10 Suzuki Motorcycles With The Best Power-To-Weight Ratio

All the Big Four motorcycle manufacturers from Japan, including Kawasaki, Honda, Suzuki, and Yamaha, are known for producing highly reliable and powerful motorcycles with cutting-edge technologies. However, Suzuki stands out for its strong reputation for affordability, durability, and diverse product offerings. Its commitment to quality, innovation, and social responsibility further solidifies its position as a respected brand across the globe.

Whether you’re a speed enthusiast seeking exciting rides or a frequent tourer searching for a reliable bike, Suzuki has something for everyone. From sport bikes to adventure tourers, the brand offers a diverse range of motorcycles that fit different riding styles and preferences. But to select an ideal motorcycle, it is important to measure its performance, speed, handling, braking, and value propositions.

One of the ways to measure the performance of a motorcycle is by looking at its power-to-weight ratio (the ratio of the engine’s horsepower to the weight of the bike). A high power-to-weight ratio suggests that the bike can accelerate faster, so it’s a key criterion if performance is a priority for you. Therefore, allow us to present to you the top ten Suzuki models that have the best power-to-weight ratio.

To give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from Suzuki’s official websites and reputed online websites like hotcars.com, fastestlaps.com, and zeroto60times.com. Suzuki models on this list have been arranged based on their power-to-weight ratio, starting from the least ratio, and working their way up to the highest power-to-weight ratio.

10 Suzuki GSX-8S

Power To Weight Ratio: 0.186 hp/lb

Let’s kick off the list with Suzuki’s newest roadster, the GSX-8S. First introduced in 2022, this modern streetfighter is powered by a 776cc parallel-twin engine that delivers 83 horsepower and 58 pound-feet of torque. The power reaches the wheel via a bi-directional quickshifter equipped six-speed transmission, while being monitored by an entire suite of rider aids called Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.). These include Ride-by-Wire throttle, Suzuki Traction Control System, Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS), ABS, Low RPM Assist, and Easy Start System. There’s also the Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS) to ensure smooth and easy shifting.

The design of this roadster is sure to turn heads, and it will appeal to riders who appreciate a blend of compact, aggressive style with functionality. Particularly, the vertically stacked LED headlamp impresses us. It is an excellent choice for riders hunting for a fun, versatile, and do-it-all affordable motorcycle, with a starting price of just $8,999.

Performance Specification

Source: Suzuki, fastestlaps.com

9 Suzuki V-Strom 1050

Power To Weight Ratio: 0.198 hp/lb

For more than twenty years, Suzuki V-Strom motorcycles have been a popular choice among riders for long-distance touring. They are known for their robust performance, reliability, comfortable ergonomics, pliant suspension, and spoke wheels (on some variants) making them suitable for both on-road and off-road riding. The V-Strom 1050 is powered by a proven 1037cc V-twin engine that produces 106 horsepower, nestled inside a twin-spar aluminum alloy frame. With a weight of 534 pounds, the 1050 enjoys a power-to-weight ratio of 0.198 hp/lb, which means it has enough power to effectively move its weight but not enough to intimidate you. The bike is available in three variants: the base model, the 1050DE, and the 1050DE Adventure model.

Performance Specification

Source: Suzuki, zeroto60times.com

8 Suzuki GSX-S750

Power To Weight Ratio: 0.245 hp/lb

The GSX-S750 is a naked version of the GSX-R750, boasting adjusted performance, aggressive styling, and a comfortable riding position. This middleweight motorcycle has been in production since 2015 and was last updated in 2022. It packs a 749cc inline-four engine that delivers 114 horsepower, and with a weight of 465 pounds, this means a power-to-weight ratio of 0.245 hp/lb.

The bike features a sharp and angular design with an exposed frame, a muscular fuel tank, and a short upswept exhaust. Meanwhile, its upright riding position with wide handlebars makes it comfortable for both short city commutes and highway rides (be wary of the windblast, though). With a starting price of $8,549, the nimble and fun-to-ride naked retains Suzuki’s heritage of quality, reliability, and value.

Performance Specification

Source: Suzuki, zeroto60times.com

7 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+

Power To Weight Ratio: 0.301 hp/lb

Ever since its debut, the GSX-S1000GT+ has been widely regarded as one of the most reliable and reasonably priced sports tourers available on the market. It is based on its naked sibling, the Suzuki GSX-S1000, boasting the same liquid-cooled 999cc inline-four engine. It produces 150 horsepower and 79.6 pound-feet of torque. Bring in its curb weight of 498 pounds, and you get an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 0.301 hp/lb.

This helps it strike a perfect balance of comfort and speed, despite its massive size. Additionally, Suzuki has provided several features to enhance long-distance riding, such as large fairings, upright ergos, a tall handlebar, a big windscreen, multiple ride modes, and integrated color-matched side cases. Pretty loaded for its sub-$15,000 MSRP.

