Enjoyable in the modern world? Absolutely! I own both a Gen1 and a Gen2, and have ridden three different Gen3s now, and I still feel that the Hayabusa is the best bike in the world. There's nothing it cannot do, unless you're looking to compete in Trials. 😄
@@bingoberra18 I'd say that the Gen 2 is the best value since it is an improvement over the Gen 1 (smoother, more powerful, better instrumentation) and is basically the same bike as the Gen 3 mechanically, just without all of the new bike's needless electronic nannies and restyled fairings. And for a fraction of the cost of new. I'd definitely recommend Helibars or even a Spiegler handlebar conversion for extra comfort on marathon rides, as well as a touring windscreen to reduce fatigue from the wind. Just my 0.02. 🙂
You always forget how low and long these beasts look until you see one in person, it's cool that Suzuki has kept the original concept look almost the same for over 20 years
Not sure how I missed this one Mike, what a machine. I love the 25th anniversary edition in blaze orange, as a designer I’d love to tweak the graphics (they’re just a touch too prominent and large for me) but they’ve got the balance of colour to black beautifully judged on that machine. Great review as always!
I have almost no interest in this particular model/type of bike. Yet still thoroughly enjoyed this video. Testament I believe to your ability to convey knowledge/experience with genuine enthusiasm. You Sir are a class act.
Great bike, so easy to ride slowly or quickly in all circumstances and totally agree about the grip/stability when riding in the wet! I have the same colour/year (from the same dealer 🙂- we met briefly outside just after I'd bought mine and you'd unfortunately dropped yours) and have since got a bit carried away with adding bling and luggage to set it up for touring (solo) for which it's perfect! Have you tried the heated grips in cold weather - disappointed with mine not getting hot enough - compared to the Oxford ones which I've always had fitted on previous bikes? On increasing performance, did you also see that Woolwich Racing have also now produced one of their famous kits for allowing the tuning experts direct access to the ecu? Am enjoying the channel.
Hi Charles, I think there was a few of us that bought Silver Hayabusa's from Kings and I am sure we met at some point . It was actually David that dropped his, on his drive at home. Unless you are talking about my GT? Only minor .Annoying but not much damage and quickly resolved ! I have tried the grips and like them but in fairness I haven't ridden it in very cold conditions . I have bikes with Oxford grips and they are in the main warmer although the Suzuki ones on the GT are almost too warm 🤷♂. Nice problem to have really.. Thinking about buying some luggage for the Busa but don't want permanent racks. Be interesting to see what is out there now. No plans to tune mine at the moment . Glad you are enjoying the channel and thank you for taking the time to comment.
@@charleskay2605 As you say, there is a recall. Kings have already ordered the part for my bike but I am still to have any notification from Suzuki uk . My brakes are fine but clearly there is something that they are concerned about . Funnily enough I mention it in my summer break video which will be out next week..Thanks for letting me know though . Better twice than not at all!
Great video and I truly look forward to the future videos with it's journey to see Richard Albans at TTS tuning in Northamptonshire , without doubt if I ever end up with one, that's the route I would take 100%
@@michaelmam Indeed. I posted that brief comment whilst having my hands full of greasy chicken breast. To elaborate, I was living in southwest Portugal at the time, and used to go across to Spain pretty frequently. One of the geat things about the B-King's engine was how tractable it was. You hear a lot about the outright power, but you can't beat a large inline four's tractability. I remember riding through a Spanish village for about two kilometres in top gear with my throttle closed. The big engine's torque pulled me through on 1,000 rpm at 20 mph.
