Is the Suzuki GSX-8S Really Worth the Extra £1000? Honest Review of the new Suzuki GSX8S

[@barney3417]

Tried the S8 and Hornet back to back 2 months ago. Suzuki for me, had it 6 weeks and already done 2000 miles.. love it!!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nice one - enjoy....

[@farmoboy83]

its the better bike but basic hornet 750 is a better deal if money is on top of list

[@johannacollins1130]

I'm thinking of getting one. How is the seat for longer distance dya think?

[@barney3417]

Ive been out all day, about 150 miles at a time and it was comfy, would I want to do a long tour on it, i don't know but from what iv'e done its great!!@@johannacollins1130

[@HippoDrones]

Great hearing your thoughts on the bike, I'm absolutely loving mine... still running in and got my first service booked for the end of the month. Cracking bike.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nice one mate -enjoy!

[@nickrider5220]

I think the extra low and mid-range torque will be far more useful in real world riding and short shifting between corners would be a pleasure. A good review 👍

[@rogerinwales]

Had one of these as a courtesy bike last week. not the sort of bike I would go for normally, but I was surprised how nice it was to ride. Handles well, good brakes, nice tft display and enough power.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great to hear!

[@stevesane800]

I’m glad it surprised you TMF👌 It’s a great motorcycle! I love mine to bits & the suspension being slightly firm gives me the confidence to ride it swiftly. I found the styling & build quality to be above the Hornet no matter the Hornet has more power. It is the look of quality components, style & more room. The Hornet felt tiny & cramped, cheap looks bars & switch gear. A RHS rear swingarm just makes it look that must cheaper & it is. But, I chose the 8S because of the look & feel. So, thanks for your review. I didn’t need vindication. I knew.👌

[@robmance1611]

Your review is bang on as always. I have one of these in black and I absolutely love it’s handling,m and stability in corners is confidence inspiring and the torquey performance is a pleasure to experience with the quick shifter making it all so easy. Great review and great bike, thanks a lot glad you managed to get hold of one!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I was happy to ride it too!

[@ragerider6283]

Nice review. I really like this bike, especially with Suzuki's new 7 year warranty scheme. Also it's now a question of if it's worth £600 more than the Hornet (if you want a QS too) as the Honda's gone up in price recently. For me it's a resounding yes. The Suzuki is definitely worth the extra for me on the looks alone.

[@hut6h24]

Don’t forget the £289 to take the Hornet up to the standard 3yrs Suzuki warranty

[@ragerider6283]

@@hut6h24 Good point. I didn't know that but very important to be aware of.

[@ellwoodwolf]

I was upset Honda didn’t bring the hornet to compete with the 8s in NA - but it makes sense - NA motorcycles are toys - there’s always good, clean, low mileage ones available- the 8s/hornet are just them trying to sell a motorcycle with higher profit margins- they aren’t better than what’s out there

[@marksimpson5218]

The warranty on a Japanese bike is pointless really. Looked after they never go wrong anyway.

[@shadowred1980]

If people are thinking about buying one of the middleweights. I'd suggest looking at the bennetts vid where they have all 4 tested back to back. From that vids data, I calculated the fuel range if you ran it dry. Ktm 790 14L @51.1mpg = 157 miles. Hornet 15.2L@50.8mpg = 170 miles. Mt07 14L@53mpg = 163 miles. 8S 14L@48.8mpg = 150miles. If that helps anyone. Great review. I have this calc for my own bike V4 Panigale. It's tank to tank mpg same as the bennetts data. 16L@42.2mpg = 173miles.

[@veeken777]

Big up the Ducatista Massive. I have the 999s for Wales and the Icon Scrambler for work and Bad Weather. No only of I can solve the FILA,s 999s low down stalling issues it would be a half descent small town bike. Lie... It won't do anything good under 90 😂.

[@tommoso55]

Brilliant review MrT. Love the bike, also the fact that Suzuki have bought out what seems to be another great engine, especially with the low down torque. I think a decent fly screen would finish the front end looks nicely.

[@simonthomas5367]

Morning TMF! Suzuki engines have always been great at low down grunt. I'm currently using a 2005 Bandit 650s as my weekly runner and its absolutely brilliant for the job. 4cyls and carbs help but it's just such a flexible motor. I buy and sell bikes regularly but this one just gets under the skin. Along with my ATAS I think she's a keeper!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nice one! Thnaks for stopping by Simon.....

