Suzuki Katana | Back To Basics

[@p1lts1]

You could have positioned it away from that car park “artwork”, or was it deliberate.😂

[@Darren-Trim]

Thinking it was deliberate hence the hand gestures during the intro 😂🤣😂🤣

[@niallmurray9725]

Hahahaaaa 1st thing I noticed too... 😂

[@davem3059]

I brought my Katana three months ago as a second bike , and I completely love it, so much so, my original bike, hasn’t turned a wheel since. It’s fast, light, fun , and so easy to ride, and comes alive at eight thousand revs. The brakes are SO much better than the GSXR1000R. I’ve had the TPS corrected, and it’s still lumpy around town, but the engine and gearbox is so smooth when you’re committed. Ok, the tank range is a pain, but this bike as so much character, and is so distinctive, and has real road presence . You can’t mistake it for anything else. I love it . And yes, I am old enough to remember, and love the original.

[@RichyVida]

Great comment! Congrats mate

[@PissTakeProduction]

Awesome comment. Had the Katana for over a month. Love it I have a spare fuel bottle in my Ventura bag as backup.

[@dotdashdotdash]

I don’t get why peeps whinge about the low range, there’s a petrol station bloody everywhere these days. If you tour a lot, you won’t be looking at a bike like this anyway.

[@dr.bherrin]

Actually, I did a tour on mine...it was brilliant for it. I found a set of bags I could throw over the back, and went about 3800 miles on it. It's comfortable, has the relaxing ride you want, but can also rev out and go when needed. I have adventure bikes that are "tourers" as well as a Goldwing. I like this more. It just has the right combo of elements to be a commuter, tourer, and even a canyon carver. That isn't to say it's a jack of all trades, but it's a brilliant machine that can do more than just "sport" type riding. In fact, I wouldn't call it sport at all. It's definitely got that pedigree in there, but it's a street bike. Not for the track or racing.

[@Hanswurst90000]

Of course you can tour it. After 200km most people want a break anyway. At least i

[@martyndunn1905]

I was born in 1964, I remember the original katana I loved it. I even bought an airfix model of one that sat on my window sill. I love the new katana it looks a lot like the original, my only criticism would be the low tank range.

[@the_mad_leprechaun]

Its what is commonly known now a day as a Sunday morning motorbike. Hence the small fuel tank. That combined with the styling gives you a 100 mpg fuel range.

[@ragerider6283]

Great vid. Love this bike & looking to get one next year hopefully. I really like the looks & analogue nature. I don't track or tour so it's perfect for what I want it for & you can apparently squeeze 120 miles out of a tank which is ample for what I would use it for. I've had worse tank ranges before & coped ok. Looking forward to the next installments.

[@WillCarroll44]

I loved my original Katana because it was so different.....you brought back great memories.....thanks

[@joedudz]

Got mine as a second bike. Expected no more than basics and fun. It is brilliant for that

[@RichyVida]

Exactly. What a great bike 👍

[@gtomcat321]

I can remember walking into Carnells in Doncaster in about 1982 with my dad (who's a biker) & seeing the original GSX1100 Katana for the very first time. It must have just come out as They had it stood on a pedestal with all the Katana corporate banners around it. As a young kid, it really struck me as summat completely different & futuristic that I'd never seen before. I loved it then & I love the styling on the new one...Except for that horrible number plate holder & that 12L tank. Why?? It's one of a very few bikes I've seen in last decade that I would seriously consider buying & still am. Would have to a black un wi Samurai kit on it though 😉👍👌

[@carlosdelacalle1476]

I am absolutely jealous right now. I love the look of the Katana.

[@robertstarr3929]

Love the new Katana, looking forward to several videos. Good choice.

[@johnpirie3800]

Side by side. The Katana sword and the pork sword! Some of the styling is reminiscent of the original from the eighties. Cracking looking bike then and cracking looking bike now.

[@jamesgreen3417]

My first full sized bike in the 80’s. Stunning bike. My first learner bike was a Suzuki GS 125ES Miss them.

