For those complaining about the tank size, that means u get to stop more often, fuel up and stare at it for a few minutes. I think it's a great looking bike!
I am riding my Katana for 200km, and can only get 9-10l in at the fuel pump. The tank is fine, why would I ride it more than 200km and not stop anyway ...
Like many bikes that didn't sell well, the people who did buy them absolutely love them. The most common issue seems to be the tank size, but I crossed Australia on mine with no worries at all. Even got 288 out of a tank on the dirt Rd between Hyden and Norseman, which is about as remote as you can get.
I love mine. Could not live without it. Being tall it fit me better than the other nakeds. The engine is just crazy. Get a lot of compliments/inquiries. You get use to the tank and it does run the gas through quickly keeping it fresh. For what I’m used to the suspension feels premium and the brembo brakes are nice too. Really glad I ignored the tank issue and bought one. ❤
Takes me back to the original. Went pillion as a 15 year old on my Dad's friend's one and was converted there and then to a committed biker. Back in the early 80's they looked super space age. The following year, got myself a Yamaha DT50 ... gotta start somewhere! 😊
Had the 2019 model for over 2 years and 18000kms on the clock When I sold it. Loved every single minute spent on it, 12L wasn't an issue for me as the fuel range was about 180kms per tank. Although the snatchy throttle and surging at light load was a bit annoying, have upgraded to the 2022 GSX-S1000, if you think the K5 engine is smooth on the previous model you really should try the current one, Suzuki nailed the fuelling, smoothest running inline 4 on earth.
Put me in the minority but I voted with my wallet and grabbed one of the limited number that’s coming to the US for ‘24. The LCD dash goes with the 1980’s vibe of the bike, and as you say it gives you all the information you need, (No one complains about “dial clocks” on a 1970’s style retro bike🤔?!). And as for the tank size, we’ll it’s not a bloody touring bike it’s designed for having a jolly romp on, and besides I’ve only got a 100 mile butt 😆!
Cheers from India. I get about 210 kms (130 miles) on a tankful on my 2022 Katana. This is mostly sticking to B mode and a 80:20 highway to city riding split. With the occasional short bursts of speed. Not bad I'd say. I've heard of other bikes with larger tanks but giving a similar range. I made peace with the 12L tank before buying my bike. Still wish this came with the 19L tank on the gsxS1000. But after riding the katana for sometime now, it doesn't even matter anymore... Mine is the all classic Silver version with black suzuki decal on the tank and i think it looks lovely!
@@lokipushparaj6537 I am also a tbhp member (I forgot the password! Lol) and I did read about your latest tyre change as well. I booked a silver one in Bangalore today too! My usage is pretty much similar to yours. How much do the service cost? If you could help me with those 😊
@@Mototune16 Hey man. Congrats. I thought there was no stock of the Katana in India. Which model year are you picking up? I've been servicing at Aryan Suzuki and its only been regular maintenance so far. Roughly about INR 9k to 12k ish per service. DM me if you have more questions
Grab a pint and go for a spin, steady on you will spill your pint 😂, such a shame about the 12L tank, really fancied one of these great video 👍 as always.
I reckon Suzuki should have you on the design team Chopsy, a super Katana with a 15 litre tank and the smart new tft sounds a real winner. The last gsxr1000 was famed for having a torquey motor, even tuned for 170hp, that would be seriously impressive !
Bought a 2019 Katana and had it for almost a month now and even without QS and blipper amazing bike. More than enough power for the road and torque is great. Tank isn't that bad I have owned VTwins that did less than 100 to the tank so probably use to visiting petrol stations.
Remember the middle katanas that came out in the late 80's ? They had a 600. & An 1100? They were fully faired though and although nice looking, they lost the original look that this one has brought back.
I have this exact bike and I love it. The 12L Tank wasn't a problem when I put 3000 miles on it on a trip from NW England to Switzerland, I really thought it would be so I brought 2L fuel cans, used them once but I didn't really need to. In a group of 8 riders, there is always someone who needs fuel, or to get a fly out their lid, or wants to step of for a second etc. Plenty of bikes have about a 100 miles range. The katana is good on fuel, especially for a 150hp 1000cc bike. I made a few upgrades to mine.... Maxton Rear Shock (RT 10) and resprung on the front. Michelin Road 6, went up to 55 profile on the rear. Giles Engineering Bars, slightly swept back. Next on the list...Full Yoshi System. a Brembo master cylinder to improve brake feel. It's a lovely machine, never missed any tech on it cause that's for riders much better than me likely.
Just cut the cat off,£40 for the mid-pipe,and £190 for the latest Lextek,a flash ,a filter,150BHP at the wheel, up 20...Yoshimura barely pushes more, but you've saved a fortune!
Resale on these has been shocking. As someone who owns a standard naked GSXS1000 i've watched a few. There was a year old bike, with less than 2000 miles on it that sold for under 6 grand this summer. Shame that it costs more upfront but will sell for less later on. Perhaps one day they will become a collectable?
