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Funny how horsepower potential does not directly translate to mpg. The 180hp 'busa ridden with a 50mpg riding technique makes 36hp/mpg. Assuming a similar conservative riding nature that produces 70mpg, the 24hp ninjette 250 makes .34hp/mpg.
Given the power potential, the 'busa is hugely more efficient though the 250 uses less fuel for the trip.
The point here is that it is a commonly held belief that big engines=bad mpg. With modern engine management, big engines can be remarkably fuel efficient, or warp you into the next zip code before 5th gear at the whim of the throttle position.
It really has to do with engine load (how hard it's ridden) and the horrible motorcycle aerodynamics. With the 'busa ridden at the same speeds and acceleration rates as the ninjette the mileage is very good for both, but the 'busa taking a 29% hit in economy just smokes in power output potential.
A long time ago Lee Iacocca said that in the future there would be no need for an passenger vehicle engine larger than 2.5 liters. That's when he was turbocharging everything, AND getting remarkably good mileage. This from a guy who just didn't understand the silly SUV craze. My hero.
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