[@davem3059]

I passed my test on a GS125ES to 👍 Great little bike and so frugal, even though it got trashed all the time 😁

[@jamesgreen3417]

Dave M definitely my first motorbike after a 50cc Yamaha moped. Great bike weren’t they. I rode from Lincolnshire down to Watford on a full tank still 1/4 left wish I had kept it. Might look for a used one to renovate

[@Daveinn]

One of the best report on the tube ! Thank you

[@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff]

If they ever do a “version 2” with a 17ltr tank and a good looking rear end i’m in!

[@RichyVida]

Can’t beat a good looking rear end ;-)

[@Kurlach]

I’ve had a go; nice enough but obviously built to a budget. A 12 litre tank kills off most use cases unfortunately 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@andrewpitt621]

Would love to see you review the lastest one with the new tech on there and in that blue which I think is stunning

[@niceviewoverthere4463]

The reason you don't see them on the roads is because they are all in the petrol stations.

[@keithwilliams4262]

Loved the artwork at the start. As for the bike. I didn't like the first one and this second one hasn't changed my opinion one bit. You don't see many for a reason. Might see you Thursday depending on work

[@benkelly2190]

Hi Rich, here’s a tip. As an ex sniper..best to release the shot as you breath out. Just before the exhale reaches its end. Holding the breath can upset the sigh picture if held to long. takes lots of practice mind. Your welcome.. and thanks for the great vids..

[@RichyVida]

🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@paullee6663]

I like the look of the Katana, and agree it's photogenic, but I'm biased, I liked the first one! I think it was like 'Marmite' first time around too. I can see why it made you remember Streethawk, lets just say it was of the time. I'm sure it would attract an awful lot of attention parked up in Matock Bath on any Sunday. It's always nice to be different! I'll look forward to the rest in the series!

[@EzzyBrzzy]

That was an awesome review of the Katana ......Following👍

[@scottkelly1607]

love the looks & sound of this bike, so much so I might have a look next year when I look to sell my current bike.

[@Gallagher2112]

“...I’m only going 32 at the moment!” 😂

[@davidwilliambrowning]

Great review. I really liked the look of the black one that I saw at the London Excel show. I think they look even better in the flesh. That motor sounds fantastic.

[@61defender]

riding through Morton the centre village in England you pass the centre tree at 3.10 with sign I thought you would use it on your photo shoots as apposed to the art work you used this week

[@RichyVida]

Took me a long time to create that masterpiece...

[@stevedace4120]

boy does that bring back memories I had the original katana 1100 giving away my age now!!! good news is we have re booked Brittany ferries to picos on 14th October.

[@paulsykesodp]

Props for the funniest start to a KZbin review EVER! 😂😂😂

[@RichyVida]

Hahah

[@davidreed6817]

I just had to look for the Street Hawk after you mentioned it, they should have called it "Shite Hawk" it's that ugly. Loved the car park moment!

[@paulchandler5004]

Bottom end torque may improve once the engine is fully loosed up after a few thousand miles. It's probably still a bit tight. Small fuel tank a bit of an issue if you have to fill up every 100 odd miles or so. My viffer 800 pre VTEC revved to 12 thou - not much happening below 3k, got interesting at 6k and became serous at 9k and beyond. And the sound. OH My WORD!

[@dan4466]

I had a chance to buy the ‘82 version in 1983. Thought it was ugly as hell so I bought a new ‘83 Suzuki GS1100E which was my dream bike. I’m not a fan of today’s edge/spaceship styling, but I like this. No way I’d pay what they want today for one when I paid $3600 for my GS1100E new. To me it looks quite a bit different from ‘82 version. Man does English countryside look like a dangerous place to ride with all that overgrowth, blind corners, skinny roads,etc.

[@Surpriseify]

Lucky owner of a 2020 GSX-S1000 (this bike but cheaper) basically (different plastics ... duh) d: The motor is stupid good, sounds lovely, its reliable and its easy to use... Also it looses its mind above 9k RPM which is just hillarious if you feel that need.

