The Suzuki Katana 750 is one of many sport bikes available. I have found it to be an excellent bike for my purposes for several reasons. It has the pep that you usually expect from a sport bike, although it doesn't reside on the bleeding edge of motorcycle technology, such as a Hayabusa, CBR1100xx, Ninja ZX12 or Yamaha YZF-R1.
The main consideration I had when selecting a sport bike for my own use was that it must fit me well. If you (like me) are of the extra large variety, and you'd like to consider a sport bike, I can recommend the Katana as an excellent compromise in sportiness and comfort for those of us not built like twiggy.
I was also more interested in handling (read "cornering") than in top end speed. While this bike has proven itself on the track with a respectable 7.43 at 93+ MPH in the 1/8 mile, I was more concerned with how it handles in the twists. This bike is truely a dream in the tight ones. You can lean way over and feel nothing but traction and a good, stable corner. It's an incredibly sweet feeling.
I once looked down from my lofty Gold Wing at those who rode "crotch rockets", believing myself to somehow be better because of my sensible ride. But as Master Yoda might say, "Once you start down the path to the dark side, forever will it dominate your destiny." I have learned that while the Gold Wing is a great bike, there are just some things it doesn't do as well as a good, tight crotch rocket.
Since this bike seduced me over to the "Dark Side", I've nicknamed it "Vader". Here are a few pictures of Vader from different angles:
My other street bike is a 1985 Honda Gold Wing Limited Edition (GL1200LTD).
I am a member of the following Motorcycle Organizations
I subscribe to the following email discussion groups:
For those who just can't get enough Katana, check out the following links:
The Tennessee Honda Rider's Club is probably one of the best riders clubs around. Headquartered in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, they meet regularly at Sloan's Motorcycle and ATV for a pancake breakfast on the 2nd Saturday of each month. During "normal" riding season these pancake breakfasts are usually followed by a group ride. I heartily recommend their web page and activities to anyone interested in enjoying the company of a fun group of fellow riders. And you don't have to ride a Honda to be a part of the fun!
Please visit my tribute to Erold (The Whale) Ansell.
Don't hang out in the No-Zone!