Way more than a one-trick pony. The Hayabusa is a living legend in the bike world...and it really is one of those bikes everyone should try at least once. Addictive. EDIT: 6th Jan 2023. I have today bought myself a brand new gen 3......(insert insanely stupid smiling emoji here).......
One of the most practical bikes ever. The engine can stay below 4,500 rpms, and have ridiculous, ridiculous torque. 114 ft lbs of torque at 7500 rpms is seriously ridiculous torque. The fueling is absolutely spot on. The dual staged fuel injectors feel like forced induction, and the 1340cc engine has a counterbalancer, everything is mounted on rubber, including the gas tank, the pegs, and the handlebars, so you don't get any high frequency vibes. There are dozens of people who have over 100,000 miles on a Hayabusa with the original engine. The 2nd gen turns 3,275 rpms at 60mph, but the 3rd gen turns 3,100 rpms at 60mph. This is an important improvement, because the gearing feels way too low in 6th on the 2nd gen, because anything over 2,500 rpms, the engine is a tractor. They make an overdrive gear set for the Hayabusa 2nd gen. Overdrive gears are almost necessary with that much power.
I swapped my 2017 R1 for a 2017 Hayabusa and I absolutely love it. The 1000cc bikes always felt a bit small to me (and I’m not a huge guy, I’m 6 foot tall, average build) but the Busa feels right. Habjng lots of fun on it, although it’s the gen 2, not the gen 3 as videoed above
Indeed. Have recently got a Gen 3. 6th gear is all you need from as low as 50km/h up to top speed. ~+120Km/h revs are sitting at high 3000s low 4000s RPM and it's just butter + you are in the meat of the power and it flies if you roll on. @@Ritalie
Wow! My wife and I can not believe you do not like the looks of the bike. She rides a cruiser and I have a Ninja 300. She fell in love with the silver one when I showed her User named Kate's RUclips video the other day and she was following one. Each to their own. Love your videos ride safe, stay well. Regards from Australia🇦🇺.
I am utterly fascinated by this and the ZZR14. I could never bring myself to own one, but I am still genuinely a little obsessed by these choky boys. Genuinely hope Suzuki sells a bucket load, even if the segment is shrinking it would suck if it disappeared.
I rode ZZR1400 with all the Ohlins etc etc. It was the most horrible bike. A total waste of time. I would obviously ride a Hyabusa first before commenting. I own a 1997 GSXR 1100WV (water cooled ) and the Hyabusa engine is based on that old engine.
I have owned 5 Hayabusa's, and now run a 2020 ZZR1400. The ZZR makes the older Busa feel agricultural by comparison. Time will tell if the newer Hayabusa is an improvement, but the mighty Kawasaki will take a lot of beating. Incidentally, my brother worked for many years at a motorcycle dealers, riding literally hundreds of different bikes, and he says there is nothing comes close to the feeling of the ZZR. Nonetheless, the Hayabusa is iconic, and I certainly prefer its looks...
I have owned 3 Hayasbusa's, 1 Gen 1 & 2 Gen 2's. Now own a 2017 ZZR 1400 Performance Sport. The Gen 2 Hayabusa is an Incredible bike, but the ZZR pips it for me. Just has a level of refinement that the Hayabusa lacks, that said I would buy another Gen 2 Hayabusa tomorrow, if I didn't have the ZZR....
@@BibtheBoulder i have had 1st and 2nd Hayabusas , switched to ZZR1400, and the same feelings- Kawa was much better. Gen 3 Hayabusa is massive improvement and beats ZZR in my opinion (as it should being 9 years newer moel). No contest in ability to customise electronically according to road conditions, your mood alertness level.
@@rolandsv8 Hi Roland. Ironically I bought a Gen3 (2023 model) Hayabusa just a couple of months ago. All over black. Still running it in, but so far so good. The pegs do seem quite high, but I like the cruise control and infinite adjustment available to power etc in the ride modes.
Thanks for your review, I have coveted a Hayabusa for years and your review has only encouraged that. I personally love the looks in a Millenium Falcon kinda way, it's instantly recognizable in an age where most sport bikes are indistinguishable from each other.
Now proud owner since 2 months of a 2023 grey/red Busa. It's amazing. Really feels smaller over time as you get used to it. Don't get me wrong it's always a big beast. Weighted and assured. But yeah I am now used to a 1341cc inline 4. insane. what a time to be alive! Yes there are lighter, faster and more comfortable bikes. But there are none other like the Busa. This is why it can win you over, with its charm and charisma.
Thanks for the ride Andy, this bike is way too much for little ol' me so it's nice to ride by proxy. btw the white van/dramatic music moment had me reaching for the brakes -literally lol. :>)
Love the lying down tyre spec check! 😂 Superb mate! 😃 So funny, I nearly spat my tea out! That's taking your review to a whole new but welcome stratospheric level! RESPECT! M
I like the looks, modern. I like the exhausts, match the fairing coverage up front. Box behind seat big enough for registration and insurance info - perfect. Big engine - Big engine ! I'd like to ride one. It would stay with traffic in the U. S. - APPROVED !
Don't tell anyone. The old Ninjas (pre 2003) are the greatest motorcycles ever made. But don't buy a ZX-12 because the engine will throw a rod. The engines had a severe oiling problem and will blow up. But the 2001 ZX-12 is the most beautiful crotch rocket ever conceived by man. (Try to figure out the oil problem before you run it).
I guess it can take time for the shape to register in the brain. The Pan America somehow looks beautiful and everyone loves it now. But at first, everyone hated it. I would say men are really insecure when it comes to factory mufflers. Men (not me of course) are brainwashed to remove the factory mufflers, because they "look ugly." The problem is, you WILL NEVER get the same throttle response and tune from aftermarket mufflers. A bike like the Hayabusa has thousands of hours of tuning and testing, and the factory fueling is so good that you can never get the same fueling if you remove those stock mufflers. If you are super picky about driveability at very low speeds in town (normal legal driving) you should leave the factory mufflers. Motorcycles never run good, unless you are a professional tuner, and you know how to reflash the ECU. Don't mess with the mufflers unless you want a flat spot at 4,500 rpms, and less torque.
