10 Suzuki Bikes That Balance Performance And Practicality

In the past, Suzuki was one of the most innovative motorcycle manufacturers. All the way through the 90s and 00s, we were getting one incredible Suzuki after another, but all that changed around a decade ago. For better or worse, pragmatism set in, and there was almost a blanket ban on motorcycles. Instead, we simply got one new livery after another. The one thing this budget-minded approach has yielded is some wonderful value-oriented motorcycles.

In an effort to maximize profit margins, Suzuki has retained some older powertrains far longer than pretty much any other manufacturer would dare. While there are a couple of new platforms that have been added over the past few years, the vast majority of the lineup makes use of these older, more powerful engines. By making simple tweaks to skirt the ever-changing emissions regulations – rather than developing more brand-new engines all the time – the brand is able to offer a host of bikes that balance performance, value, and practicality.

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SV650 ABS

MSRP: $8,149

Suzuki

After a brief hiatus, the SV650 returned to the lineup in 2017 and has remained largely unchanged since then. In simple terms, if it ain’t broken, then why fix it? The SV650 is a fantastic bike, with an agile chassis and a potent little V-twin. That V-twin is the secret sauce. While other bikes have crossplane parallel-twins mimicking V-twins, this is the real deal.

Suzuki

Specifications

DR-Z4S

MSRP: $8,999

Suzuki

The latest DR-Z4S is actually one of the few brand-new bikes in the lineup. While it has retained much of the architecture of the old model, this is a thoroughly modern dual-sport which offers enthusiasts a highly capable off-road bike that is equally at home running back and forth to work. Unfortunately, with it being an all-new model, the price is pretty high, so even though it offers a near-perfect balance between off-road and on-road performance, it remains a niche offering.

Suzuki

Specifications

2023 GSX-S750Z ABS

MSRP: $9,149

Suzuki

Going from one extreme to the other, the GSX-S750 has actually been out of production since 2023. At this price point, this is a bike that really shouldn’t be dismissed out of hand. Suzuki still has this on their books, but one would think that dealers would be eager to get rid of old stock, so there should be some deals to be had.

Suzuki

Specifications

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GSX-8R

MSRP: $9,669

Suzuki

Suzuki finally caved and built a parallel-twin. While modern and relatively accessible, it has flattered to deceive in some respects. All the bikes making use of this powertrain are a little heavier than the direct competition, but just like any modern crossplane parallel-twin, it still offers a good balance between real-world usability and performance.

Suzuki

Specifications

V-Strom 800DE

MSRP: $11,799

Suzuki

Just like the aforementioned sports bike version, the V-Strom 800 is also a little heavy for its class. That does not, however, take away from the fact that it is actually a very good off-road adventure bike. The unfortunate reality is that there are better, cheaper alternatives on the market, and it certainly has not been the success story Suzuki would have hoped for.

Suzuki

Specifications

GSX-S1000

MSRP: $11,989

Suzuki

Suzuki put the old K5 gixxer engine in a few bikes, and it is with this platform that the brand has been able to offer the most value. The GSX-S1000 gets a proper twin-spar aluminum chassis, Brembo brakes, and a host of other great features in a genuinely affordable package. In the right hands, this is an incredibly capable performer.

Suzuki

Specifications

GSX-S1000GT+

MSRP: $14,399

Suzuki

In a market with a seemingly insatiable appetite for all things versatile, this impressive sports tourer stands out thanks to how much bang for the buck it has to offer. The GSX-S1000GT+ adds comfort to the old K5 platform, with a host of electronics, wind protection, and hard cases. Then, when the mood arises, the superbike lurking within will still make an appearance with one simple twist of the wrist.

Suzuki

Specifications

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V-Strom 1050

MSRP: $15,499

Suzuki

Rather surprisingly, this engine also has superbike roots. Back in the 90s, that superbike made around 130 horsepower, but over the years, the V-twin powertrain has been modernized and reworked to work better in the real world. This means it has a nice flat torque curve, and above all else, is reliable. While the V-Strom might look a little dull from the outside, a host of modern tech and this old V-twin make it far more fun than it has any right to be.

Suzuki

Specifications

GSX-S1000GX+

MSRP: $18,599

Suzuki

The one thing we always expect from Suzuki is value, so when a bike like this comes out with a sticker price this high, it is only natural to be a little skeptical. While the price is fairly high, this crossover packs a huge amount of value. Along with a host of modern tech features, it also gets electronic suspension. Pretty much every other bike on the market with this feature is more expensive.

Suzuki

Specifications

Hayabusa

MSRP: $19,499

Suzuki

The latest iteration of the Hayabusa is far more practical than its predecessors. While those bikes were never expressly uncomfortable, the new Hayabusa really leans into sports touring. You won’t necessarily want to use it as a commuter – it is just a bit big for that – it will be more than happy to handle some long-distance touring at great speed.

Suzuki

Specifications