We kind of wondered if the sublime Suzuki GSX-8S would platform will spawn more variants, and it came true with the GSX-8R. Now there are two more, fitting into what the manufacturer terms as “neo-retro” niche, called the Suzuki GSX-8T and and GSX-8TT.

Being based on the GSX-8 platform means both variants are fitted with modern features including the engine, chassis, and electronics. Both he GSX-8T and GSX-8TT share the same features, which we will get into.

Suzuki GSX-8T

Suzuki says the GSX-8T was designed to evoke the spirit of the Suzuki T500 which was produced from 1968 to 1975. Featuring a 492cc, parallel-twin, two-stroke engine which produced 47 hp, it was the Suzuki that cemented the company’s reputation of producing bulletproof (extremely reliable) engines. As such, some 100,000 units were sold during its production run.

The T500 was also a favourite among production racers, with Frank Whiteway winning the Production 500cc class at the 1970 Isle of Man TT. Stan Woods would follow up on that achievement in 1972.

It was the the T500’s engine which gave rise to the TR500 Grand Prix racer, which gave Suzuki their very first 500cc GP victory in 1971.

So, it is only right that Suzuki “reissue” the T500’s form in the GSX-8T.

Suzuki GSX-8TT

This variant on the other hand, evokes the styling of the 1970s road racers with its headlight-mounted “bikini” fairing. Other styling cues include a black body colour with black front forks and shrouds, and grey seat rails, along with sporty accents of the wheels and decals. The “TT” in the name stands for a combination of the base model GSX-8T with “Timeless”, signifying the revival of classic bikes in a modern context.

Highlights:

• 776cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 270° crank, parallel-twin engine which produces 82 hp at 8,500 RPM and 78 Nm at 6,800 RPM.
• Suzuki Cross Balancer, the first primary balancer of its type on a production motorcycle, contributes to smooth operation and a compact, lightweight engine design.

• Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS) with bi-directional quickshifter.
• 5-inch TFT screen.

• Ride-by-wire throttle allows for 3 Suzuki Drive Mode Selector SDMS) riding modes, and 3 levels of Suzuki Traction Control System (STCS), which can be switched off.
• Suspension consist of KYB upside down forks up front, and KYB monoshock at the back.

• Front brakes are twin 310mm discs with radially-mounted calipers.
• Dual-channel ABS.

• 16.5-litre fuel tank.
• The European-spec GSX-8T has a kerb weight of 201 kg, while the GSX-8TT weighs 203 kg.

The net selling price of the GSX-8R was RM53,800, so these two variants may be cheaper. Let us look ahead to the Malaysian launch!

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