Thoughts on the Suzuki SV650

[Finitw0]

I was looking at a new bike to add to my stable and was considering the Suzuki SV650 as a prime choice.

 

My considerations are the following: (From Greatest to Least)

Reliability and Wrenchability (I can turn a good wrench)

Performance and Handling

Comfort (Long and Short Distance, Between 100 - 500 miles probably)

MPG

 

 

I am planning on doing:

Sport-Touring ~ 500 miles max right now

Commuting

Fun (Why else to own a bike)

 

 

I have been looking at a SV650 because, from what I have read in other forums and on "expert" reviews, the bike meets these requirements fairly well. I like the price too, since you get bang for your buck and, for a college student,that is important. They are maintained fairly easily, which was my only real negative with my V Star 650 (That and the power of that V Twin is low in my opinion).

 

I have to go to my Thermodynamics class right now, so I will post more on this later tonight (Probably as an EDIT to this post).

 

Any Advice, suggestions, etc. is greatly appreciated.

 

(I am 5'8", 160lb.)

[upflying]

I love the SV 650 and consider it one of the best bang for the buck bikes. Don't forget to consider a V-Strom 650 too.

[NonComp]

The SV650 may not have the kind of riding position that you would enjoy for a 500 mile ride. The 650 vstrom has a more uppright riding position and may be more capable as a touring bike, while retaining a certain sportiness. Another great deal used is the Suzuki Bandit, which has been a perenial favourite.

[tallman]

You might watch for a deal on a Kawasaki Versys also.

[Missouri Bob]

I've been really happy with my SV650. Last Summer, when the R1200ST's driveshaft went south, I used the SV for a multi-day road trip. The longest day was probably in the neighborhood of 400 miles.

 

The SV does some things better than the BMW. Some things not as well.

 

Bob

 

[russell_bynum]

The SV is one of my favorite bikes. Personally, I prefer the standard SV to the SV650S since I find the more relaxed riding position more agreeable. But either one is a great bike.

 

Personally....I'd want to fix the suspension before I did anything serious with the bike. Race Tech emulators up front (and heavier springs if necessary are a good option. Best case is find a good set of forks from a GSX-R600 and use those. Then replace the rear with a nice unit from Ohlins.

 

There are several options for small bikini fairings for the "naked" SV650, which really help the bike's all-day touring potential. I've spent some time behind the one from Targa and really liked it, but I'm sure there are other options as well.

 

If it was me, I'd look for one of the later models with Fuel Injection...but I'll admit to being biased against carbs. BTW...if you're looking to up your bang for the buck, buy used. Let some other fool pay the first-year depreciation.

 

Slap on a seat bag and soft saddlebags from RKA and a nice low-profile tankbag, and you've got a nice little sport-tourer.

[NonComp]

If it was me, I'd look for one of the later models with Fuel Injection...but I'll admit to being biased against carbs. BTW...if you're looking to up your bang for the buck, buy used. Let some other fool pay the first-year depreciation.

If it is the standard model that you are interested in, then I believe you would have to buy used, because I believe I remember reading that the standard model is discontinued in 2010.

[Lets_Play_Two]

My son (6'1" 230) has an SV650 and is ready for a break after about 100 miles. I (6'4" 230) would be toast after 50 miles!!!

[BFish]

I love the SV 650 and consider it one of the best bang for the buck bikes. Don't forget to consider a V-Strom 650 too.

 

ditto on the weestrom

[cali_beemer]

I would definately consider the V-strom 650 over the SV for what you described. More comfortable riding position, longer wheel travel, larger wheel diameter and more range....I got the chance to ride a vstrom 650 and I loved it. An excellent bike. I almost bought one but I ended up with another K1200RS. My hesitation on the 650 strom was the power for long highway runs. Plenty of umphhh for around town and twisties but I could see the power being an issue when say, crossing a desert.

[russell_bynum]

Plenty of umphhh for around town and twisties but I could see the power being an issue when say, crossing a desert.

