Motorcycle specifications SuzukiGSX-8T 800 2025 Finally, a good neo-retro recipe?

Suzuki doesn't arrive after the battle, but during it. The medium-displacement neo-retro bikes have been around for a while, led by Triumph. The SV650X tries to fill the gap with its faux-Cafra look. But I'm tired of being a spectator! Hamamatsu finally strikes back, using its 800 platform to launch a new moderno-vintage variation: the GSX-8T!

Who are you? Where do you come from?

And its slightly sportier TT cousin. The roadster tumbles down a stepladder of time to appropriate and reinterpret a slice of Suzuki memory. After all, you have to tell a story to seduce the clientele of this kind of machine. The Kawasaki Z 650 RS may have an easy time of it with its famous former cousin, the 900 Z1; Triumph certainly knows how to capitalize to death with its iconic Bonneville; but for the GSX-8T, it's a different kettle of fish.

This is where the T comes into its own: to link it with the 1968 T500, nicknamed Titan. A motorcycle also equipped with an in-line twin, but with a 2-stroke design and a nice 47 hp.
Putting them side by side, genetics and styling don't really seem to have crossed the decades. The wink is too subtle to really grasp. On the other hand, its design allows it to claim a more conservative, less aggressive look than the GSX-8S. The GSX-8T is almost hipster-like, with the headlight (a bit Honda CB 650 R neo-sport-café, don't you think!?!), radiator scoops, 8 badge inspired by a billiard ball and specific fuel tank. Its beautiful shape is reminiscent of the 1200 GSX. As a bonus, its 16.5-liter capacity is 2.5 liters more than that of the S sibling.

The round face, bulging seat and café-racer-style handlebar-mounted mirrors play their old-school curiosity card. But once you're on board, you'll find it harder to keep the retro charm in mind. Suz' has kept the color TFT instrument panel, in keeping with its desire to make as much impact as possible on the common parts. The instrumentation is modern and well laid out, but just too modern for its class. Its direct rivals make the effort of a less technological instrumentation - especially the Z 650 RS with its double needle dial, much more vintage and enticing.

The body and heart of a sister

As you'll have gathered from the outset, this is a GSX-8S under the skin. Everyone will find the same efficient, homogeneous chassis, Kayaba suspension, steel frame and aluminum swingarm, Nissin 4-piston radial calipers, 310 mm front and 240 mm rear discs, 17-inch wheels... and the 776 cm3 twin now firmly established at Suzuki. Power output is identical, with 83 hp delivered at 8,500 rpm. Slightly less than the competing units of its displacement, but with a very pleasant ride and extension, it attracts more than just sympathy. Compared to its direct rivals in the segment, the Kawa and XSR 700, the GSX-8T can put forward a good ten extra horsepower. Not to mention a more generous 78 Nm of torque.

Electronics are also shared between the 8S and8T. This simplifies work and synergy for all concerned. This neo-retro "T500 inspired" offers 3 riding modes, traction control, Up&Down shifter, ABS, easy start and low-speed assistance from the parent company as standard.

With this new GSX-8T, Suzuki joins the young-old-school gang with an interesting proposition. Except that the road ahead won't be easy, with a filiation to build (or demonstrate), a vintage exercise not really accomplished and a price tag that doesn't match up. The T costs 1,600 euros more than the GSX-8S, or almost 3,000 euros with the current special offer. At almost 11 grand, you don't even get adjustable suspension, a more seventies-style dashboard, specific riding modes or more stylish wheels. The fact remains that Suzuki continues to expand its range, to try and dare, and that's always a pleasure.

M.B. - Manufacturer's photos