Did Suzuki COPY KTM? | 2023 GSX8S Review

[@spitescorner]

Big thanks to Josh for letting my tear it up on his brand new GSX8S, and don't forget to get yourself a Cardo on the cheap with code SPITE10 for 10% off your order! bit.ly/3IUZ1hM

[@RadiantLoonie]

bran new? i picked one up 3 weeks ago and after about 2000km the 1-2 quick shift has smoothed out quite a bit.

[@Errol.C-nz]

A gsx it ISN'T!.. GS mmmaybe.. replacement for the SV, neveeerrr.. the SV650 could easily go out to 750cc & 100hp

[@theaustralianconundrum]

@@Errol.C-nz Let me explain. It is NOT a GSXS. It is a GSX with an 8 in the middle. It is a parallel twin that use the marketing wank of crossplane when these capacity bikes don't even benefit from is and none of them are an R1 that does benefit from Crossplane. It is certainly superior to the budget SV650. GSX8S are 100% made in Japan where the 2023 SV650's are assembled in Thailand. Power: 75hp · Torque: 47 lb-ft · Weight: 437 lbs (198kg) A 2023 GSX8S is 83.1 hp 57.5 lb-ft. It has marginally more bhp but far more torque from the larger 776cc engine.

[@jridenour31]

​@@theaustralianconundrumIt's not "marketing wank." Even if there's no performance benefit from the 270, which I won't get into because I really don't know but it certainly isn't hurting anything, they sound better. That alone is enough reason to justify it.

[@jridenour31]

​@Errol.C-nz Yeah, the sv650 can do that easily. You forgot to mention that it costs thousands of dollars and you have no idea what the gsx-8s is capable of with the same effort and money. That's not the point of either of those bikes, anyway. The number of people buying either of those with the goal of making 100+ is incredibly small.

[@thestonegateroadrunner7305]

A 790/890 Duke doesn't have 270 degree vibes, it has 285 degree vibes! You can easily hear the difference in the first 5 seconds. And no, the SV650 was absolutely not Suzuki's reaction to the MT-07! The MT-07 was Yamaha's 15 years late reaction to the SV650.

[@thebrowns5337]

The fact the SV is essentially 26 years old now yet still, in a way, competes with a bike 10 years younger just shows how good Suzuki are. Understated quality and class. Not sure why Spite thinks the SV is dead? I can still order a brand new (2025 MY) SV in the UK. Group testers are all saying Yamaha need to update the MT07 now, yet when Suzuki brought out the gsx8s a year ago they still kept the SV - people still buy them new. It's not in the same groip as such but the fact it sells so well even today tells you something.

[@thestonegateroadrunner7305]

@@thebrowns5337 Yeah, also in Germany the SV got a colour choice update for 2025. The SV is just a great entry level bike for Suzuki, almost 2000€ below the GSX-8S. And every time I get to ride one for the day as a loaner when one of my bikes is at the service I'm again loving this cheeky roar and the torque at low rpms.

[@ParallelCamper]

I don't want a bike that "talks to me". I want a bike that listens. Good job Suzuki.

[@spitescorner]

Totally fair. The GSX8S is like my Speed3, it's a fun sporty experience that just works. One of the things Suzuki does very well.

[@subzero-ku2wx]

My 890 R engine practically roars at me. That said, the chassis never stops listening.

[@ParallelCamper]

@@subzero-ku2wx As long as you are good with the whip and a chair, it's a good thing.

[@victoriazero8869]

"I want a bike that listen" Based and JPpilled

[@Onir500]

Hey, some like homely, silent and predictable lovemaking. Some like steamy hot exchange with Jalapeño for lube. For the latter kind I suggest a Superduke.

[@fullmetalcorgi1350]

Suzuki didn't copy KTM, they told KTM "Hold my beer."

[@concentricmachining4636]

If that you mean heavier and less power 😢

[@county_bear9509]

Reliability sure. Anything else? Nah

[@saintsempai]

Suzuki copied the ducati monster 620 with more weight and less power, and the sv650 has solid standing for being as good and possibly better.

[@tyrant1178]

Oh it's a copy... Just stylistically

[@blipco5]

@@concentricmachining4636The ktm is thousands more.

[@spartanx169x]

For me as a potential buyer, this bike and the 890 are not in the same category. I put the 890 up against the MT09 and Z900. FOR ME, This GSX8 is a competitor to the MT07, and Z650 and the new Honda Hornet possibly the the Aprilia Tuono 660. 600ish cc to 799 cc generally parallel twins.

[@bobbyjoesugar]

Do you think it’s worth upgrading from the Kawasaki 650 to this Suzuki?