For me this is the best looking brand new Suzuki and probably the only one I’d buy, trouble is I like to put a 150 mile round trip in my calimoto on twisty roads and in all them miles I wouldn’t see a petrol station so it’s gotta be a no, need at least 16 litre fuel tank 😢
Back in the 80's my mate had proper Katana and his wife had a Moto Guzzi , I watched whilst drinking bloody Mary's with celery sticks.great vid Chops, all the best.👍👍👍
They would have sold these by the bucket load if they’d fit a 18/19 litre tank, I for one at the time would have bought one but with that tank , no way.
in a world where all hondas seem to look the same with that ugly nc750x headlight, all kawasakis look like a bunch of acid green sharp edges thrown together, all yamahas are overstyled, all sportsbikes look the same for the past 10-15 years.... this Katana is a breath of fresh air, a design masterpiece i think, its gonna be a classic
I love my Katana! Mixed riding I can travel around the UK for three/four hours without filling up🤷🏼♂️ also a straight through exhaust on mine! What airbox engine noise?😂
Range the same as an electric bike, but at least it doesn't take 40 minutes to fill the tank to 80%!!! It's also cheaper than an electric bike, so it's quite a steal really. 😂
Ur right about the steel braided lines... even F900R got them stock, and they are not much. Great bike tho... sadly none in my region to atleast sit on.
I've always loved this bike, especially the launch one with the silver fairings and the black wheels. I wish Suzuki would bring back that color option!
Chatted to a guy at the Eurotunnel heading off to Europe on one of these back in August! To be fair I toured on an 1198 that did 70 miles to the light so it's doable…
Awesome looking bike…. But that fuel tank size?! Suzuki, could’ve made so many more sales if it was 16L even. But, for a weekend blast, I love it. Thanks Chops, great work.
My 2011 Tuono has a tank range of circa 100 miles and I’ve had it from new. Even in Highland Scotland its never been a problem, whats all the fuss about?
Here in Pembrokeshire it's common place for Hens to actually have teeth. Mind you, the locals are all short and hairy so it must be in the water, farmers and chemicals I guess........
I could be wrong but I googled and i found that the longest distance to a petrol station in mainland uk was 49 miles, so 12 litres should get you there, even with your riding style. Seriously 18 litres should be possible without impacting the styling too much. Great bike though.
Local Suzuki dealer had 2, a normal silver and one with the full yoshi catalogue thrown at it. They both went back to Suzuki unsold. If it gets redone around a 19L tank of the latest gen gsxs, then it might be a different story.
Naturally, being an early 80's born kid, I appreciated the looks of this rebooted Katana but I didn't like it as much as my enthusiasm for all things 80s usually lends. This color somehow suits the looks of this bike very well and I like it more now than I initially did. You're right about the fueling as I remember other sources saying something similar and how it hampered their hopes for the bike and left them sort of...meh feeling. Great review realistic review! Want to go and take one for a spin. Cheers!
The original was quirky to say the least when it came out all those years ago. If the modern Kat was more like the original, it would be great, a big seat, big enough to be comfortable for a pillion, rather than today’s offering with it’s arse is in the air, and no mudguard to keep the crap off the rider or pillion’s back (as I remember from the various launch videos!). Then they go and stick a tiny tank on it, make it too tall, really screwing it up for this here short arse. I did get to sit on the new Kat at the NEC, and I thought the riding position was pretty good, just a shame I can’t reach the floor too easily 😉
I'm getting my a2 license in two weeks, if I pass, and I'm already looking at A class bikes lol! Sadly the Katana isn't sold in my country due to low demand, but I'm crossing my fingers that it will be sold here in two or three years when I upgrade my license! It's such a good looking bike, and while the tank size is a bummer, I can live with it, as there aren't that any super long distances here without gas stations
Lots of people don’t get on With the front looks of the gsxs 1000 which this pips… side profile is pipped by the gsxs 1000 the side panels aren’t quite there… great bike none the less..
Your exaggerating big time about the fuel “issue” I have owned mine for 3 years and can get easily 240kms out of a tank. 20kms/ per litre- work it out. Thats with some spirited riding and normal speed limit riding. Of course if you are absolutely flat out you would be lucky to get even the figures you mention, as any bike. So lets change your ridiculous quote of 1 hour riding to at least 2 hours of riding in realistic road riding conditions (at least) Stopping every couple hours for fuel isnt an issue for the age group this is aimed at. Giving the backside a rest is quite welcome. It isnt a tourer also which makes the fuel issue another non issue. Get it right mate
Totally agree about the nannying. I got rid of my BMW coz I could not delete wheelie control. My ktm sdr stays in track mode. That is a nice looking bike, I like the retro katana look, not in primer grey though
I've had mine for just over a year now and the tank size isn't that much of an issue. Well worth having one tbh and good enough to forget about the range.