I've never been so excited for something in my life, mine will arrive very soon, it's the new Metallic thunder gray, god it's so beautiful, I never really liked the older hayabusa, design and purpose wise, but this one is incredible, beautiful dash, beautiful bike, loaded with electronics and safety features, good riding position, there was no other bike choice for me
I own a 2007 lovely busa. Love it. Your review was very enjoyable. You sir are such an elegant communicator. Good to see an older gentleman riding the beast, hope I will do the same at your age! You have a new subscriber 😉
Please can I suggest that you remove your bobbins from rear swingarm because if you ride over a big pothole or bump the bobbins will hit and dent the end cans..I've got the same bike and it's now done 18000 miles in the past 6 months, and I have to say there a fantastic motorcycle to live with..all the best.
You mentioned in your first video selecting first gear was not easy when cold. Has that improved now the bike has covered a few miles? May I say how much better the audio quality is on this video. The picture definition is also very good possibly because you recorded it outside. You did not mention in both videos how comfortable it was to ride over long distances ie weight on wrists, knees, back etc. Thanks for uploading always interesting listening to you.
Thanks for watching . Gearbox is fine now I have run it in . I actually do our longer trips on a GSX 1000GT so my runs are rarely further than 150miles and suspect that is not your idea of Long? I actually find the bike very comfortable , particularly if my routes has some sections of more open road, keeping the weight off my wrists. Riding position ( I am 5’8’) suits my back and knees , well👍 Will be trying longer trips , two up , next spring . I will mostly ride the GT and Strom this winter . 👍
I also thought I am not tall enough for this machine I am 5'11" To reach the bars and be comfortable .... But now I see you having fun with it i have a second thought
Nice video Michael as always. I am thinking of part exchanging my 2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke for a Suzuki Hayabusa but I am a little concerned about the weight of the Hayabusa and the manoeuvrability in the garage. I would hate to drop it! I have evotech crash protection on the Super Duke but they do not appear to offer very much for the Hayabusa. R&G have a kit but it requires complete removal of the fairing’s. I like the tank bag you fitted to the 1000 GT. I guess you can lean against the bag and take the weight off the wrists on the Hayabusa.
Hi , I haven’t tried a tank bag on a Hayabusa but it feels light to ride and is certainly easier on my hands /wrists than some sports bikes . It is heavy but I do find it easier to move around then the taller bikes ( like a KTM) as long as I take my time 👍
Enjoyed the video, I had a Y (first generation) plate blue and silver Busa for about 8 years, thought it was fantastic. I replaced it with an 08 plate ZZR 1400 which was also a stunning machine but, on reflection, I feel that the Busa had the edge. The thing I liked about both bikes, back then, was the lack of technology, much more fun in my opinion. In contrast, I'm now looking at the new Royal Enfield Hunter, love it's simplicity. Also interested in the Scram 411 so I enjoyed your other video too. All the best for 2023
Thank you . Testing the Hunter this month . Will probably make it a comparison . Meteor , Hunter , Classic but I don’t really decide until I have ridden the bike 👍
@@michaelmam I rode the Hayabusa when first released but given their monstrous weight and wheelbase I couldn't wait to take it back to the dealer. Very popular in the USA where an inordinate amount of motorcyclist's appear to have no proclivity let alone any desire to take a corner or bend. lol
Hi Michael! Currently, I own a gsx-s 1000 gt which is a great bike, but I always had the desire of having a Hayabusa. Do you think that is a good decision to trade my bike for one of those in the future? I only use the bike on the road. In terms of comfort, how do you compare them?. I would like to know your opinion since you are the only one that I found having the two models. Thanks in advance.
Hi , I am not sure I am any more qualified to advise than anyone else 🤔Things like specifications are facts . Opinions are just that .. for what it is worth , personally I have found I ride my GT far more than the Busa , it is , for me , more versatile? That said , looking back I have more regrets over things I should have done , rather than things I did ? If you have always wanted a Hayabusa , why not ? If , like me , you find that the GT is more useable , you can always change again at some point … to the best of my knowledge , we only live once ! Whatever you do , have fun !! 👍
I have seen some pretty big guys on Hayabusas but the only way to be sure is to sit on , and preferably , try one ? I suspect you find most bikes quite small ? Thanks for watching !
You cant beat a gen2 these get out of shape at high-speed cornering and even at high milage, the engine still feels like it needs loosening, its very congested through euro5 it also looses puf around 170mpg
Enjoyable in the modern world? Absolutely! I own both a Gen1 and a Gen2, and have ridden three different Gen3s now, and I still feel that the Hayabusa is the best bike in the world. There's nothing it cannot do, unless you're looking to compete in Trials. 😄
Which one would you recommend to someone who is interested in his first Busa? For general riding and some trips down the continent with bags. Thanks
@@bingoberra18 I'd say that the Gen 2 is the best value since it is an improvement over the Gen 1 (smoother, more powerful, better instrumentation) and is basically the same bike as the Gen 3 mechanically, just without all of the new bike's needless electronic nannies and restyled fairings. And for a fraction of the cost of new. I'd definitely recommend Helibars or even a Spiegler handlebar conversion for extra comfort on marathon rides, as well as a touring windscreen to reduce fatigue from the wind. Just my 0.02. 🙂
You always forget how low and long these beasts look until you see one in person, it's cool that Suzuki has kept the original concept look almost the same for over 20 years
They certainly look long . I was surprised that the wheelbase was shorter than my GS ! I agree , they have kept the looks in keeping 👍
So Michael. Only about 11 bhp more than my slow RD250! Seriously, I think this is a most beautiful bike. It is iconic and deservedly so.
Such a gentleman - unlike us uncouth Aussies! Great video and explanations along the way.
😂 I love the Australian attitude . Say it like it is 👍
Another great video! Always wanted a 'Busa. I found your channel when doing research on my '75 CB400F. You are the David Attenborough of motorcycling!
😂 Glad you enjoy them . Thank you
My thoughts exactly. Very enjoyable to listen to
Not sure how I missed this one Mike, what a machine. I love the 25th anniversary edition in blaze orange, as a designer I’d love to tweak the graphics (they’re just a touch too prominent and large for me) but they’ve got the balance of colour to black beautifully judged on that machine. Great review as always!
Only 186BHP. Genuinely love your explanations. Keep it coming.
I have almost no interest in this particular model/type of bike. Yet still thoroughly enjoyed this video. Testament I believe to your ability to convey knowledge/experience with genuine enthusiasm. You Sir are a class act.
Thank you ! I am a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast . I am glad it comes across …
Greetings,
As always another brilliant detailed video 🇺🇸🍾🎉🇺🇸
Keep producing more videos
Many thanks!
Great review! Good range of topics covered.
always great to hear your opinion - informed & interesting. great channel. Mike (NZ)
Thank you Mike . Appreciate you taking the time to watch and comment . Hope the earthquakes are quietening down a bit for you !
Awesome review and knowledge
@@FRJMJ Thank you . Glad you enjoyed it ..
Great bike, so easy to ride slowly or quickly in all circumstances and totally agree about the grip/stability when riding in the wet! I have the same colour/year (from the same dealer 🙂- we met briefly outside just after I'd bought mine and you'd unfortunately dropped yours) and have since got a bit carried away with adding bling and luggage to set it up for touring (solo) for which it's perfect! Have you tried the heated grips in cold weather - disappointed with mine not getting hot enough - compared to the Oxford ones which I've always had fitted on previous bikes? On increasing performance, did you also see that Woolwich Racing have also now produced one of their famous kits for allowing the tuning experts direct access to the ecu? Am enjoying the channel.
Hi Charles, I think there was a few of us that bought Silver Hayabusa's from Kings and I am sure we met at some point . It was actually David that dropped his, on his drive at home. Unless you are talking about my GT? Only minor .Annoying but not much damage and quickly resolved !
I have tried the grips and like them but in fairness I haven't ridden it in very cold conditions . I have bikes with Oxford grips and they are in the main warmer although the Suzuki ones on the GT are almost too warm 🤷♂. Nice problem to have really..
