2008 Suzuki Hayabusa, 2008 Kawasaki ZX—6R, And 2008 Yamaha YZF—R6 — Longterm Test

From the February, 2009 issue of Super Streetbike

2008 Suzuki Hayabusa
MILES RIDDEN: 4700
MODIFICATIONS: Sportech windscreen, Hotbodies Racing blackout kit, R&G Racing fender eliminator

Last month a full exhaust system from KR Tuned took the place of the Micron slip-ons the 'Busa was sporting, and while we were at it a Power Commander and quickshifter courtesy of Dynojet were installed. Timing was tight, however, and we couldn't make it to the dyno until after press time. When we did, the results were impressive to say the least.

With the stock fuel mapping and the sound baffle intact, the KR Tuned exhaust added nearly six horsepower, yet the air/fuel ratio remained in the safe zone. After removing the baffle we found another four horses. With some very mild custom fuel mapping our local dyno shop, Hypercycle, was able to smooth the power delivery across the board and keep it all safe and sound with a perfect air/fuel mix. That boosts the 'Busa up to 182 horses at the wheel, and we've still got a nitrous install coming. Our goal of 200 mph is looking good....

But the bike itself needed a little help in the styling department. For that we looked to Sportech for one of its cool new Black Series screens. It bolted on in minutes and dramatically altered the front of the bike's appearance for the better. The cool gloss/matte black finish with a ghosted skull graphic makes a bold statement in its subtlety.

Keeping with the sinister black theme, we hooked up a Hotbodies Racing taillight blackout cover. Included in the kit are turn signal covers for a fully blacked out rear, but we set those aside for the time being until we decide on the look.

The silly, oversize stock license plate hanger was next on the chopping block, and it was replaced with an R&G Racing fender eliminator that installed in minutes and did wonders for the rear end's looks.

More performance parts are coming next month in the shape of a Beringer brake upgrade kit along with a pair of Galespeed wheels. Stay tuned as our 'Busa gets even badder.