Suzuki GSX-8S Kevin Schwantz Edition – the legend of number 34 in a limited edition

Few pilots have left the races with such great prestige and widespread affection, almost universal, from the public towards Kevin Schwantz. The legendary Suzuki rider, who raced his entire career in the 500cc class, only won one title during his time in the world championship (1993), but his fun style of riding, his daring – never beyond the limits of correctness – on the track, his creativity in overtaking attempts, and his ability to tame the two-stroke RGV500 when traction control and all the electronics we see in today’s MotoGP bikes did not yet exist. Kevin is and continues to be an icon of motorcycling, and Suzuki had already dedicated a limited edition bike to him, the GSX-R1000 Legend Edition, when in 2021 they wanted to celebrate the seven world titles of the Japanese manufacturer with seven special versions of their sport bike, each with a paint scheme dedicated to each title/rider (two different graphics were released for Barry Sheene’s two titles). But the occasion of the Texan’s 30th anniversary of the 500cc title and his participation in the Autolook Week in Turin was the perfect opportunity to present another version dedicated to Schwantz of a Suzuki bike, the GSX-8S Kevin Schwantz Edition.

Let’s say right away that, technically, the limited edition version of Suzuki’s streetfighter does not differ from the GSX-8S, the differences are all in the equipment and color, inspired by the Suzuki RGV500 driven by the Houston champion at the time that culminated in the world title. Hence the “snuffbox” paint with a white base combined with red and green, very recognizable and – for those who lived through that era or for those who are fascinated by it today – capable of stirring emotions, with the number 34 proudly displayed on the sides. Only five GSX-8S Kevin Schwantz Editions will be available, and each unit is numbered and autographed by the Texan rider, as well as accompanied by a certificate of exclusivity: to obtain them, it is not necessary to go to the dealership, but to wait until 9:34 am on September 4th, when the bike can be reserved on the e-commerce platform at www.suzuki.it. The price of the GSX-8S Kevin Schwantz Edition is €11,490 including VAT (the standard model costs €8,900, but when reserving on the website, a deposit of €500 will be required, you will then receive a confirmation email and, within two working days, be contacted by the seller to schedule a meeting at the dealership necessary to finalize the purchase and agree on the delivery time or method.