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Head to head

Suzuki GSX-8T vs Triumph Speed Twin 1200

Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.

The Suzuki GSX-8T and Triumph Speed Twin 1200 are among the most cross-shopped modern classic bikes of 2026. The Suzuki GSX-8T undercuts the Triumph Speed Twin 1200 by about $2,946, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the Triumph Speed Twin 1200 leads on power with 105 hp. Below we put them head to head on price, performance, weight and seat height, then give our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.

Suzuki GSX-8T
Our pick
8.1

Suzuki

Suzuki GSX-8T
Triumph Speed Twin 1200
8.1

Triumph

Triumph Speed Twin 1200

The verdict

The Suzuki GSX-8T edges it overall at 8.1/10, but the Triumph Speed Twin 1200 wins on most exciting, so let how you ride decide.

Best for new riders

Suzuki GSX-8T

83 hp.

Most exciting

Triumph Speed Twin 1200

105 hp and 0.49 hp/kg, the strongest here.

Best value

Suzuki GSX-8T

Our 8.1/10 at $10,649, the most bike per dollar.

Easiest to manage

Suzuki GSX-8T

202 kg with an 810 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.

Price & rating
Price$10,649$13,595
KickTheStand score8.1 / 108.1 / 10
Performance
Engine776cc twin1200cc twin
Power83 hp105 hp
Torque78 Nm112 Nm
Power-to-weight0.41 hp/kg0.49 hp/kg
Chassis & brakes
Front suspension41mm KYB USD fork43mm Marzocchi USD fork
Rear suspensionMonoshockTwin shocks
Front brakesDual 310mm discs, Nissin 4-pistonDual 320mm discs, Triumph 4-piston radial
Rear brakesSingle 240mm discSingle 220mm disc
Dimensions & practicality
Weight202 kg216 kg
Seat height810 mm805 mm
Fuel capacity14 L14.5 L
Suitability
ClassModern ClassicModern Classic
A2 licenceNoNo
Good for beginnersNoNo
Best forcommuting, sport, cruisingcommuting, sport, cruising

Cyan marks the best figure in each row. Specs are the most-cited for the current model; verify before relying on them.

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Suzuki GSX-8T vs Triumph Speed Twin 1200: your questions answered

Which is faster, the Suzuki GSX-8T or the Triumph Speed Twin 1200?

The Triumph Speed Twin 1200 makes the most power at 105 hp and 112 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.

Which is cheaper, the Suzuki GSX-8T or the Triumph Speed Twin 1200?

The Suzuki GSX-8T is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $10,649.

Which is lighter, the Suzuki GSX-8T or the Triumph Speed Twin 1200?

The Suzuki GSX-8T is the lightest at 202 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.

Which is better for a beginner, the Suzuki GSX-8T or the Triumph Speed Twin 1200?

For a new rider we'd point to the Suzuki GSX-8T: 83 hp and 202 kg make it the most approachable of the group.

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