Race-Bred Royalty: A Review of the Bimota HB4

 

Race-Bred Royalty: A Review of the Bimota HB4

In the elite world of motorcycle racing, a brand's reputation is often forged not just in victories but in innovation. The Bimota HB4 is a prime example of this philosophy. Developed specifically for the Moto2 World Championship, this machine was a bold statement from the Italian firm, a return to the grand stage of Grand Prix racing with a motorcycle that was as beautiful as it was technically advanced. The HB4 is not a production bike you can buy at a dealership; it is a pure race machine, a testament to Bimota's engineering genius and a fascinating chapter in the company's history. Its story is one of ambitious design, race-track performance, and the relentless pursuit of perfection.

Race-Bred Royalty: A Review of the Bimota HB4

A Race-Specific Masterpiece: The HB4's Genesis

The genesis of the HB4 lies in the fundamental change in the Moto2 class in 2010. The move from the 250cc two-stroke class to a 600cc four-stroke engine platform, with all teams using a spec engine supplied by Honda, was a major shake-up. This new rule set the stage for chassis manufacturers to prove their mettle. For Bimota, it was the perfect opportunity to showcase its core competency: building exceptional frames.

The "HB4" name is a nod to the company's long-standing partnership with Honda ("H" for Honda, "B" for Bimota) and its position as the fourth model in this lineage. The project was led by some of Bimota's most talented engineers, who were tasked with creating a chassis that could extract every ounce of performance from the Honda CBR600RR engine, the single powerplant mandated for the entire grid.

Engineering and Design: A Work of Mechanical Art

The Bimota HB4 is a visual symphony of purposeful engineering. Unlike production superbikes, its design is dictated entirely by performance. The motorcycle features a unique and complex chassis, a hallmark of Bimota's philosophy. The main frame is an exquisite blend of a steel trellis and billet-machined aluminum plates that wrap around the engine, providing a perfect balance of rigidity and feel. The single-sided swingarm is another masterpiece of engineering, meticulously crafted to reduce weight and improve handling.

Every component is top-tier and race-spec. The suspension is handled by Öhlins, with an advanced front fork and a monoshock at the rear. Braking power is provided by Brembo, with massive discs and monobloc calipers designed for the extreme demands of Grand Prix racing. The bodywork is made of ultra-light carbon fiber, sculpted to be as aerodynamic as possible, with ram-air ducts that feed the engine and winglets to provide downforce at high speed. The HB4 is a study in function over form, where every line, every bolt, and every weld serves a specific, performance-enhancing purpose.

On the Track: A Glimpse of True Performance

Because the HB4 was never a road-legal machine, its review can only be based on its performance on the race track. In the hands of skilled riders, the HB4 demonstrated its chassis brilliance. The motorcycle was renowned for its exceptional handling, with a front end that provided immense feedback and confidence. Its light weight and compact design made it incredibly nimble and agile, allowing riders to change direction with lightning speed. The chassis was so well-balanced and communicative that it could be pushed to the very limits of tire grip.

The integration of the Honda CBR600RR engine was seamless. The engine, known for its reliability and linear power delivery, provided a perfect complement to the HB4’s exotic chassis. While other teams struggled to find the perfect setup for the new regulations, Bimota's engineers leveraged their decades of experience to create a bike that was ready to race from the start. Although it did not ultimately dominate the championship due to a variety of factors including limited team resources and funding, the HB4 proved that Bimota's chassis technology was a genuine contender on the world stage.

A Legacy of Innovation

The Bimota HB4 is a fascinating and important chapter in the company's history. It represents a return to its roots—building a pure-bred race machine that prioritized chassis innovation above all else. While it may not be as famous as the championship-winning bikes of other manufacturers, the HB4 stands as a testament to what Bimota could achieve. It demonstrated that even with a spec engine, the art of chassis design and engineering still held the key to unlocking true performance.

For motorcycle enthusiasts, the HB4 is a a race-bred thoroughbred. It is a machine that showcases the pure, unadulterated passion that drives the sport. The Bimota HB4 is more than just a racing motorcycle; it is a legacy of innovation, a work of mechanical art, and a powerful reminder that in the world of two wheels, true greatness comes from daring to be different.