[@Bredaxe]

I have the 1000FA version of your bike. The Katana has a smaller capacity tank.

[@paulsykesodp]

Did you know there is a Durex ad in the middle? I don’t like the looks of the bike but it sounds great!

[@RichyVida]

Serious?! That’s hilarious!

[@paulsykesodp]

RichyVida yep, serious!

[@timtop4]

Music, photography, videography and now bloody graffiti! There’s no end to your talents mate

[@duckbeneathpigeons]

I tried one of these yesterday, a 2019 model. In the video Richie says it has no bottom end, it’s all at the top end. The one I rode has the standard can but decat headers. It’s the total opposite. It seems far more torquey at the bottom end. To the point where it’s hard to know what gear you’re in around town. I’m buying it!

[@RichyVida]

Excellent!

[@bikemadtaffs193]

I saw this at Motorbike Live last year. Like you said it's Marmite, but it's basic characteristics takes you back to the original.

[@jestersrides5457]

See you Thursday Richie can't wait.

[@fyorbane]

It's a poor seller for Suzuki mainly because of that ridiculously small fuel tank and being a bit over priced. Good motor though. Shame really as this could have been a great bike for the firm. Whoever decided at Suzuki that all it needed was a 12 ltr tank should be shot. It will probably fade away quietly unless they decide to update it soon with a bigger fuel tank , a quickshifter and some minor styling tweaks.

[@hoangviettran4074]

the model has not come in my country, the idea of this model is about fast and small for the best handel

[@Wirefox1]

Get it up to Pateley bridge tomorrow morning so I can have a look at it over a coffee.

[@neilcopeland6489]

I had the GXSF version same engine and performance that was a far better looker than the Katana. Both have good performance and a comfy ride. As you say it’s a marmite back, not for me. Have an V4 Tuono 1100 factory now. If you ever want to do a sub ride on one let me know :)

[@TheBroadyBikers]

Street Hawk, Knight Rider, Airwolf, A Team.... The Katana is cool. Imagine if you could have kitt as your satnav voice. That would be sweeeet.

[@RichyVida]

Perfect Sat afternoon there!

[@teneretraveller8980]

Great looking bike and love the basicness. Is that a word? Should be. But no good for pillion travels. And the original had 24 litre tank. I remember it. Definitely an individual choice. Happy travels

[@andyrawlings5369]

Not been on for a 3 weeks due to me getting coronavirus been very un well i am on the mend now 95percent back to normal would not wish it on any one. Good to watch your clips again rich i can remember the first katanas your like me like your v4 honda . Last in line 4 i rode found it very buzzy not smooth like the v4 c your clip has perked me up even more hoping to go on mine on sunday.

[@RichyVida]

Glad to hear you’re getting better, Andy

[@andyrawlings5369]

Been on bike today rich thanks for your concern the coronavirus proper nocked me for 6 feeling back to normal was good to be back on viffer did 200 miles thanks again andy.

[@jeffdavies688]

He is trying to compete with TMF's buttplugs with the carpark artwork!

[@MrPeterJMilner]

Evening Richy, my bike the Suzuki GSX750F K2 was actually called the Katana in the US and Canada markets when it was in production. Youre welcome to try it sometime if you would like. Cheers, Peter.

[@paultanton4307]

I had a new GSX750F in 89,with the bodywork on it looked ok to me,called the TeaPot here from memory.

[@MrPeterJMilner]

@@paultanton4307 The early ones like yours were indeed called the teapot. The 98 and on bikes were badged as Katanas in the US and Canada but the teampot name stuck on the UK bikes.

[@paultanton4307]

@@MrPeterJMilner I ride a VFR750 now,my memory is good and the GSX stood up pretty well in comparison,especially when riding on the Motorway,it had a sweet spot at 80mph.But strip the Bodywork off and the difference is like night and day,and yes in the USA most Bike ranges have names,i also have a genuine Interceptor VFR.