Reasonably new to the bike world, so no preconception's. I don't know if a Ducati is a budget bike or CF Moto is a premium machine. 🤔 However, this is a lovely looking machine and that's important.
It’s one of the few retro bikes I like the styling of. Sadly, the 12L fuel tank was a no go for me. Yes, I’ll be getting off for a leg stretch before then anyway, but anyone who’s ridden extensively in Wales or Scotland will tell you that sometimes there simply isn’t a petrol station in range if you’ve got a small tank like this bike has. I bought a slightly older GSX-S1000F in the end. Same great bike underneath (though missing the QS/blipper sadly) but I can get 150-180 mile range out of a tank, which is workable. Confused over your comments on putting the VVT engine in Chopsy, one of the things that makes these bikes great is the K5 motor in most owners opinions…
@@MKMKMK998 200KM is terrible tho, i tour from Denmark to the Nürburgring every summer, thats not a long trip at all, and that would be a PITA if i had to worry around every 150km.
@@Surpriseify 200miles. I averaged 320kms to 350kms when touring. Its not GS distances, but its better than a lot of non-touring bikes. I changed it to a 55-profile tire which probably helped a bit too. Edit: I'm talking about the GSX-s1000F, not the Katana BTW.
Love the nostalgic look albeit it’s an old bike in a new suit and overpriced for what it is at 12k here in the UK which is more than the Ninja 1000 SX. Hindered by tank range and a horrendous rear end. Shame it could have been so much better but the sales figures and dealer discounts speak for themselves. Pick up a used bargain, mint low mileage examples going for around 7k or spend your money on an original Katana if you must it’ll keep its price better 👍
Great vid. Hardly anyone bothers reviewing this bike but I love it. The more people give it stick (I'm looking at you TMF lol) the more I like it & if I could afford one I 'd buy it. The tank size is undeniably daft but you can seemingly get 120ish miles out of it in real world ridding which is similar to quite a few other bikes with bigger tanks but worse economy. 100 mile fill ups aren't fun for sure but bearable imo if it it's just for posing which this most definitely is.
I think Suzuki missed a real opportunity with these . I own an 83 kat and i reckon the styling on these new models is way short of the mark . In fact i have seen some customised versions that look stunning , but they have had to completely redesign the entire rear end , from fuel tank back .
I don’t really get the ‘almost there’ brand new bikes tbh. For the same price as a new katana or other similar make models, I’d prefer a one year old Tuono V4 or MT10SP. Great vid chops, all the best 😊
you're right, the reason why this bike is rare is because the gsx-s1000 is cheaper and better (bigger fuel tank) the katana is nicer looking, but you don't see much of it when you're riding on it so..
The range of the fueltank isn't that bad. Riding the 2020 model for 3 years now, 200km to 210km a tank. A tailtidy is definitly an improvement in looks, except it throws the muck and mud all over 😂😅. Afterall great bike for me, you love it or you hate it. 🤷🏻♂️
Am I the only one who likes a tire hugger style rear fender? I wish more bikes were that way. As a daily all weather commuter I can’t go without a rear fender and I hate the look of a conventional rear fender on naked/sport bikes.
I love my 2019 one (before the quick shifter). I think most people are put off because of the small petrol tank. Suzuki should have made the tank a bit bigger whilst they were doing an update. O well, it doesn't really bother me. Yes, the brakes are a bit wooden. The ones on my Kawasaki Z1000SX are a lot better, and they are Kawasaki's own brand. You can pick up a second hand one with low mileage cheaply. Get one!
Excellent review chops . May be rear mudguard is a compromise for different markets . Went to Ducati factory few years back and think then 5 different specs world wide possible why the wrap around mudguard for one market . Shame about fuel range though.
Love this bike, I'm a 60's child so I remember and loved the original Katana. But please sort out the fuel tank, 12ltrs is not quite big enough. But saying that I would still have one.
I understand what you are saying regarding the datedness of the TFT, however the current one does capture the TRON retro influence that this bike is all about. I think to retain this that any new TFT needs to be unique to the Katana. Put on the same TFT that they put on their generic bikes ie the GSX 8S and the Katana is losing its appeal for me.
I wanted this bike but when I saw it in person I found the fit and finish a little lacking, and I didn't like the tall bars. I wanted to put clip on bars but there is no way to put anything lower than what it comes with because of the way it fits with the body work and gas tank. I ended up with a cb1000r which when looking at them in person back to back was just so much nicer, to me anyways.
The Suzuki Katana can thank most KTMs, some new Yamaha MTs, and some Husqvarnas to making the Suzuki less weird and out there.😁😁 Maybe Suzuki can bring back their first year RE-5 Wankel engine bike and recoup the millions they lost in the 1970s.
