2006 Suzuki Katana Review

Suzuki has offered the Katana in direct competition to the industry-leading Honda CBR and Kawasaki Ninja for the better part of three decades. Like its competitors, the Suzuki Katana has enjoyed many different versions over the years. The 2006 models were offered as the GSX 600, 750, and 1000 in the United States. Where Suzuki differs in its model engineering from its competitors is easily felt when sitting atop the base model Katana 600. The Katana is a near perfect meld of sport bike performance and sport touring comfort. For the sport bike lover who loves to get out for long rides, the 2006 Suzuki Katana is an excellent option.

As in years past, the 2006 Suzuki Katana remains a true head turner. The fairing and body offer several aerodynamic cutaways, allowing peeks at the engine, while also aiding in the cooling of the inline four-cylinder. The Katana is liquid cooled, so there is never any concern about pushing it too hard, unless blatantly riding in defiance of legal speed limits. (Because of its performance capability, high-speed performance is an enjoyable temptation.)

From front to back, there is no interruption in the aesthetic line of the Katana. The bike is appropriately named after the sleek, curved blade of the Japanese Samurai. Because of the Katana""s sport touring comfort, riders and passengers will enjoy longer trips. Many sport bikes offer little more than a slightly padded seat pan and plank for operator and passenger seating, but each of the Katana models presents well-padded saddles for riders and passengers. Additionally, the front windshield and fairing wrap over and around the tank and engine.

In terms of performance, the 2006 Suzuki Katana leaves little to be desired. For those who want the most capable performance specs offered, the Suzuki GSX Katana 1000 will provide more than enough power to cruise easily at highway speeds, or to attack the curves of mountain roads and long stretches of wide open highway. The Katana 600 is limited to a top speed of 134 mph, but it will impress any rider off the line. Within a matter of seconds, riders can easily work through all six gears, and handling and maneuverability are top-notch. This bike is capable of getting low and scraping knees, for those who love to max out their turns. It is also enjoyed while cruising, with a classic riding style that suggests comfort over sporting aesthetics.

The 2006 Suzuki Katana is an excellent option for new riders, though it isn""t a bike for the timid. The power possessed in the 600cc four-cylinder could easily intimidate a rider with misguided expectations. Experienced riders enjoy the combination of comfort and sport performance on the 2006 Katana. There is a basic reason why the bike has been produced year after year, and continues to be a great seller for Suzuki – simply put, it""s an excellent motorcycle.