[@geoffcapeschamp]

If that was for sale for £9999, I reckon it would be brilliant value. Bit pricy considering its got zero tech and a casio screen. I personally think it looks lovely, tones of character and I agree with you Rich it's an alternative looking bike for people who like to be different.

[@steveoliver177]

I’m glad you like it Richie but you haven’t even used it in decent roads yet. I’ve got a GSXS1000F in New Zealand. Essentially the same bike. On the flowing, wider country roads we’ve got here, it is a beast. It loves being leaned over in 130-140kph flowing curves. Very stable, very predictable. If you can find that sort of road in blighty, you’ll really see how much fun they are.

[@RichyVida]

I’ve ridden plenty of those roads! I love it 👍

[@garethcouhig6055]

Good one,it’s good that you are honest about how you feel,about yourself on the bike, if that makes sense.Slaynt vie Manxman 👍🇮🇲

[@Nifilheimur]

Its like a cyberpunk bike from a sci fi flick from the 80´s and its absolutly gorgeous:p Too bad it didnt come with a quickshifter

[@lmmbjt]

RichyVida great first review, I personally have fond memories of the original katana, it was my dream bike as a sixteen year old back in 1983 , unfortunately I have never had the opportunity to own an original 1000 kat but I did own the 550 not as good looking as the 1000 , On the new one it’s the rear end that looks wrong that number plate hold has to go , then it’s as good as the original in my book, Wish I lived a bit closer the I would come on the chippy run . However enjoy and catch you soon .

[@jimjoelliejack]

I’m a biker from the early 80s and the katana was an icon in those days, I had a poster on my bedroom wall of one. But today I think it’s too basic. Why couldn’t they produce one with a bigger tank and a bit more spec, I might be interested. That said it does look fun to ride.🏍

[@MsWe24]

Holding your breath before you 'shoot.' humm, the misses is getting something different tonight.

[@alanwatkiss7993]

😂😂

[@RichyVida]

😂😂😂😂

[@steve-wu7jp]

Lol😱

[@debenhamdave4314]

Like to be different and like the fact it's basic, good looking bike, not madly an inline four guy but looks good, Cheers Richy

[@somecolbyguy1833]

Not my personal cup of tea, but enjoyed the video and learning more about the bike. Cheers from sunny Phoenix! :)

[@peterbrewer6104]

Great vid as per usual. I prefer the original Kat, I could touch the ground both feet! Unfortunately not the new one, so although I’d love to test one, I think I’ll pass and stick to my lowered GSX1250fa 😉

[@chrisowens3781]

See if you can get hold of the new v strom 1050 as well. When you guys had the 1000 and 650 models was one of the best and honest reviews I’ve seen on them so for you to do the 1050 would be fantastic.

[@RichyVida]

Picking that up when I drop the Katana off 👍

[@chrisowens3781]

RichyVida I’ll look forward to see that one rich as I do with all your vids. What happened to egone is he under the thumb. Oh no he is Tom thumbs brother 😂

[@RichyVida]

100%

[@stephenlatchford9850]

Not only do I remember the original katana I also remember the first 1000cc made by Suzuki which was of course the GS1000. What the hell were Suzuki thinking by making a retro of the katana when they should have recreated the GS1000, but hey ho Honda have got it right and Triumph Kawasaki etc. Hey Richy you have given us a great review of this machine with its characteristic inline four power delivery etc.

[@dr.bherrin]

My SV650 only gets about 15 more range than this bike. I don't understand the issue. I have cruisers that only get about 20 more miles than this, and they aren't nearly as fun to ride. The tank sounds small, but when you're riding it...you don't really feel it.

[@stableslayers3958]

I’ll take it. Give it away here Ricky 🧐😜🤩😷

[@fam.vanderwel7201]

It is a nice bike,only the steer should be a litle flater now its like a v-strom 650.😎😀👍

[@RebelRides]

Richy - "Please don't go on Google and look at images of Street Hawk" Everybody - stops video and goes to look at images of Street Hawk 😆

[@RichyVida]

Noooooooooo!

