2023 Suzuki GSX-8S | First Look Review
2023 Suzuki GSX-8S in Pearl Tech White
At the EICMA show in Milan, Italy, Suzuki unveiled an all-new 776cc DOHC parallel-Twin engine that will power two new models – the 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE (and Adventure variant) and the 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S.
Related Story: 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE | First Look Review
2023 Suzuki GSX-8S in Pearl Cosmic Blue
Suzuki says the 2023 GSX-8S is a “brand-new naked middleweight streetfighter with a robust engine, an agile chassis, a suite of electronic rider aids, plus stunning looks.”
The compact 776cc parallel-twin engine is mounted in a new rugged steel frame design, uses a 270-degree firing order for strong torque production, and is equipped with Suzuki’s exclusive Cross Balancer system to minimize vibration. The bike also features the ride-by-wire electronic throttle control system, Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS), and the Bi-directional Quick Shift system.
The 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S also comes with Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) with a three-mode Suzuki Drive Mode Selector, the four-mode Advanced Traction Control System, ABS, and Suzuki’s Easy Start and Low RPM Assist systems.
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New exposed seat rails are engineered to support the rider and, when combined with the 3.69-gal fuel tank with a narrow rear section that flows into the seat, contribute to the GSX-8S’ slim appearance and stripped-down look.
Suspension is provided by a KYB inverted fork with a 130mm stroke with stable damping characteristics in the front that make the bike suitable for both sports riding and long-distance rides and dedicated link-type mono-shock KYB suspension with mechanical preload adjuster in the rear.
Stopping power comes from Nissin radial-mount 4-piston front brake calipers mated with 310mm outer diameter floating-mount dual discs. The rear brake has a 240mm outer diameter disc and uses a single-piston pin-slide caliper.
The cast-aluminum wheels feature a new lightweight design and are shod with a new generation of Dunlop RoadSport 2 radial tires (120/70ZR17 in the front; 180/55ZR17 in the rear), and Suzuki says the tapered aluminum handlebars provide a “sporty yet comfortable upright riding position and feature a wide enough grip to contribute to positive control when steering.” And at a height of 31.9 inches, the seat has been designed for solid support for the rider toward its rear edge.
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The bike has a 5-inch color TFT LCD multi-function instrument panel, vertically stacked LED headlights in hexagonal housings topped by an LED position light, and LED turnsignals and taillight.
All combined, the GSX-8S comes in at a curb weight of 445 lb and offers styling that Suzuki says creates “an appealing new mass-forward, aggressive look that is slim, compact, well-balanced, and ready for action.”
The 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S comes in three colorways, each featuring unique logos and graphics that help identify the sport’s newest performance motorcycle and that first appeared on the 2022 GSX-S1000.
Related Story: 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 | Road Test Review
Buyers can select from Suzuki’s Pearl Cosmic Blue, Pearl Tech White, or Metallic Matte Black No. 2 / Glass Sparkle Black paint scheme. Pricing and availability hasn’t been announced as of publication.
2023 Suzuki GSX-8S in Metallic Matte Black No. 2 Glass Sparkle Black
For more information or to find a Suzuki dealer near you, visit SuzukiCycles.com.
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