What is a Streetfighter Bike? 24 Recommended Models, Plus an Explanation of Their Roots and How to Customize Production Bikes!

What is a Streetfighter (Stofai) motorcycle?

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/Uei332d54yk

Are you familiar with the "Streetfighter" genre of motorcycles?

Many people might associate "Streetfighter" with a certain fighting game.

In the motorcycle world, a Streetfighter is a sports bike, like a racer replica, from which the fairings have been removed, essentially turning it into a naked bike. It's also affectionately known by its abbreviation, "Stofai."

Originally, the term referred to customized bikes where fairings were removed from high-performance motorcycles, but in recent years, Streetfighters have established themselves as a distinct genre and become widely recognized.

While its general recognition may not yet be as high as superbikes or naked bikes, it has gained popularity to the extent that dedicated one-make races are held.

Streetfighters started with some enthusiasts stripping fairings off full-faired sports bikes, but now manufacturers even sell them as new models.

Representative models include Yamaha's MT-03, Suzuki's GSX-S1000, and Kawasaki's Z1000.

The Roots of Streetfighter Motorcycles

The roots of Streetfighter motorcycles are said to originate from cafe racers.

Cafe racers were custom motorcycles created by British rock 'n' rollers in the 1960s, designed to ride faster and look cooler on public roads.

To achieve greater speed on public roads, naked bikes were customized with clip-on handlebars for a forward-leaning riding position, and bikini fairings were added for improved wind protection, all in pursuit of speed.

The "cafe" in cafe racer refers to a coffee shop.

Rock 'n' rollers would gather at their favorite cafe, play their favorite song on the jukebox, and then race a predetermined course, returning before the song ended, which is how the name "cafe racer" came about.

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The prototype of the Streetfighter is also said to follow this cafe racer lineage.

While cafe racers and Streetfighters might look similar at first glance, cafe racers have a classic appearance, whereas Streetfighters are characterized by their modern and aggressive look.

Differences Between Streetfighter and Cafe Racer

Streetfighters (Stofai) are sometimes described as "modern cafe racers derived from cafe racers."

Because of this, those unfamiliar with motorcycles might view Stofai and cafe racers as belonging to the same genre.

In addition to the modern vs. classic appearance, the differences between the two vehicles are that Streetfighters have higher handlebars, while cafe racers have clip-on handlebars in a lower position.

Rear suspension also differs, with Streetfighters typically having a single shock, while cafe racers are said to have two shocks on either side.

To better understand Streetfighters, let's look at specific models from the next section.

7 Recommended 250cc Streetfighters

We will introduce recommended Streetfighter motorcycles.

First, we'll introduce models in the 250cc class, which can be ridden with a medium-sized motorcycle license, categorized by displacement, so feel free to check out any models that interest you.

1. [250cc Class] Yamaha MT-25

Source: https://www.yamaha-motor.co.jp/mc/lineup/mt-25/color.html

Yamaha's MT-25 is a Streetfighter based on the full-faired sports bike, the YZF-R25.

Its liquid-cooled in-line 2-cylinder engine is easy to handle from low to mid-range, making it suitable for city riding and daily commutes.

The power output in the mid to high range is smooth, and combined with its straightforward handling, it's a model that allows for casual enjoyment of both city riding and sport riding.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled in-line 2-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 35ps
• Maximum Torque: 23N・m
• Curb Weight: 169kg
• New Vehicle Price: ¥621,500

2. [250cc Class] Suzuki GSR250

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/3/27_7/

The Suzuki GSR250 was launched in July 2012, inheriting the design of the B-KING (a naked version of the Hayabusa).

It focuses on ease of handling in the low to mid-range, and its low center of gravity makes it easy to maneuver.

Although its concept differed from other models in the same class and genre that offered more agile and powerful performance, production was discontinued after the 2017 model.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled parallel 2-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 24ps
• Maximum Torque: 22N・m
• Curb Weight: 183kg
• Used Market Price: ¥120,000 - ¥480,000

3. [250cc Class] Kawasaki Z250

Source: https://www.kawasaki-motors.com/mc/lineup/z250/

Kawasaki's Z250 is a Streetfighter model with the same basic performance as the Ninja 250.

Equipped with a 37ps liquid-cooled parallel 2-cylinder engine and dual throttle valves, it offers a sporty ride that responds directly to the throttle across the entire range.

Its slim and lightweight body makes it easy for women to ride and handle, whether enjoying sport riding or maneuvering.