You don't see many on the road chopsy as they are always at the petrol station. The previous model was being sold for £8999 just before they brought this one out but I looked at the gsxs1000f with a 19ltr fuel tank
Hey chopsy! Love your videos but for some reason your videos lately have been crashing my TH-cam app on my tv. It’s only happens with your videos sadly. Usually happens in the first 5 minutes of your videos. Not sure if that is helpful but there it is. Love your content! Just wish I could watch it again!
That's one of the reasons I prefer the GSXS if you're going to use it for daily commute. It's a more fuel efficient engine and now with the larger 19L tank. Makes a difference with time, money and effort if you're filling up 50% less often.
The fuel tank isn’t a deal breaker for me tbh I want to get off most bikes after 70 miles anyway, I think it would be nice if they paid homage to the original katana clocks but mibey in a split analog/tft kind of way the way they have done with the new Busa. I test rode one around three years ago and found the throttle was very snatchy but I wasn’t too sure about the seat, need to ride one again because I think it looks stunning!
i remember your Launch Video on the Katana Chopsie,i went to a launch night at one of my local dealers but it took ages for them to set up so i left before anything happened.this Bike does seem to be a Curates Egg in some ways - tbh ive not seen one out on the Road yet.Also If you look at the lines of the GSX8-S i think that looks naturallly more like the original Kat too.
I like the bike, its a nice package and like you say riding position is nice. My only gripe is the dash, its a backward step and remind me of early computers in the early 80’s 😆 I think Suzuki should never have made this bike, it has others similar tbh 12 litre tank is an issue 😮
For those complaining about the tank size, that means u get to stop more often, fuel up and stare at it for a few minutes. I think it's a great looking bike!
Very true! 👍
I am riding my Katana for 200km, and can only get 9-10l in at the fuel pump. The tank is fine, why would I ride it more than 200km and not stop anyway ...
its just hilarious how the modern rendition has less capacity than the original icon
@@pinilandokit's a gsxr1000 engine.. what more do you want
@@threeamigos842 bigger gas tank? even the k5 had a bigger gas tank and like i said even the original katana had a bigger one as well
Like many bikes that didn't sell well, the people who did buy them absolutely love them.
The most common issue seems to be the tank size, but I crossed Australia on mine with no worries at all. Even got 288 out of a tank on the dirt Rd between Hyden and Norseman, which is about as remote as you can get.
Big kahoonas...well done!
I love mine. Could not live without it. Being tall it fit me better than the other nakeds. The engine is just crazy. Get a lot of compliments/inquiries. You get use to the tank and it does run the gas through quickly keeping it fresh. For what I’m used to the suspension feels premium and the brembo brakes are nice too. Really glad I ignored the tank issue and bought one. ❤
Nice to hear 👍
Same mate, love mine to bits
Takes me back to the original. Went pillion as a 15 year old on my Dad's friend's one and was converted there and then to a committed biker. Back in the early 80's they looked super space age. The following year, got myself a Yamaha DT50 ... gotta start somewhere! 😊
I had the GSX 1000 s rare model with the slide carbs. Definitely the best bike of 1980. Shame it was stolen by my sister.
Channel should be renamed '6ft 2 & 20 stone'😂
Or “A Fatty Like Me”
Everytime bro
In the old days it would have been named "my *rse hurts!"
In all fairness that’s what made me subscribe I’m 6ft4 and just over 20 stone so if a bike fits chopsy it’ll probably fit me 😂😂
@@HardcorrAutoworxHave got a fat arse too?😂
Had the 2019 model for over 2 years and 18000kms on the clock When I sold it. Loved every single minute spent on it, 12L wasn't an issue for me as the fuel range was about 180kms per tank. Although the snatchy throttle and surging at light load was a bit annoying, have upgraded to the 2022 GSX-S1000, if you think the K5 engine is smooth on the previous model you really should try the current one, Suzuki nailed the fuelling, smoothest running inline 4 on earth.
I’m actually contemplating the GSX-S and the Katana now.
What do you think of the differences?
Put me in the minority but I voted with my wallet and grabbed one of the limited number that’s coming to the US for ‘24. The LCD dash goes with the 1980’s vibe of the bike, and as you say it gives you all the information you need, (No one complains about “dial clocks” on a 1970’s style retro bike🤔?!). And as for the tank size, we’ll it’s not a bloody touring bike it’s designed for having a jolly romp on, and besides I’ve only got a 100 mile butt 😆!
Lcd display is super unique now some how. If it had a bigger tank the spec sheet warriors would complain about weight. Ride on.
WeBike in Japan now offer a 17L tank for the Katana. £1900 bare metal or £2300 painted!
I'll keep mine standard size for now thanks!
