2025-on Bimota KB998 Rimini review: Exotic power returns

Kawasaki’s part in the KB998’s creation has been to supply the hardware: engine, electronics, suspension and brakes. It’s unusual for a model fresh to the superbike arena not to launch with class-leading power, but Bimota claim the same 197bhp at 13,700rpm and 81.8lb.ft at 11,700rpm for the KB998 as Kawasaki do for the still-available ZX-10RR. On track and in Sport mode (there’s also Road, Rain and Ride 1-4, as per the ZX) the engine feels every inch its origin.

It’s mind-warpingly fast, obviously, and eats a track like Cadwell Park at ferocious pace but, like the ZX, the KB runs longish gearing, so acceleration isn’t quite as vivid or instant as an S1000RR or V4S. The difference between the Bimota and its Bologna and German rival is most acute on corner exit.

In second gear coming off turns like Barn, Charlies 2 and Park the KB lacks initial bite and drive compared to the 1000RR and V4S, requiring a couple of thousand rpm more before getting into its groove and punching down the next straight.

You wouldn’t notice it on the road but, given that these early 998s are being offered as ‘track only’, you’ll have to be on your A-game to match other current superbikes off the turns. But, on track, away from its rivals, the KB998 is, quite simply, bloody fabulous.

The biggest gripe with the Bimota’s ZX-10RR engine is that it’s not Euro5-plus compliant and although the KB998 is homologated for race competition it can’t be sold as a road-ready machine. Making it a very expensive trackday bike with all the features needed for the road – lights, mirrors, indicators, speedo, horn etc – that is actually superfluous.

That said, it is possible to ride a KB998 on the road, but you’ll need to do that privately having already paid £37,777 for the bike.