2018 BMW HP4 Race

The HP4 Race packs world-class race tech into an asphalt-hugging missile. This handmade track special has a carbon-fiber frame, which BMW says delivers the ideal balance of rigidity and flex where needed; carbon wheels help in this regard too. And speaking of which, weighing just 322 pounds and producing a claimed 215 hp at 13,900 rpm from its 999cc DOHC inline-four, the HP4 Race is comparable to a Word Superbike racer in potency. Other premium features include Öhlins race suspension, a titanium Akrapovič exhaust, Brembo GP4-PR brakes, a German 2-D data acquisition package that lets riders calibrate the HP4 Race to taste, comprehensive LCD instrumentation, adjustable steering geometry, carbon bodywork, and featherweight titanium fasteners.

Since the HP4 Race is racetrack-specific, there are no headlights, just a gaping ram-air opening and a slimmed-down windshield shaped to cover just the rider’s helmet and shoulders. Only two obstacles inhibit enjoying a bite of this forbidden fruit: One is the HP4’s limited availability, as only 750 were scheduled to be built; the second is its price, about like a nice Toledo, Ohio, townhouse. Gee, let us think…

Likes: Wicked good looks, performance, and exclusivity

Dislikes: Requires significant computer skills to assess and configure

Verdict: The closest thing to a factory superbike—and then some