2023 Suzuki Katana: An absolute thrill ride with great power that's easy to live with! Not Retro?

The 2023 Suzuki Katana has a previous generation GSX-R1000 engine in it. The Katana is designed to be a retro bike, but is it really? With fantastic power, great technology and a modern look other than a few small details, I don't think it matters whether you call it retro or not, it's going to be an absolute blast for whoever owns it! Want to see this bike for yourself? Connect with the awesome team at Maclean's Sports here: www.macleanssp...

[@lightxgrenade]

I really can't understand why this bike doesn't get more love. Plenty of speed, plenty of features, if you're into the neo-retro look - this is a perfect example, and this color scheme is fantastic.

[@dx-v-xb]

Because of it’s really small fuel tank

[@CaptainFeathersword]

I think it's gorgeous and retro in its own way as the Katana was always a modern cutting edge bike.

[@yahoodlums]

That colour scheme is 🔥

[@PeterLoweOne]

It looks even better in person!

[@williamrae9954]

There was a cherry metallic red,which was Japanese only...looked amazing

[@mrfq_abg]

Thanks Peter, for giving more detail attention towards these bikes. Not many videos of this bike that doesn't feel like an advert.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Thanks for watching! I really appreciate it! I have a LOT more planned for this channel in the coming months!

[@joedudz]

I love mine. Fitted a tail tidy. Everything perfect.

[@Chaals]

This is what the Svartpilen should be. Modern retro styling with a badass liter engine and all the modern features.

[@Dooby0071]

I've been researching bikes for months now, and damn ive learned a lot about the history of this bike and this is awesome

[@chappierides2237]

i love how this review went. light talk no none sense everything is on point im an aspiring motovloger too and i love what ou did here. new fan here😊

[@CGB65]

The 2023 Katana mat be a retro as compared to the original 1980s Katana, but remember, in the 1980s the Katana was the cutting edge of motorcycle style and technology.

[@Jack908r]

Didn't like the styling at first, buts grown on me. So much so I now really like it.

[@BlackArroToons]

Nice review. The old-style headlight looks nice enough. Nice bike design. The rear extension looks unique, with the blinkers on that stalk, which seems unusual to have the blinkers lower. Changing that rear tire, hopefully the rear piece doesn't affect too much. Thanks.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Changing the rear tire would be the same as other bikes other than easily removing that plastic piece. This bike has really grown on me after I looked into it and properly reviewed it. Thanks for watching!

[@BlackArroToons]

@@PeterLoweOne That's good to hear. Thanks!

[@remusventanus5341]

This bike is gorgeous.

[@heeroyuy809]

Xsr900 and the new Katana, this looks so good even tho I'm a Gen z this design sweet ❤

[@muhammadzain7299]

wow! what a quality video. loved everybit of it

[@PeterLoweOne]

Thanks for your support!

[@DoodMangSpeaks]

These have really grown on me i wanted a gsxs but think this is better looking 😮

[@trevor2830]

Now this is how you do a retro design and functionality.. this thing is soo nice. btw the Mv Augustas do that rear fender and it still works with the compact design the bike goes for instead of lets say the fender that is on the gxs 8s which is putrid lol. other than that the light upfront was not my taste at first but after you showed the functionality and the daylight running lights next to it..not gonna lie it was a spectacle. Love the bike. oh yeah and suzuki is killing it with the color palettes for their bikes

[@PeterLoweOne]

I agree about the light. The more time I spend with it, the less it bothers me. The accent lights might be the difference maker to me too. Either way, from the cockpit, it's a great view! Thanks for watching!

[@nowhere529]

Best looking Bike on the market, If they are still selling them in a couple of years when I get an unrestricted licence Thats what I want.

[@baricho4771]

Beautiful modern bike with hints from the past.. remember the motor.. GSX perfection. Unfortunately, like so many modern bikes, the license plate holder is horrible.. if there was an after market replacement at half the size!

[@TheSteveSteele]

I actually like this bike. I’m currently riding a 2003 SV1000s and love it, but the quirky Suzukis are interesting.

[@R-Tap]

Front on, looks great, has a muscular look to it and the square light is en pointe.

[@JaredElliott1]

I absolutely DO NOT like the 'fender' on this bike. The rest of the body looks good though. And I like the display too. That 'retro' style LCD look is very nice.

[@nurzrachit7133]

This bike reminds me of my old 05 FZ1 only better looking 😂. The FZ used to have the previous R1 engine and I believe my bike was rated at 145hp. Although I took it to the mountains and the tail of the dragon frequently, I never rode like a psycho on the street. The only mods I had was a tail tidy, Cotton filter and a delkevic slip on. One of my favorite things about the inline four is the sound. My bike was relatively wide and I probably looked like a monkey riding it as I'm 5'5", but once I saw it I had to get it. This along with the z900RS have got to be the best looking naked bikes out right now. I really like the color and style of this one here man, might have to go look at the dealership. Thanks for a very thorough review brother.

