Suzuki GSX-8R Launched At INR 925,000 In India
- By MT Bureau
- October 04, 2024
Suzuki Motorcycle India, the two-wheeler subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, has launched the all-new Suzuki GSX-8R in India at INR 925,000 (ex-showroom).
The GSX-8R premium bike the company states combines practical real-world performance, rider-friendly controllability and advanced equipment features with cutting-edge sportbike styling.
In terms of design, the GSX-8R’s cowling and windscreen are developed through extensive wind tunnel testing, which helps improve high-speed stability and provides better wind protection, while the windscreen helps reduce wind noise and buffeting. The vertically stacked pair of hexagonal LED headlights in the front employ a bright mono-focus LED light technology, providing the rider with a clear view of the road ahead.
The compact LED rear combination light and LED license plate light are mounted on the slim rear fender that makes the GSX-8R rear end look even shorter and slimmer.
Completing the package is a custom 5-inch colour TFT LCD instrument panel which provides a clear, easy-to-read display of information.
The GSX-8R is powered by the 776cm parallel-twin DOHC engine. Its 270-degree crankshaft gives the engine power delivery characteristics and a pleasing sound, similar to Suzuki’s V-twin engines.
It comes with Suzuki’s patented Cross Balancer system, a biaxial primary balancer, helps the engine run smoothly while keeping it compact and lightweight. Complementing this is a sophisticated cooling system inlet control, which maintains consistent engine temperatures and eliminates rough idling, especially when warming up in colder conditions.
The 2-in-1 exhaust system on GSX-8R is designed to enhance both performance and sound. Its two-stage catalytic converter meets stringent Euro 5 standards for emissions, while maximising power output and overall performance.
Paired with a six-speed transmission the engine provides smooth gear shifts and strong acceleration whether shifting normally or without using clutch with the Bi-directional Quick Shift system, which comes as standard. The Suzuki Clutch Assist System further makes long rides more comfortable by reducing fatigue and providing smoother shifts.
In terms of tech, the Suzuki GSX-8R uses the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) which features a three-mode Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) to adapt to different riding conditions and styles. It also includes the advanced four-mode (including an option to turn off) Suzuki Traction Control System (STCS) that boosts rider confidence by providing better control. Furthermore, S.I.R.S. incorporates Ride-by-Wire Electronic Throttle System, Bi-directional Quick Shift System (QS), Antilock Braking System (ABS) and Suzuki’s Low RPM Assist, all contributing to a superior riding experience.
Kenichi Umeda, MD, Suzuki Motorcycle India said, “GSX-8R allows riders of all ages to ride with confidence - whether it’s for daily commuting or weekend long touring. Its advanced Suzuki Intelligent Control System (S.I.R.S) which includes features like Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) and Suzuki Traction Control System (STCS) makes riding smoother, easier and enjoyable for everyone. We believe that GSX-8R will connect with our customers and provide them with a truly satisfying riding experience.”
Devashish Handa, Executive Vice-President – Sales, Marketing and After Sales, Suzuki Motorcycle India said, “After its debut at the EICMA 2023 and showcase at Bharat Mobility Global EXPO earlier this year, the Suzuki GSX-8R now hits the Indian market. The GSX-8R delivers a new standard of sport; one that is ideal for enthusiasts seeking real-world performance, technology, and rideability. At Suzuki, we are dedicated to creating motorcycles that instil confidence and the GSX-8R is a testament to this commitment.”
The all-new Suzuki GSX-8R arrives with a trio of body color choices: Metallic Matte Sword Silver, Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Matte Black No.2.
Hero MotoCorp Appoints Ishaan Khatter As Brand Ambassador For Hero Xoom Scooter
- By MT Bureau
- April 27, 2026
Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, has launched a new marketing campaign featuring actor Ishaan Khatter to promote its Xoom scooter range to young riders.
The campaign, titled ‘Get, Set, Xoom,’ uses a high-energy musical theme based on the song ‘Xoom Xoom Xoom Baba,’ performed by Usha Uthup. The film, created by McCann India, depicts Khatter performing stunts and going on a spontaneous scooter date, intended to blend thrill with youthful energy.
The Hero Xoom series is designed to resonate with ‘young India’ through a focus on contemporary design and performance-driven technology. The portfolio includes three specific models: Xoom 110, Xoom 125 and Xoom 160.
The Xoom range incorporates several features tailored for new-age riders, including fastest acceleration in its class and front disc brakes. Large ‘14-14’ wheels and a sporty aesthetic. LED projector headlamps for improved visibility and presence.
Aashish Midha, Head of Marketing, Hero MotoCorp, said, "Hero Xoom reflects our focus on building products and brands that resonate with young India. With its distinctive design, performance-driven features and strong street presence, it offers a differentiated riding experience."
Ishaan Khatter added, “What I love about this film is that it blends thrill with a touch of romance. We have set it around a fun, spontaneous scooter date, brought alive with a recreated version of a truly iconic song.”
Royal Enfield Announces Himalayan Base Camp – Ladakh Edition
- By MT Bureau
- April 25, 2026
Royal Enfield has announced the launch of its inaugural Himalayan Base Camp – Ladakh Edition, a three-day community confluence designed to bring together riders, climbers and overlanders.
