Photos & Text: Aryan/ xBhp.com

Originally introduced in 1999 and consistently tested as the fastest production motorcycle in the world, the iconic Hayabusa redefined the hyper-sport category. Designed for maximum performance, the Suzuki Hayabusa, named after the Japanese bird-of-prey capable of speeds in excess of 300 km/h, is one of the most popular and high-powered motorcycles ever produced. The Hayabusa’s lightweight twin-spar aluminium-alloy frame, advanced braking and suspension systems, and aggressive and sporty styling complete a potent package.



















The Hayabusa was designed with a view to be the fastest accelerating bike on the planet with fantastic wind-cheating ability. Its standout, bulbous, lengthy style is instantly recognisable. Up front, an oversized but shapely mudguard goes upwards into the headlight cluster which, with a 70mm projector-type high beam works brilliantly at night. The indicators sit flush in the fairing, while the pair of smoothly rounded rear-view mirrors have their own charm. It has silver-outlined four-pod analogue instruments for the speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge and temperature gauge. An LCD in the center displays the bike’s odo and twin trip readings as well as Suzuki’s Drive Mode Selector (S-DMS), which allows easy switching between three engine maps; A mode for maximum performance, B for a relatively less power curve, and C that subdues the Busa to make it as sedate as a Busa can possibly be. The machine also comes with beautifully sculpted, reach-adjustable, alloy clutch and brake levers, comfortable grips and adequate switchgear bolted onto its clip-ons.

The new Busa’s fuel tank is slightly lower than on the earlier model, while its visor sits 15mm higher, both combining to allow improved wind protection when a rider tucks in. It also has beautifully designed chrome tipped twin silencers. The LED double lens taillight and the oval indicators sit comfortably on the tail section. The quality, and the finishing is all top notch! The Busa now gains a huge 25bhp in peak power output over its predecessor, with 197 horses at the crank, while the torque is a phenomenal 15.7kgm developed as low as 6200 RPMs! The ram air fed, in-line-four, liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine retains its earlier bore dimensions, but has increased stroke by 2mm to 65mm to bump up displacement to 1340cc. Suzuki has increased the compression ratio of the Busa which now is higher at 12.5:1. A pair of overhead, hollow camshafts power 16 titanium and bucket tappet-supported valves. Cam-chain tensioning is hydraulically achieved which helps bring down noise levels. Pistons are lighter and propped up by shot-peened chrome molybdenum steel alloy connecting rods. An advanced digital fuel injection system now finds its way on the newest 'Busa, along with twin 44mm double-barrel throttle bodies.



















The new Busa uses a curved, compact radiator that is controlled by the bike’s engine management system, while twin exhausts let out a soft, yet menacing exhaust tone that provides a nice background to the smooth engine. The new Busa’s hydraulically operated clutch is back toque limiting. It takes no more than a few moments of experiencing the violence of nearly 200bhp to understand what a Hayabusa is all about. I am pretty sure no other bike can rocket as quickly from rest with such ease. On an average, the Busa manages a 0-220kph dash in 10.26seconds, 0-200kph in 8.39sec, 0-160kph in 5.84sec and 0-100kph in 3.35seconds! Make no mistake - THIS IS an expert’s motorcycle. It commands respect and should be ridden with utmost care. We all know the kind of questions the Superbike owner gets to answer at each red-light, the common of them all is the 'Mileage kya hai'? Well, to answer them, it gives about 14-16kp/ litre in city and a whopping 22 km/litre on the highway, which, for a 1300cc+ engine is pretty darn good, I say!The Busa weighs 260kgs. and it's wheelbase stands at 1480mm. It also has the now standard adjustable upside-down forks at the front as well as a fully adjustable single rear shock that works in co-operation with a bridged alloy swingarm.





















The Hayabusa’s riding position is in between — not as radical as an R1, but not totally upright either. A bike which has so much power on tap has to have a superb set of brakes too, and the Busa sure does not disappoint in this either. The front brake calipers are radial mounted, and have a pair of 310mm front rotors, with a smaller 260mm single piston, single disc unit used at the rear.

Conclusion
The 'Busa is an extremely famous and at the same time quite an awkward looking bike as well. There is no place in India atleast, where this machine can be used fully, which develops as close to 200 horses as has ever been! Just like it's earlier versions, this, the latest HayaBusa is for people who are really brave to ride one, provided ofcourse you can afford it first!















P.S: A very special thanks goes to LoneWolf, who took time out so early in the morning for this First Impressions Photo-shoot.

Thanks LoneWolf for the warm welcome, for letting us photograph your beautiful machine and also for the wonderful breakfast!

Thanks,
-Aryan

A few more photographs: