By Shivani Sharmma

Copyright timesnownews

Suzuki Motorcycle India has discontinued the Katana, the brand’s only 1000cc four-cylinder supernaked bike in the country. This marks the end of a short but memorable run for the ‘Katana’, which was launched in 2022 and quickly became popular for its retro yet futuristic looks inspired by the original 1980s Katana. Its price was Rs 13.61 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Engine and FeaturesThe Katana wasn’t just about good looks, but it was a proper performance machine. It was equipped with a 999cc inline-four engine, which was capable of producing 150 bhp and 106 Nm of torque. The bike was paired with a six-speed gearbox and packed with advanced riding aids like: Bi-directional quickshifter, which let riders shift gears without the clutchMultiple riding modes for different road conditionsTraction control system to prevent wheel slipsRide-by-wire throttle for smoother accelerationLow RPM assist which was helpful in traffic to prevent stalling If we look at the hardware, the Katana had fully adjustable USD front forks, a rear monoshock, 17-inch alloy wheels, and disc brakes at both ends, giving riders both performance and control efficiently. Market Position & CompetitionIn India, the Katana occupied a niche space and was Suzuki’s only 1000cc four-cylinder bike, built on the same platform as the GSX-S1000. Its closest competitor was the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP, which is priced at Rs 12.36 lakh, lower than Katana. However, despite its specifications and heritage-inspired styling, the Katana didn’t attract many buyers. Sales remained weak, and the bike was often offered with discounts to clear the stock. Also Read: Audi’s Next Electric Sports Car Drops the TT Name Suzuki’s Current Big Bike Line-up in IndiaWith the Katana discontinued, Suzuki India’s big bike portfolio now looks more focused on parallel-twin engines: Hayabusa starts at Rs16.90 lakh (ex-showroom), which is Suzuki’s most iconic superbike and now its only inline-four in India.GSX-8R starts at Rs 9.25 lakh, is a sporty middleweight with a 776cc parallel-twin engine.V-Strom 800DE starts at Rs 10.30 lakh is an adventure bike designed for touring and mild off-roading. This is also powered by the same 776cc twin engine. Globally, Suzuki has brought back its GSX-R1000R superbike, but there is no statement yet on whether Indian buyers will see it in showrooms. What This Means for Indian RidersFor bike enthusiasts, this discontinuation is bittersweet. On one hand, the Hayabusa remains the last inline-four Suzuki on sale in India, keeping the brand’s legacy alive. On the other hand, the shift to parallel-twin engines means fewer options for those who love solid power, the smoothness, sound, and raw thrill of a four-cylinder motorcycle. For more auto updates, keep reading Times Now Auto.