I own the 2001 Katana and I will admit that it is not the best handling bike ever made. I am going to put in my opinion. Take it or leave it. 1. It is heavy and this is hard to compensate for on sharp turns. 2. The suspension in the front is too hard even at the lowest setting. This bike in my opinion is for somewhat experienced riders. It is not a racing bike. To handle this like a racing bike, you must know how to ride with extreme experience. This is why you would buy a GSXR. It is a race bike. I agree with someone else´s comment; It sould be a sport touring bike and not a sport bike. On that note, I love the bike and would not trade it for anything. If you want a sport race inspired bike, get a GSXR 600, 750, or 1000 if you have nutz. I don´t own any of them because the Katana is fast enough to kill me as it is! PEACE and be safe!