2026 Suzuki GSX-8TT First Ride Review
A stylish, retro-influenced naked powered by Suzuki’s versatile 776cc parallel twin. It’s built for riders who want characterful city performance and a comfortable, upright ride without sacrificing modern tech.
- Punchy Powerplant: 270° parallel twin brings strong mid-range drive and immediate throttle response.
- All-Day Comfort: Wide, plush seat and relaxed ergos make commuting easy.
- Modern Tech Suite: 5-inch TFT, bi-directional quick shifter, and effective power modes come standard.
- Vague Handling: Comfort-first suspension makes turn-in feel a bit lethargic at pace.
- Mushy Braking: Adequate stopping power, but lever feel lacks bite and precision.
- No Cruise Control: Ride-by-wire is here, but cruise is still missing at this price.
Performance Highlights
The GSX-8TT shines in the mid-range. The engine feels lively and instantly available, which makes it an awesome partner for city traffic. On the highway it stays surprisingly stable and smooth for a naked, but you’ll still feel the breeze once speeds climb.
The power modes (A, B, C) are genuinely distinct — tame it for sketchy conditions or let it eat when the road dries out. It’s not a razor-blade canyon tool, but it’s effortless and confidence-friendly in real-world riding.
Note: The 40–80 pull was described as “lively,” performed in second gear in wet conditions.
Rider Experience & Tech
Ergonomics are a standout. At 5'10", the reach to the ground is easy, and the bar position gives you a natural, slightly sporty lean without feeling cramped. You sit “in” the bike thanks to that wide, soft seat — more couch-like than most bikes in this category.
The 5-inch TFT packs a lot of info into a smaller screen, but it’s readable once you get familiar. The bi-directional quick shifter is light and reliable (even if it doesn’t have a ton of physical feedback), and the rider aids/modes are simple and effective. The only real tech miss is the lack of cruise control.
The Chase Score & Final Thoughts
With a Chase Score of 72/100, the GSX-8TT is one of the most effortless bikes to live with in its class. It’s not a track weapon — the soft suspension and mushy brakes see to that — but as a daily rider with heaps of personality, it’s hard to beat.
Who it’s for: commuters and casual riders who prioritize style, comfort, and punchy real-world power.
Who should skip: aggressive sport riders chasing sharp turn-in and apex-hunting precision.