- The 776cc parallel twin is smooth, torquey and full of character, making it the standout feature of the GSX-8S.
- Light, slim and easy to ride, the GSX-8S suits both experienced riders and those stepping up from smaller machines.
- Basic suspension is the main compromise, but at $13,999 in the current Suzukifest promotion, the overall package represents strong value.
- Prefer adventure? You can check out our Suzuki V-Strom 800 review HERE.
Words: Paul | Pics: Greg Smith (iCapture)
With the current Suzukifest promotion in NZ seeing the excellent Suzuki GSX-8S priced at an incredible $13,999 + ORC, we take a look back at the Aussie launch of the versatile parallel twin where we came away impressed both on the road and the track.
It’s easy to feel jaded about parallel twins these days. Almost every manufacturer is leaning on the layout, often chasing emissions targets rather than excitement. But Suzuki has form when it comes to building great engines, and after first riding this new 776cc twin in the V-Strom 800DE, it was clear there was something special going on. The GSX-8S confirms it: once again, the motor is the star of the show.
The GSX-8S is technically an all-new model, aimed squarely at the naked middleweight segment. In reality, it shares its engine and core chassis with the V-Strom 800DE, but that’s no bad thing. Suzuki’s brief was ambitious: build a bike that appeals to experienced riders downsizing from bigger machines, while remaining approachable for newer riders stepping up from LAMS — all while keeping the price sharp. It’s a tough balancing act, but Suzuki has come remarkably close to nailing it.
Our launch took place in Queensland, a far cry from the wet Whanganui conditions of the V-Strom launch. Sunshine Coast roads and a track day at Lakeside Park gave the GSX-8S the perfect environment to show what it can do.
New Style, Friendly Size
Suzuki has finally cracked naked-bike styling (especially with the new T & TT versions of the GSX-8 platform). The stacked headlights give the GSX-8S an aggressive face, with more than a hint of Streetfighter attitude, while the compact tail practically begs for a tail tidy. Despite its small physical footprint, it never feels like a “small” bike.
At 810mm, the seat height is friendly, and the bike’s slim waist makes flat-footing easy. The riding position strikes a sweet balance: sporty without being cramped, comfortable enough for 250km-plus days in the saddle. The 14-litre tank might sound modest, but real-world range sits comfortably north of 250km, depending on how enthusiastic your right wrist is.
That Engine
The 776cc parallel twin is the standout feature. Thanks to Suzuki’s clever split balancer design, it’s remarkably smooth, with minimal vibration even as revs rise. The 270-degree crank gives it a V-twin-style pulse, delivering strong low-end drive and a meaty midrange.
It’ll pull cleanly from low revs, but hit 5,000rpm and it really comes alive, driving hard all the way to the redline. The standard up/down quickshifter is excellent, encouraging short-shifting to make the most of that torque or revving it out when the mood strikes. Suzuki’s work on mass centralisation is obvious too — the bike feels slim, light and easy to throw around, particularly for newer riders.
Tech Without Overkill
Suzuki’s TFT dash is clear and refreshingly intuitive. There’s no menu diving required: traction control, power modes and key settings are easily adjusted on the fly. Power modes A, B and C genuinely alter the bike’s character, with B proving ideal for everyday road use.
Traction control offers levels 1, 2 or off, and yes — you can switch it off while riding. There’s no cruise control and suspension adjustment is minimal, but those omissions are part of what keeps the GSX-8S affordable. Low RPM Assist and Easy Start are subtle but genuinely useful features, especially for less experienced riders.
On the Road
The GSX-8S excels on real-world roads. SDMS B mode delivers smooth, flexible drive through traffic, while the chassis feels planted and confidence-inspiring as the road opens up. Despite sharing DNA with the adventure-focused V-Strom, the GSX-8S benefits from that strength, delivering sharp steering and excellent mid-corner stability.
