Suzuki GSX-8R Insurance

For 2024, Suzuki introduced the GSX-8R, the sportbike version of their highly praised GSX-8S naked bike. Suzuki is well known for their four-cylinder GSX-R series, but the GSX-8R marked their first all-new sport bike in 25 years.

The 776cc parallel-twin engine features a 270° firing pattern that echoes the power delivery and character of a V-twin, and the GSX-8R package has received strongly positive reviews from most of the major publications.

“The GSX-8R blends a solid level of sportiness and comfort that is just as happy cruising on the road as it is taking on a bit of track action.” –MCN

However, when it comes to any sportbike, you have to consider insurance costs as much as purchase price and financing. This is especially important when it comes to the GSX-8R; as a relatively new bike on the market, the bike’s insurance rates haven’t “settled” — meaning that premiums may vary widely from one company to the next.

For this reason, it’s imperative that you compare quotes from multiple insurers before you insure your GSX-8R. Otherwise, you’ll risk paying too much. We can help.

Suzuki GSX-8R Insurance Rates

As stated above, rates vary widely from rider to rider and company to company, and this is doubly true when dealing with a bike like the GSX-8R, which doesn’t have a long history on the market. Here are a few rates we gathered from GSX-8 owners to give you an idea of what the bike is currently costing to insure.

• Male, NJ, Full Coverage, Insurer Undisclosed: $1320 / year
• Male, AZ, Full Coverage, Progressive: $1400 / year (Basic: $160 / year)
• Male, GA, Full Coverage, Progressive: $3000 / year

As you can see, the Arizona rider would pay ten times less for Basic Coverage, which is only general liability, as compared to Full Coverage, which includes Comprehensive and Collision coverage. However, this is only possible if your GSX-8R is paid off. If not, your finance company will require you to carry Full Coverage as long as they have a lien on the vehicle.

Some riders have actually complained that the GSX-8R was not in their insurer’s system yet, so they had to look elsewhere for coverage. This should be corrected soon, but no matter what, it’s imperative to compare rates from a range of companies before moving forward.

We can help you do just that. Enter your zip code to start comparing rates from motorcycle insurers in your area.

Suzuki GSX-8R: Model History

The GSX-8R evolved from the GSX-8S “streetfighter,” which debuted in 2022 as a 2023 model. Both are powered by the same all-new 776cc parallel-twin, which makes a strong 82-bhp and comes with a quickshifter as standard. The engine has drawn great praise from reviewers.

“It’s very user-friendly with just enough power to have fun with, especially on tight and twisty roads.” –MCN

As compared to the 8S, the 8R is most obviously wearing a clip-on handlebars and a full set of fairings, but there are more differences underneath the outer plastic. The GSX-8R has Showa’s SFF-BP, or “Separate Function Front-Big Piston fork,” with internals tweaked to Suzuki’s desired specs. This 37.6mm piston diameter is in stark contrast to the 20mm Kayaba forks of the 8S.

The 8R also has straight-line instead of progressive springs, and the 8R has been praised a great all-rounder in the sporting segment, combining a fun chassis, great real-world engine performance, and a good value for the money.

“Starting at $9,439, the 8R provides a level of performance that exceeded our expectations both on the track and on the street.” –Cycle World

Comparing GSX-8R Rates / Coverage

If you want the best coverage at the lowest rate, you’ve really only got one option: request quotes from a range of insurers and choose the best. In the old days, you might have to call up a local insurance agent or spend a whole afternoon on the phone to get this done. Fortunately, the world has come a long way since then. Now you can do everything online, from one place. Just enter your zip to begin.