Suzuki GSX-8R

2024 Suzuki GSX8R – Early days yet, only a few months traveled since first service. Now at 1800 KM on the clock. I have another 800 Suzuki, the V Strom 800 RE at the moment too, and had a 2023 8S of which there is a review on this site. The R is a sportstourer more than a hard on sports bike; buy it for that alone and you will get a bike that does a few more roles than just carve corners.

The torque is centred around 4 to 5000 RPM and it is not a top end power machine like my now departed 2024 First Gen Honda Hornet 750 which the 8R replaced. It is far more comfortable than the Hornet, but that depends on your age and fitness too. The aerodynamics of the fully faired bike make for excellent wind deflection away from the rider. Some bike windscreens just dump all the air into the riders face (my 800RE !). Suzuki has got it right for my 6 foot frame and height, even better if you are more vertically challenged than me.

Suspension is a welcome highlight on the R version. It has Honda owned Showa's at both ends and the benefit is obvious over that fitted to the cheaper 8S. Where the S at the front leaps upwards over ridges, the R just absorbs them and moves on. The rear on the R is just as good. Yes, you still feel the suspension, but it doesn't get upset. No complaints about the Dunlop tyres fitted, they are the same as on the S, but are higher speed rated Z one's.

First service was $265, which included using the Suzuki oil, filter pack which IF used at every service by a Suzuki Dealer, gives 12 months full warranty extra over the standard two years.

Bob.