2008 Suzuki Hayabusa Review

The 2008 model year saw the launch of the new second generation of the Suzuki Hayabusa, one of the fastest bikes that can be bought. When the Suzuki Hayabusa was first unveiled in 1999, it stirred up a lot of interest. First, its aerodynamic styling made it iconic, but also was controversial due to the bulky look and long swooping lines along the body. It was also one of the most powerful and quickest bikes on the road. Suzuki had created a bike that polarized riders, they either loved it or hated it.

With the launch of the new 2008 Suzuki Hayabusa, Suzuki hasn’t changed much, meaning that the controversy continues, but the Hyabusa has grown into one of the most recognized bikes around. The design of the bodywork has been slightly tweaked, but it isn’t all that much different from how the Suzuki Hayabusa looked when the first generation was initially launched. The body has been restyled so that it a lower fuel tank and a taller windscreen provide better ergonomics for the rider.

The instrument panel has been redesigned for the launch of the 2008 Suzuki Hayabusa, and now features new attractive bezels and clear displays. As well as displaying information on the expected technology, such as the speedometer and the fuel gauge, the display also provides information on the new Suzuki Selective Drive Mode. This allows the rider to choose between three different settings for power output through the use of a handlebar-mounted thumb switch.

As well as tweaking the body style, the engine and handling components were also refined to produce greater power and improved handling. Within the four-cylinder engine of the 2008 Suzuki Hayabusa, a two-mm longer stroke meant that the power output was increased from 1299cc to 1340cc. This was the only major changed to the engine, with other minor changes included to improve the efficiency of the engine. The tweaked engine is now reported to produce 194 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque.

The handling of the 2008 Suzuki Hayabusa was improved through changes made to the front suspension, as well as the brakes, frame, and chassis. The front suspension received a new front fork to improve turning of the Hayabusa. The front calipers are now radially-mounted to complement the changes made to the frame and chassis, and also reduce weight. The chassis features a bridged aluminum alloy swingarm to improve rigidity. Even thought the swingarm is made from aluminum alloy, the curb weight of the 2008 Suzuki Hayabusa is still not a lightweight and has a curb weight of 485 lbs.