Suzuki Motorcycle India has quietly discontinued the Katana model from its lineup. The bike was available for over three years and was the brand’s only liter-class supernaked in India, featuring an edgy 1980s-inspired styling. The Katana was powered by a K5-derived four-cylinder engine that produced 152hp of power and 106Nm of torque. Despite its impressive performance and unique design, the Katana failed to gain significant traction in India’s niche big bike market.
The Katana stood out with its sharp looks inspired by the original model from the 1980s. Its last recorded price was ₹13.61 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), with Honda’s recently launched CB1000 Hornet SP being its only rival at ₹12.36 lakh. The Katana came with several electronic riding aids, including Suzuki Drive Mode Selector, Suzuki Traction Control System, Ride-by-wire Electronic Throttle, Bi-directional Quick Shift System, Suzuki Easy Start, and Low RPM Assist. The motorcycle also featured fully adjustable USD forks at the front and mono-shock at the rear.
With the discontinuation of the Katana, Suzuki’s big bike portfolio in India now includes three models: the Hayabusa, GSX-8R, and V-Strom 800DE. The Hayabusa is priced at ₹16.90 lakh, while the other two models are powered by a similar 776cc, parallel-twin motor and cost ₹9.25 lakh and ₹10.30 lakh, respectively. Despite reviving the GSX-R1000R superbike recently, there’s no word on whether it will be available in India again.
The Katana’s discontinuation is likely due to its poor sales performance in India, despite being a fast and striking machine. The bike’s unique design and impressive performance were not enough to attract buyers in the niche big bike market. Suzuki’s decision to discontinue the Katana may be a strategic move to focus on other models that have shown more promise in the Indian market. The Hayabusa, GSX-8R, and V-Strom 800DE will continue to be available in India, offering buyers a range of options in the big bike segment.