Cheers from India. I get about 210 kms (130 miles) on a tankful on my 2022 Katana. This is mostly sticking to B mode and a 80:20 highway to city riding split. With the occasional short bursts of speed. Not bad I'd say. I've heard of other bikes with larger tanks but giving a similar range. I made peace with the 12L tank before buying my bike. Still wish this came with the 19L tank on the gsxS1000. But after riding the katana for sometime now, it doesn't even matter anymore...
Mine is the all classic Silver version with black suzuki decal on the tank and i think it looks lovely!
hi mine also 2022 blue katana .where ru from .iam from south india
@@truptimotors Bangalore. And you?
@@lokipushparaj6537 I am also a tbhp member (I forgot the password! Lol) and I did read about your latest tyre change as well. I booked a silver one in Bangalore today too! My usage is pretty much similar to yours. How much do the service cost? If you could help me with those 😊
@@Mototune16 Hey man. Congrats. I thought there was no stock of the Katana in India. Which model year are you picking up? I've been servicing at Aryan Suzuki and its only been regular maintenance so far. Roughly about INR 9k to 12k ish per service. DM me if you have more questions
@@lokipushparaj6537 thank you so much! It's probably the last one's left. It's a 2024 Manufactured bike. I sure will DM you! Thanks again!
Absolutely love this bike, and the enormous influence it had on modern sport bikes now....they captured its heritage perfectly.
For those wondering, a stone is 14 pounds. 20 stone is 280 lbs. Chopsy is a big boy.
Time will take care of the weight plus age will factor in also , just as long as he can carry the weight without being uncomfortable
As others have intimated, I would have bought one straight away if it had a decent sized fuel tank.
Grab a pint and go for a spin, steady on you will spill your pint 😂, such a shame about the 12L tank, really fancied one of these great video 👍 as always.
Another great review, I bought one as a second bike to have some local “fun” in the hills around my house, the tank size doesn’t matter for that.
I reckon Suzuki should have you on the design team Chopsy, a super Katana with a 15 litre tank and the smart new tft sounds a real winner. The last gsxr1000 was famed for having a torquey motor, even tuned for 170hp, that would be seriously impressive !
Bought a 2019 Katana and had it for almost a month now and even without QS and blipper amazing bike. More than enough power for the road and torque is great. Tank isn't that bad I have owned VTwins that did less than 100 to the tank so probably use to visiting petrol stations.
Lovely review as usual, that fuel tank is deal breaker!
Remember the middle katanas that came out in the late 80's ? They had a 600. & An 1100? They were fully faired though and although nice looking, they lost the original look that this one has brought back.
see I didn't know you were 6'2" and 20 stone. I appreciate it.
I have this exact bike and I love it. The 12L Tank wasn't a problem when I put 3000 miles on it on a trip from NW England to Switzerland, I really thought it would be so I brought 2L fuel cans, used them once but I didn't really need to. In a group of 8 riders, there is always someone who needs fuel, or to get a fly out their lid, or wants to step of for a second etc. Plenty of bikes have about a 100 miles range. The katana is good on fuel, especially for a 150hp 1000cc bike.
I made a few upgrades to mine....
Maxton Rear Shock (RT 10) and resprung on the front.
Michelin Road 6, went up to 55 profile on the rear.
Giles Engineering Bars, slightly swept back.
Next on the list...Full Yoshi System.
a Brembo master cylinder to improve brake feel.
It's a lovely machine, never missed any tech on it cause that's for riders much better than me likely.
Just cut the cat off,£40 for the mid-pipe,and £190 for the latest Lextek,a flash ,a filter,150BHP at the wheel, up 20...Yoshimura barely pushes more, but you've saved a fortune!
Resale on these has been shocking. As someone who owns a standard naked GSXS1000 i've watched a few.
There was a year old bike, with less than 2000 miles on it that sold for under 6 grand this summer.
Shame that it costs more upfront but will sell for less later on.
Perhaps one day they will become a collectable?
Good News for me i want to buy one
For me this is the best looking brand new Suzuki and probably the only one I’d buy, trouble is I like to put a 150 mile round trip in my calimoto on twisty roads and in all them miles I wouldn’t see a petrol station so it’s gotta be a no, need at least 16 litre fuel tank 😢
Chops uploading consistently, love it!
Back in the 80's my mate had proper Katana and his wife had a Moto Guzzi , I watched whilst drinking bloody Mary's with celery sticks.great vid Chops, all the best.👍👍👍
They would have sold these by the bucket load if they’d fit a 18/19 litre tank, I for one at the time would have bought one but with that tank , no way.
I'm glad it's not sold in bucket loads😂
in a world where all hondas seem to look the same with that ugly nc750x headlight, all kawasakis look like a bunch of acid green sharp edges thrown together, all yamahas are overstyled, all sportsbikes look the same for the past 10-15 years.... this Katana is a breath of fresh air, a design masterpiece i think, its gonna be a classic
I love my Katana! Mixed riding I can travel around the UK for three/four hours without filling up🤷🏼♂️ also a straight through exhaust on mine! What airbox engine noise?😂
Here in the states it's been marketed as a prestige piece for your garage. I dig it.
