Suzuki Katana AY50

: "This article is about the scooter, for the 1980s motorcycle, see Suzuki Katana"

The Suzuki Katana AY50 is a 50 cm³ scooter produced by Suzuki and sold primarily in Europe. starting in 1997. It is named for the katana samurai sword, as well as the early 1980s motorcycle of the same name. As a result, the scooter was widely criticised by the motorcycle press and enthusiasts of the classic motorcycle over the name as for damaging credibility of the Katana name.

The designation "AY" indicates that it has a two-stroke engine (A) and that it is intended for use in urban areas (Y), see Suzuki motorcycle naming conventions.

Design

Some of the parts used on the Katana are clearly inspired by racing, like the carbon-look Magneti-Marelli instruments and the Showa upside-down front suspension. A helmet can be stored in a space below the seat.

Specifications

The powerplant of the Katana is a two-stroke engine with a displacement of 49 cubic centimetres producing 2.43 kW. Being just below 50 cm³, it is regarded as a moped in most countries. In addition to the air-cooled AY50, a liquid-cooled version designated the AY50R is produced.

The engine of the AY50 is also used in the Suzuki Estilete UF50 and Zillion UX50.

As with most popular scooters and mopeds, many aftermarket modifications and replacement parts to increase acceleration and top speed exist. However, tuning of 50 cm³ vehicles is illegal in most countries.

Katana AY50 (air-cooled)

* Capacity: 2; rider and passenger
* Dimensions: 650 × 1890 mm
* Wheelbase: 1200 mm
* Weight: h:title|200.62 lb|91 kg
* Seat height: 790 mm

* Displacement: 49 cm³
* Power: h:title|3.25 hp|2.43 kW @ 9000 rpm
* Power-to-weight ratio: 0.027 kW/kg
* Torque: 3.2 N·m @ 5.500 rpm
* Transmission: Continuously variable
* Noise: 84 dB @ 4500 rpm
* Starter: Kick and electric
* Fuel: Unleaded petrol, 6 litre capacity

* Front tyre: 120/70-12
* Rear tyre: 130/70-12
* Rim dimension: 3.5"
* Front brakes: Disc
* Rear brakes: Drum
* Front suspension: Inverted Showa forks
* Rear suspension: ?