Thinking about buying some luggage for the Busa but don't want permanent racks. Be interesting to see what is out there now. No plans to tune mine at the moment . Glad you are enjoying the channel and thank you for taking the time to comment.
@@charleskay2605 As you say, there is a recall. Kings have already ordered the part for my bike but I am still to have any notification from Suzuki uk . My brakes are fine but clearly there is something that they are concerned about . Funnily enough I mention it in my summer break video which will be out next week..Thanks for letting me know though . Better twice than not at all!
What a great bike and video!
Enjoy it!
Great video and I truly look forward to the future videos with it's journey to see Richard Albans at TTS tuning in Northamptonshire , without doubt if I ever end up with one, that's the route I would take 100%
Interesting idea David !
I had a B-King for 7 1/2 years. Great bike.
A very good bike . Underrated. 👍
@@michaelmam Indeed. I posted that brief comment whilst having my hands full of greasy chicken breast. To elaborate, I was living in southwest Portugal at the time, and used to go across to Spain pretty frequently. One of the geat things about the B-King's engine was how tractable it was. You hear a lot about the outright power, but you can't beat a large inline four's tractability. I remember riding through a Spanish village for about two kilometres in top gear with my throttle closed. The big engine's torque pulled me through on 1,000 rpm at 20 mph.
Own a 2012 Gen 2. Love it.
I've never been so excited for something in my life, mine will arrive very soon, it's the new Metallic thunder gray, god it's so beautiful, I never really liked the older hayabusa, design and purpose wise, but this one is incredible, beautiful dash, beautiful bike, loaded with electronics and safety features, good riding position, there was no other bike choice for me
Have fun . Extraordinary bikes ..👍
Another excellent video my friend.
I own a 2007 lovely busa. Love it. Your review was very enjoyable. You sir are such an elegant communicator.
Good to see an older gentleman riding the beast, hope I will do the same at your age!
You have a new subscriber 😉
Please can I suggest that you remove your bobbins from rear swingarm because if you ride over a big pothole or bump the bobbins will hit and dent the end cans..I've got the same bike and it's now done 18000 miles in the past 6 months, and I have to say there a fantastic motorcycle to live with..all the best.
You mentioned in your first video selecting first gear was not easy when cold. Has that improved now the bike has covered a few miles? May I say how much better the audio quality is on this video. The picture definition is also very good possibly because you recorded it outside. You did not mention in both videos how comfortable it was to ride over long distances ie weight on wrists, knees, back etc. Thanks for uploading always interesting listening to you.
Thanks for watching . Gearbox is fine now I have run it in . I actually do our longer trips on a GSX 1000GT so my runs are rarely further than 150miles and suspect that is not your idea of Long? I actually find the bike very comfortable , particularly if my routes has some sections of more open road, keeping the weight off my wrists. Riding position ( I am 5’8’) suits my back and knees , well👍 Will be trying longer trips , two up , next spring . I will mostly ride the GT and Strom this winter . 👍
I also thought I am not tall enough for this machine I am 5'11"
To reach the bars and be comfortable ....
But now I see you having fun with it i have a second thought
Great video and review !
Thank you !
Stick a 190/55ZR17M/C on the rear & it'll turn in better.
Great work Michael I really in joyed that very interesting
Good to catch up at The Super Sausage the other day . Ride safe 👍
@@michaelmamIt's always very pleasant to see you too be safe ride safe look after yourself ( keep up the good content )
I saw a P-51 at a local airshow once and it reminds me of that. We have a couple WW2 airfields near by just saying. Nice!
