VERDICT
There are many reasons why the Kawasaki should win this test. It’s the quickest, therefore the most fun. Most preferred its sporty looks and it handles far better than its price suggests. But the catch is that it doesn’t have the all-round capabilities of the Honda. The CBR feels like a bigger bike. Its dimensions are normal-size and it’s comfortable, refined, and smooth, offering a huge tank range and excellent fuel economy. If I had to pick one bike to do it all again, I’d pick the CBR. The KTM is tempting, fun and punchy and more importantly it’s over a grand cheaper than the Honda, but if you want a bike for daily use and long trips it falls behind. The Honda wins.