Hayabusa Gen 1 vs Gen 2

Many people wonder what the difference between the original Hayabusa and the new Gen 2 or 2008 Hayabusa really is.  One of the most obvious is the increased displacement from 1299cc vs 1340cc and the compression ratio is up to 12.5 instead of 11.

Body style has changed a bit giving it a new look and dimensionally it has also changed slightly.  Many had a love / hate relationship with the looks of this bike.  The more you get to know it, the better you'll like it.

The S-DMS or drive mode switch has been much talked about.  This changes the computer to one of 3 modes. It basically retards the timing slightly.  In the three different modes.  It reduces the power the bike makes and is perfect for new riders or ridding in the rain where you might need a bit better traction.

The S-DMS mode switch eventually will not get used much once you get used to the bike unless you get caught in the rain. It's an interesting novelty but will not be used much after the rider gets a little experience on the bike. There are more changes and you can look up the specs for each bike to review them in detail. However, this is it in a nutshell.

The Gen1 Hayabusa was rated at 178hp and the new 2008 Hayabusa Gen 2 is rated at 197hp.  This is a crap load of horsepower.  With a few minor mods, you can get into the high 170hp at the rear wheel.  If there was ever a bike you better hold on when you crack it, this is it.  You need to be careful with first gear WOT. You may have to feather the clutch to keep the front down or back off a bit.  Once you start modding, second gear also lifts pretty easily. If this still isn't enough, the Hayabusa Turbo is an option for you. Many of them are producing over 400hp.


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