Here is something we did not expect: The boutique motorcycle brand Bimota has always worked on bigger bikes, ranging from 800cc above. But now under Kawasaki, they have just revealed the Bimota KB399 and Bimota KB399 ES. Based on the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR, the KB399 utilises the 399cc, inline-four engine which has been hotted up to 79 hp from 76 hp. Then, the motor is wrapped up in exotic materials and high-end components befitting of Bimota. Starting from the bodywork, it is complete with winglets, and signature red, white, and black paint. Additionally, the upper and lower triple clamps plus steering stem cap are machined from billet. The ES variant does not allude to “Electronic Suspension” but “Edizione Speciale (Special Edition), instead. The fairing is carbon fibre, joined by clip-on handlebars, billet brake and gear pedals, plus adjustable billet footpegs and dedicated mounting stays. Both versions feature 41mm Showa SFF-BP forks and a Showa BFRC-lite shock, while the ES uses an Öhlins STX46 monoshock at the back. Braking comes courtesy of twin Brembo Stylema radial calipers, while a bespoke Akrapovič silencer delivers what is bound to be a bike selling-point for many – that screaming inline-four soundtrack. Electronics include three-mode traction control, selectable power modes, integrated riding modes and a quickshifter fitted as standard – with all systems lifted straight from the four-pot Kwak. On the design front, Bimota have utilised the same designer who penned the KB998 Rimini, and it’s hard not to see a likeness between the little and large models. Pierluigi Marconi, Bimota COO, said: “Every Bimota is made with passion and this very exciting new Bimota expresses the very essence of our brand. Our goal with the KB399 is to offer an exclusive, distinctly Bimota riding experience to existing fans as well as a new and enthusiastic audience who are now becoming more aware of our craftsmanship-focused motorcycles”. As for the price, the KB399 retails for £10,999 (RM57502.33) while the ES model goes for £14,699 (RM76845.78). Will Bimota take the KB399 racing in the incoming World Sportbike Championship like they are in WorldSBK with the KB998?