2026 SUZUKI GSX-8TT

Based on Suzuki's excellent GSX-8S platform, the TT’s styling is inspired by the legendary GS1000 AMA race bike of the late '70s and the result is one of the most handsome motorcycles Suzuki has produced in years. More importantly, it doesn't look like a parts-bin special. It looks like it was designed from the ground up as a retro motorcycle.
But it isn’t simply a case of all show and no go. The TT is built on Suzuki’s GSX-8S platform, which is a cracking motorcycle, so the TT is working with quality DNA.
Power comes from Suzuki's 776cc DOHC parallel twin producing 81 hp (60.4 kW) and 78 Nm of torque. Featuring a 270-degree crankshaft that gives the donk a distinctly V-twin flavour, it delivers a broad spread of torque with plenty of character. It might not have the outright theatre of a V-twin, but it has a satisfyingly grunty personality that suits the TT perfectly. It does its best work through the mid-range, happily pulling hard from low rpm before continuing with a smooth, linear rush towards the top end. It's playful, easy to exploit and never intimidating.

Backing it up is a six-speed gearbox with a standard bi-directional quickshifter, and it's outstanding. Suzuki has been producing sweet-shifting gearboxes since the invention of the underpant, and this is another sterling example. Every shift is light, positive and beautifully smooth, while the quickshifter works flawlessly in both directions.
The GSX-8TT rides on KYB upside-down forks and a KYB link-type rear shock with rear preload adjustment. The steering is neutral and predictable, requiring very little effort to tip the bike into a corner, although the initial part of the stroke is on the firm side and, on the garbage roads we're served up in Australia, the ride lacks a little finesse. That same firmness carries over to bumpy corners, where the bike can feel slightly nervous. Importantly, it never threatens to end your day by putting you in an ambulance—it simply doesn't feel quite as settled as I’d like over rougher surfaces. Find a smoother stretch of road and the TT can bang with the best in the class.
Braking comes courtesy of Nissin and I’d class it as solid rather than standout. The Nissin package offers good initial bite, progressive lever feel and more than enough stopping power for the GSX-8TT's intended role.

Suzuki's electronics package is comprehensive without being tiresome. You get three ride modes, three-level traction control, ride-by-wire throttle, a bi-directional quickshifter, Low RPM Assist, Easy Start, a five-inch colour TFT display and USB-C charging. I spent almost the entire ride in Mode B, which retains full power but delivers a smoother, more progressive throttle response than Mode A, particularly on bumpy roads. The traction control can also be switched off completely, which simultaneously disables the wheelie control. I rode around with it switched off for 99 per cent of my time on the GSX-8TT because... wheelies. Better still, the bike remembers your preferred setting after cycling the ignition, so you don't have to turn it off every time you restart it.

At 203 kg wet, with an 810 mm seat height and a relatively narrow but comfortable seat, the TT should be a relatively easy motorcycle to live with for all but the shortest riders. The riding position is relaxed, the seat remains comfortable over longer distances and, while the little bikini fairing is primarily a styling exercise, it does take a touch of wind pressure off your chest at highway speeds.

FINAL THOUGHTS:

The only real sticking point is price. At just under $19,000 ride-away, the GSX-8TT sits close to some seriously talented machinery, including Yamaha's XSR900. That's a comparison many buyers will inevitably make.
But motorcycles are a thing of passion for the most part. Sure, they need to be able to do the business and the TT can certainly do that, but it’s not always just about the money, and if the TT hits you in the feels like it obviously did to so many passersby, then you’ll find a way to afford it.