[@spartanx169x]

@@bobbyjoesugar I currently have the Z650 and I love it. But that said, the Suzuki on specs is the better bike. IF you have the money? Yeah. I think the sweet spot for power is between 80 and 95 HP, and this bike has it. Going from 67hp to 82hp is worth it to me.

[@juliusjacob1416]

@@bobbyjoesugarpersonally I don’t think it’s worth it. Yeah you will notice the extra power, but I’d go for a 100hp+ bike (steet triple, 890, mt09). Then you actually have a lot of time to grow into them instead of getting used to less than 20hp more hp within probably a week.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

No. The 750 class is the 750 class, not a competitor to the 650 class anymore than it is a competitor to the 890cc class. Not everything needs to be compared. Go out and ride it. Evaluate it based on what it manages to do for you. All this analysis paralysis or fear of losing out is just kind of juvenile.

[@jridenour31]

​@@exothermal.sprocketI agree. It's a 100% street bike. A lot of people that don't ride, spend 90% of their time on the highway, or just want to brag about how fast their bike is, put way too much emphasis on hp. If a bike does everything you want it to and you enjoy it, that's all that matters.

[@stevesanelli90]

I simply call it 8S. It’s a ripping machine & I love my black one!

[@Legend57.]

I wish suzuki would go back to the GSR model names for their nakeds instead of this GSX-S garbage... GSR750 is so much easier to say than GSX-S750

[@dtogo4286]

How does it do for long rides? Touring?

[@samwiselord]

I downgraded to the 8s from a worked k5 1000 gixer, the 8s is an awesome bike for commuting on, I’ve taken it to the hills and not bad considering it’s still in the break in (keeping it under 5k), handles well and the suspension is sufficient. Good usable enjoyable power for the roads, not gonna hit the 300km/h speed anymore but that’s ok 👍

[@biondod1]

Rode your bike… loved it!

[@ridewithme3428]

Other than styling, when I priced out an sv650 and 8s last year it was like $2500 difference to get: LEDs all around, larger displacement engine, traction control, quick shifter, TFT, etc etc. great value if you ask me

[@fsusoccer]

I have one, and I pretty much agree with everything. Although I feel like the seat is comfortable, or at least more comfortable than my first bike. It's super torquey and produces a big bag of smiles. Really love my 8S.

[@donderstorm1845]

is it too much bike for a beginner?

[@fsusoccer]

@@donderstorm1845 in my opinion, yes, it's too much too soon for a beginner. This is my second bike and it does feel like it needs an intermediate level of skill. I started out on a Kawasaki Ninja 400 and during my first year of riding that bike felt wildly fast, it took time to get experience and comfortable with riding. When I started I thought the Ninja was fast, and it took two years before my experience level started begging for power behind the wheel. The suzuki is my first bike where I really twist the throttle and it feels like the bike is shooting out from under me, I think that's too much for a beginner. I highly encourage new riders to buy a used 300-500cc bike and then sell it after a year or two for pretty much what you paid for it. I bought my Ninja for 3200 and sold it for 4800, I made money my first 2.5 years of riding

[@TieuBachBach]

​@@donderstorm1845 it still good for beginner. Let do a test ride at bike shop and you will know that. 😊

[@chiefyy710]

@@donderstorm1845 no def not just be responsible

[@Coonstev]

​@donderstorm1845 you can start in ride mode C to limit power.

[@englishsteel-nz6im]

This bike is great value for it's class-- a bit of an upgrade over the MT07/Z650 and closer to the Tuono660 or KTM 790 but with Suzuki's legendary durability. Sounds good, handles good, looks cool... pretty good choice for middleweight naked IMO.

[@davewestsk8]

I rode the 790 and s8 and I prefer the suzuki for me. It was a smoother throttle and handling just felt nicer to ride normally just so easy to ride.

[@aleokyn5757]

this price more than z900 in my country, so it sell hardly here. not value for money type.

[@Khmersupra]

a they tested all of it the new hornet has more top end feel n cheapest ktm is both worlds , in the midddle suzuki throttle is like 75% more expensive but basically has everything standard (a/s) doesn’t go more than that , mt07 outdated out tech n they just keep razing the price

[@povilaslondon]

It's the most expensive for its class, so not sure where you see that value

[@ellwoodwolf]

So basically average?

[@bobhill3941]

I've been waiting for a review on one of these. Honestly in regards to KTM and Suzuki, the "Inferno" "Waspinator" look has grown on me.

[@karlj1717]

A KTM that will actually work properly without breaking down, I’m in!