[@wakajawaka44]

Excellent video Peter as with all your videos. The picture quality is outstanding when you film outside. This Suzuki Katana is really growing on me almost to the point where I may well pull the trigger. I have a 2023 Yamaha XSR 900 legend blue with the Akrapovic exhaust at the moment. The triple engine of the Yamaha sounds nice but that Suzuki K5 in line 4 engine sounds better IMO. May not be quite as nibble as the XSR 900 but I think the Katana is a better looking bike. Bonne Année Tout le monde! SW France.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Bonne Année to you as well! Thanks for watching!

[@the7tongardengnome]

I like the stance of the original. This one looks like every other hyperformance bike out there but the original stood out back in the day.

[@PeterLoweOne]

True. But the reason the stance of this one is similar to other high performance bikes of today is because that stance actually offers higher performance than bikes from the past.

[@the7tongardengnome]

@@PeterLoweOne I don't care too much for performance these days. There will always be something faster. Dang I wish I kept my original. Might not out perform bikes of today but what a head turner😃

[@blandrooker6541]

I remember being awestruck when I saw the original, I was 20, but too poor to buy one. Through the 80s and 90s I thought of buying one, but was turned off by the blobfish styling. This iteration does it right, but I ended up buying the GSXS1000GT instead.

[@NihonNoMajin]

Trying to see of my local shop can order me a 2024 Katana since the closest place that sells one I've seen is North Carolina 😭

[@mahasidha9]

You are an honest man! I was going to get the 2024 Kawasaki Z1000RS SE but after seeing this I’m smitten. In addition it now costs less than the Kawi in the States. Both are the same weight; this has more get up and go. Thank you for the review. In another video I asked did you test this and now I see it’s you! I didn’t recognize you outside of the showroom! Other than steel braided brake lines and Metzler M9RR tires what would you change?

[@PeterLoweOne]

Thanks for watching! I don't know that I would make any upgrades, but I see what you're thinking and I can't disagree.

[@ringo4419]

Selling this bike good!!! Tanks the only negative from what everyone says!

[@Demonbfg]

The original Katana (GS1000SZ) came out in 1982, i had one it was a good motorcycle and was faster than the 1983 GS1100ES. (hotter stock cams).

[@vimalvijayan7574]

this bike is such a turn on

[@user-jr1cs6ob3m]

Bring back the pop up headlights

[@PeterLoweOne]

Haha!!

[@KrisThatsit]

4:35 minor gripe is the turn signals should have been integrated into the daytime running lights, the turn signals look like an afterthought but it was probably due to US regulations so they get a pass.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Yeah, I don't know the spec, but there are definitely regulations around the placement of signals compared to the headlights. It's highly likely a regulation decision that drives the placement.

[@Villani_AV]

Still no cruise control, when the other 2 bikes using this same chassis have it is a crime

[@antonio_rioseco]

Excelent review of this legend! Is it the small tank capacity really a problem( only 12 lt )Thanks!

[@PeterLoweOne]

I don't think it would bother me, but I understand why some people would like a bigger tank.

[@williamrae9954]

De-cat exhaust, plenty straight through link pipes online for peanuts, use the cat space for a belly tank...small pump to refuel when on the hoof

[@tubedriver009]

Nice looking ride BUT you 'conveniently' failed to mention what is the biggest issue with this bike...the pathetically small gas tank (2.6 gal or 12l).Should be half as big again if you don't want to be filling up with great frequency.

[@PeterLoweOne]

I didn’t conveniently fail to mention it. For some that will be an issue. A spec sheet is available on the Suzuki website. This video wasn’t meant to replace the spec sheet, but to talk about things that the spec sheet doesn’t show.

[@silv3rArrow]

This or an MT-09? Curious about how the katana does at speed/how much that fairing protects the rider compared to a fully naked.

[@PeterLoweOne]

The fairing on this isn't huge, so it will have some benefit, but I'm not sure if it will matter too much to the average rider. This or an MT-09? Only you can choose the best bike for you. I'll continue to make more and more reviews to try to point out the pros and cons of each, but you'll have to decide which of those pros and cons matter most to you. My honest answer to your question though? It probably won't matter which one you choose, both are going to be an absolute blast to ride! 😃👍

[@JustCarnivorousCupcake]

I hope to own this bike one day, but since I still gotta get my license, Imma go for less ccs first 😅

[@PeterLoweOne]

Great idea.

[@pg6576]

OK but why this versus a GSX-S 1000? Anything about it better? Worse?

