In 2000, fears of a European regulatory backlash or import ban led to an informal agreement between the Japanese and European manufacturers to govern the top speed of their motorcycles at an arbitrary limit, allowing the Hayabusa's title to remain, at least technically, unassailable, since no subsequent model could go faster without being tampered with. Model year 2000 and later Hayabusas, as well as their competition, are electronically limited to 300 kilometres per hour (186 mph), giving the unrestricted, 190-mph 1999 models even more cachet with collectors.
Motorcycle speed tests, especially at high speeds, are prone to variation due to human error, limitations in equipment, and atmospheric factors like wind, humidity, and altitude. The published results of two otherwise identical tests could vary depending on whether the result is reported with or without industry standard correction factors calculated to compensate for test conditions. Rounding errors are possible as well when converting to/from miles and kilometers per hour. Media reported values from 299 to 303 km/h for the speed agreement, which is valid given rounding and conversion errors. Reported numbers for horsepower and torque will inevitably vary for similar reasons.
Besides its speed, the Hayabusa has been lauded by many reviewers for its all-around performance, in that it does not drastically compromise other qualities like handling, comfort, reliability, noise, fuel economy or price in pursuit of a single function. Jay Koblenz of Motorcycle Consumer News commented, "If you think the ability of a motorcycle to approach 190 mph or reach the quarter-mile in less than 10 seconds is at best frivolous and at worst offensive, this still remains a motorcycle worthy of just consideration. The Hayabusa is Speed in all its glory. But Speed is not all the Hayabusa is.
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