Suzuki has revealed its new GSX-8S at the EICMA motorcycle show this evening, presenting a new middleweight naked bike motivated by a parallel-twin motor and familiar streetfighter styling.
Pricing for the GSX-8S starts at $14,190 rideaway, with units expected to hit Australian showrooms in August in three colour schemes: Pearl Cosmic Blue, Pearl Tech White and Metallic Matt Black.
The new Suzuki GSX-8S was unveiled alongside the new V-Strom 800DE adventure bike, both of which sport the same 776cc parallel-twin engine generating 61kW and 78Nm, signalling a move away from the brand’s long-running L-twin to a new Euro5 friendly twin-cylinder platform.
This new powerplant is supported by a ride-by-wire system with “multiple” rider modes, three-stage traction control (as well as ‘off’), an up-down quickshifter and Suzuki’s one-touch engine start system.
Key equipment for the GSX-S8 includes an aluminium swingarm, KYB suspension, Nissin monobloc brakes and aluminium wheels with Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tyres.
Other tech features include a 5.0-inch TFT dash, and full LED lighting with vertically stacked headlights to complete the ‘GSX-S’ streetfighter look.
The Suzuki GSX-S8 should be positioned to compete against the likes of the Honda CB750 Hornet, and Yamaha MT-07 ($13,599).
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