[@PeterLoweOne]

Ooh that's an option entire other video. Lots of differences which may or may not matter to you. I'll try to do that comparison video soon.

[@toofastnobrakes]

So get that it’s and “objectively” better bike than the z900rs. But my question is how is the comfort compared to the RS? I’m currently considering trading from a standard z900 to and RS. And it’s not so much about power for me. But the ergos are a little more relaxed, and the seat is not only better for me, but way better for a passenger. But how does the katana compare?

[@PeterLoweOne]

Comfort is such a personal thing. Some bikes are very comfortable for most people, some are a little harder to tell. For instance, I often talk about two seating positions being different, but equally comfortable. Like the Z900RS SE that I own is different from the Ninja 1000 SX but to me, they're equally comfortable. The Katana is different than my bike, but it's not superbike like. It's worth a try for you to see if it works for you.

[@toofastnobrakes]

@@PeterLoweOne I see your point. Well let me ask this then. In your personal opinion. Which bike would you consider more comfortable? As far as just daily riding and fatigue from long seat times

[@PeterLoweOne]

@@toofastnobrakes I mean, I bought the Z900RS SE. So there's no getting around the fact that that's the bike I've chosen. I don't know that my advice should in any way be a knock on the Katana. They're also different bikes, with different power, and different styles. So that may play into things too.

[@mahasidha9]

Would you say the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX combines the best of this and your Z900RS SE while adding more tech?

[@Wowxoxo69]

Great bike from usa, its one those stay low profile

[@peterraymond872]

Awesome review, thank you!

[@masterlakay3856]

What brand is your smartwatch bro

[@PeterLoweOne]

Apple. 👍

[@liv0003]

I really like the design but I will prefer lower handlebars on it for a sportier look and riding position

[@KrisThatsit]

That'd be the first mod I'd do as well, I like to feel like I'm in the bike not on top of the bike.

[@darylcadman2863]

Would like spoked wheels

[@ericlismumze9932]

i really like this bike, "modern" bikes are mostly all sorta ugly, alot of it is headlight design...almost every headlight on new bikes are ugly. This bike looks clean, aggressive, the color here is fantastic. headlight looks like a headlight and not some sort or robot, bug, or alien...which is fantastic. if the range and comfort are decent its the whole package. i don't need that much power, but i am diggin the bike alot...just wish they were easier to find. my local dealer told me 1000 bucks down payment, and maybe they can get one..maybe? i don't get it. but....maybe...one day i will stumble across one.

[@williamrae9954]

Japanese have all the parts for these,they a cult bike over there, you can turn it into the original 3 seater,if you want...nice screens, bars,bellypans,huggers,etc

[@x_ghost_x6612]

What was the hp rating?

[@PeterLoweOne]

I don't think Suzuki lists it, so the consensus seems to be right around 150 hp.

[@x_ghost_x6612]

@@PeterLoweOne Awesome! Thx for reaching out!

[@soniaFashion.1414]

Super 👌

[@FairladyS130]

The specs are great but those slabs of plastic everywhere really spoil it for me, the ones at the back are just weird.

[@PeterLoweOne]

They took some styling risks with this bike. It's not going to be for everyone, and I think they're comfortable with that.

[@1stfrompuertorico568]

1st Dang, nice one!

[@RapRapKun]

Dammit 8min late.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Yeah, this one is pretty cool!

[@mushtiar_Engineer]

Good work I’m also review bikes Honda all watch me guys

[@toots3020ph]

What is the seat height?

[@PeterLoweOne]

The seat height is listed as 825 mm (32.5 in.) on www.suzuki.ca One thing that I've found with listed seat heights after comparing many motorcycles is that two bikes with similar listed seat heights can often feel different due to their shape. So be careful about ruling bikes in or out just from that particular spec.

[@toots3020ph]

@@PeterLoweOne tnx for the reply, you are right , the deciding factor in buying motor bike is not only for the seat height. So many things to consider,

[@sublimeister9630]

It’s a great design, but the tail seat needs a few inches longer… 👍

[@PeterLoweOne]

I think the designers did exactly what they did for a reason. It definitely has a unique view.

[@williamrae9954]

​@@PeterLoweOneThere's a Japanese company making the '3 seater' bodywork like the original...which was too long IMO

[@henrycarnill9838]

Brilliant bike, unfortunately let down by miniscule fuel tank

[@ElizabethRivera-qf2yn]

Looks like your Kawi 900 has a more comfortable position to ride

[@olee9266]

Is this a good beginner bike? Lol serious question.

