In this video review, we test the all-new 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S, a middleweight naked sportbike powered by a 776cc 4-stroke DOHC parallel-Twin that’s also found in the V-Strom 800DE. Priced at just $8,849 in the U.S., the GSX-8S delivers style, performance, sophistication, and versatility in an affordable package.
We traveled to France for the global press launch of the Suzuki GSX-8S, where we tested the bike on city streets and on mountain roads in the Maritime Alps. Watch the video for our impressions, and check out our detailed First Ride Review.
2023 Suzuki GSX-8S Specs
- Base Price: $8,849
- Website: SuzukiCycles.com
- Warranty: 1 yr., unltd. miles
- Engine Type: Liquid-cooled parallel-Twin, DOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl.
- Displacement: 776cc
- Bore x Stroke: 84.0 x 70.0mm
- Horsepower: 82.0 @ 8,500 rpm (factory claim)
- Torque: 57.5 lb-ft @ 6,800 rpm (factory claim)
- Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated slip/assist wet clutch
- Final Drive: Chain
- Wheelbase: 57.7 in.
- Rake/Trail: 25.0 degrees/4.1 in.
- Seat Height: 31.9 in.
- Wet Weight: 445 lb (factory claim)
- Fuel Capacity: 3.7 gal.
GEAR UP
- Helmet: HJC RPHA 91
- Jacket: Joe Rocket Turbulent Women’s Jacket
- Gloves: Joe Rocket Ballistic Ultra Women’s Gloves
- Pants: Alpinestars Daisy V2 Women’s Riding Jeans
- Boots: Joe Rocket Trixie Women’s Boots
How much of an improvement is this over my 2003 SV650S (or anyone’s second gen on SV)? I think the problem is – it’s hard to say, when it should be obviously much better.
Looks like poor ergo with the tilted seat pushing you into the gas tank , ouch !
No the ergos are fine. I had that problem with the current MT09, it tilted my pelvis badly and put pressure on my back. The 8S is fine. And there is room to push back and lean a bit more for open road wind and aggressive riding. Moe room than the Hornet.
The quick shifter is smooth up and down in low revs with slight acceleration and slowing, particularly if you short shift up. Effortless. There are some clunky spots like changing up with constant or dropping revs and I know when to use the clutch. 1st to 2nd also has an ideal rev range to be smooth with the shifter.