2004 Suzuki Katana 600

Pros: Good ergonomics, smooth ride, plenty of power, lots of features in a good looking package.
Cons: The size and weight is a bit much for a sport bike.

So far I've owned four motorcycles and ridden various others. Hands down, my absolute favorite is my 600 Kat. It's just a really capable street bike. Yes, it's not as quick or light as a GSXR or simular modern 600 super sport, but it makes up for it in ...

Pros: Low price, Dependability, Great looks.
Cons: Heavy, Harder to find aftermarket parts for it, Goofy looking stock rear fender.

I have a 2004 Kat 600 and I have to say with a few mods it is not as sluggish as everyone seems to think it is. I have a full Yosh exhaust, Stage 2 Jet kit, K&N filters, lots of carbon fiber aftermarkets. My bike runs amazing and is very ...

Pros: Beautiful, Fast for a beginner, good price, reliable, better passenger comfort than most sport bikes
Cons: none yet

I recently bought a used 2004 Katana 600 as my first bike, and I have to say that I LOVE IT. I took a MSF course in June 05, shopped around, test drove a bike or two, and bought the Katana a month later. I have not been disappointed. The bike has plenty of power for me...in fact quite a bit more than I expected, having rode a 250 dual-sport in my MSF course. I was afraid that the weight was going to be a factor, but as soon as I started riding I realized it was not. I'm a 6'-1" 160lb male. The bike is very comfortable and in my first week I have put almost 100 miles on it already. I highly recommend it to any beginning riders who have taken the MSF course. I cannot say if it would be good or not for experienced riders, because I am not one.

Pros: Easy to ride, learn and live with.
Cons: New riders may drop their first bike, this one is heavy.

I took delivery of my 2005 Katana 600 about three weeks ago. Since then, I've logged 1,100 miles, including a 300 mile road trip in one day. And this is my First Bike! I'm 6'0 and 250 lbs, and as heavy as I am, I still feel like the power is more than enough. After clearing 1,000 miles for break-in, I revved up to the 11,000rpm redline ONCE in third gear and easily cleared 100mph with plenty to go. The power is amazing, and the brakes stop RIGHT NOW! It slides through curves with grace and makes learning to lean easy. I would recommend this bike to any first time rider, but I know that experienced riders will want a faster bike than this. But if you ride 8/10ths most of the time, or if you want a new bike for less than many used bikes, that looks good and gets attention, I would recommend this bike whole heartily. Cons: Don't drop it unless your strong, at 459lbs dry, it's takes a good huff to get it up off the ground.