Suzuki has sharpened its Katana for 2022, with the updated machine getting more power and an improved suite of electronics.

Based on the new-for-2021 GSX-S1000 platform, the new, Euro5 Katana produces 152PS at 11,000rpm and a broader spread of torque across the rev range than the preceding model, thanks to a new intake and exhaust camshaft, new valve springs, new exhaust, and a new airbox. All this is delivered smoothly via a new ride-by-wire throttle.

That smooth power delivery can be further controlled thanks to the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector system, with three selectable engine maps; all three deliver the same peak power, with mode A providing the sharpest, sportiest response, mode B a softer initial power delivery, and mode C delivering the softest response, ideal in wet and slippery conditions.

A bi-directional quickshifter makes swift work of gear changes and enhances performance on sporty rides, and there are five modes of traction control to choose from to keep things in check. Traction control can also be turned off.

Added controllability and increased performance also comes thanks to a new Suzuki Clutch Assist System, with a slipper clutch that mitigates the effect of engine braking when downshifting from high rpm.

Completing the electronics package is Suzuki’s handy easy start system and low RPM assist, which raises engine speed as the clutch lever is fed out, to aid slow speed control and prevent stalling.

The new Katana uses the same lightweight, twin-spar aluminium frame and GSX-R-derived swingarm, with fully-adjustable KYB front forks and a preload and rebound damping adjustable rear shock. Brembo monobloc calipers bite 310mm front discs, mounted to six-spoke, cast aluminium wheels shod with Dunlop SPORTMAX Roadsport2 tyres, custom engineered for Suzuki’s GSX-S platform.

The 2022 Katana will also come in new colours, with the sharp, angular bodywork that so obviously takes design cues from the original machine from the 1980s now finished in a dark matt blue, complemented by gold forks and wheels, while a dark grey iteration is set off by red wheels. A revised dash gets a new red ‘night mode’.

It will be available in dealerships in spring 2022.

World Ducati Week is finally back in 2022, the long-awaited and much-desired event by the whole Ducati family that sees thousands of enthusiasts gather to celebrate the passion for the world of two wheels and for the red bikes of Borgo Panigale.

Ben, the automotive industry charity, has launched a new Christmas Appeal which aims to raise at least £500,000 to ensure it can support the record numbers of people calling on its services this year.

Cardo Systems, the global market leader in wireless helmet communication for motorcycle riders, today announced a brand new range of bluetooth communicators, raising the benchmark for quality and innovation once again.

With Cardo’s continued commitment to its customers, the new range confirms its position in the market as the best option for those demanding the most out of their riding. Bringing a whole new generation of products with an array of features as standard, such as over-the-air software updates, meaning no cables are needed, the most advanced Bluetooth 5.2 chip on the market will now be integrated into all devices. Fast charging as standards means you can focus on the ride ahead, with a 20 minute charge giving users two hours of ride time.

The Cardo SPIRIT is a brand new product line and delivers all of the qualities that made Cardo recognisable as the high quality brand it is today, at an incredible introductory price of only 99.95 euros. The SPIRIT is powered by the latest Bluetooth technology and brings all of the essentials needed by a young, urban rider and combines them with unprecedented attention to detail, build quality and durability. With the ability to connect up to two riders up to a 400m range, it allows the rider to focus on the ride ahead and enjoy seamless connectivity.

The Cardo SPIRIT HD provides the unbeatable package, with everything a rider will ever want from a Bluetooth communicator at an affordable price. The SPIRIT HD is powered by the latest Bluetooth technology, and is combined with features such as high quality sound from powerful 40mm HD speakers, FM radio, and 13 hours talk time.

The Cardo FREECOM 2x establishes itself as the mid range, and firm favourite in the product line-up, as the best Bluetooth communicator for two riders. Added benefits include premium Sound by JBL, live intercom and analogue jog-dial. The Cardo FREECOM 2x sets a new standard for Bluetooth communicators with features such as Live Intercom, an auto-reconnecting Bluetooth connection for two riders, with live sound like never before. The Cardo FREECOM 2x also boasts features such as being waterproof and over-the-air software updates which provides additional value to an already incredible package.

Topping out the new line-up, the Cardo FREECOM 4x positions itself as the world’s best, fully featured, Bluetooth communicator for up to 4 riders. All of the benefits and features you’d expect from Cardo are standard with the addition of an auto-reconnecting Bluetooth connection for four riders, with live sound like never before – FREECOM 4x is the ideal premium Bluetooth companion for any ride.

Alon Lumbroso, Chief Executive Officer, Cardo Systems, commented “We are extremely proud and excited to replace our entire Bluetooth product range with two new exciting product families. The Cardo SPIRIT line sets a new standard for riders and our Cardo FREECOM x line-up raises the benchmark to position itself as the world’s best communication system on the market. Regardless of what or how you ride, we are confident we have a communicator for everyone.”
For more information about Cardo Systems, visit CardoSystems.com or join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and see all the latest videos on YouTube.

About Cardo Systems
Cardo specialises in the design, development, manufacturing and sale of state-of-the-art wireless communication and entertainment systems for motorcycle riders. Since inception in 2004, Cardo has pioneered the vast majority of innovations for Bluetooth motorcycle communication systems and in 2015, it has also introduced the world’s first mesh powered communication protocol into the motorcycle market. The company’s products, now available in over 100 countries, are the world’s leading communication devices for the motorcycle industry.

The luggage plate XL for the Yamaha T7 offers solo travellers the perfect solution for safely stowing even extra-large rack packs. The extremely robust aluminium plate takes over the pillion seat and luggage rack area.

It's not only veteran travellers who know that luggage stowed on a motorcycle should be as close to the centre of gravity as possible. It therefore makes no sense for solo travellers to fix their luggage roll right at the back on a rack. Experienced riders strap their rolls to the pillion seat.
But the fastening options in this position are often limited, and the bench foam does not provide an ideal base either. For the Lonesome Rider on a Yamaha Ténéré 700, Touratech now has the perfect solution in the form of the luggage plate XL with which you can lash even the largest luggage rolls securely, with a low centre of gravity.
The luggage plate XL not only replaces the pillion seat, it provides a flat surface, reaching over the mudguard - where the luggage rack normally sits. The luggage plate XL is definitely not lacking in robustness. An aluminium adapter plate with stainless steel hooks snaps exactly into the original locking mechanism of the pillion seat. The device is locked with the standard lock, operated with the ignition key. In addition, rubber buffers ensure a play-free fit.
The actual luggage plate is made of black anodised aluminium with a sturdy thickness of four millimetres. Generous material recesses keep the weight within practical limits. The straight lines, forming an exact extension of the surface of the rider's seat, prevent the creation of an edge so that coccyx injuries, for example during rough off-road use, are excluded.
To enable secure lashing to meet any terrain, the luggage plate XL has generously dimensioned strap eyelets. Rack packs can be attached either classically crosswise to the direction of travel or lengthwise.
The grips at the rear of the frame remain fully accessible, and there is nothing to prevent the simultaneous use of a ZEGA aluminium pannier system.

Luggage plate XL for Yamaha Ténéré 700 benefits
• Easy exchange with pillion seat
• Lock with ignition key
• Four millimetre thick aluminium
• Huge storage area
• Generous strap eyelets
• No risk of injury
• Can be used together with case system

Item no.: 632-5457