The weight of a motorbike is one of the most definitive features that can affect the whole riding experience. In terms of performance and handling, weight is just as important as the power or torque of the bike. 

However, when it comes to the specifications of a motorcycle, how much it weighs isn’t always made completely clear. Manufacturers frequently use terms such as dry, wet, or curb weight interchangeably, despite the fact that these can lead to big variations. 

The weight of a motorcycle with the battery, oil and water etc included will give you the most accurate number. This list will focus on this more accurate weight figure in relation to performance, and be made up of bikes that can be ridden on the roads, as opposed to those that are only nominally roadworthy. This list will also not include under 125cc bikes, otherwise it would just be made up of small mopeds. 

Yamaha XT660R

This ‘adventure’ bike is great for off-roading thanks to its low weight, coming in it at 181kg. It sports Yamaha’s single-cylinder XT660R, which helps to highlight the link between a motorbike’s cylinder count and it’s total weight, especially because the lightest bikes tend to have no more than two cylinders. 

Kawasaki Ninja 300 

Here’s a bike that has a lot of heritage despite its more modern aesthetics. The Ninja 300’s design was modelled after the Ninja 250R, which is also a very lightweight sports bike that’s been in production for more than 3 decades. The 300 though has a smaller fuel tank, and with fuel and all other fluids included weighs in at 172kg.

KTM RC390

This sport version of the KTM Duke 390 was first unveiled in 2013 at the EICMA motorcycle show in Italy. It had the same 373 cc engine and the motorcycle and sports car manufacturer claimed that it weighed 147kg, but that’s without fuel. It’s fuel capacity is only 10 litres though, so even when the bike is ready to ride, it only comes in at 155kg. 

KTM Duke 390

This model is of course even more lightweight. Even with a full 11 litres of fuel in the tank, this sport model weighs in at only 147kg. Combined with it’s thin, agile design and limited 47 bhp, the bike has been highlighted as a great starting sports bike for younger, more inexperienced riders with the A2 licenses. 

Ducati 1199 Superleggera

This bike is larger than the others listed and is also the most in terms of price too. However, the 1199 Superleggera is actually named after its lighter weight. With a full tank of fuel ready to go, the racer-style bike weighs around 177kg. Without fuel this drops to 166kg, which is pretty impressive considering the size of the bike.

Kawasaki KLX250

This impressive super-lightweight bike can be ridden on the roads, and only weighs in at 138kg. Granted it’s not clear whether it weighs this much when it’s full of fuel, however since the bike only sports a 7.7 litre tank, it would only add 5.8kg when filled anyway. 

Whether you’re after a lightweight motorbike or a heavier model, don’t delay getting the right bike insurance in place. Get a quick and easy bike insurance quote with us at Carole Nash today – by simply clicking here.Or if you prefer to speak to one of our experienced, and friendly insurance specialists, please give us a ring on 0333 005 3355 – we are ready and on hand to help you.