[@Surpriseify]

Idk man Maybe calling it competetion to the 890 is a bit of a stretch The new "detuned" 790? 100%

[@viperq]

I was think the same thing.

[@AshTheDeerGuy]

It's an 890, but cheaper to maintain, more dealer support, and actually has parts available for repair

[@juliusjacob1416]

with significantly less power*. Not unimportant because the 890 feels/is MUCH faster

[@AshTheDeerGuy]

@@juliusjacob1416 that ktm will feel really fast when you're waiting 8 months for a backorder part

[@juliusjacob1416]

@@AshTheDeerGuy that’s not a problem here in EU

[@AshTheDeerGuy]

@juliusjacob1416 good for you man. ~Signed a dude who works the parts counter at a KTM dealer in 🇺🇸 🇺🇲

[@Maktub6]

Its close to a 790, still with less power, not even close to the 890R. Being salty about KTM reliability got nothing to do with what this bike compares to😂

[@joetheagent]

Looks like a really good weekend fun bike. Could be adequate for a commuter if it wasn't a long commute. Does not seem like it would be a good short range touring bike without some modding. It does look fun though. I'm torn about whether it actually replaces the SV650... Yes and no IMO. I'd be curious about what Josh has to say about the differences between the 2 since he is such a SV fanboi (Hi Josh!!). Good review. I'd consider one.

[@jimmyneutron5679]

so far theres actually no plan to stop production of the Sv650

[@VoLuTheR]

errr no, the 8S actually replaces the GSX-S750

[@Ichibuns]

This looks like a fantastic bike. Personally, I'm looking forward to test riding the US version of the Transalp, when it releases. I want to compare it to the V-Strom 800 DE. One of those two will likely be my next bike.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Big Rock Moto probably has the best review so far on the 800DE. /watch?v=BnmGtJaHWD4

[@loopertrooper6671]

My current bikes both have cruise control. Even after I bought them I was slow to adopt/use cruise control. Now I use it all the time won’t have a bike without cruise. Should have been included.

[@tomtemple69]

exactly why im picking up an MT09 SP next year

[@billymc2681]

It's hard to ride without cruise...once you have had a bike with cruise control!

[@tenkasen]

"wishing the black colourway had a little bit more colour".. like.. Orange?

[@John_Ridley]

I really doubt deleting cruise control saves much cost. Any bike that has throttle by wire and ABS is just a few switches and software from having cruise control. Could be added at the factory for $50 in parts at most. Both my bikes now have cruise and I am not super interested in buying a bike again without it. I just ride too many places where I'm going the same speed for a half hour or more.

[@spitescorner]

True, but maybe they can get a few extra bucks from folks by offering it as a future factory option

[@ellwoodwolf]

Japanese manufacturers flat out refuse to put cruise control on a sub 10k motor

[@John_Ridley]

@@ellwoodwolf Yup that's why I have 1) a CFMoto 700 CL/X instead of an MT-07, and 2) a used Tracer 900 non-GT that I added a unit from MCCruise to (along with heated grips and a quickshifter, so it kinda is a GT version now). I think eventually the pressure will be enough that they'll have to start, at least for anything they intend to market as a sport touring bike.

[@chrispekel5709]

More like 5 dollars added cost

[@chrispekel5709]

​@@John_Ridleyhow do you like the cfmoto?

[@TheOcho-GSX8S]

Enjoying mine so far, love the torque and it handles very well, front brake does lack bite but is strong and predictable, I have already done a track day with it and it felt great , I got it for $1000 off msrp so the choice was easy to make.

[@blipco5]

Did you get the blue one?

[@TheOcho-GSX8S]

Black, i had an orange and white duke 390 before so I was ready for something a tad more subtle 😂

[@Legend57.]

Sinter pads?

[@jamesriley1207]

Fuel tank size😓 Need side by side comparison with GSX-S750Z.

[@jasonronald4305]

regarding the looks, this new Gixxer has a very unconventional-polarizing design, but I feel that its done much tastefully, I can imagine it having a half fairing like that of the Katana and even as is, it looks awesome and id honestly prefer this over the Duke or the Hornet(look wise)! The MT line on the other hand...is plain ugly!!

[@FrankC656]

Had mine since 7/2023, just hit 5k miles. Great bike, really enjoy crushing the backroads or highways on it. The interstate sucks, but that’s not its place. Overall extremely happy with my purchase.

