The visceral appeal of cutting-edge sportbike styling immediately catches your eye.
Once aboard, you experience the sophisticated balance of power, handling, comfort and faithful response that puts you in full control. Its a fine fusion of elements that invites all riders to a new world of riding pleasure, whether commuting or shopping in town, heading out for an exhilarating run through winding mountain roads, or testing your skills on the racetrack.
The GSX-8R is destined to lead the pack toward an exciting new era of sportbike riding.
The 776cm3 parallel twin engine that powers the GSX-8R delivers a fine balance of smooth, controllable power and free-revving performance you will enjoy whether touring, enjoying a brisk ride, competing on the racetrack, or tackling errands around town.
Producing the Power to be Your Best
Designed to be powerful, efficient, rider-friendly and versatile, the engine features a 270-degree crank layout with a firing order that produces rich torque and positive traction, as well as a pleasing rumble and engine note similar to that of a V-twin engine. It also employs the Suzuki Cross Balancer, an innovative primary balancer design that contributes to smooth operation and the GSX-8Rs nimble handling. The engines compact front-to-rear size contributes to achieving optimum weight distribution and chassis geometry, while it also helps position the hip point forward to provide you with an optimal riding position.
776cm3, 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, Liquid-cooled, DOHC, Parallel Twin Engine
"Developed specifically for the 776cm3 parallel twin engine, this patented* biaxial primary balancer suppresses vibration and contributes to smooth operation by positioning its two balancers equidistant at 90° to the crankshaft. Balancer No.1 cancels the primary vibration generated by the piston of the first cylinder, while balancer No.2 cancels the primary vibration of the second cylinder.
Furthermore, placing the two balancers at 90° to the crankshaft with each positioned equidistant from the crankshaft cancels primary couple vibration, it also helps realise a lightweight powerplant that is more compact from front to rear.
"The GSX-8R features a short muffler design that, barely peeking out as it rises from the right side of the engine, contributes greatly to the mass-forward image of this new sportbike. It is part of a 2-into-1 exhaust system engineered to produce a pleasing note befitting the parallel twin engine.
Better yet, the two-stage catalytic converter inside the collector helps limit emissions to a level that satisfies Euro 5 standards, while at the same time maximizing power output and overall performance.
"You can choose among three different power output characteristic modes to best match varying riding conditions or your preferences.
While all three ultimately deliver maximum engine output at the high rpm, fine control over the level of throttle response and torque characteristics as you open the throttle to accelerate empowers you to ride with greater confidence and pleasure.
Mode A (Active): Delivers the sharpest throttle response as you open the throttle. Torque characteristics are finely tuned to deliver exciting acceleration as the throttle is opened.
Mode B (Basic): Features softer throttle response and a more linear power delivery curve as you open the throttle. Settings are tuned to help make the bike more controllable and a good fit for everyday riding.
Mode C (Comfort): Offers yet softer throttle response and more gentle torque characteristics. This mode is useful when riding on wet or slippery surfaces.
Designed to help prevent the rear wheel from slipping, this system reduces stress and fatigue while instilling greater con?dence in controlling your ride. You can select from three active modes to control how quickly the system takes effect and how proactive it is in limiting wheel spin, or you can opt to run with it turned off.
Note: Suzuki Traction Control System is not a substitute for the riders throttle control. It cannot prevent loss of traction due to excessive speed when the rider enters a turn and/or applies the brakes. Neither can it prevent the front wheel from losing grip.
Mode 1: For sport riding with minimal intervention from the system.
Mode 2: Offers a balance that is ideal for city riding and regular road conditions everyday riding.
Mode 3: Well suited to wet or otherwise slippery road conditions.
"Development efforts aimed to maximize agility, comfort, utility and reassuring riding pleasure. The end goal was to deliver great handling and control whether riding through town or enjoying a sporty run on a twisty mountain road, and even when riding with the optional soft side cases attached, on fully leveraging the potential of the high-performance parallel twin engine and on minimizing fatigue, even on long rides. The frame and swingarm were designed around the parallel twin engine to create a core structure that is strong and highly rigid, to contribute to a chassis layout that is both compact and light, and to perform optimally on the street.
The chassis layout considerations covered every detail, from achieving the right riding position to the selection of the wheels, tires, and suspension settings. And it extended to striking a harmonious relationship between the chassis, engine and advanced controls of the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.).
The Perfect Frame for Sporty Street Performance
Designed as a perfect pairing with the parallel twin engine platform and made from rugged steel pipe with just the right amount of flex to minimize fatigue on long rides, the frame was engineered to contribute to nimble handling, to provide excellent straight-line stability, and to perform equally well in the city, on the highway, or when negotiating winding mountain roads.
The headlight assembly is mounted directly to the frame, reducing the amount of weight carried by the handlebars to make the GSX-8R even more controllable and realize a more neutral feel to steering.
In addition, the exposed seat rails are engineered to support the rider well, and also to contribute to the GSX-8Rs slim appearance and sporty, functional appeal.
"The unique lightweight design of the cast aluminium wheels feature contribute to nimble handling and sporty performance, while also enhancing the sporty looks of the GSX-8R.
Dunlop RoadSport 2 radial tires (120/70ZR17 at the front; 180/55ZR17 at the rear) designed to perform optimally and provide sure grip. The internal construction features a carcass and belt layer tuned to achieve the right level of rigidity to match the weight and performance characteristics of the GSX-8R, and to deliver the right combination of agility and stability.
Dunlops proven tread pattern employs a silica compound that enhances positive grip in wet conditions and features durable wear resistance.