Range the same as an electric bike, but at least it doesn't take 40 minutes to fill the tank to 80%!!! It's also cheaper than an electric bike, so it's quite a steal really. 😂
Ur right about the steel braided lines... even F900R got them stock, and they are not much. Great bike tho... sadly none in my region to atleast sit on.
I've always loved this bike, especially the launch one with the silver fairings and the black wheels. I wish Suzuki would bring back that color option!
I remember seeing it at the NEC looks a lot better in the flesh don’t think seen any on the road .
Chatted to a guy at the Eurotunnel heading off to Europe on one of these back in August! To be fair I toured on an 1198 that did 70 miles to the light so it's doable…
I bought my GSXR-1000R a couple of days ago and I LOVE IT!
Awesome looking bike…. But that fuel tank size?! Suzuki, could’ve made so many more sales if it was 16L even. But, for a weekend blast, I love it. Thanks Chops, great work.
bigger tank,, luggage option ,screen I would have snap one up ,looks great.
Great bike and I have just bought one! Looking forward to it arriving next month.
In fact it arrives next Wednesday!! Very excited now...
Tank wouldn't bother me. No problem fuelling up every hour. I'll take one.
My 2011 Tuono has a tank range of circa 100 miles and I’ve had it from new. Even in Highland Scotland its never been a problem, whats all the fuss about?
Post NC500 fuel isn't an issue, it was before...I know from experience!
100 mile range is fine for me.
Keybord warriors not seeing sunlight because it's too bright so no bike is ever just right.
Here in Pembrokeshire it's common place for Hens to actually have teeth. Mind you, the locals are all short and hairy so it must be in the water, farmers and chemicals I guess........
Haha 😆 👍
Bigger tank , tail tidy. Job done , shame a nice bike 👍. Because of the range a no from me . As you mentioned a refresh is due . Great video Chops .
They look great in the flesh. There's one gets to the local bike haunt where I go. Really like it.
I loved the original and I love this one! Very tempting, but I’ll stick with my speedy 1050 RS.
Gotta get a ride, tho.
I could be wrong but I googled and i found that the longest distance to a petrol station in mainland uk was 49 miles, so 12 litres should get you there, even with your riding style. Seriously 18 litres should be possible without impacting the styling too much. Great bike though.
Local Suzuki dealer had 2, a normal silver and one with the full yoshi catalogue thrown at it. They both went back to Suzuki unsold.
If it gets redone around a 19L tank of the latest gen gsxs, then it might be a different story.
Would have been on my shortlist, but the 12 litre tank is a no-go.
Yes, now I know why it was so quiet when released
Agree,- cruise control too would help our average speed zones..
Naturally, being an early 80's born kid, I appreciated the looks of this rebooted Katana but I didn't like it as much as my enthusiasm for all things 80s usually lends. This color somehow suits the looks of this bike very well and I like it more now than I initially did. You're right about the fueling as I remember other sources saying something similar and how it hampered their hopes for the bike and left them sort of...meh feeling. Great review realistic review! Want to go and take one for a spin. Cheers!
Mines a beast. Smile every time I put a leg over it. Riding or not 🤣🤣
The original was quirky to say the least when it came out all those years ago. If the modern Kat was more like the original, it would be great, a big seat, big enough to be comfortable for a pillion, rather than today’s offering with it’s arse is in the air, and no mudguard to keep the crap off the rider or pillion’s back (as I remember from the various launch videos!). Then they go and stick a tiny tank on it, make it too tall, really screwing it up for this here short arse. I did get to sit on the new Kat at the NEC, and I thought the riding position was pretty good, just a shame I can’t reach the floor too easily 😉
I'm getting my a2 license in two weeks, if I pass, and I'm already looking at A class bikes lol!
Sadly the Katana isn't sold in my country due to low demand, but I'm crossing my fingers that it will be sold here in two or three years when I upgrade my license! It's such a good looking bike, and while the tank size is a bummer, I can live with it, as there aren't that any super long distances here without gas stations
Lots of people don’t get on
With the front looks of the gsxs 1000 which this pips… side profile is pipped by the gsxs 1000 the side panels aren’t quite there… great bike none the less..
I was going to buy one but the fuel tank was the deal
breaker for me as well ! Such a shame because engine is perfect for the road 150hp is perfect
Your exaggerating big time about the fuel “issue” I have owned mine for 3 years and can get easily 240kms out of a tank. 20kms/ per litre- work it out. Thats with some spirited riding and normal speed limit riding. Of course if you are absolutely flat out you would be lucky to get even the figures you mention, as any bike. So lets change your ridiculous quote of 1 hour riding to at least 2 hours of riding in realistic road riding conditions (at least)
Stopping every couple hours for fuel isnt an issue for the age group this is aimed at. Giving the backside a rest is quite welcome. It isnt a tourer also which makes the fuel issue another non issue. Get it right mate
It absolutely smokes the styling of the GSXS. I really like it. The 12L fuel capacity was a death sentence.....
