Suzuki’s Hayabusa ($18,599) is the ideal sportbike for folks looking to get somewhere quickly. And after a seven-year production run since its last minor update (2013 MY), the Japanese brand treats us with a thorough refresh that hopes to attract the next generation of Bridgestone-tire-smearing ‘Busa riders.

We throw a leg over Suzuki’s 2022 Hayabusa hypersport bike in this review. (Kevin Wing/)

Editor’s note: We reported on the GSX1300R’s technical improvements during the 2022 Suzuki Hayabusa GSX1300R First Look Preview article. Also peruse the 2022 Suzuki Hayabusa GSX1300RR First Ride Review from its European press introduction. To learn about the previous version, take a peek at the 2020 Suzuki Hayabusa GSX1300R MC Commute Review article and video. This review is the first in a multipart series.

The 2022 Hayabusa (18,599) represents the top of the spear in Suzuki’s current motorcycle model lineup. (Kevin Wing/)

Swing a leg over the Hayabusa, and the seating position is familiar, but with a slightly lower seat height. It remains tall-rider-friendly with a long, low, and stretched-out riding position. If you’re an NBA-sized rider, you’re going to like this Suzuki. A few pounds lighter than its predecessor, the 582-pound GSX1300R is a sizable motorcycle between the rider’s legs.

As usual, the Hayabusa sports a comfy rider seat that is well-suited to long days in the saddle. (Kevin Wing/)

Release the easier-pulling hydraulic clutch, and that heft fades away, along with anything else in the rearview mirrors. Like before, the ‘Busa delivers a smooth spread of thrust that makes it deceptively fast. A bidirectional quickshifter makes it even easier (and faster) to row through the six-speed gearbox without using the clutch. Engine vibration is minimal and this bike is well-suited to high-speed interstate rides, especially with its standard cruise control.

We’re always impressed by how well Suzuki’s Hayabusa handles for a nearly 600-pound sportbike. Its handling is even more effortless for 2022. (Kevin Wing/)

The ’22-spec inline-four (187.75 claimed horsepower) makes nearly seven ponies less than the previous version, says Suzuki. Torque output is also lower (3.7 pound-feet) and now rated at 114.3 pound-feet. However, we didn’t notice a difference versus its predecessor. Top speed remains limited at 185 mph.

Like before, the Suzuki Hayabusa’s ergonomics package favors taller-than-average riders. (Kevin Wing/)

Although first on the scene with a fuel-injected Japanese sportbike and adjustable S-DMS engine power modes, Suzuki has been slow to adopt modern electronics. We’re happy to report the Hayabusa includes all the current bells and whistles. From IMU-powered traction, wheelie, cornering ABS, and engine-brake control, the Hayabusa finally enters the digital era. A mixed analog and digital dash looks familiar and features logical and easy-to-use switch gear—especially compared to more complicated setups from other brands.

The instrument display is a mix of old and new. It’s easy to read and we like the switch gear and menu navigation. (Kevin Wing/)

Rolling on a set of seven-spoke alloy wheels, this Suzuki benefits from updated suspension components that deliver a comfortable, yet planted ride during full-throttle acceleration and firm brake input. A larger set of front disc brakes with Brembo’s gorgeous Stylema-generation calipers do a fine job of shedding speed. The rear brake remains strong and easy to modulate. The brake system also includes combined braking. Brake pressure is automatically routed to the rear brake when the front brake lever is actuated. It’s a seamless setup.

Suzuki joins the modern sportbike era with a suite of electronic rider aids. The electronics are easy to set up and allow the Hayabusa to go from mild to wild with a push of a button. (Kevin Wing/)

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We are big fans of the sleeker and more modern appearance of Suzuki’s ‘22 Hayabusa hypersport bike. (Kevin Wing/)

Still fast, still smooth, Suzuki’s ’22 Hayabusa streetbike continues to impress with its lofty level of refinement. Although it doesn’t feel vastly different, the improvements Suzuki made make for a more polished riding experience. Consider its sleeker styling and high level of electronic adjustability, and there’s plenty of reason to have a new Suzuki parked in the garage if smooth effortless speed is your hobby.

Gear Box

Helmet: Shoei RF-1400

Jacket: Rev’It Crossroads

Pant: Rev’It Jackson

Gloves: Racer FHH

Boots: TCX X-Vibe WP

Leaner and meaner, the Hayabusa is sure to turn heads with its wind-tunnel-born styling. (Kevin Wing/)

2022 Suzuki Hayabusa Technical Specifications and Price

PRICE	$18,599
ENGINE	1,340cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled inline-four 4-valve/cyl.
BORE x STROKE	81.0 x 65.0mm
COMPRESSION RATIO	12.5:1
FUEL DELIVERY	Fuel injection w/ 43mm throttle bodies, ride-by-wire
CLUTCH	Wet, multiplate, slipper/assist
TRANSMISSION/FINAL DRIVE	6-speed/chain
FRAME	Aluminum twin spar
FRONT SUSPENSION	KYB fully adjustable 43mm fork; 5.0 in. travel
REAR SUSPENSION	KYB shock, fully adjustable; 5.0 in. travel
FRONT BRAKES	Radial Brembo Stylema 4-piston caliper, 320mm discs w/ Cornering ABS
REAR BRAKE	1-piston caliper, 260mm disc w/ Cornering ABS
WHEELS, FRONT/REAR	Spoked alloy; 17 x 3.5 in. / 17 x 6.0 in.
TIRES, FRONT/REAR	Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22; 120/70-17 / 190/50-17
RAKE/TRAIL	23.0°/3.5 in.
WHEELBASE	58.3 in.
SEAT HEIGHT	31.5 in.
FUEL CAPACITY	5.3 gal.
CLAIMED CURB WEIGHT	582 lb.
WARRANTY	1 year, unlimited mileage
AVAILABLE	April 2021
CONTACT	Suzuki.com

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com