Suzuki Katana

Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Limited (SMIPL) revived the iconic Katana name by unveiling it in India at the 2020 Auto Expo. The motorcycle gets classic design, which is complemented by modern styling elements as well as technology. Suzuki Katan name has been taken from Suzuki’s past, wherein it was a popular sport-touring machine with the same nameplate. Based on the Suzuki GSX-S1000F, the 2020 Suzuki Katana comes powered by a 999 cc, in-line four-cylinder engine.

The company has already showcased the Suzuki Katana motorcycle at several motorcycle shows such as 2018 Intermot show in Germany, as well as the EICMA 2018 show in Milan, Italy. Interestingly, the production version of the Suzuki Katan borrows the twin-spar aluminium frame from the GSX-S1000F. The ergonomics of the bike are somewhat different, going with the sport-touring theme, as the Katana offered comfortable perch for the rider. Though the squarish headlamp on the motorcycle pays homage to the older Katana, the other elements on the motorcycle are modern but give a neo-retro appeal. The motorcycle gets LED headlight and a full-colour TFT screen.

The 999-cc powertrain on the Suzuki Katana is tuned to make 147 bhp of maximum power at 10,000 rpm against the peak torque of 105 Nm at 9,500 rpm. The motorcycle gets fully-adjustable KYB 43 mm USD fork up front, and link-type mono-shock set-up at the rear. Additionally, the motorcycle is loaded with three-level traction control that can be switched off. For braking, the company has incorporated Brembo, with radial calipers along with ABS.

The main design of the Katana is underlined by the sharp and sculpted bodywork that also adds character to the bike. The Katana was showcased at the Auto Expo 2020 to gauge the audience’s reaction. The company might consider launching the Katana motorcycle in India. If launched, the motorcycle will be assembled in India from completely knocked down (CKD) kits to keep prices down.