While the Suzuki Katana has been around since the 1980s, its massive popularity and success has earned it the right to be renewed for 2020. The newer model takes cues from other, older Suzuki bikes, as well as from previous Katana models. This model has also been redesigned for a more urban-focused riding experience while still being novel, yet practical and refined. Riders seem to enjoy the bike for the most part, noting more favorable aspects. Its specs are also either noteworthy or at least beneficial to convince riders to try out the bike.

Read on to discover just why the 2020 Suzuki Katana is worth a higher rating than it usually gets.

Related: 10 Things We Just Learned About Suzuki And Its Cars

The Katana Background And History

2020 Suzuki Katana indoors, side view
via Corona Motorsports

This model comes from a long line of Suzuki Katanas, and this line has a complex and extensive origin, starting with the four-valve Suzuki GS1100.

When this bike was made initially, back in the 1980s, it was very much a period piece. It was a fine example of showcasing Japanese production that had a conservative approach while being incredibly practical. It also had fuel economy of 47.4 MPG, with wide bars, a comfortable seat, and a circular headlight- all trademark designs of that bike and similar bikes of the time.

When the GS1100 finally ended production, the first Katana models took its place. The traditional design was updated in an attempt to revive stagnant sales. The fairing was triangular, the seat was longer, the gas tank was narrower, the bars are lower, and the headlight now took on a rectangular shape.

Although sketched by Hans Muth's German design firm, the first Katanas came to be associated with radical thinking from the Japanese. The styling was regarded as iconic, with a striking design and functional physiology.

Templates From Previous Models

2020 Suzuki Katana driven on open road
via Ultimate Motorcycling

The 2020 Suzuki Katana is not entirely original, as it relies upon older models to be used as templates. The main model used for template purposes is the GSX-S1000, this time designed largely by Italian firm headed by Rodolfo Frascoli. With a focus on being both novel and redefined, the traits were difficult to balance.

Another bike that is a template reference for the 2020 Katana is the GSX-R1000 K5. This older model donated its long-stroke, 999cc inline-four engine to the new model, albeit with revised cam timing and gearing and new, stainless steel valves to replace older titanium ones. Of note is that the Katana has lower gearing, but that also makes the output of torque more generous. At 6,000 RPM while going 90 MPH, the 2020 Katana is known to still ride smoothly.

This particular model is also notable for being more compact and oval, and it only weighs 475 pounds on a full tank, which is approximately 72 pounds lighter than its predecessor. Another template reference is the GSX-1000F, also derived from the GSX-R1000 sportbike. The GSX-F donated its adjustable suspension, upright ergonomics, and twin-spar aluminum frame to the Katana's design. Altogether, the 2020 Katana strives to be a more urban-focused bike centered around driving on city streets.

Related: Meet The Suzuki Misano: A Four-Wheeler Superbike Concept

Favorable Reviews Upon Riding

2020 Suzuki Katana rider does wheelie
via Ultimate Motorcycling

Most riders gave positive feedback once they actually took the 2020 Suzuki Katana out on the open road. Although riders note how the front suspension isn't too reactive with braking support, they pointed out how much more reactive the gas is, which helps alleviate any heavy front weight.

As a result, the tracking on the Katana is looked upon much more favorably, with both front and rear shocks traveling smoothly over rougher surfaces. The front shock is a Brembo radial monoblock caliper, while the rear shock is a Nissin.

The bike can also brake from 60 MPH is only 133.9 feet, which is a slight improvement when compared to the Honda CB1000R's 136.8 feet. That said, the Katana's braking system isn't quite as evolved and detailed as that of the Honda or of other higher-spec motorcycles. The LCD dash was referenced as outdated, not user-friendly, and hard to navigate.

Riders noted how the Katana has a solid chassis that helps the bike cut corners much more easily, and it lacks the fancy counter-rotating crank that most bikes use to disguise their rotating mass. Riders were pleased to see an emphasis on aesthetics for the 2020 model, and this sportbike-turned-standard model shows just how far Suzuki has evolved since the first Katana was released.

Notable Specs

2020 Suzuki Katana parked indoors at dealership
via Montgomery Powersports

The 2020 Suzuki Katana has some specs that may be noteworthy, or are at least favorable enough to make it worth buying. It can hit 60 MPH in only 3.2 seconds, and it can last 133.3 MPH for 10.86 seconds.

The gas tank holds 3.2 gallons, with the aforementioned 47.4 MPG as fuel economy. Starting MSRP is $13,499, and it has a compression ratio of 12.2:1. Its seat height is 33.2 inches, while its wheelbase is 57.6 inches. Its dry weight is 456 lbs, and it can generate 76.3 lb-ft of torque at 9,200 RPM and 139.6 HP at 10,100 RPM.

Finally, its throttle linkage differs from previous models that used the same motor, resulting in the 2020 Katana feeling less aggressive and initially softer once started and then slowly becoming more aggressive as the bike is ridden.

Sources: cycleworld.com, cnet.com, ultimatemotorcycling.com,

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