[@MH5tube]

way more interesting to compare to the 790 since the price difference is like $400 or something

[@1.8T20V]

They didnt copy them, they showed them how its done. And they succeeded. I know i myself would much rather have this over a 790. In fact i‘ll go test out an Evo next year

[@roseredline7556]

Excited to see you cover this. I love my 8S so far.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Vcyclenut has tunes for this machine now. With the setup he's got, it makes 88 HP (basically 100 hp crankshaft) and 66 ft-lb at the wheel. Stock is 78 hp and 57 ft-lb. Those are WILD increases. Also THIS BIKE IS NOT REPLACING THE SV650 - STOP WITH THE MISINFORMATION.

[@jordanjoestar8839]

Fanatatic machine and a good sign of things to come from Suzuki. Nice it has a full width rear tire too inlike the hideous Hornet. Cant wait to see them tuned with a pipe, they will sound fantastic. Its also not a replacement for the 650, as that is still being produced.

[@usedport100s]

Digging the subtle metal background music in the intro

[@Felnier]

I've been so hype for this bike as my first, but wanted to wait to hear ur review first. Glad it sounds like how I imagined it would be.

[@ellwoodwolf]

It’s so average

[@parkerjohnson1781]

This is my first street bike. Have plenty of dirt bikes and this has been a great first bike for me.

[@petrol11]

Not a first bike then... But glad you're enjoying it

[@renzo2579]

Should be getting mine this week. Also my first street bike after having ridden dirt bikes for a few years. Hope you’re enjoying yours!! 🤙

[@thebrowns5337]

I just passed my test (in the UK) for a full licence. Test rode one of these and it didn't scare me. To be fair, it inspired more confidence than the SV650 - seems to handle better. Not sure why Spite is saying it isn't a beginer bike? I just had it in mode B. If your sensible it's surely fine?

[@renzo2579]

@@thebrowns5337 I've had mine for a week now. I can see how A mode might be a little too much for a beginner. Especially until they learn good throttle control. It all depends on the person I guess. If they are able to control themselves and take the time to learn the bike and not go full throttle all the time then it should be a decent bike to start on. Did you end up buying one after test driving it?

[@andrewaavik]

It's ironic that you mentioned the black colorway being a bit flat. Before I watched your review, I was looking at the 2024 on the Suzuki website, and they added the blue accents to the black colorway. The trellis frame, the wheels, and the 8S graphic are the same blue used on the white 2023 model.

[@alexandracapitani2860]

TS, GS, GSX, GSF, GSXR are all designations where each letter stands for something. Two stroke, four stroke, street bike, off road, two valve, four valve, race replica, etc. The “name” makes perfect sense if you understand how the letters break down.

[@Headcase650]

I've been on a 650 gladius since 2012. Before that I had a 2001 SV650. This is the first middle weight from Suzuki that has sparked my interest.

[@antonholovnitskyy779]

I don't understand why people keep saying that Suzuki is replacing/discontinuing the SV650. These two models are vastly different in terms of pricing, styling and philosophy. Converting US dollars to GBP and Euros might be convenient but it's a far cry from reality. Pricing of GSX8s is £ 7,999 (UK), € 8,900 (Germany, Spain, France) and a painful € 9.995 in Greece, whilst SV 650 is around € 7000 , £ 6999. But the biggest factor I think is the styling, unless the make a retro version (like Yamaha XSR, Kawasaki RS) people like myself will never pick it over SV 650. Same goes for Honda, I'd never choose the new Hornet over CB650R. It's a nice bike I liked the immediate torque and comfortable geometry but the Ride By Wire Modes , Traction Control and the full color screen are wasted on me, for some people simplicity is preferable over "modern features". Personally I'd rather spend the extra cash on Ohlins suspension, Brembo MC and a slip-on for my SV650 then get a GSX8s, even if it had a more classic styling.

[@glynhannaford7332]

I've not seen your work before bud. Really like your balanced approach to this review. An intelligent and detailed assessment, and any preconceptions were not allowed to impede a healthy, open minded approach. 👏 Love it. I've subscribed and I'm already looking forward to seeing the next one!

[@kendavis1593]

I just started on this bike, after almost 20 years off a bike and very little time in the saddle back then. If you ride sensibly, especially in “rain mode” it’s easily a decent beginner bike. But I’m 6’2” and 215. Which makes some bit of difference as well.

[@jshumphress13]

I just can't get over the looks. I have a 2018 SV650, and I love the traditional round headlight (upgraded mine to LED) along with the V-twin. I get that this is faster with a little more tech, but I just can't love that face. To each their own, and I am sure it is a fun ride! I guess if I want the traditional look but with more power, my next bike might have to be a Yamaha XSR900.