[@Jim-nm1en]

You're right about the low down runt on the Suzuki. In 2005 I bought a GSF650S new and loved it. Did a lot of touring round UK 2 up with luggage and camping gear. Traded it in for a new GSX650F in 2012 and at 69 years of age it will probably be the last bike I buy. It has all of the grunt and speed that you need given the constraints of UK roads, plus, I am not averse to getting a move on when conditions are right if you get my drift 😉😂. Looking forward to next year to do some more touring and camping.

[@simonthomas5367]

@@Jim-nm1en Fantastic bikes. I'm going to look for a decent DRZ400 soon and see what all the fuss is about!

[@Oliverlikesbikes]

Great review, i am definitely old school but love the look of that especially the vertical lights and underslung exhaust. Thanks for not getting political with all the ulez/emissions /speed limit stuff like some channels. We all have our political views and i ride and love bikes to get away from all that crap. Thats why i like your channel. Dont be too harsh on cyclists - sometimes when you ride single file and get close passed by a few vans you tend to think stuff it i will use all my lane. We all have two wheels after all. Thanks again.

[@PDCRed]

They weren’t 3 abreast either. They weren’t all in a line.

[@thebrowns5337]

​@@PDCRedI spotted that too - just two abreast and one in front, so (as the highway code points out) actually easier and safer for cars when they overtake... hence this riding style being encouraged in said document.

[@markfoster2033]

Great review Mr Flyer,you've now got me planning a visit to the local Suzuki dealer!

[@judge831]

I love the headlights on this bike. It's my favorite non-retro design.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fair do's!

[@MrPsg1969]

Thoroughly enjoyed your review. I bought one 6 months ago & absolutely love it so far . Ticks all the boxes in terms of what I need it to do. Commute to work & weekend rides with mates. Plenty of usable power where you need it the most realistically. I would recommend. Cheers from Melbourne Australia 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great to hear!

[@chriswest2290]

Happy to see the manufacturers embracing the 270° parallel twin. It's such a good configuration for an all round road bike. And the honda and Suzuki are made in Japan 👍

[@Below-Average_Joe]

They sound great too.

[@JezNashMusic]

Great review! I wasn’t taken with the looks initially, but the walk around showed it off really well. I think you’re right about the tail tidy - I should imagine a lot of folks would address that as a matter of urgency. Then, however, I’ll bet it’d look as mean as hell. As I recall, when Suzi introduced the DRBig Paris/Dakar thing way back, it too divided opinion. Now everyone is at it, so who knows.

[@moorepower13]

It's cool how Honda and Suzuki have switched roles lately. Honda is quick but cheap every each way. Suzuki is refined better equipment and stronger feeling(torque is the winning number here folks).

[@Mr450pro]

Lol I think you are wrong here. Try checking out sale numbers Honda vs Suzuki, you will see Honda’s is way ahead in sales.

[@moorepower13]

@Mr450pro suzuki used to cut corners now honda does.

[@Ceen328]

@@moorepower13 Have you seen a Hornet 750 in the real world. People talking about cheap quality, are justgenerating clicks. The Hornet is as solit as the 8S. Both bikes are incredible for the money and will last for a long time, unlike KTM. I tested both extensively. For me personally, the Hornet has the edge with its engine and the nimble feeling, as I mostly drive country sides / twisties and no track. For me it just feels better. It also has better / more tech on board for a cheaper price. The 8S got the QS, while the Hornet got the LED indicator. Both cost nearly the same, if done by the Honda/Suzuki dealer. I prefer the Hornet exhaust designt, to the 8S one and I also like the 8S head lights a bit more less, than the Hornet ones. But that is a question of taste. Instead of bashing one, or the other bike, we should be thankful, that we can choose between two really good rides, for not that much money.

[@robertwhitemoto]

Not sure if it was you or me, but audio was mono on my left speaker for this one... Nice Bike !!! love the blue wheels too.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sorry about that - it was me…

[@Fernando90054]

This Suzuki is a looker, even with the vertical front bulb lights extra modern the overall outfit in blue feels right to the eyes and if it handles well, it’s a proposal to consider in middle weight naked bike segment. Thanks for the video and for your general impressions about it 👍🏻

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure - thanks for watching once again!

