Suzuki GSX-8T and GSX-8TT revealed as two new retro roadsters
The Suzuki GSX-8T and GSX-8TT use the same 776cc parallel twin engine as the V-Strom 800, GSX-8S and GSX-8R, all wrapped in neo-retro styling.
Suzuki has launched two brand-new models heading into its 800cc platform, with the GSX-8T and GSX-8TT combining retro styling with modern technology and middleweight performance.
The 8T takes its styling cues from classic bikes of the 1960s and 1970s, such as the Suzuki T500, while the 8TT builds on that platform further but with inspiration coming from the faired race bikes of the period, such as the Yoshimura GS1000.
Both models use the 776cc parallel twin-cylinder engine (complete with 270-degree crank) as is found in the Hamamatsu brand’s other current middleweights, boasting double overhead cams and four valves per cylinder. The engine is housed in a twin-spar steel frame with a separate subframe. The electronics suite comprises traction control, power modes, a bi-directional quickshifter, and a full colour TFT dash.
Both the 8T and 8TT get a distinctive fuel tank, seat, and seat unit, and handlebars complete with bar-end mirrors. The 8T adopts a new round headlight with full LED lighting, blending modern technology with classic styling. The 8TT adds a headlight cowling that shares more than a passing resemblance to vintage road race machinery from the 70s and 80s.
Design
The 8T and 8TT’s design brief was to produce two machines that embody the retro spirit of Suzuki’s heritage and famous models of past decades. Drawn by designers in Italy, and further sculpted in Japan, both models use a new 16.5-litre fuel tank, which connects to each side to new radiator shrouds (brushed silver on the 8T and black on the 8TT), those shrouds are adorned with the circular GSX8 logo - which we guess is the inspiration for the 8-ball social media teaser we reported on.
The 8T wears a new circular headlight design with a flat bottom section that is further reminiscent of motorcycles of the 70s and 80s, though it is full-LED with a horizontal LED strip across the middle. The 8TT retains the same headlight unit as its 8T stablemate but wraps it in a cowling that bears a striking resemblance to the GS1000S of the late 1970s. It is fitted with a screen that further completes the look, as well as providing the functional benefit of a suggestion of added weather protection, although in reality it will probably do very little.
Underneath the 776cc parallel twin engine, the 8TT also features a belly pan, and both bikes feature the neat bar-end mirrors that help to drive home the cafe racer aesthetic.
With a matt finish to its black seat unit, brushed radiator shrouds, gold forks, and black wheels, the GSX-8T will be available with a Candy Burnt Gold, Metallic Matt Steel Green, or Metallic Matt Black fuel tank.
The 8TT adds more pops of colour and retro racing flair thanks to striped decals on its tank and cowling, with matching wheels. A Glass Sparkle Black variant is offset by red wheels and red and gold decals, while a Pearl Matt Shadow Green version is completed with gold wheels and gold and bronze stripes.
Engine
While retro spirit comes from the styling of the 8T and 8TT, performance is delivered by Suzuki’s perky little 776cc parallel twin engine, which brings grunt and drive across the rev range. While its 270-degree crank brings the character, it also helps deliver solid performance figures for the segment, boasting 80bhp at 8500rpm and 57lb ft at 6,800rpm.
Like its parallel twin-cylinder siblings, a cross balancer reduces vibrations, while a short exhaust outlet keeps the bike’s side profile clean and compact while still pointing the noise up to the rider’s ear.
Chassis
Both models use the same steel frame and subframe, and aluminium swingarm. They are suspended by USD KYB forks – gold on the 8T and black on the 8TT - and a KYB rear shock. Stopping power comes via twin 310mm discs up front with radially-mounted Nissin calipers, and a 240mm disc and single piston caliper at the rear.
Electronics
Crowning the cockpit is a full colour TFT dash, displaying all the information including rev counter, speed, gear position indicator, selected traction control setting (three are available plus off) and the chosen power mode - from A, B, or C. Fitted as standard to both bikes is a bi-directional quickshifter, plus Suzuki’s easy-start and low RPM assist systems to help prevent slow speed stalls. Both models also come with a USB Type-C socket as standard, which also supports fast charging.
Pricing and availability
The GSX-8T and GSX-8TT will come with an OTR price of £9,599 and £9,999 respectively and will be arriving in dealerships in the coming weeks. Both come with Suzuki’s standard three-year warranty plus up to seven years extended warranty, activated by regular servicing at an authorised Suzuki dealership.
You can find out more about the bike on the official website.
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Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