I have a lot of experience with many bikes, where I modified either the air box, or the mufflers, or the catalytic converter. In every single case, I ruined the low end torque and throttle response. I've seen it happen on 6 or more motorcycles, and on an ATV. Never, never drill holes in an air box, don't change the factory air filter to a K&N. Don't run different spark plugs, get the exact OEM spark plugs, with the OEM heat range. Don't change the timing. And do not change the stock mufflers. My friends fuel injected Suzuki SV1000, we hollowed out his stock mufflers, and his bike had a nice big flat spot at slow cruising speed, which made the bike surge with an uneven power at low speeds. I did the same thing to my 2002 carbureted ZX-6R, which got a nice big "flat spot" in the RPM's, around 4,500 rpms. Motorcycles do not like being leaned out, and if you remove the back pressure, you lean them out a lot. If you're going to take off the "ugly" factory mufflers, be prepared to go to a professional motorcycle DYNO tuner, who knows fuel injected bikes, and can reflash the ECU. Many "bolt on" mufflers with baffles actually reduce the horsepower, because they don't flow the same and mess up the tuning.
I have ridden a 2nd Gen Hayabusa with factory mufflers, and the throttle response is so crisp, it feels like the engine might rip out of the frame. I would never mess with the stock fueling. I do think the 2nd Gen mufflers look better than almost any motorcycle. And yet, you can't find a Hayabusa on Earth with the original mufflers. The 2nd Gen Hayabusa was the last of the "real" mufflers on motorcycles. Now days, they are using small slash cut, ugly, clumps of poo, and calling it an exhaust system. Small, tiny mufflers = ugly as hell.
Thank you for this excellent review. I've watched hundreds of Hayabusa review videos but no one really go down on the ground, talked about the oil indicator, air valve, night drive and more of such practical things. I absolutely loved this video, thank you again. I'm waiting for the Gen 3 bookings to reopen here in India! :)
Wow..what a detailed review.Personally love this shade of Silver / Grey, black looks great but hard to maintain . Legendary Machine. Awesome review. TMF Looks great in those glasses.
Iconic bike = "916". Gamechanger. I still get an ache in my heart thinking about the one I had back in the day. Also at that time I had a ZX9R which was about the fastest 0-100-0 thing on the road in its time and a GSXR1100 WP but neither were ever iconic in my eyes.
ZX-9 r still has pretty much the fastest 0 to 60 and quarter mile times compare it to the S 1000 Double R to the Fireblade or anything new. I think euro-5 has neutered everything I raced an S 1000 RR and beat him three times stop light to stop light .1/2 mile between approx It's a 2000 jetted with a full titanium and carbon fiber Akrapovic system look ohlins shock ect. I love that bike. And it's comfortable to ride!
@@russelllaureto8132 Your bike sounds amazing. All I did after I purchased mine was have the restrictive card slide top things removed/'changed to get full throttle response. I bet yours sounds brilliant with the Akrapovic system and yes, they are so comfortable and just don't stop pulling. Thanks for sharing your bike's details.
A very well-balanced review. Personally, as a nearly-14 stone 6 footer I find the riding position cramped compared to the ZZR1400, but it looked absolutely perfect for your body size.
Great review,regards the lugging about test. It has a long wheel base to make it stable at high speeds,like my 2015 ZZR1400 Performance Sport. I can move mine around easily and I'm a shortarse at 5' 5
Loved the review.. Have always loved the Hayabusa as its a legend... Wanted to get one but Suzuki stopped it so got Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE instead.. Love that one too but still nothing like the character that this one is...
Nice review and I agree with most thing, but I love how mine looks in black and gold. The chain maintenance is a pain, even when using Abba bike stand. I'm about same size as you but you do get used to lugging it around and you figure out it's balance quite quick.
He doesn't like how it looks? I think it's one of the nicest looking bikes in the world in 2021. I'd like to find a better looking sportbike in 2021? The new bikes are UGLY AS SIN. Hayabusa is one of the only good looking sportbikes in the year 2021.
@@Ritalie I agree. Most new bikes seem over designed and cluttered with details. Hayabusa has very clean lines. Not to mention all the nakeds that mostly look like children's toys, with a few exceptions.
About time the three of you (that would be the TeaPot) got together and did a road trip. I suggest you each take one of your own bikes and do a full day out (or more) swapping bikes as you go.....
Good review as always, manages to get me to watch 20 full minutes on a bike I will never get, or ever even ride! Plus the previous busa videos! I have been thinking, when you do your turning circle test, you should start on the line of the parking space, rather than in the middle, then you can see exactly how far it has turned! Measured in the universal unit of measurement, car park spaces!
Awesome review. It’s great that you cover the important bits usually related to the actual ownership and maintenance!! Always looking forward to your content!
Great review champ. I actually like the silver colour, here in Oz it was harder to get a silver one. The white was not available here. I also think as a touring bike it is great value. A road touring bike with the same tech would cost at least 10k more here.
Loved your review. I watched it to see what is new from the older versions. I had mine from new in 2004 and kept it for 12 years. It's a brilliant machine. As you say, effortless power. That engine is fantastic. It has never been pretty though because it was developed in a wind tunnel for maximum aerodynamics and not for looks. Suzuki can't get a bike to look right anyway. It also handles like it really shouldn't be able. Drop the tyre pressures and it could easily do a track day. It rides very nicely around town too but as you demonstrated lugging it around by hand is never fun and the weight and prone riding position finally made me change it. I did cry though and your on board footage made me misty eyed. Mine had grab handles(when the hump is replaced by the rear seat) and a centre stand so that's a step backwards but the addition of a quick shifter is a very nice improvement. They are always nice to have.