Totally agree about the nannying. I got rid of my BMW coz I could not delete wheelie control. My ktm sdr stays in track mode. That is a nice looking bike, I like the retro katana look, not in primer grey though
I want one, I just don't think it's worth the extra premium over the standard naked. They also neutered it by giving it a tiny tank.
That's also what totally got me away from it, 150km TOP with one tank...What the hell were they thinking, seriously..
I've had mine for just over a year now and the tank size isn't that much of an issue. Well worth having one tbh and good enough to forget about the range.
Reasonably new to the bike world, so no preconception's. I don't know if a Ducati is a budget bike or CF Moto is a premium machine. 🤔
However, this is a lovely looking machine and that's important.
It’s one of the few retro bikes I like the styling of. Sadly, the 12L fuel tank was a no go for me. Yes, I’ll be getting off for a leg stretch before then anyway, but anyone who’s ridden extensively in Wales or Scotland will tell you that sometimes there simply isn’t a petrol station in range if you’ve got a small tank like this bike has.
I bought a slightly older GSX-S1000F in the end. Same great bike underneath (though missing the QS/blipper sadly) but I can get 150-180 mile range out of a tank, which is workable.
Confused over your comments on putting the VVT engine in Chopsy, one of the things that makes these bikes great is the K5 motor in most owners opinions…
I get 200+ when touring on mine with a tank bag and back pack... plus im 6ft2. I get 150 when commuting.
@@MKMKMK998 200KM is terrible tho, i tour from Denmark to the Nürburgring every summer, thats not a long trip at all, and that would be a PITA if i had to worry around every 150km.
@@Surpriseify
200miles. I averaged 320kms to 350kms when touring.
Its not GS distances, but its better than a lot of non-touring bikes. I changed it to a 55-profile tire which probably helped a bit too.
Edit: I'm talking about the GSX-s1000F, not the Katana BTW.
@@MKMKMK998 i owned the F for a few years myself, fantastic bike!!
The range is a lot better than the katana thankfully :)
Love the nostalgic look albeit it’s an old bike in a new suit and overpriced for what it is at 12k here in the UK which is more than the Ninja 1000 SX. Hindered by tank range and a horrendous rear end. Shame it could have been so much better but the sales figures and dealer discounts speak for themselves. Pick up a used bargain, mint low mileage examples going for around 7k or spend your money on an original Katana if you must it’ll keep its price better 👍
If I weren’t shoehorning five bikes into my lil garage already I’d love to have one of these sexy beast.
Great vid. Hardly anyone bothers reviewing this bike but I love it. The more people give it stick (I'm looking at you TMF lol) the more I like it & if I could afford one I 'd buy it. The tank size is undeniably daft but you can seemingly get 120ish miles out of it in real world ridding which is similar to quite a few other bikes with bigger tanks but worse economy. 100 mile fill ups aren't fun for sure but bearable imo if it it's just for posing which this most definitely is.
Have a feeling making the gsxr engine euro 5 is going to be a lot of work? Not sure it will happen with decline in sportsbikes?
I think Suzuki missed a real opportunity with these . I own an 83 kat and i reckon the styling on these new models is way short of the mark . In fact i have seen some customised versions that look stunning , but they have had to completely redesign the entire rear end , from fuel tank back .
I don’t really get the ‘almost there’ brand new bikes tbh. For the same price as a new katana or other similar make models, I’d prefer a one year old Tuono V4 or MT10SP. Great vid chops, all the best 😊
I think its a fantastic looking bike. Love it.
Fun review, the small tank is maybe to keep the weight down? No IMU. YEs better looking than the GSX S but is also a bit taller and I have short legs.
you're right, the reason why this bike is rare is because the gsx-s1000 is cheaper and better (bigger fuel tank)
the katana is nicer looking, but you don't see much of it when you're riding on it so..
Yes , but when you open the garage door or are at the pub and the bike is on full view I know which one I would rather be looking at and riding.
@@fyorbane that is true
Nice colour for sure! I like it! Shame about the fuel tank size! Surely they could have put 2 litres under the seat! Nicky done!
Beautiful bike but the tank range is ridiculously small.
The range of the fueltank isn't that bad. Riding the 2020 model for 3 years now, 200km to 210km a tank. A tailtidy is definitly an improvement in looks, except it throws the muck and mud all over 😂😅. Afterall great bike for me, you love it or you hate it. 🤷🏻♂️
Oi Chopsy - My hen needs its teeth back!!! 🤨😂
I had one for 10 days, great bike, totally loved it but that up curving seat is a ball crusher. Every time i hit the brakes ...ooowwwww.
