful than anything the brand had ever made, and it offered a fresh take on the naked segment. While it may not be anywhere close to the modern Super Duke, it’s still more than enough to have fun on the street. Even the LC8 engine has proven reliable after two decades, with one owner jokingly claiming it would still run if you put sand in it.
2006 Harley-Davidson VRSCR Street Rod
Power Output: 121 HP @ 7,000 RPM
The V-Rod is one legendary motorcycle, but as much as we’d all love to ride one, few would like to own it. Its performance is only trumped by its impracticality. Fortunately, there’s an underrated alternative: the VRSCR Street Rod. This bike features a more powerful variant of the Porsche-designed V-twin engine, along with a raised seat height, which should improve comfort and ergonomics for street use. The bike’s longer shocks give it more cornering clearance compared to the V-Rod, too. The engine has also proven itself, with owners claiming over 100,000 miles with no major issues. But given the Porsche connection, expect the parts to be expensive and hard to come by.
2006 Yamaha FZ1
Power Output: 146.84 HP @ 11,000 RPM
The 2006 Yamaha FZ1, in its second generation, offers better value than most liter-class nakeds on the used market today. Unlike the first-gen, this bike features fuel injection, an aluminum twin-spar frame, and an R1-derived inline-four engine with a focus on mid-range torque. The result is a wild performance that still holds its own against modern liter-class nakeds. Thanks to its bikini fairing and a short windscreen, this bike can also take you the long way around. Thanks to its reliable performance and comfort, this bike is the ideal candidate for a one-bike garage on a budget.
1999 Suzuki Hayabusa
Power Output: 175 HP @ 9,800 RPM
The first-generation Hayabusa is hard to beat when it comes to performance; this is the bike that led to the Gentlemen’s Agreement, a reason why even modern superbikes are limited to 186 miles per hour. Yes, it’s not the prettiest bike out there, but it can still surprise you with its performance. Time for a warning, though: this is a 26-year-old rocket ship and lacks any electronics. It’s best reserved for experienced riders. Also, pristine examples may come with a collector’s premium. So, patience is key when looking for this hidden gem in the used market: a well-maintained first-gen Hayabusa under $5,000.
2006 Kawasaki ZX-10R
Power Output: 175 HP @ 11,700 RPM
The Kawasaki ZX-10R was one of the fastest motorcycles of its decade, and, even today, it can give modern superbikes a run for their money. It features a powerful inline-four engine focused on high-RPM performance, often described as violent and easy to go fast on. And with the bike’s short wheelbase and compact dimensions, owners claim this bike handles like a 600 supersport. In the used market, this bike is hard to beat if you’re looking for superbike performance on a budget. Not to forget, this Ninja is one of the most beautiful sports bikes of the decade, too.
2005 Suzuki GSX-R1000 K5
Power Output: 178 HP @ 11,000 RPM
The GSX-R1000 K5 is a terrific alternative to the ZX-10R if you’re looking for superbike performance on a budget, especially if your focus is on reliability. This sports bike is the last of the long-stroke inline-four Gixxers, which are known for their torquey performance and solid reliability. In fact, the engine is so reliable that it still powers some excellent motorcycles today, including the GSX-S1000GT and GSX-S1000GX sports tourers. Just keep in mind that many inexperienced riders got their hands on the K5, so be careful when looking for one in the used market.
2000 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-12R
Power Output: 178 HP @ 10,500 RPM
With the Super Blackbird and Hayabusa going at it, Kawasaki wasn’t about to stay quiet. It responded with the ZX-12R, which was the most powerful production motorcycle for the next six years. Unfortunately, the Gentlemen’s Agreement was already in place, and the ZX-12R was electronically limited to 186 miles per hour. Still, owners report that the bike can reach 200 miles per hour once the speed limiter is removed. The best part is that you can get this insane performance for under $5,000 today if you look hard enough for this hidden gem.
2014 EBR 1190RX
Power Output: 185 HP @ 10,600 RPM
The EBR 1190RX is one of the most underrated and unique motorcycles you can buy under $5,000. Based on the 1190RS homologation special, this was EBR’s introductory model, bringing its trademark 8-piston brakes and fuel-carrying frame. It added to that formula with a torquey V-twin engine, Showa suspension, and an aggressive rake/trail, which are said to give the bike a quick and agile character. It’s also one of the last raw superbikes, featuring only traction control. If you are low on budget and want something with enough horsepower to run with modern superbikes, look no further than the EBR 1190RX.