I appreciate your approach to reviews and your no bs descriptions. I have to with respect however take issue with one of your opening remarks about 2 up touring abilities on a Hayabusa. I’ve owned 2 mk1’s and a mk2 Busa and successfully toured on all 3 across Europe and Ireland. I had my wife as pillion and had 2 Givi side panniers and a large [2 helmet size] Givi top box fitted. Admittedly I didn’t use off the shelf mounting kits but rather made some simple modifications to a Givi Wing rack system I’d previously bought for my Honda Blackbird. I remove both bungee bobbins from either side of the rear seat cowling and used a mounting bolt from the pillion peg brackets. Then I cut a piece of 12mm stainless threaded rod which I stretched behind the number plate and joined to each rear section of the wing rack. I also cut a piece of aluminium checker plate which I fitted the Givi base plate to that I then mounted my very large Givi top box to. I also had an Oxford tank bag fitted to , you guessed it….the tank. Although I should have, I didn’t bother changing the preload of the rear shock as the bike handled surprisingly well without doing so although I’m quite sure it would have been better still if I had. I accept not everyone will have the necessary skills to make these modifications to a Wingrack but honestly I didn’t need any special tools that most people wouldn’t have in the garage/shed. The first time I figured out what to and make the mods, it took me an hour and a half, but once made I could take it off in 20 mins easy and the same to refit. So it may be that there isn’t a specific kit made by Givi to fit a Wingrack to a Busa but it’s certainly easy enough to buy a universal fitting kit and find enough components to easily and securely secure hard cases to a Busa. Most people don’t see a Busa as a compatible bike to tour on but they couldn’t be more wrong. The bike is tall geared and has a large displacement engine with a ton of torque so the bike can be ridden at moderate speeds really easily and very smoothly which is very pillion friendly. You can ride through towns and villages in a relatively high gear without the hint of snatching which is perfect for 2 up riding. Then when the road opens up and you want to overtake you can just wind the throttle in whatever gear you are in an the bike with surge forward in a creamy smooth fashion. When you get to your destination you just unhitch the hard luggage and go scratching if that’s your thing and the Busa in the right hands can run with most other bikes out there. The Busa is often a very mis understood and underestimated bike. It’s so comfortable to ride long miles too, providing your no taller than 6’4" as I am. My knees were a tad cramped so I purchased some lowered foot pegs which moved them forward and lower which gave my knees the relief they needed.
@@TheMissendenFlyer It'd be a shame to not be able to see it 😢 Perhaps a word in the Hayabusa's defence when it comes to the electronics - Suzuki have been accused of being a little behind the curve with rider aids in the past, so perhaps this was an attempt to bring the brand up to speed with competitors like BMW. Did you find the electronics intrusive on their medium setting?
Great review.I think its the best looking version of the Hayabusa to date but the exhausts are definetly an eye sore. Plenty of nice aftermarket options to choose from thankfully.
Yes I agree with you on the lack of luggage space on the Busa , it's opposition the Honda Blackbird you could fit panniers and a top box , I had a full set of Givi boxes on mine . However both the Busa and the Blackbird were pretty comfortable I did find after a few days touring you did ache especially in the wrists and back and the aches would arrive sooner each day. My current bike the BMW RT and my old Honda VFR 800 were and are much more comfortable for long range touring
Great review as ever Andy, thank you. Not a bike I would consider for myself but certainly deserving of the iconic status it has and genuinely a multifaceted and good value for money machine. I hope you get a ride on the new GSX-S1000 soon - now that could be where my money might go next!
For me the era of these super monsters has passed. If track days is your thing then fair enough but modern adventure bike offer all the performance and handling that most riders need, plus they are very practical. As always, each to their own. Excellent review.
Clocks really are top notch and the engine is doubtlessly a peach. Barreling down the Autobahn, aiming for Spain is surely a blast but - and here is my question: while you like its comfort, looking at your riding position it doesn't strike me as one you'd want to be in for a 7-9 hour stretch, even with the occasional stop for fuel. What do you think?
It's deffs sporty on the sport end of the touring. But i will say that it is surprisingly comfortable for what it is. Seat is thick and soft,. reach to bars is moderate to long, foot to peg ratio is a little tight. TBH since owning one the thing that strikes me is why people mod these things because it's a bike in a sort of weird position that can be a lot of different bikes. More sporty? Sure. More comfort and touring? Yes you can make it into that with helibars and lower pegs etc. Drag racer? Why not, flip a longer swingarm, wider rear tyre and off you go. The weight savings and power gains from a full system exhaust are none to shy at too.
i have a 2010 Gen 2 Hayabusa and the only electronic present on my hayabusa is the ECU to control the Air/fuel mixture of the engine. No ABS, no MTC etc
Andy, it looks like you may have found Mrs. Flyer's starter bike! (Well, it *might* work as justification for getting one....LOL) Thanks again for all your excellent reviews!
Great review as usual, especially on a model of bike that would normally be placed in a 'specialist' bracket, i.e. Overloaded with electronics for 'normal' road riding, but designed more for the track, and all that package for £16,000.......
Sportiest of sport tourers , needs a grab handle of some sort to aid maneuvering , also needs a center stand . Those exhausts are so big I don't think you could get decent size panniers on it if you wanted to go touring , no doubt the after market boys will be on it . Usual good honest review .
I hope you try its closest direct competitor, the ZZR1400/ZX-14R. It's last major release was the 2012 model, with later variants including an Ohlins rear shock, Brembo brakes, and I think an Akrapovic exhaust in the UK. Mine's a 2019, with the Ohlins & Brembos, optional centre stand & top box, & Staintune slip-ons. If the 2021 Hayabusa had been available in 2019, would have been very tempted...
On the subject of too many electronics: once a bike goes to ride by wire and the physical connection is lost, they might as well have all the rider aids and modes. It's just a program away at that point. I appreciate that Suzuki went to the trouble of trying to think of everything, and it bugs me when TBW bikes skimp on electronics just to upsell the premium models
I actually love the way this bike looks, especially in the black & gold color. I can't test ride one yet, I'm still too new of a rider to even think about it. But someday...I'd love to own one of these. My MT-07 is great, but the light weight works against it at highway speeds, and the bike is about 15% too small for me. It's fine, but I wish it was bigger (6'2" 35 inch inseam, size 15 US shoes). Maybe in a year or two I'll be ready.
am not buying one, but if i was this vid is spot on...looks are growing on me, bike is a well polished performer after 20 plus years of refinements, all suzuki chimneys are ugly, but if i were to change the pipe i would not go for a loud one , i like the whirl sound of the motor better than a noisy pipe..
Greetings, As always another brilliant detailed video 🇺🇸🍾🎉🇺🇸 Would you assist me, which one would you prefer fjr1300 or Hayabusa and why? Thank you so much, keep producing more videos.