Great vid Chops 😀
Am I the only one who likes a tire hugger style rear fender? I wish more bikes were that way. As a daily all weather commuter I can’t go without a rear fender and I hate the look of a conventional rear fender on naked/sport bikes.
I love my 2019 one (before the quick shifter). I think most people are put off because of the small petrol tank. Suzuki should have made the tank a bit bigger whilst they were doing an update. O well, it doesn't really bother me. Yes, the brakes are a bit wooden. The ones on my Kawasaki Z1000SX are a lot better, and they are Kawasaki's own brand. You can pick up a second hand one with low mileage cheaply. Get one!
Like the Katana, liked the original too, in desperate need of a tail tidy though
Excellent review chops . May be rear mudguard is a compromise for different markets . Went to Ducati factory few years back and think then 5 different specs world wide possible why the wrap around mudguard for one market . Shame about fuel range though.
Love this bike, I'm a 60's child so I remember and loved the original Katana. But please sort out the fuel tank, 12ltrs is not quite big enough. But saying that I would still have one.
Such a missed opportunity by Suzuki. That silly tank capacity. No one expects it to be a luxobarge tourer but a days ride out of it might be nice.
I understand what you are saying regarding the datedness of the TFT, however the current one does capture the TRON retro influence that this bike is all about. I think to retain this that any new TFT needs to be unique to the Katana. Put on the same TFT that they put on their generic bikes ie the GSX 8S and the Katana is losing its appeal for me.
saw one of these in the flesh, it’s so tidy and smart looking in real life. I just don’t need 150 ponies for the road.
Only 130bhp at the wheel...the bargain is the GSX-S950, costs the exact same to get to 150bhp at the rear!
12L tank? I struggle sometimes with my 17L one! Hard pass from me...
I wanted this bike but when I saw it in person I found the fit and finish a little lacking, and I didn't like the tall bars. I wanted to put clip on bars but there is no way to put anything lower than what it comes with because of the way it fits with the body work and gas tank. I ended up with a cb1000r which when looking at them in person back to back was just so much nicer, to me anyways.
I like the Katana, good looking machine.
The Suzuki Katana can thank most KTMs, some new Yamaha MTs, and some Husqvarnas to making the Suzuki less weird and out there.😁😁 Maybe Suzuki can bring back their first year RE-5 Wankel engine bike and recoup the millions they lost in the 1970s.
So easy to have a auxiliary tank made for it...if someone can drop a Yamaha CP2 motor into a CCM644,a subframe aux tank,wouldn't be difficult!
Really enjoyed the video choppy 🤟👍
Glad you enjoyed it 👍👍
Hi, I love your reviews, they are among the best, can you review an Indian Scout Bobber at some point, I can't see that you have reviewed one?
I had one chops, brilliant bike. But the tank too small
You don't see many on the road chopsy as they are always at the petrol station. The previous model was being sold for £8999 just before they brought this one out but I looked at the gsxs1000f with a 19ltr fuel tank
I still don't like the original Katana but I do like this one.
I am just the opposite. Each person has different Tastes i guess ;)
@@WolfgangVonKempelen838 Quite right too sir!!
Hey chopsy! Love your videos but for some reason your videos lately have been crashing my TH-cam app on my tv. It’s only happens with your videos sadly. Usually happens in the first 5 minutes of your videos. Not sure if that is helpful but there it is. Love your content! Just wish I could watch it again!
Oh no that's odd... could be mine are uploaded in 4k perhaps?? 🤷♂️
I have a MT 10 not much difference in the tank range.
That's one of the reasons I prefer the GSXS if you're going to use it for daily commute. It's a more fuel efficient engine and now with the larger 19L tank. Makes a difference with time, money and effort if you're filling up 50% less often.
The fuel tank isn’t a deal breaker for me tbh I want to get off most bikes after 70 miles anyway, I think it would be nice if they paid homage to the original katana clocks but mibey in a split analog/tft kind of way the way they have done with the new Busa. I test rode one around three years ago and found the throttle was very snatchy but I wasn’t too sure about the seat, need to ride one again because I think it looks stunning!
i remember your Launch Video on the Katana Chopsie,i went to a launch night at one of my local dealers but it took ages for them to set up so i left before anything happened.this Bike does seem to be a Curates Egg in some ways - tbh ive not seen one out on the Road yet.Also If you look at the lines of the GSX8-S i think that looks naturallly more like the original Kat too.
I like the bike, its a nice package and like you say riding position is nice. My only gripe is the dash, its a backward step and remind me of early computers in the early 80’s 😆 I think Suzuki should never have made this bike, it has others similar tbh 12 litre tank is an issue 😮
Be interesting to see a Lands End - John O' Groats race between this and say a 125!
I own a 2011 Kawasaki Z1000 and the 4 gallon tank on it leaves me with about a 120 mile range. I wouldn’t want any less range.