Yamaha MT-07 vs Suzuki GSX-8S
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The Yamaha MT-07 and Suzuki GSX-8S are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. The Yamaha MT-07 undercuts the Suzuki GSX-8S by about $500, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the Suzuki GSX-8S leads on power with 81 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.
Yamaha
Yamaha MT-07
Our pickSuzuki
Suzuki GSX-8SThe verdict
The Suzuki GSX-8S edges it overall at 8.5/10, but the Yamaha MT-07 wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.
Yamaha MT-07
A2-legal, 73 hp, forgiving to learn on.
Suzuki GSX-8S
81 hp and 0.40 hp/kg, the strongest here.
Yamaha MT-07
Our 8.4/10 at $8,499, the most bike per dollar.
Yamaha MT-07
184 kg with an 805 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.
Suzuki GSX-8S
Our top score in this matchup at 8.5/10.
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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Yamaha MT-07 vs Suzuki GSX-8S: your questions answered
Which is faster, the Yamaha MT-07 or the Suzuki GSX-8S?
The Suzuki GSX-8S makes the most power at 81 hp and 78 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the Yamaha MT-07 or the Suzuki GSX-8S?
The Yamaha MT-07 is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $8,499.
Which is lighter, the Yamaha MT-07 or the Suzuki GSX-8S?
The Yamaha MT-07 is the lightest at 184 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.
Which is better for a beginner, the Yamaha MT-07 or the Suzuki GSX-8S?
For a new rider we'd point to the Yamaha MT-07: A2-legal, 73 hp and 184 kg make it the most approachable of the group.