Nicely done TMF and I agree on the looks. If you took the screen off and put it on the back end, the bike would look the same, exhausts excluded. That can't be right.
Thanks so much Andy. While I won’t be buying another bike soon, the Busa has long been one of those “some days”. But probably not. Looks are subjective of course. I think that they are gorgeous. Am curious about your sleeve length. You discuss height and inseam. On the side view it looked like you were at full reach. I am 6ft with 31.5” inseam but heavier in the belly and was curious for your thoughts on reach
Having watched the video and read the comments 36 hours late I thought it might interest readers to know I got no ads at all during the viewing. Could it be that RUclips only stick the ads in to new releases? Great insight into a brute of a machine which I would love to have had were I still riding. Thanks Andy!!
Thank you. It must be me, yet I'll never understand why a looking glass to check oil level is preferred over a dipstick. 2 of my bikes have a looking glass. On the RT I always have a hassle to check the level as the looking glass is hidden behind the fairing. Yes there is a hole in the fairing but you always have to almost lay on your belly just to check oil level. My VFR has a dipstick, thank you Honda - I can check the oil level gracefully 😊.
It’s not a bike I would like to own. However my old GS750 was a wonderful bike. The clocks on that used to glow red. The trouble with the Busa is it’s big enough for two up riding but not really designed for comfort passenger wise as most bikes are these days. You could call it a social distance bike lol. The Japanese have an eye for things that appear ugly to us. They’re designs in cars are the same, however their technical expertise goes without saying. Style isn’t their forte. There are much better options out there to spend £16k on. Anyway many thanks for the review Andy.
@@Grahamvfr My GS750 went towards a deposit on my first house and pram lol 😂 great bike, the only fault was the handling was a bit iffy. The kettle was an awesome machine with the water jacket. Thirsty bike though Graham.
yeah seems like its kinda hard to determine if a bike is good or bad on the wet as it all comes down to the tyres other than electronic aid, dunno how you do it but good stuff. Got new shoes for my bike, some pirelli Dragon sports and that seems to make bike loose traction all over the place still after 1000km, scary stuff. Guess my bike dont like those tyres. great content keep it up :)
We buy with our hearts and learn the hard way time and again that it is the “little things” that frustrate. Ten levels of traction control or somewhere to keep a disc lock, a grab handle to help push the monster around, tyre valves and chain you actually get at, and somewhere to bungy luggage?
I really like these big beasts, trying to get realistic insurance quotes though!! Mad prices out there... I wish there were stowage on all bikes for the locks, chains n farkles we all need to keep the scrotes dissuaded. Top review as ever. (That Meteor, does it fit Mrs Flyer?)
I agree the exhausts look hidious! Butt suzuki did a very clever move. They put the cats in the end cans, knowing most people will fit aftermarket end cans. So u only need end cans and a remap and u got full racing exhaust system.
I like it , I think it looks great in the black & bronze , everyone says how heavy it is , it weighs the same as a small Harley sportster !! So it’s not that heavy really , it’s heavy when compared to litre sports bikes ok fair enough , I had no big interest in the older busas but this one has my attention in a big way
I don't find it's the headline weight per se that is the issue with some bikes, more the way it carries it - ie the height of the COG - if it's high, then the bike is a pain to live with for weaklings like me (Honda AT is a case in point)....
Way more than a one-trick pony. The Hayabusa is a living legend in the bike world...and it really is one of those bikes everyone should try at least once. Addictive.
EDIT: 6th Jan 2023. I have today bought myself a brand new gen 3......(insert insanely stupid smiling emoji here).......
One of the most practical bikes ever. The engine can stay below 4,500 rpms, and have ridiculous, ridiculous torque. 114 ft lbs of torque at 7500 rpms is seriously ridiculous torque. The fueling is absolutely spot on. The dual staged fuel injectors feel like forced induction, and the 1340cc engine has a counterbalancer, everything is mounted on rubber, including the gas tank, the pegs, and the handlebars, so you don't get any high frequency vibes. There are dozens of people who have over 100,000 miles on a Hayabusa with the original engine. The 2nd gen turns 3,275 rpms at 60mph, but the 3rd gen turns 3,100 rpms at 60mph. This is an important improvement, because the gearing feels way too low in 6th on the 2nd gen, because anything over 2,500 rpms, the engine is a tractor. They make an overdrive gear set for the Hayabusa 2nd gen. Overdrive gears are almost necessary with that much power.
Most powerful practical street legal fastest bike ever 👍
I swapped my 2017 R1 for a 2017 Hayabusa and I absolutely love it. The 1000cc bikes always felt a bit small to me (and I’m not a huge guy, I’m 6 foot tall, average build) but the Busa feels right. Habjng lots of fun on it, although it’s the gen 2, not the gen 3 as videoed above
yyaaay!
Indeed. Have recently got a Gen 3. 6th gear is all you need from as low as 50km/h up to top speed. ~+120Km/h revs are sitting at high 3000s low 4000s RPM and it's just butter + you are in the meat of the power and it flies if you roll on. @@Ritalie
The Busa has the best looking dash of all bikes ever made. Simply gorgeous. The rest of the bike looks... bulky
Wow! My wife and I can not believe you do not like the looks of the bike. She rides a cruiser and I have a Ninja 300.
She fell in love with the silver one when I showed her User named Kate's RUclips video the other day and she was following one. Each to their own. Love your videos ride safe, stay well. Regards from Australia🇦🇺.
I own a 2012 hayabussa. Covered 154,000 K. Stock standard nothing has gone wrong. Every rider must ride one. Description does not do it justice.
JC
I am utterly fascinated by this and the ZZR14.
I could never bring myself to own one, but I am still genuinely a little obsessed by these choky boys. Genuinely hope Suzuki sells a bucket load, even if the segment is shrinking it would suck if it disappeared.
I rode ZZR1400 with all the Ohlins etc etc. It was the most horrible bike. A total waste of time. I would obviously ride a Hyabusa first before commenting. I own a 1997 GSXR 1100WV (water cooled ) and the Hyabusa engine is based on that old engine.
