By NastyNils·
Motorcycle comparison · Naked Bike vs Retro Classic
Suzuki GSX-8TT (MY2025) vs Kawasaki Z650 RS (MY2022)
Suzuki GSX-8TT vs Kawasaki Z650 RS: where they split, and which one to buy.
You'll notice the Suzuki GSX-8TT stays settled on its long wheelbase as you trail the brakes into a bend, and broken pavement mid-corner barely ruffles it. The Kawasaki Z650 RS feels light from the first tip-in. It's quick to flick into the next lean.
So which one do you buy?
Buy the Z650 RS if…
Keeping running costs low
Clear pick: Z650 RS
The Z650 RS costs clearly less to keep on the road. You'll notice it at every service.
The Z650 RS has the edge if…
Sporty riding on twisty roads
By a nose: Z650 RS
On a twisty road, the Z650 RS edges ahead. Not by enough to settle it alone.
Which one's the smarter buy
Two different jobs
The GSX-8TT and Z650 RS do different jobs, so neither is the clear better buy for the money.
What makes each one tick
GSX-8TT
The GSX-8TT's parallel twin thumps like a V-twin and pulls clean from low revs. Up top, it goes flat. On the Blue Ridge Parkway, the quarter fairing and upright perch don't wear you down. The trellis frame tracks true from corner entry onward.
Z650 RS
There's a lumpy mechanical grain in the Z650 RS's twin that suits its 1970s Z looks. It's got real grunt down low, too. A bump lands on a deeply padded seat, and the upright bar keeps the ride relaxed. The clutch lever pulls feather-light.
The Voice of Experience
What actually separates them
- The Z650 RS has the lower wet weight: 412 lb (187 kg) vs 448 lb (203 kg).
- The GSX-8TT makes more peak power: 83 hp (61 kW) vs 68 hp (50 kW).
- The GSX-8TT makes more peak torque: 58 lb-ft (78 Nm) vs 49 lb-ft (66 Nm).
Which one for the way you ride
Comfortable long-distance riding
Not their thing
Hours in the saddle won't flatter either of these. They're happier on shorter runs.
Don't look for a gap on commuting and a first bike: there isn't one. Go by how each one fits you.
Who each one is built for
What's good, and what you'll live with
GSX-8TT
What owners say
Strengths
- Planté feel and confident handling
- Retro styling with modern details
- Smooth, characterful parallel-twin
- Comfortable ergonomics and weather protection
- Generous electronics package
Trade-offs
- Basic non-adjustable front suspension
- Could use more top-end power
Z650 RS
What owners say
Strengths
- Lightweight and agile handling
- Comfortable and relaxed ergonomics
- Elegant retro styling with authentic details
- Good braking performance with standard ABS
- Soulful parallel-twin with strong mid-range
Known problems to check before you buy
GSX-8TT
No confirmed faults on file yet. That's not the same as fault-free.
Z650 RS
- Clunky gearbox Shifts can feel notchy or require extra effort, particularly between first and second gear, especially when the engine is cold. While generally reliable, the transmission lacks the refinement of some competitors.
- Abrupt low-speed throttle / lean surging At small throttle openings in first or second gear, the engine can feel jerky or hesitant, making smooth low-speed riding challenging. Often attributed to lean OEM mapping to meet emissions.
What they cost used
These prices compare a 1-year-old GSX-8TT with a 1-year-old Z650 RS.
- GSX-8TT
- about $10,500
- Z650 RS
- about $7,200
At one year old, the Suzuki GSX-8TT sits around $10,500 while the Kawasaki Z650 RS lands near $7,200. That's a $3,300 gap in the Z650 RS's favor. These are US market estimates, not live listings.
What they share
- Engine
- Parallel twin
- Cooling
- Liquid-cooled
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Final drive
- Chain
- Front tire
- 120/70-17
Where the spec sheets split
| GSX-8TT | Z650 RS | |
|---|---|---|
| Seat height | 31.9 in (810 mm) | 31.5 in (800 mm) |
| Wet weight | 448 lb (203 kg) | 412 lb (187 kg) |
| GSX-8TT | Z650 RS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 776 cc | 649 cc |
| Power | 83 hp (61 kW) | 68 hp (50 kW) |
| Peak power at | 8,500 rpm | 8,000 rpm |
| Torque | 58 lb-ft (78 Nm) | 49 lb-ft (66 Nm) |
| Peak torque at | 6,800 rpm | 6,700 rpm |
| GSX-8TT | Z650 RS | |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel capacity | 4.3 US gal (16.3 L) | 3.2 US gal (12 L) |
| GSX-8TT | Z650 RS | |
|---|---|---|
| Fork | Upside-down (USD) | Telescopic |
| Front brake | 310 mm | 300 mm |
| Rear tire | 180/55-17 | 160/60-17 |
What comes fitted, what costs extra
| GSX-8TT | Z650 RS | |
|---|---|---|
| Traction Control | Standard | Not offered |
| Ride Modes | Standard | Not offered |
| Quickshifter | Standard | Not offered |
| TFT Display | Standard | Not offered |
| USB Charging Port | Standard | Option |
| Heated Grips | Option | Not offered |
| Luggage System | Option | Not offered |
Head to head, area by area
Both bikes on the same scale, one area at a time.
