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Head to head

Suzuki GSX-8T vs BMW R 12 G/S

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

The Suzuki GSX-8T and BMW R 12 G/S are among the most cross-shopped modern classic bikes of 2026. The Suzuki GSX-8T undercuts the BMW R 12 G/S by about $5,746, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the BMW R 12 G/S leads on power with 109 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
BMW R 12 G/S
8.0

BMW

BMW R 12 G/S

The verdict

The Suzuki GSX-8T edges it overall at 8.1/10, but the BMW R 12 G/S wins on most exciting, so let how you ride decide.

Best for new riders

Suzuki GSX-8T

83 hp.

Most exciting

BMW R 12 G/S

109 hp and 0.48 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.

Highest rated

Suzuki GSX-8T

Our top score in this matchup at 8.1/10.

Price & rating
Price$10,649$16,395
KickTheStand score8.1 / 108 / 10
Performance
Engine776cc twin1170cc twin
Power83 hp109 hp
Torque78 Nm115 Nm
Power-to-weight0.41 hp/kg0.48 hp/kg
Chassis & brakes
Front suspension41mm KYB USD fork45mm USD fork, fully adjustable, 210mm travel
Rear suspensionMonoshockFully adjustable monoshock, 200mm travel
Front brakesDual 310mm discs, Nissin 4-pistonTwin 310mm discs, Brembo 2-piston
Rear brakesSingle 240mm discSingle 265mm disc, Brembo 2-piston
Dimensions & practicality
Weight202 kg229 kg
Seat height810 mm862 mm
Fuel capacity14 L15.5 L
Suitability
ClassModern ClassicModern Classic
A2 licenceNoNo
Good for beginnersNoNo
Best forcommuting, sport, cruisingadventure, touring, 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 BMW R 12 G/S: your questions answered

Which is faster, the Suzuki GSX-8T or the BMW R 12 G/S?

The BMW R 12 G/S makes the most power at 109 hp and 115 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.

Which is cheaper, the Suzuki GSX-8T or the BMW R 12 G/S?

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

Which is lighter, the Suzuki GSX-8T or the BMW R 12 G/S?

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 BMW R 12 G/S?

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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