I have owned 5 Hayabusa's, and now run a 2020 ZZR1400. The ZZR makes the older Busa feel agricultural by comparison. Time will tell if the newer Hayabusa is an improvement, but the mighty Kawasaki will take a lot of beating. Incidentally, my brother worked for many years at a motorcycle dealers, riding literally hundreds of different bikes, and he says there is nothing comes close to the feeling of the ZZR. Nonetheless, the Hayabusa is iconic, and I certainly prefer its looks...
I have owned 3 Hayasbusa's, 1 Gen 1 & 2 Gen 2's. Now own a 2017 ZZR 1400 Performance Sport. The Gen 2 Hayabusa is an Incredible bike, but the ZZR pips it for me. Just has a level of refinement that the Hayabusa lacks, that said I would buy another Gen 2 Hayabusa tomorrow, if I didn't have the ZZR....
@@BibtheBoulder i have had 1st and 2nd Hayabusas , switched to ZZR1400, and the same feelings- Kawa was much better. Gen 3 Hayabusa is massive improvement and beats ZZR in my opinion (as it should being 9 years newer moel). No contest in ability to customise electronically according to road conditions, your mood alertness level.
@@rolandsv8 Hi Roland. Ironically I bought a Gen3 (2023 model) Hayabusa just a couple of months ago. All over black. Still running it in, but so far so good. The pegs do seem quite high, but I like the cruise control and infinite adjustment available to power etc in the ride modes.
Great review, covered everything. Glad Suzuki is still building them!
Me too!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Great review as always. I know they are very different but could you compare/contrast this with the Rocket 3? Thanks Andy.
Thanks for your review, I have coveted a Hayabusa for years and your review has only encouraged that. I personally love the looks in a Millenium Falcon kinda way, it's instantly recognizable in an age where most sport bikes are indistinguishable from each other.
Very true!
That’s a gorgeous machine.
Now proud owner since 2 months of a 2023 grey/red Busa. It's amazing. Really feels smaller over time as you get used to it. Don't get me wrong it's always a big beast. Weighted and assured. But yeah I am now used to a 1341cc inline 4. insane. what a time to be alive!
Yes there are lighter, faster and more comfortable bikes. But there are none other like the Busa. This is why it can win you over, with its charm and charisma.
Excellent in depth review. A very fair review too.
Thanks for the ride Andy, this bike is way too much for little ol' me so it's nice to ride by proxy. btw the white van/dramatic music moment had me reaching for the brakes -literally lol. :>)
I’m personally not into owning a hayabusa, but I will stick around and stay tuned because tmf is the best channel on RUclips!
Love the lying down tyre spec check! 😂 Superb mate! 😃 So funny, I nearly spat my tea out! That's taking your review to a whole new but welcome stratospheric level! RESPECT! M
I like the looks, modern. I like the exhausts, match the fairing coverage up front. Box behind seat big enough for registration and insurance info - perfect. Big engine - Big engine ! I'd like to ride one. It would stay with traffic in the U. S. - APPROVED !
This bike dominates every single other road going vehicle on the roads. It's insane. Nothing can stop you except a tree.
Ninja is not to be ignored when talking about iconic bikes that everybody have heard of.
Don't tell anyone. The old Ninjas (pre 2003) are the greatest motorcycles ever made. But don't buy a ZX-12 because the engine will throw a rod. The engines had a severe oiling problem and will blow up. But the 2001 ZX-12 is the most beautiful crotch rocket ever conceived by man. (Try to figure out the oil problem before you run it).
A lot of people say I'm odd, and I must be because I love those exhaust....it's one of the best bits of the bike. 😅
You're odd Rob.
@@parsivalshorse 'normal ' is so boring 😅😅😐
I guess it can take time for the shape to register in the brain. The Pan America somehow looks beautiful and everyone loves it now. But at first, everyone hated it. I would say men are really insecure when it comes to factory mufflers. Men (not me of course) are brainwashed to remove the factory mufflers, because they "look ugly." The problem is, you WILL NEVER get the same throttle response and tune from aftermarket mufflers. A bike like the Hayabusa has thousands of hours of tuning and testing, and the factory fueling is so good that you can never get the same fueling if you remove those stock mufflers. If you are super picky about driveability at very low speeds in town (normal legal driving) you should leave the factory mufflers. Motorcycles never run good, unless you are a professional tuner, and you know how to reflash the ECU. Don't mess with the mufflers unless you want a flat spot at 4,500 rpms, and less torque.
I have a lot of experience with many bikes, where I modified either the air box, or the mufflers, or the catalytic converter. In every single case, I ruined the low end torque and throttle response. I've seen it happen on 6 or more motorcycles, and on an ATV. Never, never drill holes in an air box, don't change the factory air filter to a K&N. Don't run different spark plugs, get the exact OEM spark plugs, with the OEM heat range. Don't change the timing. And do not change the stock mufflers. My friends fuel injected Suzuki SV1000, we hollowed out his stock mufflers, and his bike had a nice big flat spot at slow cruising speed, which made the bike surge with an uneven power at low speeds. I did the same thing to my 2002 carbureted ZX-6R, which got a nice big "flat spot" in the RPM's, around 4,500 rpms. Motorcycles do not like being leaned out, and if you remove the back pressure, you lean them out a lot. If you're going to take off the "ugly" factory mufflers, be prepared to go to a professional motorcycle DYNO tuner, who knows fuel injected bikes, and can reflash the ECU. Many "bolt on" mufflers with baffles actually reduce the horsepower, because they don't flow the same and mess up the tuning.
I have ridden a 2nd Gen Hayabusa with factory mufflers, and the throttle response is so crisp, it feels like the engine might rip out of the frame. I would never mess with the stock fueling. I do think the 2nd Gen mufflers look better than almost any motorcycle. And yet, you can't find a Hayabusa on Earth with the original mufflers. The 2nd Gen Hayabusa was the last of the "real" mufflers on motorcycles. Now days, they are using small slash cut, ugly, clumps of poo, and calling it an exhaust system. Small, tiny mufflers = ugly as hell.
I love the dashboard. Its pretty.
Agreed!
Thank you for this excellent review. I've watched hundreds of Hayabusa review videos but no one really go down on the ground, talked about the oil indicator, air valve, night drive and more of such practical things. I absolutely loved this video, thank you again. I'm waiting for the Gen 3 bookings to reopen here in India! :)
Glad it was helpful!