[@bhok1971]

Yes that front is fugly. Looks like a praying mantis

[@organichotdog3807]

Couldn't agree more. I have a 2017 SV650 and the current xsr900 is the only bike I would replace my SV with since I would want something with cruise control and a round headlight.

[@chrispekel5709]

Could always just replace it with a round led

[@Ntmoffi]

This bike just looks weird behind the bars with that tablet out there by itself.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

The FZ-10/MT-10 looks weird and that didn't stop anyone.

[@cecilotto504]

Naaah i wouldn't buy that just to want something else later , i,d just buy the MT09 an be done with it , one 💪🏾 purchase

[@justinphua3389]

Awesome looking bike on the 8s.. just wondering how's this 8s compared with the CFmoto 800nk in terms of handling & commuting. Cheers mate 😊

[@thebrowns5337]

People say the NK is a 'bit flighty' at the front end. CFMoto even fitted a steering damper so maybe they realised this too? Bloomin fast apparently so I guess the NK isn't for beginners. It wins on tech for sure. I rode the 8s and I'd say it's alright for beginners as long as you appreciate the power and stay sensible. Coming out of a village onto a country lane it goes from 30 to 50/60mph in the blink of an eye due to the torque. Thats addictive but on the wrong road probably could get you into bother. That would be even more of the case on the NK from what I've heard/seen about it.

[@hmishin843]

I would love to see this engine in a traditional standard like the SV650.

[@judge831]

I'd like to see this engine in something similar to a Bonneville

[@spitescorner]

This Ptwin would probably mop the floor with the SV motor. But it's more modern and larger so it's not really a fair fight

[@blipco5]

The ktm 890 is thousands more. If you want less weight, pay it. I find any motorcycle at around 450 pounds wet to be weightless while riding. In fact they are more stable at fast highway speed (within the category).

[@willlowden8178]

Well since ktm is owned and manufactured by China now it seems like we need a replacement for ktm

[@getty6974]

Truly appreciate the metric spec values. Just one thing i noticed, you also did the price in €uros. Even though appreciated i dont know if really necessary as prices are so market based. Your translation for value was around 8100€ where as for example in Finland the bike is 12790€. So nice thing to do but it is really not going to translate that well to market specific prices.

[@peterwilson8039]

Canadian msrp is $10,749. I'm not sure that the dealers have inventory yet though.

[@getty6974]

@@peterwilson8039 Atleast here they seem to have as it have been available for this season

[@GreatEgret]

Good points on the €uro and different markets. We have similar market fluctuations here in the US and a bike in Wisconsin will be much more affordable than one in southern California. However, MSRPs won’t typically change in a fiscal year for most brands and the benefit of having the exchange is so that non-USD using viewers know exactly how much that value equals in another money at the time the video was made. Similar to inches to centimeters or pounds to kilograms. If I’m watching an Aussie video with a bike cost in $AUS and the creator doesn’t provide the exchange, I’m Googling the exchange so I know how much that is in a dollar I’m familiar with.

[@tyrant1178]

THANK YOU!!! At least someone else said it. It's just a Duke 790 in Suzuki face. I've this before and I'll continue saying it. They basically make a copy of the CFmoto or KTM.

[@kenbowlus2995]

I would prefer the standard bullet-proof reliability of Suzuki, unlike KTM.... just ask Spite.

[@tyrant1178]

@@kenbowlus2995 "bulletproof" this guy says 😂😂😂. I'd rather have the perks of actually having an in general better bike. 🤡

[@Drt0Kkdo]

Don't the KTM twins use a tighter 285-degree crank? I know the sound more brutal

[@aussiesoldier0177]

I will be buying one in a few months, just getting cashed up.

[@ShaneVerhoogt]

Hey from Australia Spite... I love this capacity of bikes, not small not large. I've got a 2014 z800 Kawasaki and its absolutely perfect, bit heavy but it makes over 100 horsepower and will definitely stay with these modern bikes in acceleration 😊

[@jamesambrocio]

Duke 890 is wayyy more powerful than this bike.

[@Motovibes91]

So this or the old GSX-S 750 (10kg heavier and 30hp extra)?

[@spitescorner]

I'd take the GSX8S. I prefer torquey p-twins to detuned inline 4s. (With the soul exception of the Hornet)

[@englishsteel-nz6im]

The GSX750 going to outperform this but it's power is all up top which a lot of people don't like. Handling on the GSX750 for it's weight is kind of unreal tho it's a precision carver that's easy to throw around. Mt09(non SP)and z900 don't even compare lol

[@spartanx169x]

@@spitescorner Then you should LOVE then new Hornet coming with a parallel twin. The best of both worlds.

[@juanesteban8938]

I have a Tuono 660 and I also ride my girlfriend's GSX-S750. They are both great, it's just a different feeling.

[@AivarsSilins]

It’s not a replacement for SV650, both bikes in the model range. SV not being dropped.

[@ajderuyter2293]

Just got a 2024 last week and I love it so far

[@dragomirpopov5202]

Great review, man. I bought one and I totally agree about everything you say here, except one thing. It can be a beginner bike. For me it is exactly that. I switched between the three modes gradually in a period of two weeks or so, just to get used to the handling and to gain some experience, and I was totally fine. It forgives a lot. Have to say that I done just 2500 km, though. And I'm 37 years old beginner. :)

[@ronaldthomas9396]

The SV650 is alive and well, the GSX8S is in addition to and not a replacement for the SV650!

[@petrol11]

Yeah Suzuki will keep the sv650 for at least a while to see if it still sells I expect... But it is getting near the point where it would benefit at least from a major refresh, it's a little dated now.

[@greatbigeye2506]

The SV looks better but this bike does look good in black. And I have no doubt it’s a beast.

[@Legend57.]

Unfortunately the looks are what k*lled the SV... Most buyers today want sharp looking bikes and feel like their money didnt go to waste... It's hard to justify buying a bike that looks like it rolled straight out of the 90s for 2023 money... Biggest selling point of bikes is looks, sound and perfomance for most in that order.

[@KeViNMCMXXCIX]

Never rode a KTM, so not familiar with the snatchy throttle but I do think the GSX-8S and the new Hornet are a great offering in the 750 class in motorcycle offerings. And I guess with a tune and exhaust they'll be a lot more fun and have a better feel even. Besides that, they will be great for commuting which is kinda becoming more of a thing anyway. And also for city and heavy traffic areas where lane splitting and filtering are legal they do great, since them being naked bikes. So cool and welcome additions in my opinion. I can agree it's a follow up for the SV but due to the V-Twin and P-Twin they will feel different and one might be a more mature bike. But if you'd use rider modes, or have good self control I do think you'll be able to handle them. My Z750 is the same, pretty darn solid for longer rides, maneuverable, good for lane splitting and filtering and through town being a naked as well. And if you have decent control, a good beginner bike with it being in inline 4. It's a tad heavier then the GSX-8S but nothing crazy.

[@Geshmaal]

My only beef with this bike is the styling and maybe lack of centre stand (although that is fairly common now). I much preferred the fairly timeless round headlight approach of the SV650 over this edgy pointy thing.

[@oliverk6449]

Nice bike but in the UK the 2023 Triumph street Triple 765r is far to close in price to choose this in my opinion

[@NoSeenMail]

Would love to ride more "R" or "RR" version of this. Faired and clip-oned.

[@mr.solitude3352]

Looking forward to your future review of the CFMOTO 800 with the KLM engine.

[@OhNellly]

SV650 isn’t going anywhere

[@M3kka01]

Genuine question My local dealer has a gsxs750 for msrp as well as some gsx8s I love the look and sound of the 750 But would there be any reason to go for the 8s ? (daily riding light commute)

[@pjsjustclownin1594]

Those are not "twisties" Bro... Signed Oregon.

[@zrx4me1]

If they copied KTM, they left about 20 horsepower on the copy room floor.

[@EBthere]

The Suzuki isn't as ugly as the KTM.

[@sleeper.simulant7327]

Went and sat on one of these. Felt a lot lighter just leaning it side to side in the showroom then it’s 440 lbs suggests. Everything felt pretty solid on it. Would have loved to ride it, but they didn’t have any demo’s…

[@rt2255]

Just wondering what feels tight when you have not actually ridden it?

[@tonyjourneyman1944]

I've got a 2023 SV650, sounds to me that the 8S has inherited some of the SV issues, hard seat, underwhelming suspension, ergonomics in general. I spent about $2k fixing these on the SV and now I have an amazingly good motorcycle. I wish Suzuki would go the extra yard, one of the things I'll do differently next time is that my next bike will be one with all the goodies already installed out of the shop and I'll just pay the extra sticker price. That said, I don't care about things like cruise control, TFT dash, slipper clutch, riding modes. I just want an efficient raw machine.

[@fuggle07]

Suzuki is the Walmart of bikes. They deliberately don’t go the extra mile bc they are cheap bikes

[@TheDBall73]

“Not. Not a beginner bike.” I bought one last Friday, it’s been a week. Beginner bike. MSF class is 6 weeks out.

[@petrol11]

It would be irresponsible to label a bike like this as beginner suitable. Whisky throttle this and it's gonna be a very bad time, a 125cc not so much. Maturity and age and attitude always plays a factor, any bike can be a beginner bike. 750cc is just not beginner displacement on this kinda bike.

