Suzuki has taken the wraps off two new bikes, each based on an existing platform, at EICMA 2023 – the GSX-8R sportbike and the GSX-S1000GX sport-touring crossover.
Suzuki GSX-8R: new middleweight sportbike
The new GSX-8R is based on Suzuki’s new 776cc engine platform also found in the GSX-8S and the V-Strom 800 lineup. The GSX-8R’s output figures haven’t been revealed but expect them to be in the same ballpark as the 82hp/78Nm made by its naked counterpart. All the underpinnings are carried forward from the GSX-8S here as are the electronics.
What does change is the styling. The GSX-8R has a layered, full-fairing that looks rather neat and it doesn't come at the expense of comfort. That's because the GSX-8R uses raised clip-on handlebars that rise above the fork tops. At 208kg, the GSX-8R is 6kg heavier than the naked GSX-8S.
Currently, none of the new 776cc-engined Suzukis have been launched in India (only the V-Strom 800DE has been spied on test) so it remains to be seen whether the GSX-8R will make its way here.
Suzuki GSX-S1000GX: 1000cc sporty crossover
The GSX-S1000GX crossover is based on the same platform as the GSX-S1000 GT sport-tourer and uses the same main frame and engine. Where the GX differs from the GT is in its tall stance, beefier subframe and brand-new Showa electronic suspension.
Suzuki’s Active Damping Control has 3 preset settings (Hard, Medium, Soft) plus a User mode that's fully customisable. The GX is also the first model in the GSX-S lineup to have cornering ABS and traction control, enabled by the six-axis IMU.
Currently, the Suzuki Katana is the only model on sale in India based on this engine platform so it remains to be seen whether the GSX-S1000GX will make its way here. If it were to launch in India, its closest rivals would be the Kawasaki Versys 1000 and the BMW S 1000 XR.
Azaman Chothia
Vishal Venugopal