Wow..what a detailed review.Personally love this shade of Silver / Grey, black looks great but hard to maintain .
Legendary Machine.
Awesome review.
TMF Looks great in those glasses.
Why thank you sir!
Sir you look like a early teenager on this beast
Iconic bike = "916". Gamechanger. I still get an ache in my heart thinking about the one I had back in the day. Also at that time I had a ZX9R which was about the fastest 0-100-0 thing on the road in its time and a GSXR1100 WP but neither were ever iconic in my eyes.
ZX-9 r still has pretty much the fastest 0 to 60 and quarter mile times compare it to the S 1000 Double R to the Fireblade or anything new. I think euro-5 has neutered everything I raced an S 1000 RR and beat him three times stop light to stop light .1/2 mile between approx It's a 2000 jetted with a full titanium and carbon fiber Akrapovic system look ohlins shock ect. I love that bike. And it's comfortable to ride!
@@russelllaureto8132 Your bike sounds amazing. All I did after I purchased mine was have the restrictive card slide top things removed/'changed to get full throttle response. I bet yours sounds brilliant with the Akrapovic system and yes, they are so comfortable and just don't stop pulling. Thanks for sharing your bike's details.
A very well-balanced review. Personally, as a nearly-14 stone 6 footer I find the riding position cramped compared to the ZZR1400, but it looked absolutely perfect for your body size.
14 stone what he f__K is that in kilograms...or pounds ??? Thanks Boomer
Great review,regards the lugging about test.
It has a long wheel base to make it stable at high speeds,like my 2015 ZZR1400 Performance Sport.
I can move mine around easily and I'm a shortarse at 5' 5
I don’t know what your looking at but that bike is one of the best looking bikes I’ve seen besides the stock exhaust which everyone changes
Hi! Thanks for the review, very interesting. I can say that I agree with it all except for one thing. I really like the look.
Fair enough!
Suzuki understands the important role symmetry plays in aesthetics
Iconic nicer in black and to much bulk for me but ya gotta admire it what a beast . Well done : )
What a beautiful bike. Yea, I may have to have one! Best!
Loved the review.. Have always loved the Hayabusa as its a legend... Wanted to get one but Suzuki stopped it so got Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE instead.. Love that one too but still nothing like the character that this one is...
That MPG is good. Had a GSXR that struggled to hit 20MPG in France.
Nice review and I agree with most thing, but I love how mine looks in black and gold. The chain maintenance is a pain, even when using Abba bike stand. I'm about same size as you but you do get used to lugging it around and you figure out it's balance quite quick.
He doesn't like how it looks? I think it's one of the nicest looking bikes in the world in 2021. I'd like to find a better looking sportbike in 2021? The new bikes are UGLY AS SIN. Hayabusa is one of the only good looking sportbikes in the year 2021.
@@Ritalie I agree. Most new bikes seem over designed and cluttered with details. Hayabusa has very clean lines. Not to mention all the nakeds that mostly look like children's toys, with a few exceptions.
Great review as allways, appreciate how much effort these vids take. I actually think I could fit a full portion of fish and chips in that boot!
About time the three of you (that would be the TeaPot) got together and did a road trip. I suggest you each take one of your own bikes and do a full day out (or more) swapping bikes as you go.....
Totally agree with everything you said about this bike. Including the fact that the black and gold one looks far better.
Glad we concur!
Good review as always, manages to get me to watch 20 full minutes on a bike I will never get, or ever even ride! Plus the previous busa videos!
I have been thinking, when you do your turning circle test, you should start on the line of the parking space, rather than in the middle, then you can see exactly how far it has turned! Measured in the universal unit of measurement, car park spaces!
Very good point!
Best looking Busa yet!
Finally a bike to do your name justice.
Awesome review. It’s great that you cover the important bits usually related to the actual ownership and maintenance!! Always looking forward to your content!
Thanks! 👍
Great review champ. I actually like the silver colour, here in Oz it was harder to get a silver one. The white was not available here. I also think as a touring bike it is great value. A road touring bike with the same tech would cost at least 10k more here.
G'day TMF. A very good video. The Hayabusa is the B52 of the motorcycle world big and fast, a quality machine.
Not for smallish people too heavy.
The shot or the plane? I would prefer the shot ...
Loved your review. I watched it to see what is new from the older versions. I had mine from new in 2004 and kept it for 12 years. It's a brilliant machine. As you say, effortless power. That engine is fantastic. It has never been pretty though because it was developed in a wind tunnel for maximum aerodynamics and not for looks. Suzuki can't get a bike to look right anyway. It also handles like it really shouldn't be able. Drop the tyre pressures and it could easily do a track day.
It rides very nicely around town too but as you demonstrated lugging it around by hand is never fun and the weight and prone riding position finally made me change it. I did cry though and your on board footage made me misty eyed.
Mine had grab handles(when the hump is replaced by the rear seat) and a centre stand so that's a step backwards but the addition of a quick shifter is a very nice improvement. They are always nice to have.
Glad it brought back some good memories for you Rick!
I appreciate your approach to reviews and your no bs descriptions. I have to with respect however take issue with one of your opening remarks about 2 up touring abilities on a Hayabusa. I’ve owned 2 mk1’s and a mk2 Busa and successfully toured on all 3 across Europe and Ireland. I had my wife as pillion and had 2 Givi side panniers and a large [2 helmet size] Givi top box fitted. Admittedly I didn’t use off the shelf mounting kits but rather made some simple modifications to a Givi Wing rack system I’d previously bought for my Honda Blackbird. I remove both bungee bobbins from either side of the rear seat cowling and used a mounting bolt from the pillion peg brackets. Then I cut a piece of 12mm stainless threaded rod which I stretched behind the number plate and joined to each rear section of the wing rack. I also cut a piece of aluminium checker plate which I fitted the Givi base plate to that I then mounted my very large Givi top box to. I also had an Oxford tank bag fitted to , you guessed it….the tank. Although I should have, I didn’t bother changing the preload of the rear shock as the bike handled surprisingly well without doing so although I’m quite sure it would have been better still if I had. I accept not everyone will have the necessary skills to make these modifications to a Wingrack but honestly I didn’t need any special tools that most people wouldn’t have in the garage/shed. The first time I figured out what to and make the mods, it took me an hour and a half, but once made I could take it off in 20 mins easy and the same to refit. So it may be that there isn’t a specific kit made by Givi to fit a Wingrack to a Busa but it’s certainly easy enough to buy a universal fitting kit and find enough components to easily and securely secure hard cases to a Busa. Most people don’t see a Busa as a compatible bike to tour on but they couldn’t be more wrong. The bike is tall geared and has a large displacement engine with a ton of torque so the bike can be ridden at moderate speeds really easily and very smoothly which is very pillion friendly. You can ride through towns and villages in a relatively high gear without the hint of snatching which is perfect for 2 up riding. Then when the road opens up and you want to overtake you can just wind the throttle in whatever gear you are in an the bike with surge forward in a creamy smooth fashion. When you get to your destination you just unhitch the hard luggage and go scratching if that’s your thing and the Busa in the right hands can run with most other bikes out there. The Busa is often a very mis understood and underestimated bike. It’s so comfortable to ride long miles too, providing your no taller than 6’4" as I am. My knees were a tad cramped so I purchased some lowered foot pegs which moved them forward and lower which gave my knees the relief they needed.