[@johnDukemaster]

Spot on mr Flyer! This is a really good bike. I was tempted, but went with a brand new austrian 790 Duke I picked up last wednesday. Yes, the Suzuki GSX8S is that good! I saw one at a dealer in Germany which was fitted with barend mirrors, small LED indicators and a tail tidy. Looks so good! And I saw an american YT film about unlocking some horses with an ECU flash. Thank you mr Flyer!

[@martinyoung3049]

Great bike!. The looks are growing on me and Suzuki seem to have made a real effort on the quality front. For someone of my height (5'8") and for the way I ride the GSX-8s is a perfect fit on paper - I'll need to get a test ride organised. In terms of the £1000 difference this is now slightly less since Honda increased the price of the Hornet. The Suzuki is £8,199 OTR and the Hornet £7,299. Once you add in the cost of the quick shifter and the extra years warranty to the Honda and haggle hard at your local Suzuki dealer I think there will be nothing between them on price. Thanks for the review.

[@florme6494]

You make an excellent point. What if you haggle hard at your local Honda dealer. I’m being facetious. But I do believe that Honda is the bargain of the two. Engine, playful nature and price is what makes it a rightful winner for some. My values align with the Suzuki and that’s what I’m on the hunt for. Doing my due diligence now by watching videos and reading comments.

[@Ceen328]

I somewhat agree with you, but you forgot that the 8S is missing the LED indicator (why Suzuki?) and quite a bit of tech, like emergency braking lights, self canceling indicator, free programmable user mode and phone connectivity. Dunno if I missed more stuff.

[@Trevster65]

I have a white one of these and love it, I’ve done just over 2000 miles so far, looks are marmite but I like it and definitely looks better in the flesh. Not sure if you tried A mode but mine pulls like a train in A mode between 3000 and 7000 rpm in any gear. If you shop around these can be purchased for £7495 on the road so much closer to hornet now.

[@martin5818]

Just picked my new 8S up today, also in white. It was £7495 in total, so a really good price. Obviously breaking the engine in, so running in B mode. So far, I absolutely love it!

[@Trevster65]

Nice one Martin, once it’s had its first service you’ll be able to explore full power, it’s so much fun.

[@paulconnell1309]

Agree. I short change around town and the quick shifter is very smooth. Plenty of go if you roll on at 3000 rpm.

[@nigelmorgan1824]

Nice review , i have to say that i am not a fan of the stacked headlights but otherwise it appears to have a lot going for it the low down grunt so you don't have to rev it all the time but as a downside for me is that in my monthly motorbike mag i have read that the servicing costs are significantly higher on the 8S when compared with the Hornet (i am assuming they quoted dealer service prices) but that would be a point to be given serious consideration for me as i am no mechanic and would greatly influence my decision. Do you think it would be possible to include a reference to servicing costs in future reviews,.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for the suggestion Nigel - duly noted!

[@paulconnell1309]

I found the Hornet a bit cramped and the throttle a littler snatchy. Feels like a small bike. Some reviewers say the handling when pushed in corners is better on the 8S. Bought one and love it.

[@Crossers76]

Just putting it out there but the hornet has gone up £300 recently and you can easily find a 8S for £7500 new. So you may aswel go for the 8S now with a quick shifter as standard.

[@richardwarsinske7064]

Here in the US the 8S price also increased $150 for the 24 model. No changes except for color options and remaining 23's currently are $1000 off retail so I took advantage of that deal. We now can get Transalp's but Hornet's are still unavailable (?).

[@tjs201971]

Great review on a very nice bike! I more like the v-storm 800de! Just hope they keep it up !

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I hope so too!

[@TureBjorkman]

Åkte till en handlare för att testköra en hornet efter allt positivt jag hört om den. Passade även då på att prov köra Suzukin vilken nu står i mitt garage. Tack för en bra video. Hälsningar från Stockholm.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Greetings from Great Missenden!

[@colindeans5972]

Nicely done TMF. The front fairing looks wrong to my eye and I think I'd struggle to forgive that. I'll be interested to see your review of the Transalp versus V Strom 800DE/RE if and when you have the opportunity. Thanks again.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Colin and duly noted!

[@stephenfleming7056]

Liking the GSx-8S, but I just see Suzuki has announced a new Vstrom 8 RE , That's more for me and I look forward to your review.