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The Eccentric's Choice: A Review of the Bimota Tesi 3D RaceCafe

 

The Eccentric's Choice: A Review of the Bimota Tesi 3D RaceCafe

In the storied history of Bimota, no model is as synonymous with the brand's daring engineering as the Tesi. For decades, the name has been a byword for the revolutionary hub-center steering system, a design that shuns conventional telescopic forks in pursuit of pure, uncompromised chassis performance. The Bimota Tesi 3D RaceCafe is a modern evolution of this philosophy, blending the radical Tesi technology with a minimalist, cafe racer aesthetic. It's a motorcycle that stands in stark defiance of industry norms, built for the rider who values mechanical artistry and a riding experience that is truly one-of-a-kind.

The Eccentric's Choice: A Review of the Bimota Tesi 3D RaceCafe

Design: Naked Engineering and Unconventional Beauty

The Tesi 3D RaceCafe is a visual spectacle, an automotive sculpture that lays its soul bare. By stripping away the full fairings, Bimota's engineers have exposed the intricate skeleton of the Tesi chassis, a mesmerizing display of CNC-machined aluminum and complex linkages. The heart of the design is the hub-center steering system itself, a network of pushrods, levers, and a swingarm that replaces the traditional front fork. This engineering is not just functional; it's the centerpiece of the bike's aesthetic, drawing the eye and challenging the mind.

The "RaceCafe" in its name is a clear nod to the cafe racer tradition. It features a minimalist seat, a sleekly designed fuel tank, and a simple, powerful headlight that gives it a raw, purposeful look. Unlike the fully-faired Tesi models, the RaceCafe’s design is about transparency. It celebrates the mechanical components, from the exposed trellis subframe to the distinctive twin exhausts that snake gracefully under the seat. The overall impression is one of a machine with nothing to hide, a blend of futuristic technology and retro-styled rebellion.

The Engine: A Heartbeat from Bologna

Underneath all the exotic hardware, the Tesi 3D RaceCafe is powered by a proven engine from Bimota's long-standing partner, Ducati. Specifically, it uses the air-cooled, 803cc L-twin engine from the Scrambler and Monster 797 models. This engine, while not a powerhouse, is a perfect fit for the bike’s character. It delivers its power in a smooth, accessible manner, with a strong dose of torque available from low RPMs. This makes the bike a joy to ride on urban streets and winding backroads, where outright speed is less important than responsiveness and feel.

The engine's distinctive V-twin rumble gives the bike a soulful, aural presence that complements its eccentric design. Paired with a slick six-speed transmission, the powerplant provides a satisfying and engaging experience. While it lacks the brutal power of the Tesi H2's supercharged engine, the Ducati L-twin is a reliable and characterful heart that perfectly matches the RaceCafe's street-focused demeanor.

Riding Dynamics: A Mental and Physical Challenge

Riding the Tesi 3D RaceCafe is an experience that requires a complete recalibration of a rider's instincts. The hub-center steering system fundamentally separates the functions of braking, suspension, and steering. This means that when you brake hard, the bike's front end does not "dive" like a conventional motorcycle. The front remains stable and level, allowing you to brake deep into a corner with incredible confidence. The steering is light and precise, and the bike holds its line with unwavering stability.

However, this lack of front-end dive also means the rider loses a key tactile cue that is deeply ingrained in their riding experience. It takes time and trust to learn to brake aggressively without the visual feedback of a compressing fork. Once this trust is built, the benefits are immense. The Tesi is a scalpel on the road, capable of surgically precise lines and mid-corner corrections that are simply not possible on a conventional bike. The fully adjustable Öhlins monoshock at both the front and rear provides a firm but communicative ride, ensuring the rider is always connected to the road.

Conclusion: An Exclusive Statement

The Bimota Tesi 3D RaceCafe is not a motorcycle for the masses. Its high price tag and unique engineering make it an object of desire for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate mechanical brilliance over mainstream appeal. It is a niche machine for a discerning rider who is not afraid to stand out and embrace a new way of riding.

In a market saturated with lookalike superbikes and naked machines, the Tesi 3D RaceCafe is a breath of fresh air. It is a testament to Bimota's enduring spirit of innovation and its commitment to building motorcycles that are as much a work of art as they are a tool for riding. The Tesi 3D RaceCafe is a bike that challenges the status quo and rewards its rider with a truly unique, unforgettable experience. It is a beautiful, bold, and brilliant machine for the eccentric at heart.