A balancer shaft is used to suppress engine vibrations, achieving both excellent power characteristics and comfort.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled parallel 2-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 37ps
• Maximum Torque: 23N・m
• Curb Weight: 164kg
• New Vehicle Price: ¥610,500

4. [250cc Class] Honda CB250R

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/CB250R/type/

While the Honda CB250R has a strong classic impression, it incorporates advanced technology, making it a neo-classical bike that merges old and new.

Its single-cylinder engine smoothly delivers torque, responding directly to the throttle from any rpm range.

With a torquey engine that pulls you along and a lightweight curb weight of 144kg, it's a model that offers an exhilarating ride.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled 4-stroke single-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 27ps
• Maximum Torque: 23N・m
• Curb Weight: 144kg
• New Vehicle Price: ¥564,300

5. [250cc Class] Kawasaki Z250SL

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/4/73_53/

The Kawasaki Z250SL is a Streetfighter model equipped with a single-cylinder engine.

Its lime green frame shares a design language with the company's larger models like the H2, leaving a strong impression on viewers.

The single-cylinder engine keeps the vehicle weight down, allowing for a smooth ride while enjoying the unique vibrations of a single-cylinder engine.

The Z250SL was launched in 2016 but was discontinued the following year in 2017.

It's rarely seen on the road, and due to its short sales period, it has high scarcity, making it a recommended model for those who don't want to ride the same model as everyone else.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled single-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 29ps
• Maximum Torque: 22N・m
• Curb Weight: 148kg
• Used Market Price: Around ¥280,000 - ¥420,000

6. [250cc Class] Honda CB250F

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/CB250F/

The Honda CB250F was developed by removing the fairings from the CBR250R and attaching handlebars, making it a bike that can be easily ridden from city streets to highways.

Equipped with a liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine, it offers easy handling that revs smoothly from low to high speeds, and it also boasts good fuel efficiency.

Sales of the CB250F began in 2014, but it disappeared from the catalog after the 2017 model due to emissions regulations.

It features a distinctive sharp-looking front mask, and its relatively light weight makes it easy for women to handle as well.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled single-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 29ps
• Maximum Torque: 23N・m
• Curb Weight: 161kg
• Used Market Price:

7. [250cc Class] KTM 250 Duke

Source: https://www.ktm.com/ja-jp/models/naked-bike/ktm-250-duke-2021.html

The 250 Duke is a motorcycle produced and sold by KTM, headquartered in Austria.

KTM originally earned a global reputation for off-road bikes, and high power and light weight are common characteristics across all their on-road models.

The 250 Duke went on sale in 2015 and attracted significant attention as a sibling model to the immensely popular 125 Duke, which was released earlier.

With a lightweight and powerful, sport-oriented ride, its sharp design and orange-based color scheme are distinctly European, immediately recognizable as a KTM motorcycle.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled single-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 30ps
• Maximum Torque: 24N・m
• Curb Weight: 147kg
• New Vehicle Price: ¥639,000

7 Recommended 400cc Streetfighters

Next, we will introduce recommended Streetfighter models in the 400cc class.

This is the displacement category for bikes exceeding 250cc and up to 400cc.

1. [Over 250cc to 400cc] Honda CB400F

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/1/7_49/

The Honda CB400F was released in 2013 as a sibling model to the CBR400R and 400X, sharing the same engine and frame.

It generates strong torque from low speeds, making it easy to ride for everyday use in the city, while the powerful engine characteristics deliver maximum output at 9,500 rpm in the high-rev range.

With a steel diamond frame that balances rigidity and lightness, it offers supple road-following performance and easy handling, including maneuverability, for everything from city riding to touring.

The CB400F was announced for production discontinuation during the 2016 emissions regulations.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled in-line 2-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 46ps
• Maximum Torque: 37N・m
• Curb Weight: 192kg
• Used Market Price: Around ¥300,000 - ¥450,000

2. [Over 250cc to 400cc] Yamaha MT-03

Source: https://www.yamaha-motor.co.jp/mc/lineup/mt-25/color.html

Yamaha's MT-03 is a sibling model to the 250cc class MT-25.

It is a Streetfighter based on the full-faired sports model "YZF-R3," stripped down to a naked bike with a sharp, taut design.

The engine is a 42ps liquid-cooled parallel 2-cylinder, characterized by its light ride feel that responds well to the throttle.

Equipped with inverted forks and LED headlights, it presents a more modern impression.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled parallel 2-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 42ps
• Maximum Torque: 29N・m
• Curb Weight: 169kg
• New Vehicle Price: ¥654,500

3. [Over 250cc to 400cc] KTM 390 Duke

Source: https://www.ktm.com/ja-jp/models/naked-bike/ktm-390-duke-2021.html

KTM's 390 Duke is characterized by a compact body and a torquey engine.

It features a 373.2cc engine in a 125cc class body, and its curb weight of 149kg makes it exceptionally light in this class.

Nicknamed the "cornering rocket," it's a model that allows riders to enjoy cornering at will, thanks to the combination of its lightweight, easy-to-maneuver body and a high-power engine.

It's a Streetfighter that also offers a European design characteristic of Austria.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled single-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 44ps
• Maximum Torque: 37N・m
• Curb Weight: 149kg
• New Vehicle Price: ¥699,000

4. [Over 250cc to 400cc] BMW G310R

Source: https://www.bmw-motorrad-sor.jp/model/g_310_r_2021.php

The G310R is a model sold by BMW, a German brand known for offering premium vehicles in both two- and four-wheel categories.

Despite being a BMW model that many aspire to own, it has an approachable price tag of ¥681,000, making it accessible even to beginner riders.

Equipped with a 313cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine, it comes with a full range of serious features, including beautiful gold inverted front forks, radially mounted calipers, and ABS.

Models sold since September 2017 come standard with ETC, making it an increasingly popular model as an affordable, authentic BMW.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled single-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 34ps
• Maximum Torque: 28N・m
• Curb Weight: 159kg
• New Vehicle Price: ¥681,000

5. [Over 250cc to 400cc] Suzuki GSR400

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/3/27_2/

Suzuki's GSR400 was launched in 2006 as a mid-sized version of the GSR600, which was sold overseas.

Its liquid-cooled in-line 4-cylinder engine is a refined version of the GSR600's engine for 400cc, producing a high output of 61ps.

From the 2007 model, ABS became standard equipment, and the 2009 model included a small front visor to enhance wind protection.

The 2014 model only saw a change in coloring, and production of this model ended after that.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled in-line 4-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 61ps
• Maximum Torque: 39N・m
• Curb Weight: 215kg
• Used Market Price: Around ¥250,000 - ¥480,000

6. [Over 250cc to 400cc] Kawasaki Z400

Source: https://www.kawasaki-motors.com/mc/lineup/z400/

Kawasaki's Z400 is a Streetfighter based on the Ninja 400, newly launched in 2019.

Equipped with a 48ps liquid-cooled parallel 2-cylinder engine, it offers powerful torque from low speeds and sharp revving, allowing for stress-free riding from city streets to highways.

The frame adopts a trellis structure inherited from the Ninja H2, and the combination of a short wheelbase, long swingarm, and sharpened front fork caster results in light and sporty handling.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled in-line 2-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 48ps
• Maximum Torque: 38N・m
• Curb Weight: 166kg
• Used Market Price: ¥682,000

7. [Over 250cc to 400cc] Suzuki Gladius 400

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/3/146_2/

Suzuki's Gladius 400 was sold from 2009 to 2015.

It is equipped with a liquid-cooled V-twin 2-cylinder engine that produces 55ps, which has become rare in 2021, and offers excellent, direct throttle response across the entire range.

With its distinctive headlight, frame, and taillight, it has a characteristic design that makes it instantly recognizable as a Gladius from any angle.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled V-twin 2-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 55ps
• Maximum Torque: 41N・m
• Curb Weight: 206kg
• Used Market Price: Around ¥270,000 - ¥550,000

10 Recommended Large Streetfighters

We will introduce 10 large-class (over 400cc) Streetfighter models, which boast the widest lineup.

This is a class where manufacturers are also focusing their efforts, with a wide range of choices including both domestic and imported vehicles.

1. [Large Class] Suzuki GSX-S1000 ABS

Source: https://www1.suzuki.co.jp/motor/lineup/gsxs1000am0/?page=style

The Suzuki GSX-S1000 ABS is a model that inherits the engine and main components of the supersport GSX-R1000.

The GSX-R1000 engine, designed for racing, has been tuned for easier handling on the street, and while the maximum output is reduced to 148ps, it still delivers more than enough performance at high speeds.

It also features 3-mode traction control to make power easier to manage, allowing for settings suitable for various riding conditions, from sport riding to rainy days.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled in-line 4-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 148ps
• Maximum Torque: 107N・m
• Curb Weight: 209kg
• New Vehicle Price: ¥1,152,800

2. [Large Class] BMW S1000R

Source: https://www.bmw-motorrad-sor.jp/model/s_1000_r_2021.php

BMW's S1000R was launched in 2014 as a Streetfighter model derived from the supersport S1000RR.