Based in Leh, Ladakh, at an altitude of 11,480 feet, the event moves away from traditional festival formats to create an immersive, hands-on environment focused on the ‘Adventure mindset.’
The program is structured around active participation rather than observation. It will feature a range of curated expeditions, expert-led sessions and skill-based workshops covering multiple disciplines. Beyond motorcycling, the event includes activities such as overlanding, cycling and mountaineering. Technical challenges include bouldering, kayaking and high-altitude skills workshops.
Mohit Dhar Jayal, Chief Brand Officer, Royal Enfield, said, “The Himalayan Base Camp is a rendezvous point for all adventurers, regardless of whether they are driven by horsepower, willpower or their own two feet. The program combines action, instruction and a variety of expeditions that will take adventurers out of their comfort zone - and bring them back to base with a whole new set of skills and experiences.”
The Ladakh edition is positioned as a shared space for co-creators where aficionados define the spirit of adventure. By returning to its ‘spiritual ground,’ Royal Enfield aims to fuel specific subcultures within the adventure community, offering challenges that range from technical boulder crawling to high-speed valley expeditions. The event is designed to be accessible to all, emphasising a collective defining of what adventure looks like at high altitudes.
This new addition to the Royal Enfield calendar joins their established marquee rides like the Himalayan Odyssey and Moto Himalaya, further solidifying the brand's presence in the global adventure-lifestyle ecosystem.
- Indian Motorcycle
- IBEX26
- Jean-marie Guyon
- Legendary Productions
- Jose Vicente Gomis Reig
- IMRG Alicante
Indian Motorcycle Unveils IBEX26 Iberian Experience For 2026
- By MT Bureau
- April 24, 2026
Indian Motorcycle and Legendary Productions have announced a new premium touring event, IBEX26: The Iberia Experience, scheduled to take place from 30 September to 4 October 2026.
Following the success of the Indian Riders Fest, this new venture shifts focus toward a more intimate, boutique experience, limited to just 220 participants on Spain’s Costa Blanca.
The event will be headquartered at the Hotel Occidental Pueblo Acantilado in El Campello, Alicante. This 4-star cliffside resort, designed to resemble a traditional whitewashed Iberian village, has been exclusively reserved for the event, ensuring a private environment for Indian Motorcycle owners and their passengers.
The riding programme features three signature routes developed in partnership with IMRG Alicante, the local Indian Motorcycle Riders Group. These routes are designed to showcase the diverse geography of the Alicante province:
- Route A (115 km): Traverses the Sierra de Aitana, featuring high-altitude mountain passes and the medieval clifftop village of Guadalest.
- Route B (140 km): Focuses on the inland valleys, passing through the almond groves of Xixona and reaching the Xorret de Catí viewpoint.
- Route C (155 km): A coastal and cultural loop taking in the Castillo de Santa Barbara in Alicante, the colourful houses of Villajoyosa, and the Valor chocolate museum.
IBEX26 is designed as an ‘all-inclusive’ experience where the regional culture is as central as the riding. Each evening at the hotel will feature a different themed culinary event, including a Valencian paella night with live flamenco performances and a gourmet tapas gala. An on-site ‘Iberian Market Place’ will also allow riders to engage with local artisan producers.
Jean-Marie Guyon, Founder, IBEX26 and Legendary Productions, said, “IBEX26 is everything the Indian Riders Fest taught us — and then a completely new conversation. We wanted to create something where the hotel, the roads, the food and the community are all equal parts of the experience. The Costa Blanca in October is one of the finest motorcycling environments in Europe.”
José Vicente Gomis Reig, President, IMRG Alicante, added, “We know these roads better than anyone. We have ridden every one of them and we know exactly which ones reward an Indian Motorcycle. It is a privilege to put that knowledge at the service of IBEX26.”
Registration for the event includes accommodation, all meals, GPX route files, and daily technical briefings, offering a turnkey touring solution for the Indian Motorcycle community.
Vespa Unveils Tech 80th Special Series To Celebrate 80 Years Of Elegance
- By MT Bureau
- April 24, 2026
Italian two-wheeler major Vespa India has introduced the Vespa Tech 80th, an exclusive commemorative series launched on 23 April 2026.
This special edition marks the 80th anniversary of the original patent filing on 23 April 1946, bridging the gap between the brand's post-war origins and modern technology. Available in 125cc and 150cc variants, the series is designed as a tribute to the Italian icon's legacy of freedom and style.
The standout feature of the Vespa Tech 80th is its exclusive Verde Pastello green livery. This specific shade was retrieved from historical archives and is inspired by the very first single-colour Vespa models from the 1940s.
The aesthetic follows a minimalist and functional language where the body colour extends to the shield profile, passenger grab handles, mirrors and suspension linkages. This glossy finish is contrasted by darker green satin-finish elements, including a stitched saddle, rubber footrest inserts and handlebar grips.
Further historical nods include Verde Pastello rims with a diamond finish, inspired by the original 1946 Vespa 98. Each unit is marked by a commemorative ‘80th’ plaque on the front shield and a dedicated ‘80 years of Vespa Est. 1946’ badge on the backplate. To celebrate this milestone globally, Vespa will host a massive international gathering in Rome from 25 to 28 June 2026, which is expected to be the largest celebration in the brand's history.

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