2022 Suzuki Katana First Look

Just a few years after it was (re)introduced, Suzuki has announced an updated version of the Katana, which is based on the updated 2021 GSX-S1000. Suzuki says the new Euro5-compliant Katana now makes approximately 150 horsepower. Better still, the new engine makes a broader spread of torque across the entire rev range. This is done via new intake and exhaust camshafts, new valve springs, a new exhaust, and a new airbox.

Getting the power to the ground can be done in three different intensities thanks to Suzuki’s Drive Mode Selector. All three modes deliver the same peak power, but the further down the alphabet you go, the softer the initial power delivery becomes.

The Katana benefits from a quickshifter that works in both directions, with five levels of traction control to keep the rear tire in line when you need it. It is unclear whether Suzuki employs an IMU on the Katana (or the GSX-S) to enable lean-sensitive traction control. Further, the TC can be switched off if you prefer.

A new Suzuki Clutch Assist System includes a slipper clutch to help keep the rear tire in check during downshifts or instances of heavy engine braking. Rounding out the Katana’s electronics package is the easy start system which requires only a tap of the starter button (instead of holding it down) and the low RPM assist system which raises the engine speed slightly when slowly releasing the clutch. This helps make leaving the line easier stalling the engine harder.

The bones of the new Katana, like the frame, swingarm, suspension, and brakes are very much similar to the GSX-S on which it’s based. More details can be found in the European press release below, though US availability and pricing has yet to be released.

From the Suzuki booth at EICMA 2021.

Begin press release:

Suzuki has sharpened its Katana for 2022, with the updated machine getting more power and an improved suite of electronics.

Based on the new-for-2021 GSX-S1000 platform, the new, Euro5 Katana produces 152PS at 11,000rpm and a broader spread of torque across the rev range than the preceding model, thanks to a new intake and exhaust camshaft, new valve springs, new exhaust, and a new airbox. All this is delivered smoothly via a new ride-by-wire throttle.

That smooth power delivery can be further controlled thanks to the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector system, with three selectable engine maps; all three deliver the same peak power, with mode A providing the sharpest, sportiest response, mode B a softer initial power delivery, and mode C delivering the softest response, ideal in wet and slippery conditions.

A bi-directional quickshifter makes swift work of gear changes and enhances performance on sporty rides, and there are five modes of traction control to choose from to keep things in check. Traction control can also be turned off.

Added controllability and increased performance also comes thanks to a new Suzuki Clutch Assist System, with a slipper clutch that mitigates the effect of engine braking when downshifting from high rpm.

Completing the electronics package is Suzuki’s handy easy start system and low RPM assist, which raises engine speed as the clutch lever is fed out, to aid slow speed control and prevent stalling.

The new Katana uses the same lightweight, twin-spar aluminium frame and GSX-R-derived swingarm, with fully-adjustable KYB front forks and a preload and rebound damping adjustable rear shock. Brembo monobloc calipers bite 310mm front discs, mounted to six-spoke, cast aluminium wheels shod with Dunlop SPORTMAX Roadsport2 tyres, custom engineered for Suzuki’s GSX-S platform.

The 2022 Katana will also come in new colours, with the sharp, angular bodywork that so obviously takes design cues from the original machine from the 1980s now finished in a dark matt blue, complemented by gold forks and wheels, while a dark grey iteration is set off by red wheels. A revised dash gets a new red ‘night mode’.

It will be available in dealerships in spring 2022.

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