The 2022 Suzuki Katana has more power and an updated electronics package
Suzuki has revealed the model year 2022 (MY22) Katana, which has been further refined, at the EICMA 2021 motorcycle show.
The most obvious changes include new colours – Metallic Mat Stellar Blue (with gold colour wheels) and Solid Iron Grey (with red colour wheels) – and new trim for functioning parts.
For 2022, the litre-class street bike comes with a revised seat colour, gold coloured inverted front forks instead of blacked jobbies and the rear monoshock spring is painted gray rather than red.
However, the overall design is still very much inspired by the original 1981 Katana, with a touch of modernity. The lights, for example, are full LEDs.
Other incremental changes made to the 2022 Katana by the Japanese brand include amber backlighting at night for the LCD instrument cluster and inclusion of rubber mounts in the top bridge and handlebar brackets to reduce transmission of vibration.
But the biggest change has been to the engine and electronics of the motorcycle. Now, the 999cc, 4-cylinder motor has new camshaft profiles, new valve springs and a new clutch and produces 150 BHP at 11,000 RPM (2 BHP and 1000 RPM higher than before).
Teamed to a 6-speed gearbox with an assist and slipper clutch and a bi-directional quickshifter, the engine has a revised air box and it offers more torque across the rev range, despite the maximum torque being lower than the 2020 model, while also having a new radiator and a 4-2-1 exhaust system.
As for the electronics, the 2022 Suzuki Katana is equipped with ride-by-wire electronic throttle, 3 ride modes (Active, Basic and Comfort), Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS), 5-level traction control (with ‘off’ setting), Low RPM Assist and Suzuki Easy Start System.
The bike still uses the 2020 model’s twin-spar aluminium frame, swingarm and suspension. Brembo brakes stop the 215 kg machine which has a rather small 12-litre fuel tank.