[@barebonesmc]

ergonomics are great, but the seat is shit and uncomfortable after 15 minutes, great selling point, fine for coffee shop runs i guess

[@nzponch]

If they remove the side fairings and slapped a round headlight on it id be keen. Dont mind the bug look on my KTMs but not my zukies 😔

[@MisterBaker5]

Yep... new Euro rules means that everyone has to make a bike as shit-boring inline-twin (like the BMW F800). I have no idea how Ducati pass Euro laws.

[@DMugsP]

I really like the angle of the shots now. Have you changed cameras Spite?

[@tonyjourneyman1944]

Nice review Spite - no mention of the new Hornet 750 which must be the big competitor for this machine?

[@d17a2dude]

Honda still hasn't announced that it's coming to the US.

[@tonyjourneyman1944]

@@d17a2dude Ah, didn't know that, i'm in australia and rode one last week, pretty good i think

[@spartanx169x]

Where did you see that they are discontinuing the SV650? Everything I can find is showing both bikes will be available at least for 2024.

[@spitescorner]

The SV and Vstrom 650 both failed to meet Euro5 so they need to under go massive updates or be sunset. The industry think pieces tend to lead towards sunsetting both bikes based on how Suzuki operates.

[@spartanx169x]

@@spitescorner AH, interesting. Good to know. Thanks.

[@jakubpetricek5012]

Great review, Spite. It's just, I always wonder, why do you always keep the revs in higher numbers and never go down to the 6th gear, especially when cruising on the highway? And just one point you did not mentioned. This 8S with Arrow exhaust sound vicious and completely changes the character of that solid bike to a fire spitting and fun tool. It actually is so much gamechanger as when you install the aftermarket exhaust on MT-07. Check out some videos.

[@joshuaescobedo2423]

Awesome video dude. Glad you liked the bike! I'm close to 2k miles on it and I agree with a lot of your takeaways. I commute on this bike almost every day and the biggest benefit to a "softer" machine is how easy and thoughtless it is to ride (and the price). For my height and skill its effortless no matter what I want to do and has enough power that no one is leaving me behind in the canyons. Plus its not orange.

[@tommyhamby401]

To say the bike has no personality tells me ur into bipolar traits. Lol. I think suzuki is very well balanced, n I think that's great for personality.

[@Drunken_Hamster]

No no no no no, the duke is a 285-degree twin to mimic the 75-degree V-twin power delivery and sound. And the Duke does an excellent job at that. If Suzuki was going to "copy" KTM, NOT doing the 285-degree crank is one of the areas they failed, IMO. Cuz the 270 still has just a tiny bit of that 180 overtone to the exhaust note, while the 285 is 100% Australian V8 supercar with 6 fewer cylinders. Once you get into the 300-degree crank or 60-degree v-twin it sounds more muscly and cruiser-y though, and manufacturers DEFINITELY should go as far as a 315/45 for the Harley sound. Let them and their geriatric customer base keep the ole' potato-potato. We don't want it.

[@Fee.1]

Wait I thought the discord was free, did you clear the rolls of ppl from b4 you were charging or am I misremembering something?

[@lj555551]

Can you disable the quick shifter on the tft display

[@petrol11]

Yep

[@chrisssinstockholm]

KTM 790/890 has a 285 degree crank. Close but not 270.

[@chrismorin4109]

Any bike entering a class will automatically be compared to and "accused " of being a copy. Not matter how different they actually may be especially when using similar motor configuration and it's refinements or lack there of and R &D is immediately dismissed. Also it's usability is dismissed or overlooked. Naked bikes will always suffer from wind and suspension will often be stiff .... that is the compromise in sport bikes. Technology is subjective and personal preference and also a compromise of pricing.

[@JessicaSimonson1976]

Not a big fan of naked bikes have to many of them on the road already called a HD. This why like sport bikes.

[@alexmihai1221]

Suzuki gsx8s or Honda CB750? Coming from CBR600RR, now looking for a fun naked.

[@JPWest020]

The SV650 is still available.

[@tylerlafountain4840]

The sv was never a response to the Mt lolz....it was before the mt.....they brought it back because the Gladius was horribly ugly, and sales showed it....but they brought the sv650 back to late...without a displacement change

[@hpenvy1106]

Is the Hornet CB750 already out in the US? I feel like you could do exactly the same review for the Hornet.

[@ciraloke]

That's OK - KTM waited 4 years (so no one would notice) to copy the Husqvarna Nuda 900 parallel twin they inherited. They new it was killer, but couldn't jump on it because it was based on a BMW powerplant. C'est la vie.

