It has been called the Kawasaki/Suzuki “alliance” or “joint venture” but not “merger”. Whatever it is, it already seems to be working.
Who has the most diverse lineup of off-road motorcycles? If you think it’s a Honda dealer or a Yamaha dealer, think again. Kawasaki and Suzuki dealers have more off-road motorcycles available than anyone else, including KTM. Their off-road lineups fit together like perfect puzzle pieces, complementing each other from the toddler/beginner all the way up.
If sales volume increases in the off-road category are the only result, it may be worth it, but other synergies should result, as well. We don’t quite know where this relationship is going with street bikes, yet, except that Kawasaki and Suzuki plan to retain independent development of their “flagship” models, including sportbikes.
Ultimately, of course, the point of this relationship is greater strength and competitiveness — leading to higher profitability for both companies. The instant transformation of the off-road lineup available from both manufacturers seems to point in the right direction.
