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New kids. GSX-8T & GSX-8TT
Timeless classic styling meets modern performance and technology

Overview

What a way to launch this gorgeous new machine. We at Cupar are in love with this bike, Suzuki appear to have nailed it with the 8T and 8TT. Built on top of the already acclaimed 800cc motor, and sharing the chassis with the well proven GSX-8S and 8R. With the classic styling, and modern accents these bikes really look the part and bring back some nostalgia whilst also upping the riding experience to the modern age.The 8T takes styling cues from classic bikes of the 1960s and 1970s, such as the iconic 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 legendary Yoshimura GS1000 AMA superbike.

Design

Both models use Suzuki’s 776cc parallel twin engine with its 270° crankshaft design, which gives it unrivalled drive and lowdown power, while double overhead cams and four valves per cylinder enable a free-revving nature. The engine is housed in a twin-spar steel frame with a separate lightweight subframe. An electronics suite comprises traction control, power modes, a bi-directional quickshifter, and colour TFT screen.
Both the 8T and 8TT get a new fuel tank, seat, 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.

Styling
The 8T and 8TT’s design brief was to produce two machines that embody the retro spirit of Suzuki’s heritage and iconic 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 each side to new radiator shrouds – brushed silver on the 8T and black on the 8TT - adorned with the circular GSX8 logo. 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.
Inspired by classic road race machines, 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 added weather protection. Underneath the 776cc parallel twin engine, the 8TT also adopts a lower cowling, further enhancing its racier aesthetic. On the 8TT the seat still ensures a comfortable ride but is finished with a flatter top more reminiscent of race bike seats. 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, next generation performance is delivered by Suzuki’s award-winning 776cc parallel twin engine; widely praised for its drive from the bottom end and through its midrange, making it a useable, flexible, and fun powerplant. This character and punchy performance is enhanced by a 270° crankshaft design, helping fire the 8T and 8TT from corner to corner. Peak torque is 78Nm at 6800rpm, and peak power comes in at 82.9PS at 8500rpm.

Chassis
Both models use the same steel frame and subframe, and aluminium swingarm. They are suspended by upside down KYB forks – gold on the 8T and black on the 8TT - and a KYB rear shock. Wide, tapered aluminium handlebars provide an engaging and comfortable riding position, offering plenty of leverage for steering input. Stopping power comes via twin 310mm discs up front with radially-mounted Nissin calipers, and a 240mm disc at the rear.

Electronics

Sat atop the retro headlight is a modern colour TFT screen, displaying all the information the rider needs, including rev counter, speedo, and gear position indicator, as well as the selected traction control setting – with three available to choose from, plus off – and the chosen power mode from A, B, or C. Making for slick gear changes is a bi-directional quickshifter as standard, plus Suzuki’s easy-start and low RPM assist systems.
Both models also come with a USB Type-C socket as standard, which also supports fast charging.
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