Top 10 Bargain Superbikes from the 2000s (2025 UK Guide)
Top 10 Bargain Superbikes from the 2000s (2025 UK Guide)
Why 2000s Superbikes Are Now Bargains
The 2000s were a golden era for sportsbikes. Manufacturers were locked in an arms race, producing machines that were lighter, faster, and more extreme each year. Today, many of those once cutting-edge superbikes can be found for the price of a budget commuter. If you want a slice of analogue superbike glory, this is the best time to buy.
In this guide we’ll look at the standout bargains from the 2000s — bikes that still deliver huge thrills but won’t empty your wallet.
Yamaha YZF-R1 (2002–2003, 5PW)
The 2002–2003 R1 (5PW) was a landmark: Yamaha ditched carbs for fuel injection, keeping weight low at around 192 kg wet. With ~150 bhp on tap and a sharp chassis, it was cutting edge at the time — and still feels quick today.
Why it’s a bargain:
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Often available around £3,000–£3,500 in the UK.
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Classic styling that hasn’t dated.
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Early FI system is reliable if maintained.
Things to check: charging/rectifier, EXUP valve movement, gearbox wear.
Yamaha YZF-R1 (2004–2006, 5VY)
The 2004–2006 R1 brought the first “modern” sharp-edged styling, along with ~172 bhp and a screaming 13,750 rpm redline. It’s a rawer machine than later R1s, with no electronics.
Why it’s a bargain:
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Around £4,000 gets you 170+ bhp superbike performance.
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Still looks current compared to modern litre bikes.
Things to check: reg/rec, EXUP, full service history.
Honda CBR954RR Fireblade (2002–2003)
The 954RR was Honda’s most extreme Fireblade of the 2000s. At just 168 kg dry and ~150 bhp, it was a true track weapon yet retained Honda’s everyday usability.
Why it’s a bargain:
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Underrated compared to later 1000RRs → often under £3,500.
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Sharp handling and surprisingly comfy for a litre bike.
Things to check: reg/rec, head bearings, cam-chain tensioner.
Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade (2004–2007, SC57)
The SC57 brought Honda properly into the litre-bike arms race. With ~170 bhp and typical Honda reliability, it’s a superb all-round superbike.
Why it’s a bargain:
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£3,500–£4,500 for a superbike that can still embarrass modern machines.
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Very reliable, huge parts support.
Things to check: regulator/rectifier, valve-clearance history.
Suzuki GSX-R1000 K3/K4 (2003–2004)
Widely regarded as one of the finest GSX-Rs ever built. At ~160 bhp and only 170 kg dry, the K3/K4 dominated road and track.
Why it’s a bargain:
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Cult status but still affordable (~£3–£4k).
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Fast, reliable, loads of spares and mods.
Things to check: cush drives, gearbox smoothness, reg/rec.
Kawasaki ZX-10R (2004–2005)
The original ZX-10R was Kawasaki’s wild child: ~175 bhp, ~170 kg dry, and razor-sharp handling. Its reputation as a “widowmaker” keeps prices low.
Why it’s a bargain:
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£3,000–£4,000 buys one of the rawest litre bikes ever.
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Simple, brutal, analogue performance.
Things to check: chain/sprocket wear, head bearings, accident damage.
Suzuki TL1000R (1998–2003)
Just sneaks into our list, since it was sold until 2003. The TL1000R was Suzuki’s faired V-twin superbike — heavy, but charismatic, with a 135 bhp punchy twin.
Why it’s a bargain:
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Often £2,000–£3,000.
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Unique rotary damper setup (often swapped for a shock upgrade).
Things to check: reg/rec, cam chain tensioners, rotary damper condition.
Aprilia RSV Mille R (2000–2003)
Aprilia’s Mille R was a serious contender in its day: Öhlins suspension, OZ wheels, carbon trim, and the rock-solid Rotax V990 twin.
Why it’s a bargain:
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Often £2,500–£3,500 for exotic Italian kit.
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Strong engine reliability, huge tuning potential.
Things to check: reg/rec, brown connectors, clutch slave cylinder leaks.
Honda VTR1000 SP1/SP2 (RC51) (2000–2006)
Honda’s homologation twin for WSBK glory. The SP1/SP2 (RC51) had ~133 bhp and a stable, race-ready chassis.
Why it’s a bargain:
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Still findable under £5k (especially SP1s).
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Future classic — values likely to rise.
Things to check: radiator corrosion, charging system, full service history.
Suzuki Hayabusa (1999–2007 Gen 1)
Not strictly a superbike, but no 2000s bargain list is complete without the Hayabusa. ~173 bhp, ~186 mph top speed — the bike that started the speed wars.
Why it’s a bargain:
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Still plentiful at £3,500–£5,000.
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Bulletproof engine, massive tuning scene.
Things to check: chain/sprockets, reg/rec, accident damage.
