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Head to head

Suzuki GSX-8T vs Yamaha XSR900

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

The Suzuki GSX-8T and Yamaha XSR900 are among the most cross-shopped modern classic bikes of 2026. They land within touching distance on price, so this comes down to character and fit. On paper the Yamaha XSR900 leads on power with 117 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
8.1

Suzuki

Suzuki GSX-8T
Yamaha XSR900
Our pick
8.4

Yamaha

Yamaha XSR900

The verdict

The Yamaha XSR900 edges it overall at 8.4/10, but the Suzuki GSX-8T wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.

Best for new riders

Suzuki GSX-8T

83 hp.

Most exciting

Yamaha XSR900

117 hp and 0.61 hp/kg, the strongest here.

Best value

Yamaha XSR900

Our 8.4/10 at $10,599, the most bike per dollar.

Easiest to manage

Yamaha XSR900

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

Highest rated

Yamaha XSR900

Our top score in this matchup at 8.4/10.

Price & rating
Price$10,649$10,599
KickTheStand score8.1 / 108.4 / 10
Performance
Engine776cc twin890cc triple
Power83 hp117 hp
Torque78 Nm93 Nm
Power-to-weight0.41 hp/kg0.61 hp/kg
Chassis & brakes
Front suspension41mm KYB USD fork41mm KYB USD fork
Rear suspensionMonoshockLink-type monoshock
Front brakesDual 310mm discs, Nissin 4-pistonDual 298mm discs, radial 4-piston
Rear brakesSingle 240mm discSingle 245mm disc
Dimensions & practicality
Weight202 kg193 kg
Seat height810 mm810 mm
Fuel capacity14 L14 L
Suitability
ClassModern ClassicModern Classic
A2 licenceNoNo
Good for beginnersNoNo
Best forcommuting, sport, cruisingsport, commuting, 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 Yamaha XSR900: your questions answered

Which is faster, the Suzuki GSX-8T or the Yamaha XSR900?

The Yamaha XSR900 makes the most power at 117 hp and 93 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.

Which is cheaper, the Suzuki GSX-8T or the Yamaha XSR900?

The Yamaha XSR900 is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $10,599.

Which is lighter, the Suzuki GSX-8T or the Yamaha XSR900?

The Yamaha XSR900 is the lightest at 193 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 Yamaha XSR900?

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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