In 1999, Suzuki set out to create the fastest, most aerodynamic and efficient hyperbike ever, giving birth to a new superbike category. Not only did they plan to make an intense-feeling machine, but they also wanted it to be fast and practical. They set out to destroy the competition with none other than the Hayabusa… a souped-up bike named after the Japanese translation for a peregrine falcon (a bird of prey that dives at speeds of 200mph and eats blackbirds for breakfast - if you know, you know). It also shares its name with a fighter plane used by the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force in World War II.
Yoshiura San, the designer behind the bike, said “The concept of the first Suzuki Hayabusa was to create an original and dominating impact with superior aerodynamics, as well as being the most powerful sports motorcycle. I designed it with the intention of getting attention, using a unique motorcycle design. It needed to be the ultimate road-legal motorcycle with the highest performance from mass-produced bikes.” It became an immediate hit and cult status followed, with the Hayabusa becoming an icon.
Scroll down to find out more about how the third generation Hayabusa has evolved into what it is today…
*Finance provided by Suzuki Finance, a trading style of Suzuki Financial Services Limited, St William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff, CF10 5BH. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Credit is subject to status and is only available to UK residents aged 18 and over. Guarantee may be required. T&Cs apply.