Wow! Thanks for the long comment!
Great to see an in depth busa review! (still waiting for the reupload of the RE meteor review hehe)
Yes I don’t know when (if) that will be....
@@TheMissendenFlyer It'd be a shame to not be able to see it 😢 Perhaps a word in the Hayabusa's defence when it comes to the electronics - Suzuki have been accused of being a little behind the curve with rider aids in the past, so perhaps this was an attempt to bring the brand up to speed with competitors like BMW. Did you find the electronics intrusive on their medium setting?
Love the dash, I recently brought a GSXR750 and the tack needle is so much easier to read than my 2018 Fireblade.
Great review of what looks a fantastic bike, although not necessarily a future bike contender for me sounds an awesome bit of kit. Thanks Andy
Excellent review giving all the information required in a sensible format, top marks 👍
Thank you very much!
Great review.I think its the best looking version of the Hayabusa to date but the exhausts are definetly an eye sore. Plenty of nice aftermarket options to choose from thankfully.
Totally agree
this is one of those bikes you hate at the beginning but you'll end up loving it. I'm looking to sell my MT09 and buy one of these
I traded my MT10 for this in black/Orange best decision ever!:)
You enjoying the busa
Great review 👍.
Was looking forward to your in depth review of the new busa.
Very enjoyable content . Love the bike news too.
Cheers
Thank you!
Definitely a shrinking market... But still appeals to me.... Hmmm apart from lack of centre stand.
Yes I agree with you on the lack of luggage space on the Busa , it's opposition the Honda Blackbird you could fit panniers and a top box , I had a full set of Givi boxes on mine . However both the Busa and the Blackbird were pretty comfortable I did find after a few days touring you did ache especially in the wrists and back and the aches would arrive sooner each day. My current bike the BMW RT and my old Honda VFR 800 were and are much more comfortable for long range touring
Great review as ever Andy, thank you. Not a bike I would consider for myself but certainly deserving of the iconic status it has and genuinely a multifaceted and good value for money machine. I hope you get a ride on the new GSX-S1000 soon - now that could be where my money might go next!
Of all the Busa incarnations I must say I do like this beastly version. Great vid Mr. TMF. 😉 👍
Thank you for watching!
Another brilliant review.
Thank you for watching!
For me the era of these super monsters has passed. If track days is your thing then fair enough but modern adventure bike offer all the performance and handling that most riders need, plus they are very practical. As always, each to their own. Excellent review.
Thanks for watching Simon!
Great video well done Andy
Clocks really are top notch and the engine is doubtlessly a peach. Barreling down the Autobahn, aiming for Spain is surely a blast but - and here is my question: while you like its comfort, looking at your riding position it doesn't strike me as one you'd want to be in for a 7-9 hour stretch, even with the occasional stop for fuel. What do you think?
Yes I think you’re right - it’s comfy for a sports type bike but for a long tour I’d rather have something more upright...
It's deffs sporty on the sport end of the touring.
But i will say that it is surprisingly comfortable for what it is. Seat is thick and soft,. reach to bars is moderate to long, foot to peg ratio is a little tight.
TBH since owning one the thing that strikes me is why people mod these things because it's a bike in a sort of weird position that can be a lot of different bikes. More sporty? Sure. More comfort and touring? Yes you can make it into that with helibars and lower pegs etc. Drag racer? Why not, flip a longer swingarm, wider rear tyre and off you go. The weight savings and power gains from a full system exhaust are none to shy at too.
It's not my thing ,but it is really a great looking machine. Suzuki did a fantastic job on the new version.
Great review as usual 👌
i have a 2010 Gen 2 Hayabusa and the only electronic present on my hayabusa is the ECU to control the Air/fuel mixture of the engine. No ABS, no MTC etc
Sounds lovely! A nice deep growl.
Stunning bike flyer 👍
As unusual as ever!And I still like it:)Not tamed too much.....
Andy, it looks like you may have found Mrs. Flyer's starter bike! (Well, it *might* work as justification for getting one....LOL)
Thanks again for all your excellent reviews!
Great review as usual, especially on a model of bike that would normally be placed in a 'specialist' bracket, i.e. Overloaded with electronics for 'normal' road riding, but designed more for the track, and all that package for £16,000.......
I work as a Funeral Director and I'm carrying out a funeral soon for a chap using a hayabusa hearse. I think we might have to watch the speedo though!
Sportiest of sport tourers , needs a grab handle of some sort to aid maneuvering , also needs a center stand . Those exhausts are so big I don't think you could get decent size panniers on it if you wanted to go touring , no doubt the after market boys will be on it . Usual good honest review .
Great review! I love this bike!! Thanks....
My pleasure!
I hope you try its closest direct competitor, the ZZR1400/ZX-14R. It's last major release was the 2012 model, with later variants including an Ohlins rear shock, Brembo brakes, and I think an Akrapovic exhaust in the UK. Mine's a 2019, with the Ohlins & Brembos, optional centre stand & top box, & Staintune slip-ons. If the 2021 Hayabusa had been available in 2019, would have been very tempted...
Great honest review never liked the look but what a machine
Agreed....
