Bike Files: Suzuki GSX-8S / GSX-8R

Suzuki’s sporty middleweights are really rather good

All new platform

Suzuki’s new GSX-8 series marks a return to form for Suzuki after a fairly quiet period. Powered by a 776cc parallel-twin engine, which is shared with the V-Strom 800, it’s the first ‘all-new’ Suzuki engine since the last GSX-R1000 of 2017, and arguably their first properly new motorcycle since the legendary Hayabusa two decades earlier. There are several version of the adventure styled V-Strom 800, while these two – the GSX-8S and GSX-8R – are pure road focussed models.

What are the main differences between the Suzuki GSX-8S and GSX-8R

Most obviously the GSX-8S is unfaired, while the racier GSX-8R has a fairing. Both bikes share the same basic platform, with identical frames and engine specifications, but the R has a more sporting riding position thanks to its lower handlebars and footpeg position.

The R also gets uprated front forks, with the Showa Big Piston Forks offering a higher specification than the KYB units on the S. They both share the same 82bhp engine and the tubular steel frame, Dunlop RoadSport 2 tyres and so on are identical too. They are very, very, similar although the changes does give them both their own identity.

The more upright riding position on the S feels more commanding, while the R’s fairing comes into its own at motorway speeds. If you do a lot of high speed riding, the wind protection offered by the R makes it the most comfortable of the two. 

^{GSX-8S is the naked version.}

What other bikes are the Suzukis like?

This middleweight twin class is really becoming popular. The most notable competition comes from the Yamaha MT-07 (naked) and R7 (faired), while Kawasaki go down a similar route with the unfaired Z650 and the sportier Ninja 650.

Launched at the same time as the Suzuki, Honda’s Hornet 750 is a natural rival while Triumph’s Trident and Daytona 660 take on the twins with a three-cylinder platform. All offer comparable levels of performance and similar prices, making it a seriously competitive sector of the British motorcycle market.

What are they like to ride

The engine, which is shared with the V-Strom 800 adventure bikes, is deceptive. It isn’t as revvy and playful as the smaller capacity motors from the likes of Kawasaki and Yamaha, and they are the sort of bikes that, the more you ride the more appreciate.

Compared to the racier Yamahas, the Suzukis feel a bit longer, heavier and lazier but the result is a motorcycle which is very easy to get on with and which feels bigger and more stable than you might expect from a light middleweight. With its 270° crankshaft, the motor feels a bit like a V-twin, especially at lower RPM.

A bidirectional quickshifter also comes as standard, which is quite unusual for a bike of this price, and it’s a nice touch to be able to make clutchless changes both up and down the gearbox. The three ride modes do change the character a little, although we suspect most will stick with A mode which offers the sharpest throttle response.

While the S is a traditional sit up and beg roadster, the R’s sportier ergonomics have the rider leaning forward slightly. To be honest, it’s still a fairly upright position for a sports bike and both flavours are comfy and easy to ride around town and on the open road.

It’s a modern design, and the Suzukis’ size, not to mention the posh TFT dashboard, give the impression of being on a bike that’s bigger and more expensive than the price tag would suggest. The riding experience is a bit more grown up than its main rivals too, and one of the Suzuki’s biggest strengths is its broad appeal.

Where Yamaha’s R7 and the Aprilia RS 660 lack comfort due to their race replica ergos, the Suzuki GSX-8R is a far more practical daily proposition with appeal to riders young and old. And if you want full on practical, the same engine can be found in a V-Strom.

^{Fun on the twisties.}

What’s the difference between the V-Strom and GSX-8?

The V-Strom is Suzuki’s adventure bike and comes in a bunch of different variants. The RE is lower and more road focussed than the DE, which has tall suspension and a big 21” front wheel. Those both come in ‘Tour’ versions, which come pre-loaded with hard luggage. Being a bit bigger and heavier than the GSX-8 models they’re not quite as lively on the road but, as all-rounders, they are pretty peerless.

How well have they been received?

They’re good bikes. The unfaired GSX-8S won MCN’s prestigious Naked Bike of the Year award in 2023, while the GSX-8R won the weekly newspaper’s Sportsbike of the Year title the following year. Having gained a reputation for being one of the more ‘value’ Japanese brands, Suzuki really seem to have stepped things up with their new 800s. Compared to similar bikes in the price range, the spec is very good and build quality feels like it’s gone up a notch.

Why should I choose the Suzuki?

It might not be as sporting as some of its competitors but Suzuki have really found a sweet spot in terms of quality, value and all-round capability. If you want a great all-round middleweight that’s good value for money, you can’t go far wrong with the GSX-8.

Are they proper sportsbikes?

We would say so. They’re not supersport bikes like the old GSX-Rs, but they offer more than enough performance for road riding.

^{Accessories might detract from the lines but aid the practicality.}

Who is likely to buy one?

They’ve got a broad appeal. Manufacturers are pitching this new generation of middleweights to younger riders but, to be honest, they offer more than enough to appeal to experienced riders who just want a pure and honest motorcycle that can do a bit of everything for not too much money.

Which is better, the GSX-8S or the GSX-8R?

Which do you prefer? It’s that simple really. If you like the naked style, you’ll prefer the GSX-8S, but if you want something a little bit sportier or want some weather protection for motorway riding the 8R is probably better suited to your riding needs.

^{TFT dashboard gives a premium feeling from the cockpit.}