[@adriver6587]

Great review TMF. Suzuki took their time but with new frame, swingarm and engine you can just feel the quality of the build and the low end torque is fantastic, just what a good street bike needs. Also i think with this platform i would not be surprised to see a fully faired GSX8R shortly from Suzuki.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Actually that sounds good.....

[@veeken777]

Would be hard to beat the new R7 tho

[@paulconnell1309]

@@veeken777 The riding position is a bit aggressive on the R7.

[@splodge57]

Good review. I do prefer this to the Hornet, as you said more substantial, more grunt and some better details. Also looks great in that blue.

[@garyhope0103]

Certainly a bike that looks as if it could do everything needed to a good standard, and that blue looks stunning.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I think so too!

[@garethtemple6242]

Glad I read this...I thought my ear buds were broken!

[@ljj808]

Got in blue to replace a CCM that was trying to kill me with Tankslappers: added Akra, fly screen, LED indicators, tail tidy, hugger, decent levers. It’s an AWESOME bike, and now the 1st service is done it’s VERY quick (and I have an R1200RS to compare with - no slouch). Next up is to replace the very average suspension. For once, this is a bike worth spending the cash on. It REALLY is that Good !!

[@the_ritman]

Great video as always. Not sure if anybody has already highlighted this but I had a sound issue with this one whilst using headphones. All the sound came through the left earphone and none from the right.

[@the_ritman]

I have just read down to the bottom of the comments and realise that it's been mentioned a few times; ignore me!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Apologies for the issues with sound…

[@2WheeledCoconut]

I wonder if this is the new direction Suzuki is heading in - I.e giving up on the whole ‘top trumps / top speed’ thing and instead focusing on real world use. Seems like all (or many of their new bikes) from the top down (Hayabusa and down) are more focused on torquey real world, so public roads, application….have they given up on the “I’m the fastest” p***ing contest and happy doing their own thing I wonder 🤔 Those boys at Daytona are a brilliant bunch. I’m now 6months into my life as a new biker thanks to them. Helmet and other gear from them, recommended excellent bike school to do my CBT (and in the next few months my DAS). Pop down to check out bikes and window shop, and though I love Suzukis, seeing the Kawasaki z900 and z650 in the flesh ….my word!! Took me back in time for sure ❤❤❤ Thanks for the continual informative vids Mr TMF…you have a lot to answer for when I get my first ‘big bike’ lol

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure! Thanks for watching!

[@therealunclevanya]

My right ear needed a rest, so I appreciated this review ;)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad I could help!

[@therealunclevanya]

😀@@TheMissendenFlyer

[@JCrozier1]

Solid review. i was hoping you might talk about this VS the SV650 that might be fading away. Similar money, just a little more power, but a way better dash. Not sure its worth the upgrade for me.

[@twist_of_the_wrist]

I passed my test last month and have a cheap Suzuki sfv650 Gladius, so hopefully, after a couple of years on the road, I'd be upgrading to a secondhand GSX-8.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good plan!

[@delwilliams9042]

Saw one in the flesh in Bill Smiths Chester and I was actually impressed with it. Loved my SV650 and i think this would make a decent addition to the garage

[@stevethomas6479]

Love the comment about wales I look my window Snowdon is in front of me 😂 I use my gsx8s on these roads done 1000 miles on it so far I love the bike it’s perfect for we’re I live it’s so much fun between 40 mph-70mph it makes overtaking so easy great review love watching your channel 👍👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you - you are very lucky to have Snowdon on your doorstep!

[@markcalhoun7323]

I think seeing someone on the bike would help as far a getting a better idea of the size. Everything else is spot on thanks

[@kgc1963]

Test rode one today, absolutely loved it, might just have to buy one. Triumph trident test ride on Monday.... 🤔

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Have fun!

[@williammorgan4640]

enjoyed your 8s test ride as usual very good.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks 👍

[@talkative0813]

Looks great and looking forward to the new motor design taking off!

[@Yelwas]

I was hoping you would have mentioned the fueling at walking pace 1st gear clutch out. simulating a traffic jam, or really busy town traffic.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sorry - I feel I've let you down!

[@Yelwas]

@@TheMissendenFlyer its just that I am really interested in the bike, and I can not get a demo ride in my location, and my F900XR is obsoletely abysmal in slow traffic, I have to work the clutch all the time.

