SUZUKI GSX-8R IS MCN's SPORTSBIKE OF THE YEAR

Motorcycle News has crowned the Suzuki GSX-8R as its “Sportsbike of the Year”. The 8R collects the award a year after its naked stablemate, the GSX-8S, won the award for Best Naked.

The award makes it two awards in two years for Suzuki’s 776cc parallel twin engine platform, which has won favour with press and customers alike thanks to its punchy power delivery and flexibility.

The GSX-8R was heralded as ‘a sublime bit of kit’ by the world famous motorcycling newspaper, and praised for being ‘cracking fun to ride’ and for being ‘living proof that sportsbikes can be fun, comfortable and capable, without breaking the bank, as it blends sportiness with everyday usability.

Jak Tyrrell, Suzuki GB’s senior motorcycle marketing manager, said after collecting the award, “It’s obviously really pleasing to see the 8R recognised as the great bike it is, but, for us, it’s also great to see that our latest engine platform is clearly a leading light in the middleweight category, with two MCN awards in two years. The GSX-8R really captured imaginations when it was revealed, and has clearly delivered on its promise to be a sportsbike accessible for all riders.”

Suzuki GSX-8R Features:

Engine features:
-    The 776cc parallel twin, DOHC engine delivers a balance of smooth, controllable power from low rpm through to free-revving performance at the top end.
-    The 270° crankshaft configuration provides power delivery characteristics and a rumble reminiscent of the V-twin range.
-    The Suzuki Cross Balancer is a patented biaxial primary balancer that contributes to smooth operation and a compact, lightweight engine design.
-    Long-reach iridium spark plugs help enhance combustion efficiency.
-    Cooling system inlet control helps maintain consistent engine temperature and eliminates rough idle while warming the engine in cold weather.
-    The electronic throttle bodies help achieve faithful response and a linear feeling to throttle action.
-    The two-into-one exhaust system features a dual-stage catalytic converter inside the collector that helps meet Euro 5 emissions standards and a striking, short design.
-    The six-speed transmission enables smooth shifting and improved controllability.
-    Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS) helps reduce fatigue on long rides and contributes to smoother shifting.

Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS) features:
-    Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) allows the rider to select an engine map that is best suited to riding conditions or personal riding style.
-    Suzuki Traction Control System (STCS) with three modes, plus the ability to switch off.
-    Ride-by-wire electronic throttle control system makes for a throttle action that feels natural and responds faithfully to the rider’s input.
-    Suzuki’s Bi-directional Quick Shift System (with on/off settings) provides quicker, smoother, more assured shifting without operating the clutch lever, and without closing the throttle on upshifts or blipping it on downshifts.
-    Suzuki Easy Start System starts the engine with one press of the starter button.
-    Low RPM Assist function helps maintain engine idle speed for smoother and easier starts.

Chassis features:
-    Steel frame contributes to straight line stability and agile handling.
-    Forged aluminium separate handlebars contribute to positive control and a sporty riding position.
-    The windscreen helps airflow and helps the GSX-8R slip through the air with more efficiency and stability, while also reducing fatigue on long rides.
-    Dual four-piston radially-mounted front brake calipers act on 310mm discs to provide sure stopping power and controllability.
-    Cast aluminium wheels featuring a unique design and contribute to agile handling and a sporty appearance.
-    Dunlop SPORTMAX Roadsport2 tyres aid in predictable handling and sporty performance.
-    Showa SFF-BP* (Separate Function Fork – Big Piston) inverted front forks provide support and sporty performance as well as delivering a smooth, controllable ride.
-    Showa link-type rear suspension contributes to agility and stability.
-    A uniquely shaped lightweight aluminium swingarm with enhanced torsional rigidity that contributes to nimble handling and straight-line stability.
-    The 14-litre fuel tank features a slim design.
-    Cowl and frame-mounted headlight assembly contributes to agility and neutral steering feel.
-    The rider’s seat is designed for comfort, delivering solid support and shaped to offer freedom of movement.
-    New cowl-mounted mirrors enhance aerodynamic performance and wind protection.

Electric equipment features:
-    A five-inch colour TFT multi-function instrument panel features a clearly legible display of a variety of information.
-    Vertically-stacked LED headlights topped by LED position light provide a clear view of the road ahead and create a sharp look with bold presence.
-    The LED rear combination light features a distinctive design.
-    LED turn signals are highly visible and long-lasting.

Blade Suzuki

Find us: Elgin Drive, Swindon SN2 8DN - 01793 435627