[@TheDonLife30]

Man get you a 600cc and take it to a parking lot, practice low speed turns for atleast 2 weeks, and hop on the highway. You will be OK, if you learn to ride at low speed first. N 1000cc is for those with atleast a little experience with lower cc bikes. You have to learn the basics or risk ending up with your skin on the pavement

[@williamrae9954]

The GSX-S950 (K5 motor) is marketed as their 46bhp learner bike here...decat exhaust link pipe, ECU flash and a filter, 150bhp at the rear wheel...same amount of cash to de-restrict the Katana, GSX-S1000, GT,GX,etc...all those are only 130bhp at the r/wheel(source...Moores Mafia).

[@starjoke8781]

Beginner bike?

[@PeterLoweOne]

I wouldn't recommend this as a first bike.

[@starjoke8781]

@@PeterLoweOne thanks I will look into other bikes

[@herrtomas6729]

Hi

[@mendesoto]

You say the bike appeals to people your age; how old are you?

[@PeterLoweOne]

I don't know that it ONLY appeals to people my age, but I grew up in the 80's when the Katana was a big deal. I'm 44.

[@kenbowlus2995]

I grew up owning and driving two Katana's during the 80's. I'm 59, so it appeals to boomers older than you also. Lol @@PeterLoweOne

[@martyn_g]

The Mini by BMW is driven by folks in their early twenties, so I’m not sure this would be any different. I’d like to see the actual sales demographics, rather than rely on perception.

[@PeterLoweOne]

@@martyn_g if you think the Mini is driven by people in their early 20's, it sounds like you need to update your own perception of demographics. 🤔

[@TheDonLife30]

Born in 94 but this bike is a sexy mf

[@fuyoh94]

wish it has a bigger gas tank but gsx-s1000 fixes that

[@PeterLoweOne]

True!

[@Villani_AV]

Still gets about the same range as some other 1000+cc standard/naked bikes though 🤷‍♂️ even better than some too

[@abhi7887]

So no more huggable videos? I might hv missed a channel update....

[@PeterLoweOne]

I'll still be at Jim Gilbert's PowerSports and Jim Gilbert's Wheels and Deals! I love those guys! On this channel, the Kawasaki line is pretty maxed out with their current content. I expect to cover all the 2024 Kawasaki's as they arrive, but I've expanded this channel to multiple brands now to give a broader picture of the options within the industry.

[@abhi7887]

@PeterLoweOne All the Best...

[@zeropoint546]

Why do the handlebars on all these modern bikes look as wide as a pair of barn doors? Way to high, way too wide. Ghey.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Most buyers want that. If you want narrower bars, you need to look at a super sport bike. These are all designed with more comfort in mind. I actually find this to be a very comfortable position.

[@zeropoint546]

@@PeterLoweOne I'm just looking at the original Katana. Sitting up like one of the cops on CHIPs with the wind in your teeth ain't my idea of comfort.

[@Volksplane1]

Tank range poor

[@BlackArroToons]

3.2 gallons isn't much (12 liters) for such a strong engine, agreed. At least 4 gallons would be good.

[@williamrae9954]

140miles....plenty bikes do go as far,Ducati and V4 Aprilia...new Yamaha XSR900 has a similar range, with 14litre capacity!

[@sadwingsraging3044]

Lets see,,, a square headlight or a set of transformer bug eyes...🤔 Yeah. The only thing questionable here is someone that wants the bug eyes.🙄And that license plate holder has gotta go! Hideous.😵‍💫 Think I will go check one of these out!

[@sunsinger970]

"new Brunswick" is that some sort of Canadian nonsense?

[@PeterLoweOne]

Grab a map. Educate yourself.

[@davestvwatching2408]

The original Katana was a light silver and blue color. This one throws the retro look away because of the color.

[@LTLT900]

Yes i would have to have the silver one.

[@BlackArroToons]

The 2020 Suzuki Katana was made in silver, but probably sold out by this time.

[@martyn_g]

I disagree- the shape which echoes the original doesn’t change because of a different colour.

[@MRFLESHSTORM]

when you get on it and ride it then make a vid. do not waste my time with this crap .

[@TheHortond]

You should sell your z900. Get something without a z in the name. So when you name drop we don't have to hear you butcher the Kings English by hearing you call it Zed900.

[@carcal170]

Yep. We say it Zee900 here in the USA

[@PeterLoweOne]

There always seem to be a few Americans who feel that the rest of the world has to do things the way they do. I film in Canada. They're called Zed here. I didn't make that up, it's just the way it is.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Yup... but I film in Canada where they call them the ZED900. I don't make the rules.

[@LTLT900]

The king is an idiot. He should stand down.

[@zeropoint546]

Wat!? Zee is the yankee doodle way of saying it. Kings English is Zed, old boy. I'm an Australian and loved my GP ZED 900R like it was my first child.