Suzuki looks to continue the success of the Katana with engine modifications bringing it into Euro5 compliance and which give more power. Tweaks to the electronics and dash and new colours complete the picture.

Suzuki Sharpens The Katana's Cutting Edge

Suzuki's Katana has been a big success for the manufacturer since its introduction in 2019. Based on the GSX-S1000 naked bike, it combined a great engine and decent chassis with retro styling.

For 2022, the Katana gets a significant makeover, gaining more power while becoming Euro5 compliant. In addition, the electronics have been tweaked, there's an updated dash and new colour options.

The new-for-2021 GXS-S1000 remains the base for the Katana. The engine remains the 2005-based K5 unit, widely regarded as one of the best engines Suzuki has ever built and, as well as now being Euro5 compliant, it actually produces 2bhp more than last year's engine, bringing the total to 150bhp. This has been achieved with new intake and exhaust cams, valve springs, exhaust and airbox. A broader spread of mid-range torque is now available.

The ride-by-wire throttle has been revised to give smoother power delivery and a new slipper clutch and quick shifter/auto-blipper is fitted. There are three riding modes and five-way traction control controlled through a new dash which has a red night mode.

The chassis remains pretty much unchanged which is no problem as it was always more than up to the job but two new colours are available: dark matt blue with gold forks and wheels or dark grey with red wheels.

No word on 2022 prices as yet, but expect to see the new Katana around spring.