[@paulconnell1309]

Nice review, thanks Flyer. I preferred the 8S to the Hornet. More room to push back on the seat and lean into the wind/bars and attack corners. Smoother fuelling in the city and very stable in corners in the city, cleaner switch gear. Great roll on power and very smooth with the quick shifter around town. Plenty of torque in mid revs. Roll on at 100 kph in 6th is outstanding. I agree the suspension is "sporty" on country roads. But the handling is great. I bought one, approaching first service and the end of the break in period.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Congratulations!

[@paulconnell1309]

Oh and in NZ they cost the same as the Hornet with no quick shifter.

[@Domitianvs]

Always love your reviews, but the hard panning of most of the sound to the left made it almost unwatchable with headphones, I'm sorry to say!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sorry about that - new mic on order!

[@jaffamaddin]

Great looking bike...looks like it rides good too. It would be in my garage if I wanted a naked for sure. I think Suzuki have a winner there.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I think they do! ...if you can get past the looks of that front end....

[@pobman2011]

I've just spent 6 hours a day for the last 5 days riding this bike for my uk A license. I haven't got much experience with big bikes but will say it was a pleasure to ride, easy on the bum, fun to open up and felt very planted. The torque was definitely great as a newbie as power was on tap from any low down gear. Over all i would seriously consider owning one

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Did you pass?

[@pobman2011]

Module 1 passed. Module 2 this week, very nervous...

[@pobman2011]

And just passed module 2, feeling mostly very relieved it's done, but excited to start looking for a bigger bike.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

@@pobman2011 Congratulations - well done and welcome to biking!

[@johnterry804]

Like the hornet 🐝 love the Suzuki! Great bike , all rounder also looks smart! Good video 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks! 👍

[@ronaldbear1]

Another smashing review. How does it compare to the street triple r?

[@bazza8947]

Looks like there is an audio issue with this vid? Great to see these twins come out in force!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sorry about that - bloody GoPros!!!

[@SteveInskip]

@@TheMissendenFlyertry one of the new DJI mic’s Andy. They are superb.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Actually I've just bought a Rode one which was expensive for a lavalier mic but seems reliably good....

[@SPI316]

Did you notice the TFT screen go into negative mode when you went under the bridge? nifty.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cool isn’t it!

[@billcotton1551]

Love the blue color! Really pops in the sun.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

It does!

[@mrnobodytheuser2950]

The front lights look awesome so its a matter of taste.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

It absolutely is yes….

[@RobertMacCready]

Thanks for the review. I just looked at one today. Have not ridden it yet, but will soon. I think the bike looks great but when I test ride it that will tell the story. I gather it does not have ABS...or does it?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes it has ABS

[@RobertMacCready]

@@TheMissendenFlyer thanks!

[@paulliebenberg3410]

Andy, it would be fun if you could comparison ride a Suzuki SV650 vs the GSX-8S. The former got naked 20 years ago and still has a round headlight. (I've had a 2003 SV650 since new) I'm also a V-Strom fan boi (have a DL1000) and still wish Suzuki had put the money into refining the V-twin 650 rather than this whole new parallel twin design. (Maybe an emissions thing?)

[@derekm6236]

The SV650 motor is brilliant; not sure it needs any refining. I think today's parellel twin fashion is a cost cutting excercise by manufacturers. Surely a Vee engine (2, 4, 6, 8, or 12) is mechanically about the best for practical use.

[@paulliebenberg3410]

@@derekm6236agree on the motor; I should have specified I was referring to the DL-650 chassis. Gone the suffix "DE" route like they have on the 800 and the 1050.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I agree - I love the Suzuki v twins…

[@Matt-hm9uo]

Have you considered testing the GSX8R ? Just watched an MCN review and looked better than I expected. I've had a couple of GSX600R's which I loved to bits (though could not cope with the prone position now). Would be interesting to hear your thoughts ! Thanks for the vid, very good as ever !!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Video coming on Wednesday at 0715 UK!

[@ramonjr-ca]

Nice work. So no rebound/dampening adjustment on the suspension?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Not that i recall (without checking)....

[@wolfpackpete6408]

Recently commented on another video about turning different suzuki engines into 3-cylinder motors. In the opposite way from removing a cylinder from GSXR engines... adding a 3rd cylinder to this would probably make an epic big capacity roadster triple. It would be in pretty much the same ball park as the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 if Suzuki were to do it.

