isn’ t shattering, it is all useable, and Suzuki doesn’ t overburden it with fancy screens and over-technical menus and bits. I can see this being the ride of choice in a garage collection- when it’ s grab-the-helmet-andgo time. The v-twin sounds are great too. The gearbox is particularly sweet, a sixspeed with clutch assist system that’ s smooth, and mated particularly well with output, but equipped with a bi-directional quick-shifter … it’ s a peach. Riding modes are easy to change on the fly and I enjoyed the simplicity of the 5-inch colour TFT LCD instrument panel. Finish is as good as you might expect from one of the leading manufacturers, and doesn’ t disappoint. I like the muscular look of the bike with large double discs up front on KYB upside down forks in gold, it’ s smart as hell, and stops like a stubborn mule. Fantastic. I think this is best-looking iteration of the 800 series that Suzuki has brought out so far. Gone is the slightly garish colour scheme, and the simplicity of this T layout pleases my eye. I think the bar end mirrors are a great look, and offer a really good rear picture. On mounting I was concerned that it might be a bit snug with my leg length, but had no problems at all at 183cm. I like the stubby wee exhaust very much too. A niggle though- as usual, no real thought is given for those who like to take a pillion along. The rear perch is hard, high, small and un-appealing to anyone over 40kg, in all likelihood- but let’ s face it, Suzuki is not alone in that department. I reckon the GSX800T is a great step up for those looking to move on from the years of LAMS riding, but maybe even more likely is that it will be perfect for the wise rider of seasoned years, who wants easy riding, fast and flowing power when needs be, with less weight, strong functionality, modern tech, a fun ride and good looks. I liked the GSX8T a lot and, yes, it’ s exactly the sort of bike I’ d own when I’ m ready. So, yes, it’ s good. Bloody good, actually. PETER ELLIOTT
KIWI RIDER 77