Suzuki has launched its middle-weight sportbike, the GSX-8R in India at Rs. 9.25 lakh, ex-showroom. The motorcycle goes up against the likes of the Triumph Daytona 660, Kawasaki Ninja 650, and Aprilia RS660. It will be available in 3 colour options – Metallic Matte Sword Silver, Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Matte Black No.2.
The GSX-8R boast Suzuki’s new-age styling with a compact, vertically-stacked LED headlamp flanked by sleek air intakes. The angular side fairings blend with the muscular fuel tank and the bodywork culminates into a short and stubby tail section. On the feature front, it’s a decently equipped offering and the list comprises ride-by-wire, low rpm assist, traction control, bi-directional quickshifter, ride modes, ABS, and easy start.
Clinging onto its steel diamond-style frame is a 776cc, twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with a 270-degree crank that produces 81.8bhp at 8,500rpm and 78Nm of peak torque at 6,800rpm. It comes mated to a six-speed gearbox with an assist and slipper clutch. The hardware package includes 17-inch cast aluminium wheels that are shod with Dunlop RoadSport 2 tyres and suspended by Showa SFF-BP forks and a linked rear shock. The stopping power comes from a dual 310mm front and a single 240mm rear disc. The fuel tank capacity stands at 14 litres while the bike weighs 205 kg (kerb).