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Suzuki has announced the arrival of its latest addition to the 2024 lineup, the GSX-8R sports bike. Thus expanding the GSX-8 series alongside its existing GSX-8S roadster. This is in response to the growing demand for softer, more practical middleweight sports bikes. Suzuki has hence positioned the GSX-8R as a well-rounded and comfortable alternative. It will cater to riders seeking a balance between performance and everyday usability. 2024 Suzuki GSX-8R : More Details The GSX-8R enters a market teeming with competitors like the Honda CBR650R, Yamaha R7, and Aprilia RS660. Spy shots have also hinted at a potential three-cylinder Triumph Daytona 660, equipped with the existing Trident naked and Tiger Sport 660 engine. Hence there is an intensifying competition in the middleweight sports bike segment. One of the key distinctions lies in the GSX-8R's styling, featuring a redesigned front and lower fairing inspired by Suzuki's focused GSX-R series. The addition of upright forged aluminum clip-on handlebars replaces the more relaxed one-piece flat setup found on the GSX-8S, enhancing the sportiness of the riding position. Despite these sport-oriented changes, the GSX-8R maintains a comfortable everyday appeal, positioning itself closer to the Honda CBR650R's upright four-cylinder riding experience. The peg placement remains unchanged from the GSX-8S. And the GSX-8R offers improved ground clearance with its revised suspension. Suzuki has equipped the GSX-8R with Showa suspension units. These include upside-down big piston forks at the front and a preload-adjustable shock at the rear. These enhancements offer 30% greater damping force compared to the GSX-8S, thereby improved handling and control. Powertrain of the Suzuki GSX-8R The GSX-8R gets Suzuki's liquid-cooled DOHC 776cc parallel twin engine with a 270-degree firing order. This engine is shared with its adventure-oriented counterparts, the V-Strom 800 RE and DE, and the GSX-8S roadster. Suzuki claims a power output of 82 BHP at 8,500 rpm, while the engine delivers a broad torque range. The bike is suitable for various riding conditions, from city commuting to circuit riding. Similar to the GSX-8S, the GSX-8R offers three riding modes (A, B, C) and a vibrant colour TFT dashboard. Brakes consist of four-piston radial front callipers with 310mm discs. The motorcycle retains its up/down quickshifter, providing seamless gear changes. Suzuki remains tight-lipped about the future of its sporting models, but the introduction of the GSX-8R signals the brand's commitment to meeting customer demands for versatile, high-performance middleweight motorcycles. Also Read - Suzuki sold 84,302 two-wheelers in October 2023.