2008 Suzuki GSX1300R Hayabusa

Summary:

Brilliant

Faults:

Flat battery - normal replacement item.

General manufacturer recalls completed.

General Comments:

I bought it sight unseen and hadn't ridden one before. The first owner never registered it or rode it as it was the limited edition model. It is a really civilised and easy bike to ride. Unbelievable acceleration in any gear. I commute to work on it every day. I have used it when delivering rider training and slow speed courses, and it is a really nice bike to ride. Maybe a bit uncomfortable in heavy stop / go traffic, but open road is no problem. I splurged and had it dyno tuned / ECU done, which made it even more smoother and responsive. Slightly more HP than a standard one. I also put on a Wilburs rear shock with remote preload as I take a pillion frequently. Upgraded the front forks too, but kept standard springs and the bike handles so nicely, like a little sports bike. The suspension changes really improved the handling. I don't plan on selling it anytime soon as I just love riding it.

I've had to replace front brake discs a few times, but that didn't bother me, easy job to do yourself. But keep an eye on front brake pad wear; it makes big speed easily which equals frequent use of pads. I wore out the foot peg rubbers too, so I replaced them with cheap eBay rear sets and they've been brilliant.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 31st January, 2017

2001 Suzuki GSX1300R Hayabusa

Summary:

A sensational all time living classic. Number one

Faults:

Low headlight bulb blew at 47000klms.

Replaced battery every 3 years.

Oil cooler blocks up with small rocks when ridden on unsealed roads.

General Comments:

A great fast highway bike. Very strong and easy to live with. Does anything and everything asked of it.

I have owned many big bore motorcycles, and this has been the best so far in my 47 years of regular road and dirt riding.

Great bike for riding with a passenger.

A bike for reasonably experienced riders who have owned a number of slower bikes, and worked their way up to a machine that has this level of performance. A truly enjoyable motorcycle.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 7th February, 2013