Suzuki GSX-8T and GSX-8TT Confirmed for 2026
CARB certifications hint at middleweight sport-touring models
Suzuki is preparing to add a GSX-8T and GSX-8TT to its 2026 lineup, suggesting two new middleweight sport-touring models are on the way.
The confirmation comes to us via an updated executive order from the California Air Resources Board certifying the two new models along with the GSX-8R sportbike, GSX-8S naked, and V-Strom 800 and 800 Touring adventure-touring models. Suzuki had originally received an executive order for the 2026 edition of its 776cc Parallel-Twin engine in March, but an update dated June 6 added the GSX-8T and GSX-8TT models.
The executive orders don’t reveal much beyond the names, apart from confirming the engine produces the same emissions as the 2025 version. That suggests the 2026 engine will claim the same 81.8 hp at 8,500 rpm and 57.5 lb-ft. at 6,800 rpm as the previous model years.
It’s a reasonable assumption that the GSX-8T will be a touring model, which would be a welcome addition to Suzuki’s lineup as a middleweight sport-touring model to slot in next to the GSX -S1000GT+. In his review of the GSX-8R, Troy Siahaan praised it as an “all-day comfortable sportybike,” so it shouldn’t take much of a transition for Suzuki to develop a sport-touring version.
What’s less clear is what differentiates the 8TT from the 8T. The easiest answer would be if the double-T model featured more premium features such as standard luggage, or a taller windscreen. That’s what separates the “Plus” version of the GSX-S1000GT and GSX-S1000GX from their respective base models offered in some markets.
We’ll get more clarity on that when more details about the 2026 Suzuki GSX-8T and GSX-8TT emerge. We suspect both models will be a focal point of Suzuki’s EICMA showcase in November.
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Dennis has been a part of the Motorcycle.com team since 2008, and through his tenure, has developed a firm grasp of industry trends, and a solid sense of what's to come. A bloodhound when it comes to tracking information on new motorcycles, if there's a new model on the horizon, you'll probably hear about it from him first.
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Methinks Rich is looking for a writing gig!
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