Italian Motorcycle Brand Bimota Comes Back to America After 13 Years Away

After more than a decade of absence, Bimota, the legendary Italian motorcycle manufacturer, is officially returning to the U.S. market. The company announced a curated lineup of five limited-production models that combine hand-built Italian craftsmanship with Kawasaki performance engineering. This marks a significant moment for enthusiasts who have been waiting for Bimota motorcycles to become available on American soil again.

Bimota’s comeback is powered by its established partnership with Kawasaki, which acquired a 49.9% stake in the Rimini, Italy-based company in 2019. All new models will feature Kawasaki powerplants and technology, while Bimota continues to lead the design and chassis engineering. Understanding what these motorcycles offer and how they differ from mainstream options can help buyers decide if one of these exclusive machines belongs in their garage.

Meet the Five Models Coming to U.S. Dealers

motorcycle racing track performance
Photo by Joe Neric

The KB998 Rimini and Tesi H2 are available now through Bimota Spirit, the exclusive North Carolina-based dealer handling all U.S. sales. Three additional models, the Tesi H2 TERA, KB4, and KB4RC, are expected to arrive in late 2026. Here’s what each one brings to the table:

KB998 Rimini: Drawing inspiration from World Superbike racing, this machine features a 998cc inline-four engine mounted in a chromium-molybdenum steel trellis frame. It rides on a billet aluminum swingarm, Showa suspension, and Brembo M50 brakes. A standout feature is its variable winglets, which Bimota claims are the first fitted to any production motorcycle. Carbon-fiber bodywork keeps weight down, while Marchesini forged wheels and premium components throughout reflect the brand’s commitment to exotic engineering.

Tesi H2: This model takes a radically different approach using Bimota’s signature center-hub steering system paired with Kawasaki’s supercharged 998cc inline-four. The combination of innovative steering geometry and forced-induction power creates a unique riding experience. Aluminum swingarms, carbon-fiber elements, Öhlins suspension, and Kawasaki’s electronic rider aids round out the package.

Tesi H2 TERA: For riders seeking distance capability without sacrificing performance, this crossover-oriented model applies the Tesi concept to a longer-range platform. It retains the center-hub steering and supercharged engine but adds adjustable ergonomics and lighter OZ Racing forged wheels for versatility.

KB4 and KB4RC: Both use Kawasaki’s 1,043cc inline-four and share a compact chassis with rear-mounted radiator and centralized mass for nimble handling. The KB4 draws styling cues from Bimota’s iconic 1978 KB1 and features Öhlins suspension and Brembo brakes. The KB4RC offers the same mechanical platform in a café racer-inspired naked configuration with more upright ergonomics and a round LED headlight.

What This Means for Motorcycle Shoppers

motorcycle chassis engineering detail
Photo by Ries Bosch

Bimota’s return offers U.S. buyers access to hand-finished motorcycles that prioritize chassis design and engineering precision. Unlike mass-produced sport bikes, each model receives individual attention during assembly. For those exploring premium options, understanding how to choose specialty dealers becomes increasingly important, as Bimota Spirit provides dedicated service and support that mainstream dealerships may not offer.

The Kawasaki relationship ensures reliability and parts availability while maintaining Bimota’s reputation for innovative chassis technology. Buyers get the benefit of proven superbike engines combined with exotic frame designs and premium suspension components. This partnership approach addresses a long-standing concern among potential Bimota owners: service and parts logistics.

Limited production numbers mean these motorcycles will remain exclusive. Availability is restricted to Bimota Spirit, and inventory will be carefully controlled. Interested shoppers should act quickly if a particular model appeals to them, as stock will be limited and demand from collectors and enthusiasts will be high.

For riders considering something beyond conventional options, these machines represent a significant investment. Premium pricing reflects hand-built construction, exotic materials, and proprietary engineering. However, the combination of Italian design heritage and Japanese performance reliability creates a compelling proposition for those who value uniqueness and craftsmanship.

The timing of Bimota’s return reflects growing consumer interest in specialized, limited-production motorcycles that offer alternatives to mainstream sport bikes. As the motorcycle market evolves and buyers seek new ways to experience riding, brands like Bimota provide pathways to ownership that emphasize engineering excellence and individual character.

How to Buy a Bimota

All purchases must be made through Bimota Spirit in North Carolina. The dealer handles nationwide sales and can arrange shipping. Prospective buyers should contact the dealership directly to discuss availability, pricing, financing options, and customization possibilities. Given the limited production numbers, Bimota Spirit recommends early inquiries to secure desired models.