Suzuki GSX-8S vs Honda CB300R
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The Suzuki GSX-8S and Honda CB300R are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. The Honda CB300R undercuts the Suzuki GSX-8S by about $3,850, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the Suzuki GSX-8S leads on power with 81 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.
Our pickSuzuki
Suzuki GSX-8S
Honda
Honda CB300RThe verdict
The Suzuki GSX-8S edges it overall at 8.5/10, but the Honda CB300R wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.
Honda CB300R
A2-legal, 31 hp, forgiving to learn on.
Suzuki GSX-8S
81 hp and 0.40 hp/kg, the strongest here.
Honda CB300R
Our 7.8/10 at $5,149, the most bike per dollar.
Honda CB300R
143 kg with an 803 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.
Suzuki GSX-8S
Our top score in this matchup at 8.5/10.
Cyan marks the best figure in each row. Specs are the most-cited for the current model; verify before relying on them.
Still torn between them?
Answer a few questions and we'll rank every bike by how well it fits you.
Suzuki GSX-8S vs Honda CB300R: your questions answered
Which is faster, the Suzuki GSX-8S or the Honda CB300R?
The Suzuki GSX-8S makes the most power at 81 hp and 78 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the Suzuki GSX-8S or the Honda CB300R?
The Honda CB300R is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $5,149.
Which is lighter, the Suzuki GSX-8S or the Honda CB300R?
The Honda CB300R is the lightest at 143 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 Honda CB300R?
For a new rider we'd point to the Honda CB300R: A2-legal, 31 hp and 143 kg make it the most approachable of the group.
