Suzuki PH unveils GSX-8S and V-Strom 800DE

The V-Strom 800DE is up against the popular Yamaha Ténéré 700. PHOTO FROM SUZUKI

First unveiled at EICMA 2022, Suzuki’s middleweight GSX-8S is a naked street bike meant to go up against Yamaha’s popular MT-07/XSR700, the KTM 790 Duke, and the recently launched CFMoto 800NK. Meanwhile, the V-Strom 800DE is a more suitable update to the V-Strom line, splitting the difference between the dated 650XT and 1050 models.

Both utilize an all-new, 776cc parallel-twin engine with a 270° crankshaft and a biaxial primary balancer for enhanced smoothness. With an 84mm bore and a 70mm stroke, it makes 83hp and 78Nm.

Long travel suspension, 21-inch front wheel, and 220mm ground clearance make the V-Strom 800DE ideal for ‘budol’ trail rides. PHOTO FROM SUZUKI

The V-Strom 800DE comes with the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System for various riding modes including a specific “Gravel” setting. The ABS can also be disabled at the rear for more control off-road.

Adjustable front and rear suspension, generous suspension travel of 220mm for both front and rear, and 220mm of ground clearance make it a promising off-road steed. It also has a curb weight of 230kg.

Wire-spoke wheels with a 21-inch front along with Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tires and their semi-block pattern further add to the off-road cred. A 20L tank, an adjustable windscreen, a radiator guard, three-piece front fender construction, and a steel frame with a lightweight aluminum swingarm complete the adventure package for P699,000.

The GSX-8S will battle some stiff competition from KTM, Yamaha, and CFMoto. PHOTO FROM SUZUKI

The GSX-8S is a naked streetfighter whose parallel-twin engine offers an upgrade from the aging SV650 while offering a different experience from the in-line-four GSX-S750 and GSX-S1000.

An all-new steel frame is used, featuring exposed seat rails and a long, 1,465mm wheelbase for straight-line stability. The suspension is composed of a KYB inverted fork with 130mm of travel and an adjustable KYB link-type rear shock. Curb weight is 202kg.

These naked street bikes are beginning to all look alike, wouldn't you agree? PHOTO FROM SUZUKI

Lightweight, cast-aluminum wheels shod with 120/70R17 front and 180/55R17 rear Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires provide sporty and predictable handling.

Aside from several drive modes, this bike also has a bidirectional quickshifter and Low RPM assist to prevent stalling at low speeds. A 14L fuel tank should be sufficient to provide a respectable range. The GSX-8S is priced at P585,000.