Honda CB650R vs Suzuki GSX-8S
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The Honda CB650R and Suzuki GSX-8S are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. They land within touching distance on price, so this comes down to character and fit. On paper the Honda CB650R leads on power with 94 hp. Below we put them head to head on price, performance, weight and seat height, then give our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
Honda
Honda CB650R
Our pickSuzuki
Suzuki GSX-8SThe verdict
The Suzuki GSX-8S edges it overall at 8.5/10, but the Honda CB650R wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.
Honda CB650R
A2-legal, 94 hp, forgiving to learn on.
Honda CB650R
94 hp and 0.46 hp/kg, the strongest here.
Suzuki GSX-8S
Our 8.5/10 at $8,999, the most bike per dollar.
Suzuki GSX-8S
202 kg with an 810 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.
Suzuki GSX-8S
Our top score in this matchup at 8.5/10.
Cyan marks the best figure in each row. Specs are the most-cited for the current model; verify before relying on them.
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Honda CB650R vs Suzuki GSX-8S: your questions answered
Which is faster, the Honda CB650R or the Suzuki GSX-8S?
The Honda CB650R makes the most power at 94 hp and 63 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the Honda CB650R or the Suzuki GSX-8S?
The Suzuki GSX-8S is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $8,999.
Which is lighter, the Honda CB650R or the Suzuki GSX-8S?
The Suzuki GSX-8S is the lightest at 202 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.
Which is better for a beginner, the Honda CB650R or the Suzuki GSX-8S?
For a new rider we'd point to the Honda CB650R: A2-legal, 94 hp and 203 kg make it the most approachable of the group.
