After years of anticipation, the legendary Italian motorcycle manufacturer Bimota America is officially returning to American soil. The Rimini-based brand, renowned for its unconventional engineering and handcrafted exclusivity, has announced limited production availability of five distinct models through a single authorized U.S. dealer: Bimota Spirit of Raleigh, North Carolina.
Related: Honda Rebel Recall · BMW S1000RR Recall
The return comes seven years after Kawasaki acquired a 49.9% stake in the boutique Italian manufacturer in 2019, a partnership that has since reshaped Bimota’s trajectory — from fielding a factory World Superbike team to developing a lineup powered entirely by Kawasaki engines.
Five Models, One Dealer: The Initial Lineup (Bimota America)
Bimota Spirit, founded by longtime marque enthusiast Bob Steinbugler, will serve as the exclusive gateway for American buyers. The initial lineup spans superbike, naked, adventure, and café racer segments — all powered by Kawasaki engines wrapped in handcrafted Italian chassis.
| Model | Engine | Segment | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| KB998 Rimini | 998cc inline-four (ZX-10R based) | Superbike | Available now |
| Tesi H2 | 998cc supercharged inline-four | Hyper-naked | Available now |
| Tesi H2 TERA | 998cc supercharged inline-four | Adventure crossover | Late 2026 |
| KB4 | 1,043cc inline-four | Sportbike | Late 2026 |
| KB4RC | 1,043cc inline-four | Café racer | Late 2026 |
Bimota America: KB998 Rimini: The World Superbike Flagship
Leading the charge is the KB998 Rimini, a purpose-built superbike that represents the pinnacle of Bimota’s partnership with Kawasaki. At its core is a race-proven 998cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine — the same platform that powered Kawasaki to seven WorldSBK championships.
The chassis is equally uncompromising: a trellis-style chromium-molybdenum steel frame paired with a billet aluminum swingarm, premium Showa Balance Free suspension developed with World Superbike input, and Brembo M50 monobloc calipers. What truly sets the Rimini apart is its full carbon-fiber bodywork — every panel hand-painted in Rimini, Italy — and the first-ever variable winglets fitted to a production motorcycle.
Electronics are comprehensive: Kawasaki Cornering Management Function (KCMF), Sport-Kawasaki Traction Control (S-KTRC), launch control, engine brake control, integrated riding modes, electronic cruise control, and a 4.3-inch TFT display. Marchesini forged wheels wrapped in Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tires and a titanium Akrapovic exhaust complete the package.
Tesi H2 and Tesi H2 TERA: Hub-Center Revolution
Bimota’s signature engineering statement — the Tesi hub-center steering system — arrives in two flavors. The Tesi H2 is a hyper-naked powered by Kawasaki’s supercharged 998cc engine, pairing immense acceleration with a chassis that eliminates traditional fork dive under braking.
The Tesi H2 TERA takes the same platform into adventure territory. With Öhlins suspension, Bridgestone Battlax tires, adjustable handlebars, and the distinctive hub-center front end, it blurs the line between sport-touring and dual-sport in a way no other manufacturer attempts. A titanium Akrapovic slip-on, carbon-fiber bodywork, and OZ Racing forged wheels underscore its premium positioning.
Both Tesi models feature machined aluminum swingarms mounted directly to the engine through alloy pivot plates, bonded carbon-fiber bridges on the front swingarm, and eccentric adjusters that let riders tailor ride height and footpeg position.
KB4 and KB4RC: Heritage Meets Modern Performance
The KB4 pays homage to the 1978 KB1 — the first Bimota to use a Kawasaki engine — with a red-painted trellis frame reminiscent of the original. Underneath the vintage-inspired bodywork sits a modern 1,043cc inline-four engine, a three-piece aluminum swingarm mounted directly to the engine, and Öhlins fully adjustable suspension.
Perhaps most impressive is the KB4’s wheelbase: comparable to a 600cc sportbike despite its liter-class engine, achieved through an innovative rear-mounted radiator layout and centralized mass design. The KB4RC variant strips off the fairing for a café racer aesthetic with a round LED headlight, exposed air intakes, and a more upright riding position — while retaining every performance component of its fully-faired sibling.
Both KB4 models come equipped with Brembo radial-mount brakes, Pirelli Supercorsa EVO tires, KCMF, KTRC, KIBS, dual-direction Kawasaki Quick Shifter, electronic cruise control, TFT instrumentation, and handcrafted real leather seats.
The KB399: Something Else on the Horizon
Notably absent from the official announcement is the KB399, a sportbike powered by the Kawasaki ZX-4R’s 399cc inline-four engine. Motorcycle.com has confirmed that the KB399 has already received certification from both the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the 2027 model year. A separate announcement is expected later this year, potentially giving American riders access to a more accessible entry point into Bimota ownership.
Bimota Spirit: A Legacy Dealer
Founded by Bob Steinbugler — whose relationship with Bimota dates back to the late 1970s — Bimota Spirit operates as more than a dealership. It houses a growing museum collection, factory documentation, historic photography, and racing memorabilia spanning over 50 years of the brand’s history. His son, Sean Steinbugler, an accomplished mechanic and custom builder, represents the next generation committed to carrying the Bimota name forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy a Bimota in the United States?
Bimota Spirit of Raleigh, North Carolina is the exclusive authorized U.S. dealer. Contact them directly to reserve a model — production is limited and availability is not guaranteed at traditional motorcycle dealerships.
Which Bimota models are available right now?
The KB998 Rimini superbike and the supercharged Tesi H2 are available immediately. The Tesi H2 TERA, KB4, and KB4RC are expected to arrive in late 2026.
What engines do Bimota motorcycles use?
All current Bimota models use Kawasaki engines. The KB998 Rimini and Tesi models use 998cc variants (naturally aspirated and supercharged), while the KB4 models use a 1,043cc inline-four. The upcoming KB399 will use a 399cc engine from the ZX-4R.
Are Bimota motorcycles street-legal in the United States?
Yes. The models announced have received or are in the process of receiving EPA and CARB certification. The KB399 has already been certified by both agencies for 2027.
How much do Bimota motorcycles cost?
Bimota has not released official U.S. pricing. Given their handcrafted nature, carbon-fiber construction, and limited production numbers, expect prices significantly above comparable Japanese or European superbikes. Contact Bimota Spirit for specific pricing on available models.
Source: Motorcycle.com — “Bimota Is Returning To The US” by Dennis Chung, August 10, 2026. Based on official Bimota press materials.
The Bimota America situation continues to evolve as more information becomes available.
Riders tracking the Bimota America should monitor official channels for updates.
What This Means for Riders
The broader industry context matters here. Manufacturers face increasing scrutiny from regulators and consumers alike, and how they respond to issues determines long-term trust. Transparency during a recall — clear communication, prompt action, and fair remedies — builds credibility that survives the incident.
For owners, the practical takeaway is simple: respond to recall notifications promptly. Whether the remedy is a dealer visit or a mailed component, completing the recall protects your safety, your investment, and your motorcycle’s resale value.
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