2011 Motorcycle of the Year | Best Dreambike

Erik Buell Racing 1190RS
Exotic American Dream

Many of us have been dreaming about this bike—a world-class, American-made superbike—for our entire riding lives. The first ground-up creation from newly formed Erik Buell Racing, the 1190RS is the ultimate realization of the namesake designer’s American sportbike vision, incorporating the latest versions of his innovative and exclusive designs like the ZTL rim-mounted brake and fuel-bearing frame. Like any proper dreambike the 1190RS is extravagantly outfitted with Öhlins suspension, carbon-fiber bodywork and cast-magnesium wheels. Power comes from a true factory Superbike engine—an 1190cc, liquid-cooled Rotax V-twin hand-built in EBR’s Wisconsin race shop. At 384 lbs. the 1190RS is lighter than every AMA Superbike, and accelerates as fast. Unlike old Buells that were mass-produced to appease a broad spectrum of street riders and stockholders alike, the 1190RS is utterly uncompromised and designed with one goal in mind: winning races. That it’s available for purchase right now, for just a touch over $40,000, is a dream come true indeed.

Alternative Take

KTM RC8R Race Spec
Dreaming of fast laps? The RC8R Race Spec promises race-ready performance right from the crate with Dunlop slicks, an electronic quick-shifter, multi-adjustable chassis and a powered-up, 1195cc V-twin delivering 155.9 bhp and 87.6 lb-ft. of torque. Weighing 47 lbs. less than the standard RC8R and priced at just $19,999, this dream is within reach.