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S U Z U K I
GSX -8S

**🏍️ My First Big Bike: Suzuki GSX-8S Review (From a Newbie With a Fresh License!)**

So… I *just* passed my motorcycle test, and after what felt like forever riding around on a 125, I will miss her though... I finally stepped up to  — the **Suzuki GSX-8S**. Let me tell you, this bike is not just a step up, it’s a *freakin’ launch pad*.

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### 🔥 First Impressions

Right off the bat, the GSX-8S looks like something out of a Marvel movie — all aggressive lines and that streetfighter stance. I got mine in that Electric Blue with the blacked-out accents, and wow... it's a head-turner. However, my ADHD kicked in and I got a crazy idea and the 'Sailor Moon' version was born!

### 🧠 Built for New Riders (but doesn’t treat you like a baby)

What really had me on the 8S is how **friendly** it is to ride. This thing has power, yes — a lovely 776cc parallel twin that gives you that satisfying “braaap” when you twist the throttle — but it's super predictable. No nasty surprises. It doesn’t try to buck you off or pull your arms out of their sockets.

The **ride-by-wire throttle** is smooth as butter, and the **quickshifter** (yep, up and down as standard!) means I barely touch the clutch anymore. It makes shifting feel like cheating — and I’m here for it.

Also, shoutout to **low RPM assist** and **Suzuki’s Easy Start System** — basically, it makes stalling almost impossible and starting the engine feel like launching a spaceship.

### 🧷 Light, Nimble, and Confidence-Boosting

At around 202kg wet, it’s not featherweight, but the balance is *chef’s kiss*. Super easy to maneuver at slow speeds, even in car parks or when doing U-turns — aka every new rider’s worst nightmare. I was nervous jumping from a 125 to a 776cc, but honestly? Within the first hour I felt totally at home.

The **upright riding position** gives you a great view of the road, and the wide bars make handling intuitive. Filtering through traffic feels like playing a video game — smooth and satisfying.

### 🧠 Tech That’s Actually Useful

- **3 rider modes** (A, B, and C) — I started in C (chill mode), now I’m playing with B. A is still a little spicy for my skills, but it’s nice knowing I can grow into it.


- **Traction control** with 3 levels + off — as a newbie, I love having that safety net.
- **TFT dash** — super clear, even in sunlight, and it just makes you feel like you’re riding something high-tech and modern.

### 🛣️ Comfy Enough for the Long Haul

The seat is more comfy than I expected — did a 2-hour ride the other day and didn’t feel like I needed a chiropractor. Suspension soaks up bumps like a pro, and it doesn’t punish you for hitting a pothole (thanks, UK roads).

### 💸 Bang for Buck

For what it costs, the GSX-8S is an absolute bargain. You're getting premium features without the premium price tag. It feels like Suzuki made this bike for people exactly like me — new riders who want to level up without getting overwhelmed.

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### Final Verdict:  
**5/5 — The Suzuki GSX-8S is the perfect first big bike.**  
It’s got the looks, the tech, the attitude — but with the soul of a supportive riding coach. Whether you're commuting, hitting twisties, or just vibing in a car park admiring your reflection in shop windows (guilty), this bike *gets it*.

If you’ve just passed your test and are wondering if this bike is too much — it’s not. It’s *just right*. And trust me, the grin under your helmet? That’s permanent.

© 2025 RAVEN RIDER UK 

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