Sounds like it's time to expand the garage!

I'd personally go the Hornet of the three I've ridden, but would want to test the GSX-8S to see how it stacks up between those two bikes. I still like something a little sportier, despite how good both the Shotgun and Super Meteor are. I think I'd go the Super Meteor if I'd hit the cruising stage of my riding journey, it's incredibly comfortable, good power and should get a big tick of approval for two-up. The big factor in the Hornet's favour was the engine, I'd definitely be out getting into trouble with that bike more often, out of those options!

@@MotoJournoKris thank you Kris, believe it or not that’s the way I was leaning too. Thank to for the input. From what I can gather the RE’s have amazing personality but lack that reliability. With a 3 year warranty I’m not too worried but I still don’t want the inconvenience of constantly having to bring it to the shop. I wasn’t worried that they lack the speed but I do enjoy hitting limits in the corners so obviously that was a concern too. I like the Suzuki visually better. But I hear the engine of the Hornet is the most fun to explore every time you go for a ride. The electronics also seem slightly better. The weight is better. Cornering has better clearance. More nimble and easy to move around (off the bike). Better for filtering. I like the whole wolf in sheep clothing look to it. When I look at the naked hornet due to its size it excites me because it’s basically the engine with a couple of wheel thrown on. It’s the most naked bike of the naked bike category if you know what I mean. I’m gathering it’s the most playful with the thinner rear tyre, insane engine that will power wheelie, with egging you on sound, and balanced suspension. Whereas the Suzuki is the most sensible. Yet firmer ride, lower ground clearance, lacks a note, heavier but sturdier. I predict out of all 4 mentioned I wouldn’t be as excited to ride it. Looks Meteor Shotgun 8S Hornet Everything else Hornet Shotgun S8 Meteor Well, I’ll try and go for a test ride, hopefully this weather comes good soon. Thanks again!

@@florme6494 There's definitely that thrill factor with the Hornet if you ask me, although I'm a bit biased having bought the same engine in the Transalp! I think it'd benefit from some mods too, to try and spruce up the looks side of things, and with the price I think that's easy to justify.

Update should you want to hear of course. I purchased a new bike as per our discussions above. While Honda was the favourite, when contacting the dealer they only had 2023 models. The price was a little high to what I’d call good value, but more on that later. I took the Suzuki GSX-8S for a ride. Although the quietest of the 4 above mentioned, the looks and build quality really took me by surprise. The engine note is very subtle yet characterful. Definitely not quiet enough to put me off, as going with either of the 4 I didn’t want to change the exhaust as I like the stock mainly down to when doing highway work or general distance, I can’t stand droning noise. Also, I like the understated under slung exhaust. Comfort was nicer than the Hornet. More space to move around being just shy of 6 foot. The screen was much better laid out. Easier to read, and had my much loved distance to empty read out. Control’s and menu felt quicker to scroll through. The engine was different to that of the Hornet. It felt more alert, yet more refined in the slow speed stuff. No jerkiness as such. That was in B mode. The quick shifter also felt better, not that the Hornet was bad at all. I still love that Honda engine I should add. Weight and suspension was very different. Although it definitely felt heavier moving it around the shop, it was so much more predictable through the twisties. More stable on the highway. Not as playful but more confident inspiring if that makes sense. The weight feels really low. I would have preferred many things about the Honda such as exploring that engine, sound and light weight. What got me over the line were these factors. - build quality - look (subjective, I know) - levers that are blacked out - a mud flap protecting the rear suspension - ability to install spools - larger rear tyre - nicer swing arm - oil sight glass - more space on the bike - smoother engine ride quality - more substantial handle bars, well that’s hope it felt - no mismatch of coloured forks and frame - 3 year warranty vs 2 - price. The GSX-8S just dropped to $12,990 ride away. To be kind to the dealership I won’t reveal what I paid, but it was less. Honda couldn’t compete. - year model, I don’t want a first year meaning it had to be a 2024 model. Honda didn’t offer that for whatever reason. Maybe due to dealer stock. That being said, I would have been very happy to own the Hornet. But Suzuki made sense in my mind and on my pros and cons list.

The Eliminator is definitely a more lively/sporty option, I think the Shotgun has more character though.