Honda CB1000 Hornet SP vs Suzuki GSX-8S

Verdict

The Honda CB1000 Hornet SP wins this comparison comfortably, 57.8 points to 40.8.

The gap of 17 points is built mostly in value, where the CB1000 Hornet SP takes 8.3 points out of the GSX-8S. Scores are computed within each bike's class from published spec data; the full formula is on the methodology page.

On the road the CB1000 Hornet SP is the quicker machine: 157 hp and 107 Nm moving 212 kg, against 82.9 hp and 78 Nm moving 202 kg for the GSX-8S. That is 0.74 hp per kilo playing 0.41.

The GSX-8S costs €8,990, which leaves €5,000 in your pocket against the CB1000 Hornet SP at €13,990. Service intervals run 6,000 km on the GSX-8S and 12,000 km on the CB1000 Hornet SP.

Frequently asked

Which is faster, the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP or the Suzuki GSX-8S?

The Honda CB1000 Hornet SP. It carries 0.74 hp per kilo (157 hp, 212 kg wet) against 0.41 hp per kilo for the Suzuki GSX-8S (82.9 hp, 202 kg).

Is the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP cheaper than the Suzuki GSX-8S?

The Suzuki GSX-8S is cheaper at €8,990 list, €5,000 less than the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP at €13,990.

Which is better for shorter riders?

The Honda CB1000 Hornet SP. Its 809 mm seat is 1 mm lower than the Suzuki GSX-8S, and at 212 kg it is the easier bike to manage at a stop.

Which has better technology, the CB1000 Hornet SP or the GSX-8S?

The Honda CB1000 Hornet SP, which scores 7.8 of 10 tech points with a TFT dash, traction control, a standard quickshifter and phone connectivity. The Suzuki GSX-8S counters with a TFT dash, traction control and a standard quickshifter.

Which goes further on a tank?

The Suzuki GSX-8S: 333 km from its 14 litre tank at the claimed consumption, against 288 km for the Honda CB1000 Hornet SP.

Which bike wins overall?

The Honda CB1000 Hornet SP, scoring 57.8 of 100 against 40.8 on our within-class points system. The full breakdown and formula are public on the methodology page.