I had ridden dirt bikes for several years earlier in life. I always wanted to get a sport bike and enjoy riding on the streets. I had done some research and was familiar with all of the popular models in every class of bike. I was not sure of my street riding abilities as a street bike is completely different than a dirt bike. I purchased my 1999 Katana 600 knowing full well that it was a TEMPORARY beginner bike. With this mindset, I was able to invest in the Katana as a training tool for my safety and the safety of those I ride with. Buying a bike that is beyond your skills could turn you off of riding for good because of a scare, injure you or others, or even kill you. A small investment now goes a long way in your riding life.
A small investment is just what the Katana 600 is. Do your research and you will see that most bike magazines agree that the Katana provides a great value. A lot of its components are pieces from its brother the GSXR. This bike was designed and built to provide an adequate level of performance while remaining a very ridable and forgiving machine. The Katana is geared for smooth shifting and The bike's weight doesn't allow for any death defying stunts. Riding this bike is like driving a peppy Honda Accord rather than a Porsche supercar but it gets the job done.
The Katana is fun to ride. It handles corners well and has a decent top speed. One of the best aspects of the bike is the look of the design. Suzuki came up with a great looking bike styled after various deep sea creatures. While you may not be buying the fastest, most high-tech bike available, you will be buying a motorcycle that has good technology, great styling, and an easy demeanor to learn on.
I had my Katana for almost a year and had no problems with it. I changed the oil on schedule and required no other maintenance. The only change I made at all was adding a Yoshimura RS-3 slip on pipe. This pipe made a noticeable increase in power and sounded a million times better. I paid only $4500 for the Katana with just 250 miles on it. I traded it nearly a year later to a dealer for $4000. Not bad.




Recommended: Yes