Suzuki Hayabusa 2021

Local Launch Test

- Gavin Morton

Back in 1999 when the fastest production road bike was the iconic Honda Blackbird, Suzuki launched their Hayabusa, the Japanese word for the Peregrine Falcon, which just so happens to be the predator of the Blackbird.

The powerful Suzuki Hayabusa then went on to develop a massive following achieving cult status. Many years later in 2008, Suzuki launched their second-generation Hayabusa with boosted capacity and power. The year 2021 marks the launch of the third generation Hayabusa, boasting a whole new makeover but retaining its instantly recognisable lines.

Although the motor remains the same capacity - 1340cc inline four-cylinder, it has slightly reduced peak power from 145kW to 140kW and now sports massive exhaust cans to comply with the latest emissions standards. Suzuki claims that its redesigned motor produces enhanced performance at the lower to mid rev range making the Hayabusa a more rideable and even more reliable motorcycle, yet still boasting lightning-fast 0 to 100km/h of 3.2 seconds, 0.2 of a second faster than its predecessor. Top speed is still electronically limited to 299km/h.

Although the third generation Hayabusa boasts over 550 newly designed parts and styling, the electronics are most definitely a giant leap forward. Over and above the ABS, traction control, cruise control, hill hold control, launch control, engine brake control, three power modes, various riding modes, and anti-wheelie control there is also a bi-directional quick shifter that allows for gear shifting up with the throttle wide open as well as downshifting, both without the use of the clutch.