Suzuki made quite an impression at the 2024 Bharat Mobility Expo, showcasing two remarkable bikes: the V-Strom 800DE and the GSX-8R. These two bikes have a lot of similar parts and characteristics as well as the same platform.
Suzuki V-Strom 800DE
The V-Strom 800DE, an off-road adventure bike, inherits similar design cues from its predecessor but with modern enhancements. It features brand-new LED taillights and indicators as well as hexagonal headlights that are stacked vertically. Powering this adventure beast is a revamped 776cc parallel twin engine with a 270-degree crankshaft, churning out 84.3PS and 78Nm of torque. It flaunts a generous 20-litre fuel tank.
Equipped with a 5-inch color TFT LCD instrument cluster, the V-Strom 800DE integrates the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.), offering three distinct riding modes: Active, Basic, and Comfort. Moreover, this adventure bike comes loaded with a Bi-directional Quickshifter, Ride-by-Wire, and Traction Control, including a special G (Gravel) mode for off-road adventures. The rear ABS can also be deactivated for off-road excursions.
The V-Strom 800DE boasts an extended front and rear suspension compared to its predecessor, featuring a 220mm Showa inverted fork and 220mm Showa rear mono-shock with preload adjustability. It rides on 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wire-spoked wheels, wrapped with 90-section front and 150-section rear tubed tires. Braking duties are managed by dual discs at the front and a single disc at the rear, complemented by dual-channel ABS. With a ground clearance of 220mm, a kerb weight of 230kg, and an 855mm seat height, the V-Strom 800DE competes fiercely against rivals like the Honda XL750 Transalp, BMW F 850 GS, and the Triumph Tiger 850 Sport.
Suzuki GSX-8R
Suzuki's newest 800cc sport bike, the GSX-8R has a futuristic look while keeping the defining characteristics of the GSX series. Similar to the V-Strom, it boasts twin vertically stacked hexagonal LED headlights, accompanied by LED indicators and taillight. Sharing the same 776cc parallel twin engine with a 270-degree crankshaft from the V-Strom 800DE, the GSX-8R delivers a thrilling performance of 81.8hp and 77.9Nm of torque.
In terms of features, the GSX-8R shares the 5-inch color TFT LCD display with its adventure counterpart, along with the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) offering Active, Basic, and Comfort riding modes. For an even better riding experience, it also has ride-by-wire, traction control, and a bi-directional quick shifter.
The GSX-8R is adorned with an aluminum clip-on handlebar and a windscreen tested for optimal aerodynamics. It boasts a Showa inverted fork and Showa rear mono-shock with preload adjustability. With its 17-inch alloy wheels and tubeless tires that are 180 sections in the back and 120 sections in the front this sports bike offers exceptional handling and stability. Braking is facilitated by twin front and single rear disc brakes, enhanced by dual-channel ABS. Weighing 205kg and featuring an 810mm seat height, the GSX-8R stands out in its segment.
While the GSX-8R doesn't have a direct competitor, alternatives in the smaller-capacity category include the Honda CBR650R, Kawasaki Ninja 650, Aprilia RS 660, and the upcoming Triumph Daytona 660. For enthusiasts seeking premium options the Ducati SuperSport 950 and Panigale V2 serve as compelling alternatives.