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A Naked Masterpiece: The Bimota KB4 RC Review

 

A Naked Masterpiece: The Bimota KB4 RC Review

In the realm of exotic motorcycles, Bimota has always been a name synonymous with engineering brilliance and radical design. While the fully-faired KB4 captured attention with its retro-futuristic style and innovative cooling system, the Italian manufacturer has unveiled its more aggressive sibling: the KB4 RC. The "RC" stands for "RaceCafe," a name that perfectly encapsulates its philosophy. This is not just a stripped-down version of the KB4; it's a meticulously re-engineered machine that amplifies the riding experience by shedding its fairings and embracing a more visceral, unadulterated form. The KB4 RC is a pure, uncompromised expression of a naked sportbike, marrying Italian artistry with Japanese reliability.

A Naked Masterpiece: The Bimota KB4 RC Review

Design: The Art of Exposure

The most immediate and striking difference of the KB4 RC is its exposed design. By removing the full fairing of the standard KB4, Bimota reveals the intricate beauty of its chassis and engineering. The steel trellis frame, with its elegant welds and complex geometry, is now on full display, a work of mechanical art in itself. The billet-machined aluminum plates that bolt directly to the engine and the unique placement of the radiator under the seat are no longer hidden—they are now central to the bike's aesthetic. This design choice lends the KB4 RC a raw, industrial beauty that is both functional and captivating.

The front end is dominated by a smaller, minimalist fairing that houses a single round headlight, a direct nod to the cafe racer tradition. The clip-on handlebars are replaced by a more upright, conventional handlebar, which alters the riding position for a more comfortable, street-oriented stance. The beautifully sculpted carbon fiber bodywork is kept to a minimum, primarily on the fuel tank and tail section, drawing the eye to the bike’s mechanical heart. The KB4 RC’s design is a testament to Bimota’s confidence in its engineering; they have nothing to hide.

The Engine: A Refined and Responsive Heart

At its core, the KB4 RC shares the same powerplant as its faired sibling: the 1,043cc inline-four engine from the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX. While it may not boast the same horsepower figures as a dedicated superbike, this engine is perfectly suited for the KB4 RC's character. Its power delivery is incredibly linear and smooth, with a strong, usable spread of torque available across the rev range. This makes the bike a joy to ride in various conditions, from leisurely city commutes to spirited blasts on twisty roads.

The engine's reliability and user-friendliness, a direct benefit of the collaboration with Kawasaki, mean that the KB4 RC is not a fragile garage queen. It’s a bike meant to be ridden. The electronic package, including traction control, cornering ABS, and riding modes, has been finely tuned for the lighter, more agile chassis, giving the rider a confident and secure feeling regardless of the road conditions.

Riding Dynamics: Pure and Unfiltered

The removal of the fairing and the change in ergonomics fundamentally alter the riding experience. With a dry weight of just 190 kg, the KB4 RC is even lighter and more nimble than the standard model. The upright handlebar provides more leverage, making the bike incredibly responsive and easy to flick from side to side. The short wheelbase and compact dimensions give it an agility that feels more like a middleweight supersport than a litre-class naked bike.

The high-end Öhlins suspension, fully adjustable on both the front and rear, provides an impeccable ride. The chassis provides precise feedback, allowing the rider to feel every nuance of the road surface, which builds immense confidence in its handling. On a twisty road, the KB4 RC is an absolute revelation. It carves through corners with surgical precision and is always eager for the next turn. The Brembo Stylema brakes offer phenomenal stopping power and a delicate feel, perfectly complementing the bike's high-performance nature. The overall experience is one of pure, unadulterated fun, with the rider feeling more connected to the machine and the road than ever before.

Conclusion: The Essence of Bimota

The Bimota KB4 RC is more than just a variant; it is a distillation of the KB4's philosophy. It strips away everything but the essentials to reveal a motorcycle of stunning beauty and exhilarating performance. While the KB4 was a modern classic, the KB4 RC is a raw, modern masterpiece. It represents a different kind of ambition—one focused not on hiding its mechanics, but on celebrating them.

For a rider who appreciates the artistry of engineering, the uncompromised joy of a naked bike, and the prestige of a hand-built Italian machine, the KB4 RC is a perfect choice. It’s a bike that provides a visceral and engaging riding experience while still offering the reliability and modern technology of its Japanese donor. The Bimota KB4 RC is a beautiful paradox: a motorcycle that is both timeless in its design and utterly contemporary in its execution.