[@chrysspeeddraws7617]

My eyes hurt looking at that😂 Katana looks sick. Street Hawk ugly af, I don’t see the comparison whatsoever😂

[@zedddddful]

I think it's a great looking bike but I'm going for the gsx1000f bit more practical with the extra tank space.

[@zedddddful]

@Fry 18 I went for a tuono in the end so didn't matter in the end 😂

[@markgatward8765]

have had a second look at the vid and its full of connotations and funny hand gestures that i did not pick up on.!.........LOL

[@RichyVida]

😂😂

[@philg7889]

Like everyone else, I've just Googled the bike from Streethawk. Dear Lordy...

[@bollox1235]

It looks like there is something missing and the front screen should be bigger.

[@johnhutchinson2500]

Lovely bike. But ... Have to say in my humble opinion the original ones from the 80s look much better

[@paullee6663]

@John Hutchinson I completely agree.

[@marklloyd4153]

John Hutchinson I agree . I got one in 83

[@delararesadv9140]

I rode a friends 2000 Katana today, this new bike still doesn't appeal to me. Nothing makes me look back at either vehicles and say 'oh I love it'. The one I rode today, the brakes were awful, the ride scared me from how much the chassis twisted, the in-line 4 was un-inspiring unless you rev'ed the tits off it (not my thing - prefer a twin or triple). Really couldn't understand it. This video to me, just shows that it hasn't really moved on either from 2000! I feel sick watching 😂

[@paultanton4307]

Out of curiousity what Bike is the 2000 Katana ? Im guessing your in the USA yeah.

[@patrickhostler5939]

I’ve got an original 1100 katana which looks amazing, but is awful to ride...😂

[@SamVBikes]

Nice vid! Nice to see something different being reviewed! Do you have any scope on how long the packtalk offer is going to go for? (Basically... Do I have time to wait until payday?!)

[@RichyVida]

Hi Sam. Cheers! I really have no idea how long they'll keep it running, but there's no word at the mo to stop it..

[@SamVBikes]

@@RichyVida Good to know! Can't wait to get rid of my 'beloved' Sena!

[@johnvaleriewelbers2995]

Nice scenery,another nice vid ,but not my kinda bike. Want more lower end Tork etc. 🍻😎🏍💨💨💨💨🇨🇦👍🏻

[@CJR-89]

‘It’s sounds like it’s going a lot faster than what you are. I’m only going 32 at the moment!’ Absolutely cracked me up! The wife had to ask what I found so funny 😂

[@johnweeks6561]

"Lets take it for a ride shall we."Wasn't sure if you meant the bike or that artwork beside it. For goodness sake man it was a huge parking area . . . .

[@RichyVida]

You think I put it there?! 🤦‍♂️😆

[@sporcqstephane1022]

Nice painting! 🎨✌️😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@dmvitaly1]

It Is just not ugly as other Suzuki bikes.

[@charlesderijcke5307]

Will you post a video of the chippy run ?

[@RichyVida]

Yes Sir

[@timothytwigg3501]

is it a pork sword its supposed to look like ? I own a GS650G Katana 1981 the original Katana

[@tecprojex]

Your own artwork RV?

[@RichyVida]

You know the saying; “never miss an opportunity!” 😂

[@Craigm49]

Hi mate will l be alright to come on Thursday I’ve only got a 125 don’t want to be a slow coach and hold everyone up lol

[@RichyVida]

Of course

[@criticalcuda]

If I finish early enough I will see you at DP or chippy x be good to catch up 👍

[@RichyVida]

Fantastic!

[@alanwatkiss7993]

Surely that should be DL, DP is something of pornhub

[@criticalcuda]

alan watkiss haha prefer the DP 🤣🤣

[@criticalcuda]

Pornhub on the mind 🤣🤣💪

[@criticalcuda]

That’s tickled me 🤣🤣

[@johna6968]

The black Katana is more appealing

[@speedyboolooks]

😎

[@paullee6663]

@ Jay B completely agree, the only proper colour for a bike like this....

