Suzuki has updated its middleweight portfolio with the addition of two motorcycles, the V-Strom 800DE and GSX-8S at the 2022 EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, Italy. Both motorcycles will be launched in the European and North American markets in early 2023. Meanwhile, the Indian launch details are not available yet. Previously, we brought you the top five highlights of the V-Strom 800DE. Here we explain the top five details about the new GSX-8S.
Styling
The motorcycle borrows some of the styling elements from the company’s litre-class naked roadster, the GSX1000 and thus, it features a vertically-stacked twin-pod LED headlight assembly at the front. The headlight is flanked by body-coloured panels that also hold the LED DRLs. Other styling elements on the GSX-8S include radiator shrouds, muscular fuel tank, split-style seats, exposed frame and sub-frame, aluminium swingarm, and underbelly exhaust canister design. Further, the company will also offer a bunch of optional extras for the motorcycle. These include a soft side case, compact visor, heater grips, rear seat cowl, engine cowl, tank pad, tank bag, frame sliders, and a USB socket.
Features
The feature list on the new GSX-8S comprises Suzuki Intelligent Ride System that brings along ride-by-wire electronic throttle, Suzuki Drive Mode Selector with three different output modes, three-level traction control system, ABS, and a bidirectional quickshifter to the motorcycle. The roadster also benefits from the Suzuki Easy Start and low RPM assist system. Other features on this motorcycle include full-LED lighting and a five-inch colour TFT LCD instrument panel.
Engine
The motorcycle is powered by a Euro5-compliant 776cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine with a 270-degree crankshaft design. Linked to a six-speed gearbox, this motor is claimed to deliver a fuel economy of 23.8kmpl that, along with its 14-litre fuel tank, should cover a distance of over 300km between fuel stops. Apart from a bidirectional quickshifter, this engine also benefits from Suzuki Clutch Assist System.
Hardware
The new GSX-8C is equipped with KYB-sourced inverted front forks and rear mono-shock to handle the suspension duties. Then, the braking setup comprises twin 310mm discs at the front and a single 240mm rotor at the back. Further, the 17-inch alloy wheels come in Dunlop SPORTMAX Roadsport 2 tyres with a 120/70-section profile at the front and a 180/55-section profile at the rear.
Colours
Suzuki has released three colour options for the new GSX-8S. These include Pearl Cosmic Blue, Pearl Tech White, and Metallic Matte Black with Glass Sparkle Black. The former two get blue-coloured alloy wheels and a sub-frame while the latter features a black paint for the said units. All colour options feature a body-coloured headlight mask.