Performance Specification

Source: Suzuki, zeroto60times.com

6 Suzuki GSX-R600

Power To Weight Ratio: 0.301 hp/lb

With exceptional handling, exciting performance, and aggressive styling, the GSX-R600 has been a key player in the supersport category for decades. It boasts a 599cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine that churns out 124 horsepower and 51.3 pound-feet of torque. The supersport is also lightweight at 412 pounds, thanks to an aluminum-alloy, perimeter frame, resulting in razor-sharp handling and agility. Overall, the GSX-R600 boasts a respectable power-to-weight ratio of 0.301 hp/lb, making it a potent performer that embodies Suzuki’s tradition of blending racetrack-ready weapons with impeccable street manners.

Performance Specification

Source: Suzuki, zeroto60times.com

5 Suzuki Katana

Power To Weight Ratio: 0.316 hp/lb

First introduced in 1981, the Suzuki Katana is a legendary motorcycle that was named after the traditional Japanese samurai sword. It is known for its unique styling, powerful engine, and nimble handling, just like the sword’s reputation for being incredibly sharp and precise. The bike is equipped with a 999cc inline-four engine that is derived from the Suzuki GSX-R, which produces 150 horsepower. This, together with its 474-pound heft, results in an impressive 0.316 hp/lb power-to-weight ratio.

The Katana is not only a stylish motorcycle (that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes), but it also comes with a comfortable riding position and modern cutting-edge features. A perfect choice for riders who seek a motorcycle that is practical for everyday use but grabs eyeballs all around. That said, only a few of these will come to America in 2024.

Performance Specification

Source: Suzuki, zeroto60times.com

4 Suzuki GSX-S1000

Power To Weight Ratio: 0.318 hp/lb

With a power-to-weight ratio of 0.318 hp/lb, the GSX-S1000 is one of the most underrated liter-class naked motorcycles on the market. Although it does not offer the most horsepower in its class, its relatively light weight of 472 pounds helps ensure a competitive power-to-weight ratio. This results in quick acceleration to keep up with more powerful rivals, as well as agile riding dynamics that make cornering a delight. It has an inline-four engine borrowed from the GSX-R1000, good for 150 horsepower and 79.6 pound-feet of torque, helping the bike reach a top speed of 145 mph. Keeping Suzuki’s principle, the bike is significantly affordable, starting at $11,699, to deliver superbike performance without breaking the bank.

Performance Specification

Source: Suzuki, fastestlaps.com

3 Suzuki Hayabusa

Power To Weight Ratio: 0.326 hp/lb

Suzuki released the Hayabusa in 1999 as direct competition against Honda’s CBR1100XX Blackbird. It immediately became the world’s fastest production motorcycle, renowned for its speed, power, and smooth handling. Today, the beast is powered by a powerful 1,340cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine that generates 187 horsepower and 110 pound-feet of torque, propelling it to a top speed of 186 mph (restricted).

It also has a twin-spar aluminum frame and swingarm. This helps it tip the scale at 582 pounds, giving it a power-to-weight ratio of 0.326 hp/lb. The figure is in a competitive ballpark with its rival, the Kawasaki Ninja 14R, which has a power-to-weight ratio of 0.354 hp/lb. Last but not least, the Hayabusa is also famed for its extensive aerodynamic prowess. This contributes to its agile and nimble handling.

Performance Specification

Source: Suzuki, zeroto60times.com

2 Suzuki GSX-R750

Power To Weight Ratio: 0.358 hp/lb

Suzuki revolutionized the supersport category in 1985 with the launch of the original GSX-R750. The bike offered a competitive package, thanks to its aluminum frame and advanced engine technology for its time. Even today, it remains one of the most crucial sports bike models in Suzuki’s lineup with an impressive reputation that punches above its weight. It is suitable for both canyon carving and blasting around a racetrack, courtesy of its 750cc inline-four engine producing an impressive 150 horsepower. Not only does it have one of the best power-to-weight ratios of 0.358 hp/lb with a weight of only 419 pounds, but it also has the best performance-to-price ratio with a starting price of $12,999.

Performance Specification

Source: Suzuki, zeroto60times.com

1 Suzuki GSX-R1000R

Power To Weight Ratio: 0.447 hp/lb

It’s no surprise the GSX-R1000R is at the top of the list, with a truly impressive power-to-weight ratio of 0.447 hp/lb, confirming its reputation as the finest superbike. Known for its aggressive riding position, powerful engine, and advanced technology, it’s a beast on the track and an exciting ride on the street. The first model was introduced in 2001, and it has been the flagship GSX-R since, with a nimble MotoGP-inspired chassis and a race-tuned engine.

Speaking of which, the bike is powered by a 999.8cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine with a variable valve timing (VVT) system. It churns out an impressive 199 horsepower and 86.7 pound-feet of torque. Overall, its strengths lie in its rampant power, agile handling, advanced electronics, and a competitive price tag of $18,499.

Performance Specification

Source: Suzuki, zeroto60times.com