[@marksarvari1450]

Did you do the tarmac graphics at the start 😂🤦🏻

[@paulsherwood6010]

Trabant 😳rider mode fast & crash?

[@benkelly2190]

Nicely parked mate...😂

[@markbould1280]

Am a bit of a tech geek rich so the dash n lack of toys is a turn off for me but appreciate it will appeal to others 👍🏍

[@RichyVida]

I too like my tech! ;-)

[@sleepindragon179]

As regards the look of the Katana, "the writings on the floor." I'll get my coat.

[@RichyVida]

😂😂👏👏👏

[@ronaldthomas9396]

The first time I have seen Litter trash in a UK Motorcycle video! Way to common here in the United States! I guess there are pigish people everywhere, maybe more here though.

[@goingwildagain]

I'm more old school making the 1977 2 stroke transition to the Honda's and 4 strokes, 7 8 rev makes most bikes come alive the Tzr 250s, Gt500, Kh 250s and the iconic 500 and 750. My VFR is not dissimilar just the 4 strokes are as smooth as silk. My 1999 VFR comes alive in med rev to high rev like most bikes, I prefer not to hear a screaming engine at Cruz my CBF 1000 is a fantastic ultra smooth ride at all rev range no need to scream her but she isn't a sports bike the VFR is more suited at grin factor on the twisties. Where can you use to full potential the superfast 1000cc the hayabusa or the H2 to full capacity without loosing the licence in the UK. Range, smoothness and touring with sport bikes performance you need 2 own bikes these days. Like the looks of the Katana but !????????? It falls far short, reinventing the Z900 and Suzuki Katanas won't ever make us older bikers become nostalgic to days of old the real deal is the best. Spending shit loads of money to be current is no joy to me.Ade

[@paulblackburn8746]

Not sure about the car park artwork 😂😂 nice bike though 👍

[@wallsendwandera2999]

Was that a Banksy?

[@RichyVida]

Pretty sure it was! 🤷‍♂️

[@BeardedBMW]

More like a wanksy

[@jamieperry6367]

Sausage Katana? 👍🏼

[@bikemadtaffs193]

Oh no,. I googled StreetHawk OMG, was it really that bike, ruined my childhood memories 😬

[@Baza765]

Not to struck on the bike.but your vids top draw mate ;-) Ride Safe Baza \m/

[@sakumisan]

They're about $4000 USD overpriced here, if they dropped the price I'd consider one. The price vs what you get.. eh not really a good sell.

[@NoLimitSquad]

I just bought mine 3 days ago for $9999. At $13,500, I said fuck that tho. I’m loving this shit! Gas issue isn’t rly a big deal for me

[@the_mad_leprechaun]

What can I say. Too work Dickie Vegas, cock of the North or what "Naughty Boy" cracking video as always. A little top gear at the beginning. Keep up the good work. Ride safe. 😀🏍

[@aidebethune]

I hold my breath when I shoot too 🤣🤣

[@RichyVida]

😂😂😂😂

[@tommckay6812]

ok who drew the giant knob 😂richy!!!!!

[@Jafmanz]

it looks fairly average to me.

[@kevinwestwood6668]

Gsx s1000 with a different fuel tank, suzuki haven't built a new bike in years.

[@2505mike]

It's different.. But a great video anyway.

[@CRAZYLEGSONABIKE]

Haha how many of us went on to Google to look at streethawk. 🤣🤣

[@RichyVida]

Oh no! 🤦‍♂️

[@goingwildagain]

@@RichyVida Nice bike the streethawk great beak.

[@HD2O13XL12OOC]

What? Ha ha ha ha....the pre intro artwork 🤔

[@highlandriders9696]

Definitely not a common bike to see. Small tank though. Initial "carpark artwork was hilarious"