Suzuki GSX-8S 2023 vs. Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023

In terms of engine and drive train, both the Suzuki GSX-8S 2023 and the Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023 have in-line engines with fuel injection. However, the Kawasaki Z900 SE has a more powerful engine with 125 HP compared to the Suzuki GSX-8S's 83 HP. The torque is also higher in the Kawasaki Z900 SE with 98.6 Nm compared to the Suzuki GSX-8S's 78 Nm. The engine displacement is also larger in the Kawasaki Z900 SE with 948 ccm compared to the Suzuki GSX-8S's 776 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both bikes have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The Suzuki GSX-8S has a monoshock rear shock absorber with preload adjustment, while the Kawasaki Z900 SE has a monoshock rear shock absorber with preload and rebound adjustment. The material of the rear shock absorber is aluminum in both bikes.

Both bikes have steel frames and double disk brakes at the front with four pistons. However, the brake diameter is larger in the Suzuki GSX-8S at 310 mm compared to the Kawasaki Z900 SE's 300 mm. The Suzuki GSX-8S also has radial technology for the front brakes, while the Kawasaki Z900 SE has petal technology.

Suzuki GSX-8S 2023

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes have ABS, riding modes, and traction control. The Suzuki GSX-8S also has ride by wire and a shift assistant with blipper, while the Kawasaki Z900 SE does not have a quickshifter.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have the same front and rear tire widths and diameters. The Suzuki GSX-8S has a slightly longer wheelbase at 1465 mm compared to the Kawasaki Z900 SE's 1450 mm. The seat height is also slightly higher in the Suzuki GSX-8S at 810 mm compared to the Kawasaki Z900 SE's 795 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is higher in the Kawasaki Z900 SE at 210 kg compared to the Suzuki GSX-8S's 202 kg.

Both bikes have LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and TFT displays as part of their equipment.

In terms of strengths, the Suzuki GSX-8S has a full-grown and high-quality overall concept, a high-torque engine, stable handling, and a very good seat. It also offers a great naked bike riding position and has a good and precise quickshifter. The controls are high-quality and the display is very good. The suspension offers reserves for a wide range of uses despite the lack of adjustment options, and the ergonomics are good.

Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023

The Kawasaki Z900 SE has a powerful and pleasantly sonorous four-cylinder engine, high-quality chassis components with Öhlins at the rear, and strong Brembo M4-32 brakes. It also has good ergonomics and easy handling.

In terms of weaknesses, the Suzuki GSX-8S's quickshifter and gearstick require a little more operating force than usual. The bike is also somewhat heavier than other bikes in this class and the ABS controls defensively. Additionally, the engine has no rev reserves upwards.

The Kawasaki Z900 SE does not have a quickshifter, not even as an option. It also does not have lean angle dependent traction control or cornering ABS due to the missing IMU. The bike is also relatively heavy.