😂 Sounds like the answer 👍
Nice video Michael as always. I am thinking of part exchanging my 2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke for a Suzuki Hayabusa but I am a little concerned about the weight of the Hayabusa and the manoeuvrability in the garage. I would hate to drop it! I have evotech crash protection on the Super Duke but they do not appear to offer very much for the Hayabusa. R&G have a kit but it requires complete removal of the fairing’s. I like the tank bag you fitted to the 1000 GT. I guess you can lean against the bag and take the weight off the wrists on the Hayabusa.
Hi , I haven’t tried a tank bag on a Hayabusa but it feels light to ride and is certainly easier on my hands /wrists than some sports bikes . It is heavy but I do find it easier to move around then the taller bikes ( like a KTM) as long as I take my time 👍
I have it in black. Riding the bike is pretty agile. Pushing it around in the garage is like trying to get a rhino to turn 360 deg in an elevator.
@@muhammadsteinberg 😂
Enjoyed the video, I had a Y (first generation) plate blue and silver Busa for about 8 years, thought it was fantastic. I replaced it with an 08 plate ZZR 1400 which was also a stunning machine but, on reflection, I feel that the Busa had the edge. The thing I liked about both bikes, back then, was the lack of technology, much more fun in my opinion. In contrast, I'm now looking at the new Royal Enfield Hunter, love it's simplicity. Also interested in the Scram 411 so I enjoyed your other video too. All the best for 2023
Thank you . Testing the Hunter this month . Will probably make it a comparison . Meteor , Hunter , Classic but I don’t really decide until I have ridden the bike 👍
@@michaelmam I'll look forward to the 'Hunter' review, hope you get some clement weather for the ride 😊
@@michaelmam I rode the Hayabusa when first released but given their monstrous weight and wheelbase I couldn't wait to take it back to the dealer. Very popular in the USA where an inordinate amount of motorcyclist's appear to have no proclivity let alone any desire to take a corner or bend. lol
@@theaustralianconundrumDid you seriously ride a Hayabusa? They are really funny on twisty roads.
@@LINKchris87 They are vile on tight twisty roads and you well know it you scoundrel.
Great review thanks 😊
Hi Michael! Currently, I own a gsx-s 1000 gt which is a great bike, but I always had the desire of having a Hayabusa. Do you think that is a good decision to trade my bike for one of those in the future? I only use the bike on the road. In terms of comfort, how do you compare them?. I would like to know your opinion since you are the only one that I found having the two models. Thanks in advance.
Hi , I am not sure I am any more qualified to advise than anyone else 🤔Things like specifications are facts . Opinions are just that .. for what it is worth , personally I have found I ride my GT far more than the Busa , it is , for me , more versatile? That said , looking back I have more regrets over things I should have done , rather than things I did ? If you have always wanted a Hayabusa , why not ? If , like me , you find that the GT is more useable , you can always change again at some point … to the best of my knowledge , we only live once ! Whatever you do , have fun !! 👍
@@michaelmamThanks for your answer! As you've said we only live once 😉
❤l love you hayagusa ❤
I guess it depends on one's world. My world is the great state of Texas, in the United States of America. It's quite enjoyable in my world.
Have liked the Busa since it came out. Just the name is irresistible click bait for me. If I were younger and living in Germany......
I am 197 cm tall.
Would it be too small a motorcycle for me?🤔
I have seen some pretty big guys on Hayabusas but the only way to be sure is to sit on , and preferably , try one ? I suspect you find most bikes quite small ?
Thanks for watching !
@@michaelmam you are 100% right.💯👍🏻
I'll stick with my '07 Blackbird. More than fast enough for me.
What do you mean with the engine running "tight" english isn't my first language.
The engine feels reluctant to rev freely . Early resistance . They run in / ease off with a few more miles ..
You cant beat a gen2 these get out of shape at high-speed cornering and even at high milage, the engine still feels like it needs loosening, its very congested through euro5 it also looses puf around 170mpg
tried it once, i dont consider it as a good bike for me, this is only due to its ability to make me loose my licence within seconds ... ;)
😂 They are fast …
@@michaelmam oh yeah ! ;)