[@chrisdagnall8666]

I don’t think it looks that bad and they do look better in the flesh. I have had a go on one and they do ride and go well it goes through the gears great with the quick shifter. You do have to ride these twin engines different to what people may be used to with four cylinder engines, I like to change a little early until third and then nail it big grin. I need to have a try on the Hornet.

[@chrisdagnall8666]

@@johnflavin1602 I would say first I like twins I currently have a RE Continental GT and Honda NT 1100. They vibrate at lower revs then smooth out, the 4 cly bikes are much smoother, you need to rev the 4 cylinder bikes to get the power the twins get going a low earlier, for me that’s the biggest different and why I prefer a twin. That’s just my none expert steady rider review 👍

[@DatOldeBiker]

Thank you Mr. Flyer. Another middle weight winner by the looks of it. I don't dislike the actual headlights but the "shroud" is a bit weird to my eyes, as long as they light up the road I suppose it's not a deal breaker to most prospective buyers? I'm going to check out the white/blue option as that sounds a rather snazzy option. Happy motoring. :>)

[@paulconnell1309]

Took me a while to adjust. Love it now. My bike is the background on my desktop.

[@DatOldeBiker]

I currently ride a '21 street triple and still don't like the headlights lol. :>)

[@plymouthjanner8940]

Great review.. Fantastic looking bike and personally prefer the looks of the Suzuki to the Hornet.

[@koshtie]

Thanks for the video Andy i think i am with on the Suzuki as i have only tried the Honda up to now, but think this bike makes good sense, won't bother you again, W...........

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Don't be silly - you're not bothering me!

[@koshtie]

OOPS should watch entire vid before comment ? I too know Denham very well as i grew up there , Remember when the infamous roundabout when it went in, caused a lot of confusion at first but works well once you got the swing of it, ATB Wayne.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I imagine that was the case with a lot of roundabouts!

[@clubstyleridahd4695]

Does it pull hard in the upper rpms? Also Would you rather own this bike or the gsxs 750?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Not sure I’ve ridden the gsxs 750 so it’s hard to say!

[@clubstyleridahd4695]

@@TheMissendenFlyer thanks

[@damon1957ful]

Good day TMF nice review as usual nice to listen to you not power mad and more common sense review. I have had a black 8s since june, black is the best the other two colour choice are nice but i keep expct8ng the Mario brothers to ride them, anyway back to back testing with honda yam and ktm intial purchest was ktm or honda the 8s was not in the running but after spending a day with testing , the 8s was the second bike to test out of thr four and back at the dealers i parked up the honda , last bike to test and went stright in to buy the 8s brilliant bike the power is all where you need it when i am out in my local brecon becons twisties , ride fast slow or any where in between its just spot on , no vibs you can feel the individual pulses the whinning from the gearbox is buetifull and the ride for me a 12stone welch short arse 27inch inside leg and bent toes touch the ground, the three modes actually work and the quickshifter 99%of the time is spot on both up and down , the seat comfort is 100% soft and thick i did 600 mile in one day to run it in and its the first time i have got off a bike not in pain or walking like john wayne , i love the looks and the light spread is brill, fit and fittings are top notch and feels quality , i would still have got this 8s even if it was another 500 to 1000 pounds more than the asking price , thats how i see the bike , i am not going to diss the other bikes but my second choice would have been the ktm but those head lights are ugly , i have always been a honda man 40yrs riding and cant recall the amount of hondas i have had, this time this is my 4 suzuki and can honesly say the buikd qulity and materals used are better than my last cb650r , and the bike is so easy to strip down , just love it 3000 miles new in end of june cant fault it give it a go it will talk to you

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Wow - thanks for that lot! Enjoy your new bike!

[@garethtemple6242]

Another great review. This is clearly a good bike, but on price and looks, it's still the Hornet for me. With the price difference, I could add the quick shifter, heated grips and the optional soft luggage and probable still have some change. As far as this bike is concerns, once you get above £9k you're starting to get close to a Street Triple 765R, which is a whole different class of bike.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes agreed…

[@davewestsk8]

I've just put a deposit down for one 7.5k brand new now 🎉can't wait.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Congratulations and enjoy!

[@RutgerSmets]

I can't help but really love the colour!

[@newezreal3241]

is your clutch lever also loose like it doesn't fully go back all the way?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nope

[@nicnak4475]

Hi Andy, great review, I just phoned my local Honda dealer to enquire about the Hornet and was informed the price has gone up £300 to £7299, then I looked up deals for the GSX-8S and saw there are many on discount, some for £7499, which surprised me, so not much difference between the Honda and the Suzuki, plus the Suzuki has a quick shifter as standard, like you say, plus an extra years warranty on the Suzuki ? Do you have to have it serviced by Suzuki to validate it ? Thanks.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

No you shouldn’t have too…

[@GazBromley]

Speaking of Suzukis, ive just bought a 1997 full power TL1000s in British racing green and gold. Theyre quite rare. This one is totally original....apart from it now has scorpion cans. It was on the TL1000 calender 2021. I have the calender. I'd be happy to let you have it for a review if your interested. Im Gary. I have pics and videos.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you for the offer!

[@koshtie]

Hi Andy no ULEZ on either bike then?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nope!

[@johnmacdonald1878]

Morning, looks like it was a nice ride.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Morning!

[@pistolpete6321]

Great review,looks like a winner for Suzuki!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I think so too!

[@sergentcolon1]

Afternoon Andy, I’d like to see you review an original Hornet 600 and a Bandit 600 to see what you think of the 4 cylinder bikes against their modern descendants.

[@kevinroberts2395]

First impressions from me, is that I could not look down at what is in front of me, and enjoy that view. A TFT screen just seems weird on a naked bike. I also could not live with the look of the headlight. As they say, "The beauty is in the eyes of the 'beer holder'". 😂

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Very true Kevin...

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Going to be real curious how the new GSX-8R version will be, when it starts production and importation.

[@stevec6427]

I'm quite hoping that Suzuki will build a GX version as a competitor to the Yamaha Tracer 7. I didn't really like the GSX1000 GX, mostly because of the revvy 4 cylinder and weight so an 800 twin would be ideal. I'd be quite tempted to buy one.

[@jonomasonILoveU]

Looked at the black model the other day and noticed the garden hose clips and cheap rubber hoses attached to the cooling system, apart from that I think this bike will be succesful.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well it is built to a price point....

[@yufoh7753]

I think this is going to be Suzuki's new SV. It's a good looking bike for sure.

[@trevjones1315]

I'm sure i saw somewhere that you can legally take old 70s 2 strokes into the ulez zone. Brilliant, that's a big 2 fingers up to the mayor. 😂 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I didn't know that - nice one....

[@loddude5706]

Ah, 'the Oxford Street chain-saw rally draws tens of thousands' - all by public transport - (cough : )

[@Bunter1815]

You can drive anything into ULEZ zones but you have to pay for the privilege.

[@trevjones1315]

I meant without paying the fee.

[@Bunter1815]

@@trevjones1315 Two categories of historic vehicles are exempt from ULEZ: All vehicles built before 1 January 1973. Vehicles over 40 years old that have been successfully registered with the DVLA for a historic vehicle tax class.

[@andyhill8312]

Hi, does it have cruise control?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Don't recall - I don't think so...

[@paulfowler7618]

It doesn't

[@raymondwandell8880]

We've all been waiting for a new sv 650 but did they have to beat it so hard with the ugly stick?

[@nigelreadon8381]

I should have an MOT coming up, depends if my break light is working lol. if not i will not travel there. think the cost of motoring is gonna skyrocket, even for gas bikes. well i said this before, if it does how would you sell them.

[@macneil6999]

Would you be interested in doing a review on the new 790 Duke to compare it to the 8s?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes possibly - thanks for the suggestion...

[@paulfowler7618]

No point lamb chops rides has done a really good one comparing these 2 bikes already

[@billd.6684]

Seems a treat, but I have a 2019 sv650 (which I shall keep forever), but 8S doesn't seem enough *more* to be the step up I'd like. The gsx-s750 or -s1000 does. Or xsr900 or 890 duke R or even gsx-r750 or ninja 636.

[@samhill3496]

Look at the smile in the mirror. A rider's motorcycle it is.. Good looking machine. Those lights up front are narrow and hidden from the side, good job. Remember the stacked lights of the 70's on the choppers? We won't go there. Maybe a two day trip up north on it. Really learn it some more, mileage, comfort and such. Loos winner to me. Maybe the best part as there are five versions of the machine in Suzuki's lineup. So a big long term gasoline powered investment from the home office. That means a lot especially doing RTW middle of nowhere travel. This was a good nice to the point fasat review. Lot about the roads and mainly the machine and talking from the cockpit with a view ahead. What's not to like. Winner , winner, chicken dinner.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you liked it Sam - thanks for watching!

[@CaptainChristianZ1818]

I think the Hornet is a better buy imho. Yeah people say Suzuki has quickshifter as standard, but i can add that a few hundred quid and still cheaper than the Suzuki. The Hornet has mid and top end power too. Just my personal preference.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

They are both great bikes - we are spoiled for choice these days!

[@ChristopherTaylor-op1fb]

Thanks for the great vid, any chance you could review a bmw f800gt? Many thanks Chris

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Possibly!

[@Grahamvfr]

I agree yea, in the flesh it's looks good.

[@williamrae9954]

I see for '24 there's a halfway house coming,between the 8S and the V-Strom 800...a V-Strom with 19/17" cast wheels!

[@eraserone1]

when the triumph 400s come out please try to get your hands on one for us!!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Trust me I’m trying!

[@MalcolmStaines]

Lovely looking bike , when you were riding I thought that tank style looks just like a Moto Guzzi Breva or Sport from early 2000. I know your not to keen on Guzzi's but you cannot fault the design of Italian bikes , 15 or so years ahead of anything else.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I don't have a problem with Guzzi's! Mrs Flyer does mind.....

[@teethaistralian6079]

Any chance you can do a review on the GSX 8R?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Coming soon(ish)!

[@teethaistralian6079]

@@TheMissendenFlyer if you can get a silver one and do a full review with what it's like to live with I would be greatful. I'm looking for a mid range sports tourer that's not crazy money and this looks the business. Cheers. You my go to for bike reviews.

[@Jonathan-L]

Me: "I'm looking for a 'project' bike that's been crashed so I get it on the road again." Motorcycle salesguy: "Welcome to 2023, we can sell you a ready-made bike that's exactly like you just described, inspired by backyard project builds. If you're looking for a 'rat bike' consider the XSR in black. Oh, by the way, let me show you this new Suzuki in blue, never mind that ugly pole hanging out the back, that's to mount the licence plate on. Here sir, you hold the pen and I'll move the paper".

[@inkymunster1591]

Spot on. We Sir, are a dying breed. 😂

[@JIMMER15]

Good looking bike!! A little dicky bird told me you're doing a review on the Kawasaki Ninja 1000sx (or Z1000sx)......looking forward to this (if it's happening?)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yep coming soon.....

[@JIMMER15]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Excellent news!! As an owner of a 2022 model I'll be very interested in you review 😁 I did add a full de-cat exhaust system to mine which really freed the engine up and also makes an amazing sound (the stock exhaust is far to quiet).

[@crustyzimmerman3324]

I stayed at The Crown in Missenden Tuesday night. Great meal at the Spanish restaurant a few doors up. And why do they call it High Wycombe when it’s at the bottom of a hill? Does a £1k really matter? IF it’s the bike YOU want. Why do people look for equity in what is fundamentally an emotional purchase?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

There's a Spanish restaurant in Great Missenden???!!! Must look that up....!

[@crustyzimmerman3324]

@@TheMissendenFlyer sorry no, it’s Pluma in Amersham. I got mixed up. Really heavy week stating in 4 different locations But…The Greyhound in Beaconsfield is in the top 10% in the world on trip advisor And was mentioned by Johnny Vaughan on Radio X on Thursday night.

[@karlosh9286]

Good stuff ! So better than the Hornet, how about the Triumph Trident ? ( similar price / class etc , obviously !)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

All three bikes are excellent imo

[@karlosh9286]

@@TheMissendenFlyer ahhh 🙂

[@michaelgale3833]

Hi Andy, how does it compare to the GSXS-750?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I'm not sure I've ridden it?? Well not recently enough to compare anyway....

[@michaelgale3833]

@@TheMissendenFlyer 2017, so maybe too long ago to remember! They still sell it here in NZ alongside the 8S. It's got the GSXR 750 engine in it so a bit different, can't tell whether the 8S is pitched at the same riders or at SV650 market

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I don't remember what I rode last week never mind 6 years ago!!! :0)