The KYB suspension does a solid job for everyday riding, but push harder on bumpy roads and the rear shock shows its budget roots, feeling under-damped at pace. It’s the bike’s most obvious compromise — and also the first thing many owners will want to upgrade.
Track Time
At Lakeside Park, the GSX-8S made immediate sense. With 80hp on tap, it’s fast enough to be exciting without being intimidating. A-mode sharpens throttle response, traction control can be dialled back or turned off, and the quickshifter works flawlessly under hard use.
The Nissin radial brakes are strong and reassuring, while the Dunlop RoadSport 2 tyres surprised with their grip on both road and track. The GSX-8S is forgiving, confidence-inspiring and genuinely fun — particularly for riders building track experience.
Verdict – A New Era Done Right
Suzuki calls this bike a “new era”, and while the phrase gets thrown around easily, there’s substance behind it here. The GSX-8S isn’t about headline horsepower — it’s about balance, usability and enjoyment. The engine is a gem, the chassis is sharp, and the overall package is accessible without feeling basic.
Yes, the suspension is budget, but at $15,999 (reduced to $13,999 + ORC for the Suzukifest promotion), that compromise is understandable — and fixable. The GSX-8S proves that great riding experiences don’t need huge power figures or excessive tech. It’s a smart, engaging middleweight that feels perfectly suited to NZ roads, and one that could become a real sales winner for Suzuki.
FAQ – Suzuki GSX-8S
How much power does the Suzuki GSX-8S make?
Around 80hp, delivered in a flexible, rider-friendly way rather than chasing peak numbers.
Is the GSX-8S good for newer riders?
Yes. Its low seat height, slim profile, smooth power delivery and rider aids make it very approachable.
Does it have cruise control?
No, cruise control is not fitted on the GSX-8S.
Is the suspension adjustable?
Front suspension is non-adjustable; rear shock offers preload adjustment only.
What is the GSX-8S price in NZ?
The GSX-8S is usually priced at $15,999 + ORC in NZ, but the current Suzukifest promotion sees the capable and fun naked at a bargain price of $13,999 + ORC.
Would it work as a track bike?
Absolutely. While not a supersport, it’s forgiving, fun and confidence-inspiring on track days. Just look at the current crop of racers in the new Sportbike class in NZ, or Chris Smith’s GSX-8S racebike conversion that only cost him $1000 over the standard bike. It’s certainly an affordable way to get your trackday or race kicks.
What are the Suzuki GSX-8S competitors?
There are plenty of middleweight parallel twins nowadays to choose from, and even triples and inline fours.
1. Yamaha MT-07 – A perennial favourite thanks to its fun, easy-going 689 cc parallel-twin and engaging handling. It’s often seen as the benchmark in this category.
2. Honda CB750 Hornet – A larger parallel-twin contender with strong torque and modern electronics that directly rivals the GSX-8S on both road feel and performance.
3. KTM 790 Duke – Known as “The Scalpel,” this agile Austrian bike brings sharp handling and punchy twin power, appealing to riders seeking extra performance and edge.
4. Triumph Trident 660 – A triple-cylinder alternative with excellent mid-range character, solid tech and rider-friendly nature — clever packaging for street and weekend riding.
5. Aprilia Tuono 457 – A lighter, LAMS-friendly option with Italian flair and agile handling, suitable for riders who want a lively street bike with character.
6. BMW F900 R – A slightly bigger, higher-powered roadster with premium finishes and tech, offering a different flavour of performance compared to the GSX-8S.
Summary
The Suzuki GSX-8S is a middleweight naked bike powered by a 776cc parallel twin that delivers smooth, torquey performance and strong real-world usability. Sharing its engine and chassis with the V-Strom 800DE, the GSX-8S combines approachable ergonomics, intuitive electronics and sharp handling at a competitive $13,999 price point. While suspension adjustment is limited, the GSX-8S impresses on both road and track, offering an engaging, confidence-inspiring ride that suits a wide range of riders and signals a new era for Suzuki’s middleweight lineup.
