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Head to head

Suzuki GSX-8S vs Ducati Monster

Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.

The Suzuki GSX-8S and Ducati Monster are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. The Suzuki GSX-8S undercuts the Ducati Monster by about $3,996, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the Ducati Monster leads on power with 111 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.

Suzuki GSX-8S
Our pick
8.5

Suzuki

Suzuki GSX-8S
Ducati Monster
8.0

Ducati

Ducati Monster

The verdict

The Suzuki GSX-8S edges it overall at 8.5/10, but the Ducati Monster wins on most exciting, so let how you ride decide.

Best for new riders

Suzuki GSX-8S

81 hp.

Most exciting

Ducati Monster

111 hp and 0.59 hp/kg, the strongest here.

Best value

Suzuki GSX-8S

Our 8.5/10 at $8,999, the most bike per dollar.

Easiest to manage

Ducati Monster

188 kg with an 820 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.

Highest rated

Suzuki GSX-8S

Our top score in this matchup at 8.5/10.

Price & rating
Price$8,999$12,995
KickTheStand score8.5 / 108 / 10
Performance
Engine776cc twin937cc twin
Power81 hp111 hp
Torque78 Nm93 Nm
Power-to-weight0.40 hp/kg0.59 hp/kg
Chassis & brakes
Front suspension41mm KYB USD fork43mm USD fork
Rear suspensionMonoshockMonoshock
Front brakesDual 310mm discs, Nissin 4-pistonDual 320mm discs, Brembo M4.32
Rear brakesSingle 240mm discSingle 245mm disc
Dimensions & practicality
Weight202 kg188 kg
Seat height810 mm820 mm
Fuel capacity14 L14 L
Suitability
ClassNakedNaked
A2 licenceNoNo
Good for beginnersNoNo
Best forsport, commutingsport, commuting

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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Suzuki GSX-8S vs Ducati Monster: your questions answered

Which is faster, the Suzuki GSX-8S or the Ducati Monster?

The Ducati Monster makes the most power at 111 hp and 93 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.

Which is cheaper, the Suzuki GSX-8S or the Ducati Monster?

The Suzuki GSX-8S is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $8,999.

Which is lighter, the Suzuki GSX-8S or the Ducati Monster?

The Ducati Monster is the lightest at 188 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.

Which is better for a beginner, the Suzuki GSX-8S or the Ducati Monster?

For a new rider we'd point to the Suzuki GSX-8S: 81 hp and 202 kg make it the most approachable of the group.

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