car news

New naked from Suzuki: the GSX-8S

November 8, 2022

Characteristic of the new Suzuki GSX-8S is its aggressive styling. According to its designers, it is of functional street-fighter beauty. The vertically stacked hexagonal LED headlights not only provide a clear view of the road surface, they also create a sharp look with a unique character thanks to a compact design. The headlight unit is flanked by compact LED position lights.

Short muffler

A distinctive design detail of the new Suzuki GSX-8S is the short muffler. It comes up on the right side of the motorcycle and barely sticks out. In addition, the muffler is part of a new 2-in-1 exhaust system that Suzuki says is designed for a pleasant exhaust sound to match the new parallel-twin.

Brand new 776 cc parallel twin

Suzuki equips the GSX-8S with a completely newly developed 776 cc parallel-twin with 270° crankshaft and very compact construction. The new two-cylinder is paired with a Bi-directional (up & down) quickshifter as standard and meets the stringent Euro5 emissions standard. In the GSX-8S, the powerplant is good for an output of 61 kW (82.9 hp) at 8,500 rpm and 78 Nm of torque at 6,800 rpm. A variant for A2 license holders is also available with 35 kW (47.5 hp).

270° crankshaft and Suzuki Cross Balancer

The special 270° crankshaft with unique ignition interval guarantees a smooth ride, an abundance of torque and traction combined with a pleasant rumble and a sound similar to that of a V-twin. The twin cylinder also features the innovative and patented Suzuki Cross Balancer mechanism, which contributes to the smooth engine character with minimal vibration.

Three riding modes

Through the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS), there is a choice of three driving modes: Active, Basic and Comfort. Each driving mode offers the maximum power output. The specific differences of the driving modes are in the influence on throttle response and torque characteristics when accelerating.

Rigid frame, unique chassis

At the heart of the chassis of the new Suzuki GSX-8S is a strong and very rigid frame designed specifically for the GSX-8S. The lightweight aluminum swingarm is optimized for street use. In running order, the GSX-8S weighs only 202 kilograms. The frame geometry also allows the rider to position the hips further forward. This makes the GSX-8S even easier to control. The seat height comes out to 810 mm.

KYB suspension

The KYB upside-down fork has 130 mm of suspension travel. The KYB monoshock of the rear suspension provides excellent straight-line stability. The mechanical spring preload adjuster is especially useful when riding in pairs.

Traction control

The Suzuki Traction Control System (STCS) prevents rear wheel spin and gives more confidence when accelerating when there is less grip. The intervention rate of STCS is adjustable through three modes. Each mode affects how much wheel spin the system allows. STCS can also be turned off completely. Proven systems like Suzuki Clutch Assist System for smooth clutch control, Low RPM Assist for smooth pulling away and the Suzuki Easy Start System where the new parallel-twin starts automatically at the push of a button are of course also present on the new GSX-8S.

5-inch TFT display

You overlook a 5-inch color TFT display. The tachometer also serves as a programmable shift indicator, blinking when the engine reaches the set rpm. The TFT screen now also has an additional feature, in which large pop-up notifications and alerts can be displayed. The display can be controlled by handlebar switches.

Three color schemes

The Suzuki GSX-8S is available with a choice of three color schemes, namely Pearl Cosmic Blue, Pearl Tech White or Metallic Matte Black combined with Glass Sparkle Black. Of course, various accessories are also available. Consider a side case set (soft luggage), fly screen, duoseat cover, tank pad, LED turn signals and a belly pan.