It is designed for easier handling on the street, with the S1000RR's undercowl and front cowl removed, and handlebars installed for a more upright riding position.

Equipped with a liquid-cooled parallel 4-cylinder engine, it features a comprehensive suite of electronic controls such as 3-mode riding modes, DTC (traction control), and race-ready ABS, ensuring safer and more stable riding.

Models produced after September 1, 2017, come standard with an ETC onboard unit.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled in-line 4-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 165ps
• Maximum Torque: 114N・m
• Curb Weight: 199kg
• New Vehicle Price: ¥1,780,000

3. [Large Class] Yamaha MT-09

Source: https://www.yamaha-motor.co.jp/mc/lineup/mt-09/color.html

Yamaha's MT-09 was released in 2014.

It is equipped with a liquid-cooled in-line 3-cylinder engine, and the higher gearing in 1st and 2nd allows for quick acceleration from a standstill.

It also features an assist and slipper clutch, which makes clutch lever operation lighter and suppresses excessive chassis behavior during deceleration.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled in-line 3-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 120ps
• Maximum Torque: 93N・m
• Curb Weight: 189kg
• New Vehicle Price: ¥1,100,000

4. [Large Class] Kawasaki Z1000

Source: https://www.kawasaki-motors.com/mc/lineup/z1000/

Kawasaki's Z1000 is a Streetfighter based on the ZX-9R, a full-faired tourer produced for export, with its fairings removed to create a sharp, aggressive style.

It boasts a Spartan appearance and high-performance capabilities comparable to a supersport motorcycle.

The model name comes from the Z1000, a renowned Kawasaki model sold in the 1970s, with the current Z1000's initial model released in 2003.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled parallel 4-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 142ps
• Maximum Torque: 111N・m
• Curb Weight: 221kg
• New Vehicle Price: ¥1,065,000

5. [Large Class] Suzuki GSX-S750

Source: https://www1.suzuki.co.jp/motor/lineup/gsxs750am1/?page=style

The GSX-S750, launched in 2017, is a Streetfighter model derived from the full-faired sports bike, the GSX-R750.

The GSX-R750's liquid-cooled in-line 4-cylinder engine has been tuned for easier street riding, producing 112ps.

It features an engine rpm assist that detects throttle opening and shift position during low-speed starts and corrects engine speed to prevent stalling, making it an even more user-friendly model for city riding.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled in-line 4-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 112ps
• Maximum Torque: 80N・m
• Curb Weight: 212kg
• Used Market Price: ¥987,800

6. [Large Class] DUCATI Streetfighter V4

Source: https://www.ducati.com/jp/ja/bikes/streetfighter/streetfighter-v4

DUCATI's Streetfighter V4 is a V4-engined Streetfighter model from the Italian manufacturer DUCATI.

It inherits the power unit of the supersport Panigale V4 and is equipped with wide handlebars.

In addition to the standard V4, there is also a V4S, a more aggressive model equipped with Öhlins front and rear suspension and Marchesini wheels.

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled V4-cylinder
• Maximum Output: 208ps
• Maximum Torque: 123N・m
• Curb Weight: 180kg
• New Vehicle Price: ¥2,445,000

7. [Large Class] TRIUMPH Street Triple S

Source: https://www.triumphmotorcycles.jp/bikes/roadsters/street-triple

The "Street Triple S," launched in 2017, is a Streetfighter model from TRIUMPH, a British manufacturer.

Equipped with a 660cc liquid-cooled in-line 3-cylinder engine, it pursues ease of handling in everyday scenarios, making it manageable for city riding despite being a large displacement bike.

It features two riding modes, Rain and Road, as well as ABS and traction control, making it a model that offers stable riding enjoyment on the street.

Engine Type: Liquid-cooled in-line 3-cylinder

Maximum Output: 95.2ps

Maximum Torque: 66N・m

Curb Weight: 188kg

New Vehicle Price: ¥999,000

8. [Large Class] Kawasaki Z H2 SE

Source: https://www.kawasaki-motors.com/mc/lineup/zh2/

Kawasaki's Z H2 SE is a supercharged streetfighter.

Its liquid-cooled in-line 4-cylinder engine produces a high output of 200ps, and it is equipped with Brembo Stylema monobloc calipers and a front master cylinder for precise control.

It also features equipment that enhances riding stability, such as KECS (Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension), which reacts in real time to road conditions and riding scenes, and Showa's Skyhook EERA (Electronic Equipped Ride Adjustment).

