Looking to upgrade from a Z400. I’m split between the tried and true MT-07 and the newer GSX 8S. Both seem like solid bikes. I’m leaning towards the MT-07 but am worried that I am missing out on features that the GSX 8S offers.
Hah are you me? I upgraded from a Z400 last Friday. I found a 2022 MT07 with 800 miles, and a full akrapovic exhaust. It is absolutely heavenly.
The GSX8s while also gorgeous is a brand new platform with minimal mod support and who knows what issue will crop up during its first few years in the wild
At least with the MT all issues are known, and have fixed/ workarounds. Additionally, if you ever plan on getting a tail-tidy look at the GSX8s’s rear end. It has the tail light at the end of the rear snout which is unusual. Feel free to DM if you have more questions about my switch 🙂
Haha. It seems like the natural progression as the Z650 seems kinda just like a bigger Z400 since it’s still a 180 degree crank.
I did notice the GSX 8S has an absolutely hideous taillight setup which I’m sure someone out there is working on a tail tidy that will work. If I saw an MT07 with only 800 miles I’d probably jump on it too. It seems like right now in my area used prices are not worth it and I may just buy new.
You’re right about the MT07 being known and tested. I’m not familiar with the issues it does have though, what are you aware of?
Thanks
I mainly jumped on the 800mi one because it was the only 2021+ (LED headlight refresh), that was also black in my state. All others were cyan or blue. Which does look sick until your wheels get dirty…
Known “issues” is that Yamaha put all their $ into the engine, and cheaped out on other parts like hand controls, grips, suspension, dash ( compared to z650/GSX8s/sv650). That being said because the aftermarket support is huge, that becomes a non-issue.
If I were you I’d have the cash/ financing ready and tell the dealerships you’re going to that you’re undecided and need to try both. I think mt07 is the way. 50 more lbs than your z400 for double the power, double the torque, and the engine noise is amazing.
I am gunna be super biased here but my 2c:
The tech on the Suzuki is pretty cool, but after owning a 2017 MT07 for several years and upgrading to an 890 Duke R, I still miss my Yami. I really loved that bike.
In saying that, some, imo, required upgrades are a better exhaust (I went Akro carbon), a tail tidy and an R6 throttle tube. That really changed the bike for me, and I still miss it’s throaty exhaust note.
Something I really liked about the MT was that it was an established platform, so there were aftermarket parts out there everywhere for it. I think the style of the 8S is really sleek, as is the MT07. In reality, you will probably be happy with either bike, but being a fanboy I would have to recommend the MT.
Appreciate your 2c. Always good to get some perspective. Thank you
The MT is a great bike, and seems well loved by the owners, but that 8S looks incredible. Edit: Especially in blue… now I want one :(
But… look at the hideous rear and. And the lights are on the rear snout. Making a tail tidy way harder / impossible as it’s a brand new bike with no parts yet.
Still love the rear end