Kawasaki ZX-12R (2000–2005) [Bonus Pick]
Kawasaki’s answer to the Hayabusa: 178 bhp, ~187 mph top speed, and still affordable due to overshadowed status.
Why it’s a bargain:
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Often £3,000–£4,000.
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A true 2000s missile, with comfort for distance.
Things to check: electricals, charging system, valve clearance checks.
The 2000s were the last truly analogue superbike decade: huge power, minimal electronics, and machines packed with character. Today, many of these legends can be had for a fraction of their original price.
Whether you fancy the screaming Yamaha R1, the raw Kawasaki ZX-10R, or the charismatic Aprilia Mille R, there’s never been a better time to own a superbike from this golden era.
Buying Tips for 2000s Superbikes
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Prioritise full service history (valve checks especially).
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Budget for reg/rec replacement — it’s a weak spot on nearly all 2000s machines.
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Check for signs of track use (tyres, drilled bolts, crash damage).
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Join forums/FB groups for spares and advice — parts support is strong for most of these bikes.
2000s Bargain Superbikes — At-a-Glance
If you just want the numbers, here’s a quick comparison of all our top 2000s superbike bargains. The table below shows power, weight, top speed and current UK used prices at a glance, so you can see how these legendary machines stack up against each other.
Updated August 2025 • Power figures are manufacturer claims (approx.); wet/kerb weights and top speeds vary by market/year/test.
| Model (Years) | Engine | Power (bhp) | Wet/Kerb (kg) | Top speed (mph) | UK used price (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yamaha YZF-R1 (2002–2003, 5PW) | 998cc inline-4, FI, 5-valve/cyl | ~150 | ~192 | ~170 | £3,000–£3,500 |
| Yamaha YZF-R1 (2004–2006, 5VY) | 998cc inline-4, FI, 5-valve/cyl | ~172 | ~193 | ~178–180 | £3,500–£4,500 |
| Honda CBR954RR (2002–2003) | 954cc inline-4, FI | ~150 | ~192–195 | ~172–175 | £3,000–£3,800 |
| Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade (2004–2007, SC57) | 998cc inline-4, FI | ~170 | ~205 | ~176–178 | £3,500–£4,500 |
| Suzuki GSX-R1000 K3/K4 (2003–2004) | 988cc inline-4, FI | ~160–162 | ~198–200 | ~180–185 | £3,000–£4,000 |
| Kawasaki ZX-10R (2004–2005) | 998cc inline-4, FI | ~175 | ~198 | ~180–185 | £3,000–£4,000 |
| Suzuki TL1000R (1998–2003) | 996cc 90° V-twin, FI | ~135 | ~230 | ~165–170 | £2,000–£3,000 |
| Aprilia RSV Mille R (2000–2003) | 997.6cc 60° V-twin (Rotax V990), FI | ~128–130 | ~207–210 | ~168–172 | £2,500–£3,500 |
| Honda VTR1000 SP1/SP2 (RC51) (2000–2006) | 999cc 90° V-twin, FI | ~133 | ~220–224 | ~165–170 | £4,500–£6,000 |
| Suzuki Hayabusa Gen 1 (1999–2007) | 1299cc inline-4, FI | ~173–175 | ~255 | 186 (limited) | £3,500–£5,000 |
| Kawasaki ZX-12R (2000–2005) | 1199cc inline-4, FI | ~178 | ~210–215 | ~187 (limited) | £3,000–£4,000 |
Notes: Power is manufacturer claimed (approx.). Weights are typical wet/kerb where available; some sources quote dry weights. Top speeds are period test results or electronically limited where noted. Prices reflect typical UK classifieds in 2025 for honest, roadworthy examples.
2000s Bargain Superbikes FAQs
What is the best superbike of the 2000s?
Popular choices include the Yamaha R1, Suzuki GSX-R1000 K3/K4, Honda Fireblade 954RR, and Kawasaki ZX-10R. These bikes combined cutting-edge performance with reliability and are now affordable bargains.
Are 2000s superbikes reliable?
Yes, most Japanese superbikes from the 2000s are very reliable if serviced correctly. Common weak points are charging systems (reg/rec), cam chain tensioners, and regular valve-clearance checks.
How much do 2000s superbikes cost in the UK?
Most can be found between £2,500 and £5,000, depending on model and condition. Special editions like the RC51 or rare Aprilias may cost a little more but are still bargains compared to modern equivalents.
What is the fastest 2000s superbike?
The Suzuki Hayabusa and Kawasaki ZX-12R were the speed kings of the era, capable of around 186–187 mph in stock trim. Among litre-class bikes, the GSX-R1000 and ZX-10R led the pack.
Which 2000s superbike is best for beginners?
None of these are true beginner bikes — they’re all litre-class machines. That said, the Honda Fireblade 954RR and CBR1000RR SC57 are more forgiving choices thanks to stable handling and smoother delivery.
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