Engine Type: Liquid-cooled in-line 4-cylinder

Maximum Output: 200ps

Maximum Torque: 137N・m

Vehicle Weight: 241kg

New Vehicle Price: 2,178,000 yen

9. [Heavyweight Class] KTM 1290 Super Duke R

Source: https://www.ktm.com/ja-jp/models/naked-bike/ktm-1290-super-duker2021.html

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R reigns as the flagship streetfighter model for Austrian-based KTM.

With a vehicle weight under 200kg and a 1301cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine producing 180ps, it offers nimble performance that belies its displacement.

KTM itself nicknamed it "The Beast," and its engine roar and acceleration truly live up to the name of a wild animal.

Engine Type: Liquid-cooled V-twin

Maximum Output: 180ps

Maximum Torque: 140N・m

Vehicle Weight: 198kg

New Vehicle Price: 2.19 million yen

10. [Heavyweight Class] Honda CB1000R

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/CB1000R/type/

The CB1000R debuted in 2018 as a NEO SPORTS CAFÉ, expertly blending traditional classicism with modernity.

Based on the liquid-cooled inline 4-cylinder engine of the former CBR1000RR, it is tuned to be milder and easier to handle.

It underwent a model change in 2021, becoming more contemporary with compliance to EURO5 environmental standards and the addition of smartphone-linked voice control functions.

Engine Type: Liquid-cooled inline 4-cylinder

Maximum Output: 145ps

Maximum Torque: 104N・m

Vehicle Weight: 213kg

New Vehicle Price: 1,670,900 yen

Customizing various motorcycles into streetfighter specifications

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/f_gCjlNcVWo

We will introduce how to customize various motorcycles into streetfighter specifications, focusing on different parts of the vehicle.

While buying a model sold as a streetfighter is an option, customizing it yourself makes it a one-of-a-kind original.

If you don't want to ride a bike with the same specifications as others, or if you want to customize your bike into a streetfighter, please refer to this information.

Customizing it yourself will also deepen your affection for your bike.

1. Nakedization

The first step to becoming a streetfighter is to remove the under cowl of a sport bike and make it a naked bike.

Originally, a streetfighter was a super sport (SS) with its fairing removed and made naked, and surprisingly, its roots are said to be in Japan.

In the past, "hashiriya" (street racers) would gather in large numbers to ride on mountain passes every day across Japan, and the under cowls of their racer replicas would often break if they fell.

Consequently, some hashiriya started riding with their broken under cowls removed, and it is said that young British riders, seeing this, were influenced and adapted the style, which became one of the roots of the streetfighter.

These young British riders also customized their bikes with short tails to make stunts like wheelies easier.

Currently, naked bikes sold by motorcycle manufacturers that come with side cowls are sometimes also referred to as streetfighters.

2. Handlebar Change

Sport bikes are typically equipped with clip-on handlebars, but streetfighters are fitted with bar handlebars like naked bikes.

In England, where they originated, riders would adapt wide handlebars from off-road bikes to make it easier to swing the bike around when performing stunts like wheelies.

Changing from clip-ons to bar handlebars is an important customization for transforming a bike into a streetfighter.

3. Light Changes

Headlights and turn signals are replaced with smaller ones.

From the roots of streetfighters, the front cowl was removed and replaced with smaller lights.

The miniaturization of lights was done to prevent them from getting in the way during stunts like wheelies and has become one of the defining elements of a streetfighter.

Many models sold by manufacturers also have distinctive headlight shapes.

4. Seat Cowl Change

The seat cowl is replaced with a shorter one, or it is angled upwards.

Similar to removing the headlight and undercowl, changing the seat cowl was originally a customization to make stunts like wheelies easier.

Shortening the tail and angling it upwards made it less likely to scrape during wheelies, and at the same time, became a distinctive feature of streetfighters.

5. Exhaust System Change

Replacing the silencer and exhaust pipe (ex-pipe) is another key point to consider for a streetfighter conversion.

It has become common practice in recent years to angle the exhaust upwards to match the seat cowl.

Since there is no under cowl, customizing the pipes connected to the engine as well will further improve the appearance.

Summary

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/CB1000R/powerunit/

Streetfighters, a genre that has garnered much attention in recent years, have roots in cafe racers, and while the differences between the two might be hard to discern at first glance, they become clear upon closer inspection.

This time, we've introduced the characteristics and roots of streetfighters, along with recommended models categorized by displacement. We hope this helps you find a model that interests you.

With an appearance similar to a naked bike yet possessing the dynamic performance of a supersport, the streetfighter is a genre that allows you to enjoy both aggressive design and exhilarating rides.