2008 Suzuki GSX Review

Intro

The 2008 Suzuki GSX 650F was created by Suzuki to provide an entry-level sport bike that will appeal to both beginners and more advanced bike riders. This affordable bike provides the excitement of riding a sport bike, as well as the performance and handling of an all-around bike. With a lower seat height and a light weight frame, even the newest riders will feel comfortable on the road on the 2008 Suzuki GSX 650F.

On initial glance, many will think that the 2008 Suzuki GSX 650F is just the Suzuki 650 Bandit with a few minor tweaks. While it may appear similar on paper, there is a lot more to the GSX 650F than just recycling an older model. The 656cc engine includes the Suzuki dual throttle valve fuel injection system, so that power is boosted in the higher rpms, while still maintaining an excellent midrange. This means that there is plenty of power for both accelerating, as well as passing on the highway when at speed.

Power is controlled by a six-speed transmission, which is equipped with a hydraulic clutch to ensure precise shifting, and reduce rider fatigue on longer rides. Power delivery of the 2008 Suzuki GSX 650F is extremely smooth, and handling is easy. The brakes provide more than enough stopping power so that even the newest riders will feel confident when travelling at speed. The suspension is able to deal with most road surfaces, although there is some compromise between performance and comfort since the suspension isn’t fully adjustable.

From the front, the 2008 Suzuki GSX 650F shares a strong resemblance with the GSX-R 1000. It shares the same vertical arrangement of the headlights, as well as the same paint theme. It has an aggressively shaped nose and a lean profile due to the sportier riding position. It comes equipped with a tall windshield that helps block a lot of wind from the rider. The instrument cluster is made up of large, easy to read controls, similar to those found on the GSX-R 1000. A large, one piece saddle is standard on the 2008 Suzuki GSX 650F. For shorter rides, the saddle provides plenty of comfort and support, but its angle and position may cause discomfort on longer stretches.

New For 2008

  • The 2008 Suzuki GSX 650F was an all new bike for the 2008 model year that was created to fill the gap in the model line left by the retired Suzuki Katana.
  • The 656cc four-cylinder engine has fuel injection added to make it more powerful than the same engine found in the 2007 Bandit 650.
  • The 2008 Suzuki GSX 650F has new one-piece, rubber-mounted, lower bars plus a new one-piece seat to provide a riding position and balance that is sportier.
  • The new fairing is a key distinguishing feature of the 2008 Suzuki GSX 650F, which evokes the look of a GSX-R sportsbike style, but also provides protection from the elements and blends into the whole motorcycle cleanly.

2008 Suzuki GSX Specs

  • Model: GSX 650F
  • Engine Type: 656cc, fuel-injected inline-four engine
  • Bore and Stroke: 65.5 x 48.7 mm
  • Compression ratio: 11.5:1
  • Valve Train: N/A
  • Induction: N/A
  • Ignition: Digital/Transistorized
  • Transmission: six-speed manual
  • Final Drive: Chain
  • Fuel Capacity: 5.0 gallons
  • Estimated Fuel Economy: N/A
  • Brakes (Front): Dual Hydraulic Disc
  • Brakes (Rear): Hydraulic Disc
  • Suspension (Front): Telescopic, oil damped, preload adjustable
  • Suspension (Rear): Link-type suspension, adjustable preload and rebound
  • Wheelbase: 57.9 inches
  • Rake: N/A
  • Trail: N/A
  • Seat Height: 30.3 inches
  • Curb Weight: 476 lbs.
  • Tires (Front): 120/70-ZR17
  • Tires (Rear): 160/60-ZR17

Accessories

  • The tall windscreen of the 2008 Suzuki GSX 650F can be replaced with more compact racing windscreens for those who don't mind the wind and want a more aggressive looking bike.
  • Hard and soft tank bags can be mounted to the substantial fuel tank of the 2008 Suzuki GSX 650F to carry up to four liters of gear, protected in a waterproof interior.
  • For those wanting to carry a passenger, a dual seat can replace the standard large one piece seat that comes with the 2008 Suzuki GSX 650F.

Key Competitors For The 2008 Suzuki GSX

  • 2008 Aprilia Pegaso 650
  • 2008 Jawa-CZ 650 Style
  • 2008 CCM FT710