These wheels and tires work in harmony with the front and rear suspension settings to help realize great grip, stability, and nimble handling, while also contributing to a comfortable ride.
Disc brakes provide sure stopping power
Dual four-piston radial-mount front brake calipers mated with 310mm outer diameter dual discs provide sure stopping power and controllable braking performance.
The rear brake has a 240mm outer diameter disc and uses a single-piston pin-slide caliper.
"Hitachi Astemo (SHOWA) SFF-BP (Separate Function Fork Big Piston) inverted front forks allows for the elimination of the cartridge on one side and made it possible to increase the size of the piston. The structure not only reduces weight, but also features stable damping characteristics that make the forks suitable for both sports riding and long-distance runs.
The dedicated link-type mono-shock rear suspension with preload adjuster is set up to contribute to straight-line stability and a smooth, controllable ride.
Uniquely Shaped Lightweight Aluminium Swingarm
The highly attractive aluminium swingarm employs a unique shape engineered to perform optimally under all street riding conditions and provide sure handling stability. Its lightweight aluminium construction enhances trackability and improves rear suspension response while at the same time contributing to a smoother, more comfortable ride.
"The GSX-8R adopts forged aluminium separate handlebars. The use of aluminium not only minimizes weight, but the pressure applied in the forging process also contributes to creating highly rigid components.
The lower, more forward placement of the separate handlebars helps the rider lean over the bars in a sporty riding position that makes aggressive runs all the more enjoyable.
Fuel Tank
The 14L fuel tank is designed to deliver the right balance between riding range and slim, compact looks that heighten the appeal of the GSX-8Rs sportbike styling.
"An example of the tribute to GSX-R styling is the front fairing design. Though not required for the same purpose as on the GSX-R, the front fairing is a functional element employed to streamline the flow of air from the cowling out the sides. This in turn reduces turbulence and contributes to a more stable ride.
Though related to the GSX-R series in terms of DNA, the GSX-8R presents a fresh new face that symbolizes the future of Suzuki sportbike design.
Windscreen
The windscreen for the GSX-8R was developed through extensive wind tunnel testing to help reduce fatigue on long rides by cutting wind noise and preventing buffeting.
"The riders seat is designed for comfortable sport riding. Delivering solid support toward its rear edge, the seat is shaped to offer freedom of movement and is covered in a skin that provides positive grip. Featuring a slim design, its smoothly rounded edges also help the rider more easily to plant their feet on the ground when stopped. The separate pillion seat includes a hand strap for the passenger.
"The new cowl-mounted mirrors are designed and tested to enhance aerodynamic performance and wind protection. Their sharp design adds sophisticated flair to the GSX-8Rs modern expression of sporty styling. Being cowl-mounted, they also reduce the amount of eye movement required for viewing, so help make long-distance rides even more relaxing and less tiring.
"The front fender features a bold upright strut that extends upward toward its leading edge.
This helps create the visual impression of weight distribution being brought toward the front and contributes to an overall look of balance and sporty performance.
The custom 5-inch color TFT LCD multi-function instrument panel for the GSX-8R features a clearly legible display that conveys a rich variety of information.
Not only does it keep the rider fully aware of all the bikes systems and settings, it also supplies critical real-time operating status information. The look is one of high quality that helps instill pride of ownership.
LCD readouts include:
This cable-free system leverages the onboard ECM to finely control the relationship between throttle action and engine output characteristics. As a result, linear feedback to throttle grip action makes the GSX-8R feel controllable and helps promote more confident riding.
"The assist function leverages precision-engineered ramps to force the clutch boss and pressure plate together and efficiently transfer torque to the rear wheel under acceleration, all while using softer clutch springs. The slipper clutch partially disengages when downshifting under deceleration to mitigate the effect of engine braking. By helping to prevent the rear tyre from hopping and providing smoother deceleration, this function enables the rider to shift down with greater confidence and maintain better control.
When activated, this standard-equipment system lets you shift up or down without operating the clutch lever while in motion. Features include clean upshifts with smooth acceleration and downshifts that are also quick and easy, thanks in part to automatic blipping and engine braking working together. The gear shift linkage system load rate is optimised to provide a solid, satisfying click with each shift that assures you the gearbox has responded immediately to your action.
One quick press of a button starts the engine. As a function used on every outing, Easy Start makes your riding experience all the more pleasurable and convenient.
"By helping prevent engine speed from dropping excessively when you pull away from a standing start or ride at low speeds, this function delivers smoother starts and inspires greater confidence when you are riding in stop-and-go traffic, or when doing U-turns.
"The vertically stacked pair of hexagonal LED headlights employ a bright mono-focus LED light source that provides the rider with a clear view of the road ahead. In terms of design, the vertical orientation of the thin, compact headlight assembly creates a sharp look with unique character that makes the front end look light and ready for action.
"Compact LED position lights flank the headlights as they trace forward and down along the front cowl. The angled design of these narrow slits add to the aggressive styling of this street fighter.
The LED rear combination light with integrated LED license plate light features a new design introduced for the first time on a Suzuki motorcycle. Mounted on the slim rear fender, this new light contributes to a sporty new design that makes the GSX-8S look even shorter and slimmer in the rear.
"The ergonomic switch layout maximizes operating ease and efficiency, allowing the rider to access controls while remaining focused on the road ahead. Selecting modes and making settings and adjustments for each of the advanced electronic control systems simply involves operating the MODE and UP/DOWN switches on the left handlebar with either long and short presses.
"
