2022 Suzuki Katana First Look

News has broken of an updated 2022 Suzuki Katana, a radical retro-inspired sportbike that harkens back to the original 1982 model. The new model receives revisions to its engine platform, electronic rider aids suite, and aesthetic details among other things.

The heart of the modern-day Katana is a 999cc inline-four engine, which is an evolution of the legendary GSX-R1000 K5 powerplant. For 2022, it follows the updates made to the new GSX-S1000, meaning it gets new intake and exhaust camshafts, valve springs, a 4-into-2-into-1 exhaust system, and airbox for improved efficiency. The bonus is a claimed 2 hp increase with broader midrange power delivery. For reference, the last Katana we ran on the in-house Cycle World dyno produced 139.6 hp at 10,100 rpm and 76.3 pound-feet of torque at 9,200 rpm.

Along with the internal revisions, Suzuki has fitted the Katana with a new ride-by-wire system and smaller 40mm electronic throttle bodies that work in conjunction with an updated rider aid suite, including the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector system with three selectable throttle maps. A bidirectional quickshifter, an updated slipper clutch, and Suzuki’s Easy Start system are also incorporated. Finally, an updated dashboard gets a “night” mode.

The Katana’s chassis remains fundamentally the same, though it’s dressed in fresh looks for 2022. It will be available in two colors: Metallic Matte Stellar Blue and Solid Iron Gray. Other details include gold fork tubes, a red shock spring, a two-tone seat, and wheel coloring coordinated with the paint scheme.

There is yet to be an official announcement regarding US pricing and availability of the 2022 Suzuki Katana. Stay tuned.