Suzuki adds to its GSX-8 line-up with retro twins

Suzuki has launched two new models that use its 800cc platform. Known as the GSX-8T and GSX-8TT, they combine retro styling with modern technology and middleweight parallel twin performance.

The 8T borrows styling cues from classic bikes of the 1970s like the Suzuki T500, while the 8TT is inspired by the GS1000.

Both use the 776cc parallel twin-cylinder engine with 270-degree crank, featuring double overhead cams and four valves per cylinder. The engine resides in a twin-spar steel frame with a separate subframe. Features include traction control, power modes, a bi-directional quickshifter, and a full-colour TFT dash.

Both come with a distinctive fuel tank, seat, and seat unit, while handlebars finish in bar-end mirrors. 

The 8T has a new round headlight with full LED lighting, while the 8TT adds a retro-style headlight cowling like my old GS1000S of the 70s.

Design

Drawn by designers in Italy, and finished in Japan, both models feature a new 16.5L fuel tank. They also have fresh radiator shrouds (brushed silver on the 8T and black on the 8TT). And there’s a circular GSX8 logo attached that reminds of an eight ball in pool.

The 8T’s circular headlight design has a flat bottom section like motorcycles of the 70s and 80s. However, it is a full-LED unit with a midline horizontal LED strip. The GSX-8TT has a cowl and screen that further completes the look, though will provide little in the way of weather protection. The 8TT also adds a belly pan. 

For colours, 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 colour and retro racing flair thanks to striped decals on its tank and cowling, with matching wheels.

A Glass Sparkle Black variant has contrasting red wheels and red and gold decals. Alternatively, a Pearl Matt Shadow Green version is completed with gold wheels and gold and bronze stripes.

Parallel twin power

The engine is the well known 776cc parallel twin that makes 60kW at 8500rpm and 77Nm at 6800rpm. While its 270-degree crank delivers a V-twin style character, it also helps deliver solid performance figures for the segment.

A cross balancer reduces vibrations, while a short exhaust outlet keeps the bike’s side profile compact.

Chassis

Both models use the same steel frame and subframe, and aluminium swingarm. They are suspended by USD KYB forks which are gold on the 8T and black on the 8TT while at the rear is a KYB shock. Up front are twin 310mm discs with radially-mounted Nissin calipers, while a 240mm disc and single-piston caliper slow the rear wheel.

Electronics

A full colour TFT dash displays information like a rev counter, speed, gear position, selected traction control setting (three of these) and the chosen power mode, A, B, or C. Suzuki’s easy-start and low RPM assist systems to help prevent slow speed stalls are standard. Both models also come with a USB Type-C socket as standard.

Pricing and availability

The 8T will sell here for $16,999 while the 8TT adds $1000 to that. They go on sale in September.