2026 Suzuki GSX-8R Owner Review – The Good, The Bad & My Modified 8R

After putting some real miles on my **2026 Suzuki GSX-8R**, I wanted to share what it’s actually been like to own, ride, and modify this bike. I’ve been riding motorcycles for many years and have owned bikes like the **GSX-R750 and GSX-R1100**, so I came into the GSX-8R with plenty of experience on traditional inline-four sportbikes. At 54, though, I wanted something that still looked, handled, and felt like a sportbike without the aggressive ergonomics of a full supersport. In this video I talk about the **776cc parallel-twin engine, handling, suspension, brakes, ergonomics, quickshifter, passenger riding, and everyday street performance**, along with the things I think Suzuki could have done better. I also cover the modifications I've made: • IXIL RC Extreme full exhaust • DNA Stage 2 air filter and high-flow airbox setup • 2 Wheel DynoWorks ECU flash • PAIR system plugged / O2 sensor removed • T-Rex Racing crash protection • Rear suspension preload adjustments The ECU flash in particular completely changed the character of the bike. Throttle response is much more connected, the engine pulls harder throughout the rev range, and the bike simply feels less restricted. With the IXIL exhaust, DNA intake and 2WDW tune, the setup is estimated at roughly **86 hp and 63 lb-ft at the wheel on the 2 Wheel DynoWorks dyno**. So... should I have just bought a Yamaha R9? 😆 Maybe — but after living with the GSX-8R, I think this bike actually fits the kind of riding I do better. If you're considering a **Suzuki GSX-8R**, especially if you're coming from older GSX-Rs or other supersport motorcycles, hopefully my experience helps. Let me know in the comments what you think of the 8R and what modifications you'd make next. #Suzuki #GSX8R #SuzukiGSX8R #MotorcycleReview #Sportbike #2WheelDynoWorks #IXIL #DNAAirFilters #GSXR #Motorcycles