On the subject of too many electronics: once a bike goes to ride by wire and the physical connection is lost, they might as well have all the rider aids and modes. It's just a program away at that point. I appreciate that Suzuki went to the trouble of trying to think of everything, and it bugs me when TBW bikes skimp on electronics just to upsell the premium models
I actually love the way this bike looks, especially in the black & gold color. I can't test ride one yet, I'm still too new of a rider to even think about it. But someday...I'd love to own one of these.
My MT-07 is great, but the light weight works against it at highway speeds, and the bike is about 15% too small for me. It's fine, but I wish it was bigger (6'2" 35 inch inseam, size 15 US shoes). Maybe in a year or two I'll be ready.
Here in the US the hayabusa engine is a drag racing beast.
I think the MCN reviews are your best videos
Very kind of you to say so!
Excellent review thanks
Great review! Thanks mate!🔥
My pleasure
Got a feeling this bike is growing on you.
Need to make some space in the garage, go on buy it 👍😉
Darned things are addictive Gordon. I have owned 5 over the years and even as I type am thinking of a sixth.
am not buying one, but if i was this vid is spot on...looks are growing on me, bike is a well polished performer after 20 plus years of refinements, all suzuki chimneys are ugly, but if i were to change the pipe i would not go for a loud one , i like the whirl sound of the motor better than a noisy pipe..
Greetings,
As always another brilliant detailed video 🇺🇸🍾🎉🇺🇸
Would you assist me, which one would you prefer fjr1300 or Hayabusa and why?
Thank you so much, keep producing more videos.
Fjr1300 - I find the looks of the Busa not to my taste….
“Clutching at straws.” I see what you did.
Nicely done TMF and I agree on the looks. If you took the screen off and put it on the back end, the bike would look the same, exhausts excluded. That can't be right.
I never thought of that! A push me pull you bike - brilliant!!
Thanks so much Andy. While I won’t be buying another bike soon, the Busa has long been one of those “some days”. But probably not. Looks are subjective of course. I think that they are gorgeous. Am curious about your sleeve length. You discuss height and inseam. On the side view it looked like you were at full reach. I am 6ft with 31.5” inseam but heavier in the belly and was curious for your thoughts on reach
Having watched the video and read the comments 36 hours late I thought it might interest readers to know I got no ads at all during the viewing. Could it be that RUclips only stick the ads in to new releases? Great insight into a brute of a machine which I would love to have had were I still riding. Thanks Andy!!
Thank you. It must be me, yet I'll never understand why a looking glass to check oil level is preferred over a dipstick. 2 of my bikes have a looking glass. On the RT I always have a hassle to check the level as the looking glass is hidden behind the fairing. Yes there is a hole in the fairing but you always have to almost lay on your belly just to check oil level. My VFR has a dipstick, thank you Honda - I can check the oil level gracefully 😊.
Good point!
Great video. How many KM does a full tank of fuel give? Realistically.
It’s not a bike I would like to own. However my old GS750 was a wonderful bike. The clocks on that used to glow red.
The trouble with the Busa is it’s big enough for two up riding but not really designed for comfort passenger wise as most bikes are these days. You could call it a social distance bike lol. The Japanese have an eye for things that appear ugly to us. They’re designs in cars are the same, however their technical expertise goes without saying. Style isn’t their forte. There are much better options out there to spend £16k on. Anyway many thanks for the review Andy.
Ooh yes I do remember that red glow on the gs750 clocks. Almost made me part ex my kettle at the time.
@@Grahamvfr My GS750 went towards a deposit on my first house and pram lol 😂 great bike, the only fault was the handling was a bit iffy. The kettle was an awesome machine with the water jacket. Thirsty bike though Graham.
yeah seems like its kinda hard to determine if a bike is good or bad on the wet as it all comes down to the tyres other than electronic aid, dunno how you do it but good stuff. Got new shoes for my bike, some pirelli Dragon sports and that seems to make bike loose traction all over the place still after 1000km, scary stuff. Guess my bike dont like those tyres.
great content keep it up :)
Great review
We buy with our hearts and learn the hard way time and again that it is the “little things” that frustrate. Ten levels of traction control or somewhere to keep a disc lock, a grab handle to help push the monster around, tyre valves and chain you actually get at, and somewhere to bungy luggage?
Yes, ease of living with actually accounts for a lot with a bike I’ve found over the years!
I really like these big beasts, trying to get realistic insurance quotes though!! Mad prices out there... I wish there were stowage on all bikes for the locks, chains n farkles we all need to keep the scrotes dissuaded. Top review as ever. (That Meteor, does it fit Mrs Flyer?)
How about a review of the new KLX300SM. Seems like the perfect bike for the places I have seen you ride.
Well explained bro 👍🏾
Love from India ❤️
Thank you!
Great in depth review
Thank you!
loving your content!
Great - glad to hear it!
Love your reviews....is the hayabusa heavier then the Goldwing?
Nah now you're being silly.....
Great review!!
Thank you very much!
Looks lovely. Great value but alas beyond my wages i'm afraid. Best wishes to all who sail on her.
I agree the exhausts look hidious!
Butt suzuki did a very clever move. They put the cats in the end cans, knowing most people will fit aftermarket end cans. So u only need end cans and a remap and u got full racing exhaust system.
Nice one Suzuki!
Your nearly right , There is 3 cats in that exhaust , underneath & 1 In each end can
I lost the video at 20:08 on three occasions. I guess I'll never know what you think of the busa😄.
? Not sure I follow Chad??
@@TheMissendenFlyer your video stopped at 20:08 and would not continue. The problem was on my end I suspect. Have a great day sir.
Great video as always!👍🏻😎
Thank you sir!
I like it , I think it looks great in the black & bronze , everyone says how heavy it is , it weighs the same as a small Harley sportster !! So it’s not that heavy really , it’s heavy when compared to litre sports bikes ok fair enough , I had no big interest in the older busas but this one has my attention in a big way
I don't find it's the headline weight per se that is the issue with some bikes, more the way it carries it - ie the height of the COG - if it's high, then the bike is a pain to live with for weaklings like me (Honda AT is a case in point)....
@@TheMissendenFlyer put down deposit today on busa trading in my 19 s1000r , only 4 busas allocated for Ireland for now