Suzuki carves a niche for itself in the retro mid-range segment with the GSX-8T, deliberately drawing on forms from the past. The 8T and 8TT echo the design elements of the legendary T500 Titan. Most striking is the LED round headlight with a flattened lower edge—visually a nod to history, technically a highlight. According to Suzuki, it's the brightest headlight they've ever installed, with an impressive high beam that outshines the 8S.
The GSX-8TT (unrelated to the famous races on the Channel Island, but standing for Timeless Titan) adds a sporty bikini fairing, integrated windshield with air intake, and hinted winglets on the lamp mask. The wind protection extends to the chest. The seat also appears more integrated, lower, with a sharper knee angle, reducing the seat height to 810mm. The LED indicators double as position lights. Both variants boast high-quality details: Suzuki's first bar-end mirrors, black matte engine covers, a 3D badge resembling an "8" billiard ball, and an aluminum end cap. The textured tuck-and-roll seat offers more comfort for taller riders and is exclusive to the T.
The aesthetics of the new Suzukis have captured my heart with their successful blend of classic and modern elements, the elegant crease on the tank, the quality of the new Suzuki logo, and the harmonious paint jobs—truly top-notch. However, there's a downside. The massive license plate holder with integrated taillight seems oversized, too long, too much plastic, too arbitrary—hopefully, the accessory program will soon offer a remedy.