Lately Suzuki has been busy debuting its new 776cc parallel twin engine and then showcasing the mill in the new V-Strom 800DE. But that’s not all: Now we get to see the powerplant in all its glory in the GSX-8S naked streetfighter. Pricing and availability, however, remain under cover for now.
Everything about the GSX-8S is new from the ground up. We previously detailed the features of the new engine (see above), which employs a 270-degree firing order and Suzuki Cross Balancer design to reduce vibration, promising v-twin feel with more power and a unique exhaust note. Unfortunately, Suzuki has yet to provide concrete figures in terms of horsepower and torque.
Riders will be able to move seamlessly through the six-speed transmission thanks to the inclusion of suzuki’s Bi-directional Quick Shift system as standard kit on the 8S. The bike will also feature the Suzuki Clutch Assist System to smooth feel and performance at the lever.
The new engine is neatly held in a steel backbone frame, which has a narrow steel subframe and aluminum swingarm designed to optimize rigidity and stability. The bike is suspended on KYB kit front and rear, with a USD fork providing 5.1 inches of travel and a link-type monoshock at the rear offering preload adjustment. Nissin four-piston calipers grip a pair of 310mm discs at the front; a single-piston Nissin caliper and 240mm disc handle braking duties at the back.
The 8S will pack a decent assortment of electronics as well. Suzuki’s Intelligent Ride System takes care of the traction control, quick shifter, and drive mode selector. There will be three drive modes and four traction control settings. Ride-by-wire is also included, as is Suzuki’s Low RPM Assist and Easy Start systems. All the bike info will be displayed on a 5-inch, full-color TFT instrument panel.
Looks-wise, the 8S is the spitting image of the GSX-S1000, with its angular beak and stacked LED headlights. The 8S will be available in either Pearl Cosmic Blue, Pearl Tech White, or Metallic Matte Black No. 2 / Glass Sparkle Black colorways.
2023 Suzuki GSX-8S Technical Specifications and Price
| Engine: | 776cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled parallel-twin |
|---|---|
| Bore x Stroke: | 84.0 x 70.0mm |
| Compression Ratio: | 12.8:1 |
| Fuel Delivery: | EFI w/ride-by-wire |
| Clutch: | Wet, multi-disc slipper/assist, Bi-directional Quick Shifter |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/chain |
| Frame: | Steel backbone |
| Front Suspension: | KYB fork, 5.1 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | KYB link-type monoshock w/preload adjustment |
| Front Brake: | 4-piston Nissin calipers, dual 310mm discs, ABS |
| Rear Brake: | 1-piston Nissin caliper, 240mm disc, ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | Cast aluminum; 17 in / 17 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2, 120/70-17 / 180/55-17 |
| Rake/Trail: | 25.0°/4.1 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 57.7 in. |
| Seat Height: | 31.9 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 3.7 gal. |
| Claimed Curb Weight: | 445 lb. |
| Available: | TBD |
| Contact: | suzukicycles.com |
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com