A few years ago, riders around the World were rewarded with the arrival of the new Katana. It was one of the most desirable models that Suzuki had released for a while. They flocked to the stores eagerly to collect their new bikes in the iconic silver paint scheme with the bright red Katana name arrogantly pasted on the sides of the tank. Oh, some were in black as well, but silver was predictably the correct choice.
Even though the bodywork sat on a GSX-R chassis it was certainly a recognisable Katana on all counts, and the name was back on the streets of SA. Over 135hp at the rear wheel, combined with superb handling, was always going to be an intoxicating blend of two-wheeled entertainment and they soon sold out.
However, over the last few years, the sales figures have slowed down, maybe because everyone who wanted a Katana has one. Anyway, that’s a ‘pub debate’ conversation. But we’re now into 2023 and there’s a new one, so why would anyone want to buy one? Well, because it’s terrific that’s why!
At first sight you’d think it’s the same bike in this eye-catching new paint scheme, and in some areas you’d be correct. The paint is called Mat Stellar Blue (extremely attractive blue I’d say), which instantly makes the new Katana look more exotic. Then you add in those bronze wheels and you have, shall I say, a more executive Katana. If someone had said those colours would work I’d have laughed - in front of you - though it’s a different story and they most certainly do.
The ‘part’ that is the same is the chassis and surrounding components. Why would you change them as they performed so well in the last model? Either for brisk road riding or a fast track day, the Katana enjoys both scenarios. The powerful Brembo M4 brakes remain so no use in revisiting those. One thing that did come to mind when riding the new bike was the suspension is set quite hard, especially for our roads, and my liking. A few minutes with a screwdriver and spanner though will sort that out because the KYB suspension is easily adjustable, it is a GSX-R after all!
So it looks sweet, but is that the only difference you ask? No, far from it is the answer because the 999cc, four-cylinder K5/6 derived engine has been ‘sharpened’ quite a lot.
Inside the engine are new camshafts, stiffer valve springs, updated new slipper-clutch and smaller throttle bodies, yes smaller. Down from 44mm to 40mm: why would you do that you may also ask? Possibly for Euro 5 emission rubbish, but it gives a more useable mid-range and smoother power delivery and, with the new cams and bits, it also revs 1,000rpm higher (to 11,000) than the previous bike. You do get a few horsepower more too, pushing 150hp, or around 136 at the wheel, more than enough to see the far side of 250km/h!The new adoption of ride-by-wire brings more to the Katana’s party tricks. Suzuki’s Drive Mode Selector allows for three new power modes and five levels of traction control, which are refreshingly easy to select. Not forgetting the addition of the Suzuki’s GSX-R based Bi-directional quick-shifter, but never say that in a pub as it could attract unwanted company.
There’s a new redesigned air-box too, which gives the most spine-tingling noise after 7,000rpm, where you’ll also notice a noticeable power rush as it howls towards 11,000rpm – due to those new cams, pipe and parts.
With all of these latest additions the new Katana feels more refined, and well, better, than the previous bike and the fuelling is as close to perfection as you can get. Suzuki says it has a new seat as well but the riding position feels the same. You do sit high and mighty and it does make you feel kind of proud to be on it, it certainly attracts a lot of attention for phone pics when parked with its posh new paint. The engine is a peach as the new quick-shifter works better than many we’ve tried, a worthy addition for sure.
Weighing in at 215kg (wet) it is relatively light for a big 1,000cc naked bike. Fun to ride and sounds great, and if you turn off the electronic aides you can have mucho wheelie time as well. So if you considered buying the last model and didn’t you might be tempted with this one. Obviously the price has risen to R229,000, but that’s still a lot of bike for the price and you won’t find another naked bike for that price, making that kind of horsepower, with such a legendary chassis. 
At the time of riding we also had its ‘sister’ bike the GSX-S1000. Even though it’s the same platform it feels noticeable smaller with the same 2023 attributes of everything found on the new Katana. So if you’re a smaller dude or dudess you might fancy that package for 5k less, either way they’re both worthy of a test ride. Get in touch with your dealer as Suzuki are currently touring SA with their new range for you to test ride.
One last thing, only very few new Katanas will be brought into South Africa so make sure you order one early, then you’ll be one of a few owners and, after living with the new Katana for a few weeks, I highly recommend you do!
Go to: www.suzukimotorcycle.co.za to book a test ride at your local dealer and for more technical information.
Images by Chris Kuun.
