Katana Suzuki Beautiful woman running like a beast

Inline 4-cylinder engines have perhaps one of the most distinctive sounds, at least in India. So the Suzuki Katana can tick off an important criterion for some people when it comes to motorcycle buying decisions. It does not mean that

background check

Suzuki introduced the new Katana in 2019 and showcased it in India at Auto Expo 2020 to gauge interest. However, BS6 emissions standards were imminent, so we had to wait until Suzuki updated the engine. Now in that BS6 avatar, the bike has not only received a mechanical update, but also a cosmetic update, giving it a striking look.

The design team referenced the 1981 Katana, and in many ways the new bike looks like an evolution of the original, but retains the charm of a bygone era. This is evident in the shape of the face and the bodywork, which consists of a sword-sharp line running from nose to tail. Rectangular headlights with a small windshield above them, fang-like LED position lights, and a seamless fusion of the semi-fairing and fuel tank are design elements that draw attention.

In contrast to the front end, the mid and tail sections are minimal, but brilliantly executed. For 2022, Suzuki has also introduced a new colorway, with color-coordinated Enkei alloy wheels that look cleaner. Despite all the information it provides, it’s hard to read when the sun is overhead.

As the name suggests, it is a motorcycle that is as sharp as a Japanese sword. More importantly, it makes you feel nostalgic the moment you see it. If you were his 80’s or 90’s kid, you’d relate to that feeling.

from the saddle

However, the Katana’s design isn’t entirely about form over function. Sitting on the 825mm perch, the riding position feels sporty yet relaxed. Easily attack corners on your commute or your favorite mountain road or racetrack. In fact, this position makes for comfortable touring his machine. The caveat is the small fuel tank of 12 liters. Ride vigorously and the range will be no more than about 120-140 km. Having to refuel multiple times during a long trip can be a huge irritant. Also, the steering lock is not enough for street naked standards, so a tight U-turn becomes a three-point turn.

Considering the brake levers are adjustable, an adjustable clutch lever would have been nice. Still, the Katana’s engine is arguably one of the greatest engines ever, he’s an engineering marvel. At the heart of the new Katana is the legendary Suzuki K5 inline 4-cylinder engine. Basically, it’s over 15 years old, and timely updates ensure it stays present in a time when emissions standards are tougher than ever.

For 2022 we get new cam profiles, new valve springs, electronic throttle body, new clutch and exhaust system. Power increased from 150hp to 152hp as the redline shifted from 10,000rpm to 11,000rpm. The engine also produces stronger bottom-end torque and a broader, smoother torque curve.

All of these changes come together to provide a very special experience, and it becomes clear why Suzuki hasn’t pulled the plug on this engine yet. , slow, lazy rides don’t bother me. In fact, Suzuki’s low-rpm assist lets you crawl at low speeds without opening the throttle.

The midrange is very punchy and responsive, but above 7,000 rpm all hell breaks loose. The roar of the intake, the screaming exhaust, the view of the horizon approaching at a dizzying pace, all of this is an experience that will absolutely excite you. Also, the standard up/down his quickshifter makes the bike’s constant acceleration almost never pause.

It takes courage to run a taco bar to the 12,000 rpm redline in each gear. Because it picks up speed so fast that it’s easy to find yourself on the wrong side of legal speed.

With three ride modes – A, B and C – and a switchable five-level traction control system, you’ll never run into a tree. Three ride modes adjust power delivery without changing peak power output. For example, Mode C has the mildest throttle response and has proven useful on wet roads.

The traction control system, on the other hand, works well. It intervened too abruptly at level 5, but is much more transparent at lower settings when vigilance is at its maximum.

sense of balance

Complementing that beautiful engine is a great chassis with adjustable suspension, just like the GSX-S1000 Street Naked.

Also, out of the box, the suspension strikes a good balance between ride and handling. The ride quality of the Katana is very good for a liter-class sports bike.

Handling is also very predictable, and the bike feels planted in corners. They don’t provide the grip and feedback we need, especially when riding in the wet and at a fast pace.

As for the brakes, radially mounted Brembos in the front and Nissins in the rear provide powerful braking that brings the bike to a stop very effectively. The wooden feel of the brake levers may come down to the choice of brake pads and the use of an axial master cylinder instead of a radial unit. Also, Suzuki continues to use rubber brake lines on their sporty bikes, and if aggressive braking is part of your riding style, it’s a good idea to replace them with braided steel lines. Recommended.

money transfer

Few neo-retro bikes evoke as much nostalgia as this one, and Katana’s design plays a big part. Combine that with a great engine and a great chassis and you have a really attractive litter class motorcycle. It costs nearly Rs 20,000 more than its closest 1,000cc competitor from Japan, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000 SX, but the money spent for the extra power, character and excitement is well worth it.

So if you’re into neo-retro machines, or if nostalgia is the trip that keeps you buying tickets, you can’t miss the Suzuki Katana.