If you are used to major motorcycle introductions occuring in the Fall, you will be shocked by what Suzuki announced today. An all-new 2008 Hayabusa featuring a 1340cc engine with a claimed eleven percent increase in performance headlines this late June announcement, along with the long-anticipated B-King naked bike (featuring a version of the same 1340cc motor), and a fuel-injected RM-Z450 motocrosser.
With a version of its own Suzuki Drive Mode Selector, the new Hayabusa allows the rider to choose from three different engine settings (similar to the set-up on the GSX-R1000). Engine compression raised to 12.5-to-1 compliments the increase in engine displacement, and is cooled by a new, more effective curved radiator.
The big new Suzuki meets stringent emissions requirements with a new exhaust system, and the clutch now features a “slipper” feature to reduce engine braking on aggressive downshifts.
The new chassis on the 2008 Hayabusa features updated, but familiar styling, fully adjustable suspension front and rear, redesigned swingarm, radial brake calipers (squeezing smaller 310mm discs) and other changes.
The new B-King features its own version of the 1340cc DOHC engine found in the Hayabusa, with a gear-driven counter balancer. Like the Hayabusa, the B-King features dual injectors per cylinder and a drive mode selector (with only two modes for the B-King). The B-King also gets the slipper clutch.
The B-King has an entirely new aluminum frame and swingarm. Fully adjustable suspension front and rear rivals that of sport bikes, and radial-mount front brake calipers are also state-of-the-art. The rear wheel of the B-King features a massive 200mm tire.
The 2008 RM-Z450 is striking in its use of electronic fuel injection, which is claimed to increase roll-on power, and low-to-mid range power. The system is designed by Keihin specifically for motocross, and does not require a battery.
The 2008 RM-Z450 features a five-speed transmission. Numerous engine modifications are claimed to increase performance and smoothness of power delivery.
An ECU calculates optimum injection and ignition timing by sensing crank shaft position, rotation speed and stroke, along with other variables. The bike has an all-new frame which is lighter and has a claimed improved rigidity balance. Fully adjustable Showa supension front and rear is modified for claimed improved performance and reduced weight. The rear swingarm is also redesigned to reduce weight and improve performance.
Ergonomics for the 2008 model are slimmer and designed to allow greater freedom of movement for the rider.