[@GIGABACHI]

As a Suzuki owner l must say that's one weird looking KTM. Will the Transformer/insectoid fad die before l do ? BTW, looking at it next to a KTM, the KTM looks better. I would stick to the SV lineup.

[@Profabdesigns]

Sooo sick of this ‘Decepticon’ look. It’s so old and dated look, and maybe its fine if your 16-25 yrs old, but I’m 62, so, nah! This looks like a parts bin bike to save Suzuki some cash! Terrible looking bike.

[@thomasbouvier3203]

Spike…. Suzuki still didn’t killed sv650! It will still get produced as an entry level product while 8s is more quality and tech bike, with bit more peps. Tho i love it over ktm. That blue… damn love it! Rode it… and had a tough choice for returning bike after a crash… tuono 660, 8s, monster 937…. All 3 were pretty similar for my skill. And loved all of the, tho went with monster 937+ cuz fell in love with that engine shouting spaghetti and poping with termis Hornet can go back to sleep.

[@thomasbouvier3203]

But rode the 1000s, love it but was too much hp for road in EU. And tech was outdated. This one is smoother designed better equiped and perfect. Also. Suzuki shifter and rear brake! FFS guys, those are now here for a while and suzuki only manage to give a buttery smooth shifter, and a rear brake braking! Compn xD

[@thomasbouvier3203]

Also, one thing i « didnt » like (tho it wasn’t that bad) is the bike struggle passed 8000 rpm… that said never went that high on road as torque was the real fun of the bike until those 8k rpm

[@spitescorner]

The SV and Vstrom 650 both failed to meet Euro5 so they need to under go massive updates or be sunset. The industry think pieces tend to lead towards sunsetting both bikes based on how Suzuki operates.

[@thomasbouvier3203]

@@spitescorner the sv650 did pass euro 5 its allready sold here in france with Euro 5 regulations. I don’t see why they would have went to the trouble to make it pass and discontinued it. At least for france they allready said it will go until euro6. :) Also it give them a cheap easy money bike… regarding market price sv is as expensive as 300/400/500 with sometime half the power. Its a pretty good buy for low budget.

[@alphacapo]

@thomasbouvier3203 I know right. The guy doesnt really know what he's talking about. But He just likes to rabble on

[@shinyribs2178]

Suzuki didn't copy KTM, for sure. These bikes are just restyled Vstroms. Same engine, same frame. You can see the empty threaded holes in the frame that are used for the Vstroms skid plate type thing.

[@gdwe1831]

My KTM 690 duke has a much better power to weight with its big single lol. 70ish hp / 70ish lb-ft whilst weighing about 320lbs (certainly with full system and decat)

[@rynovanderberg9692]

From V-twin to parelell twin? With bit more katana design. I'd choose the duke over the Suzuki all day long. They should have updated the vtwin engine and added heated grips and seat.

[@CrabbyUncleJim]

Even thoughI’m currently in a committed relationship with a Kawasaki Z650, this one has my attention. Same style but more zippity in the do dah. I’m an older gentleman so I’m uncertain how much more zippity my do dah can endure. Time will tell.

[@jamesbass454]

Not even up with the ktm 790 let alone the 890!! I had no ktm faults in 5yrs now so I think reliability chat is dead. Did an owner just say this is a great commuter with ok suspension! Omg won’t be rushing to buy this anytime soon 😆

[@Uriel-Septim.]

More expensive then the hornet with less HP and more weight and a ugly front/rear IMHO, I would safe 20% and buy a SV650 or pay 20% more and get their gsxs 1000 f

[@peterwilson8039]

I'm not so sure the GSX8S is going to replace the SV650. As Spock would say, logic dictates that if and when Suzuki decides to retire the SV650 it will be because the SV650 isn't selling any more. As to a direct GSX8S vs SV650 comparison, isn't Josh the guy to ask? Speaking for myself I can't imagine not getting the Suzuki blue if I bought this bike. The black is dull and lacks character.

[@Jim-nm1en]

The SV650 has been around since 1999 . It must have had something going for it for it to stay in production that long. I think it was just a good honest bike at a good price and it handled well.

[@oosteveo315]

What I want??/ BRUH I WANT POWER. MY 890 adv r BARKS at 80mph.

[@nick4506]

its weirdly expensive in this new ujm twin game. the new Honda hornet is more powerful like more then 10% difference not close, and less expensive with the same suspension and brake features. its rare that Honda is the cost efective option. i dont know what happened in the suzuki boardrooms.