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The Soul of a Sportbike, The Heart of a Ninja: A Review of the Bimota KB4

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The Soul of a Sportbike, The Heart of a Ninja: A Review of the Bimota KB4

In the exclusive world of exotic motorcycles, Bimota has long been the purveyor of two-wheeled artistry. The Italian firm, known for its audacious engineering and meticulous craftsmanship, has always focused on creating chassis that transcend the conventional, wrapping powerful, mass-produced engines in a cocoon of bespoke excellence. The Tesi H2 brought Bimota back to the spotlight with its radical hub-center steering. But for riders who crave the same level of exclusivity and technical prowess in a more traditional, and arguably more usable, package, the Bimota KB4 emerges as a true masterpiece. This motorcycle is a fascinating fusion: a beautifully handcrafted Italian chassis built around the proven, reliable heart of a Japanese sport-tourer. The result is a machine that is both exhilaratingly agile and surprisingly refined.

The Soul of a Sportbike, The Heart of a Ninja: A Review of the Bimota KB4

Design: Retro-Futurism Meets Exquisite Craftsmanship

The KB4 is a visual paradox. It draws a clear line of inspiration from the classic sportbikes of the 1970s and 80s, particularly the first generation of Bimota's "KB" series which used Kawasaki engines. The full fairing, with its curvaceous, retro-styled lines, evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia. Yet, a closer look reveals a breathtaking level of modern, cutting-edge detail. The fairings are made of carbon fiber, the wheels are lightweight forged aluminum, and the trellis frame is an intricate web of steel and billet-machined aluminum plates.

This duality is most evident in the bike's technical solutions. The most striking design feature is the innovative cooling system. To achieve its incredibly compact dimensions and short wheelbase (even shorter than a Kawasaki ZX-6R), Bimota's engineers moved the radiator from its traditional position in front of the engine to a unique placement under the tail section. This required the creation of large, functional air ducts on either side of the fairing to channel cool air back to the radiator, a feature that becomes a central part of the bike's aesthetic and a constant talking point. Every component, from the meticulously routed wiring to the single-piece leather seat, is a testament to Bimota's obsessive attention to detail.

The Engine: A Usable and Potent Powerplant

At the core of the KB4 lies a familiar and trusted engine: the 1,043cc inline-four from the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX. While this engine’s 142 horsepower may seem modest compared to the fire-breathing superbikes of today, its real-world performance is perfectly suited to the KB4's chassis. The power delivery is exceptionally smooth and linear, with a generous spread of torque available from the low-to-mid RPM range. This makes the KB4 incredibly tractable and easy to ride in any situation, from city streets to sweeping backroads.

The engine's inherent smoothness is a welcome contrast to the more aggressive, top-end-focused power of a superbike. It doesn’t need to be thrashed to be enjoyed. Instead, the rider can effortlessly ride a wave of torque, short-shifting through the seamless up-and-down quickshifter. The collaboration with Kawasaki has also ensured a robust electronics package, including multiple riding modes, traction control, and cornering ABS, all meticulously calibrated for the lighter and more agile Bimota chassis.

The Ride: A Masterclass in Agility

The true magic of the Bimota KB4 is revealed when you ride it. Weighing in at just 194 kg (fully fueled), it feels incredibly light and nimble. The compact chassis, short wheelbase, and sharp steering geometry make it turn with the agility of a much smaller bike, almost like a supersport 600. The fully adjustable Öhlins front and rear suspension components provide impeccable feedback, giving the rider an intimate connection with the road. The Brembo Stylema brakes, a top-tier choice for any performance machine, offer immense stopping power and feel, allowing for incredibly late and confident braking.

The riding position strikes a superb balance between sporty and comfortable. While it is certainly more aggressive than the Ninja 1000SX it borrows its engine from, it's not as extreme as a dedicated track bike. The ergonomic layout encourages spirited riding without punishing the rider on longer journeys. On a winding road, the KB4 is an absolute delight. It effortlessly flicks from side to side, holds its line with unwavering precision, and builds an immense amount of confidence in the rider. It is a bike that allows you to ride with less effort and more enjoyment.

Conclusion: An Exclusive Thoroughbred for the Discerning Rider

The Bimota KB4 is a motorcycle that occupies a unique space in the market. It is an exclusive, hand-built machine that offers a level of artistry and technical sophistication that mass-produced bikes cannot match. It combines the aesthetic beauty of a bygone era with the advanced engineering and reliable performance of today. The KB4 is not about winning a spec-sheet war; it's about providing an unparalleled riding experience.

With a high price tag that reflects its bespoke nature and limited production, the KB4 is not for everyone. It is for the collector, the connoisseur, and the rider who values the art of the machine as much as its performance. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of Bimota and a brilliant example of how Italian design flair and Japanese engineering precision can come together to create something truly special. The Bimota KB4 is more than a motorcycle; it is a rideable piece of history, an exclusive work of art that feels as exquisite in motion as it does standing still.

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