 

FWIW, I used to ride with Laney quite a bit when she was on her SV650 and I was on my R1100RT. I don't recall her EVER lacking power. I remember at one point looking down and seeing 120mph on my speedo (on a closed course with professional riders under controlled conditions with medical staff standing by, of course)....and a little red SV650 filling up my mirrors.

 

As for the weestrom, it's a good bike, but IMO gives up quite a bit in the "sport" department due to the dualsport(ish) suspension and tire choices. Personally, I'm more comfortable on a standard SV as well, but then I've never been a big fan of the whole "Sit up and beg" riding position...it's too hard on my ass and my back. Naturally YMMV.

[Finitw0]

Plenty of umphhh for around town and twisties but I could see the power being an issue when say, crossing a desert.

 

FWIW, I used to ride with Laney quite a bit when she was on her SV650 and I was on my R1100RT. I don't recall her EVER lacking power. I remember at one point looking down and seeing 120mph on my speedo (on a closed course with professional riders under controlled conditions with medical staff standing by, of course)....and a little red SV650 filling up my mirrors.

 

 

I am considering the SV naked for the more standard riding position, using Master Yoda's Riding Position advice. I know the SV is fast (I have a friend who rode his in a memorial ride I was on last year). He was able to catch up to the rest of the rockets when we got split by a teenager with a mental problem (he drove around our "crossing guard" at an intersection).

 

I have read a lot about the weestrom's touring abilities, but I am young and would like something with a little more grunt on the highways. Unfortunately, even though I know th V Strom is a tough bike, my insurance won't allow for anything over 800CC. That rules out the Bandit as well.

 

Kawasaki Versys' are hard to come by used since they are fairly new. I have a budget of about $4000, and that is OTD, preferably well equiped. They are good bikes though, judging by Motorcyle of the Year 2007 for Motorcycle.com.

 

BTW...if you're looking to up your bang for the buck, buy used. Let some other fool pay the first-year depreciation.

 

Slap on a seat bag and soft saddlebags from RKA and a nice low-profile tankbag, and you've got a nice little sport-tourer.

 

::::: I forgot to mention the two other criteria I had.

I want something EFI, particularly a Twin engine.::::

 

Definitely looking for used, albeit gently used. The break-in period seems like purgatory. I have found about 3 SV650's regionally at reasonable prices on craigslist. PM me if you would like the links. They are 2005-2006 and range from $2500 - $4000.

 

If anyone has a good bike idea, with pictures of their touring setup, that would be great info as well.

 

Thanks for the helpful posts! Keep'em coming. You all are great!

 

 

 

 

[Paul Mihalka]

The SV650 may not have the kind of riding position that you would enjoy for a 500 mile ride. The 650 vstrom has a more uppright riding position and may be more capable as a touring bike, while retaining a certain sportiness. Another great deal used is the Suzuki Bandit, which has been a perenial favourite.

Let's not forget that Finigan is about half the age of most posting here (1/3 of mine) so his priorities may be different

[Finitw0]

The SV650 may not have the kind of riding position that you would enjoy for a 500 mile ride. The 650 vstrom has a more uppright riding position and may be more capable as a touring bike, while retaining a certain sportiness. Another great deal used is the Suzuki Bandit, which has been a perenial favourite.

Let's not forget that Finigan is about half the age of most posting here (1/3 of mine) so his priorities may be different

 

The Cost of Wisdom is Youth. The goal is to go from being a young biker to an old biker, right? That's why I am friends with you guys. Maybe I can give you some youth and get some experience.

[Missouri Bob]

Plenty of umphhh for around town and twisties but I could see the power being an issue when say, crossing a desert.

 

I saw an indicated 120mph on my SV650 while crossing the desert in a western state. And that was loaded as shown in the photo.

 

Bob

[Finitw0]

:]

I saw an indicated 120mph on my SV650 while crossing the desert in a western state. And that was loaded as shown in the photo.

 

Bob

And boy is that a nice bike. Just saying.....

[NonComp]

You know that there are two version of the V-Strom, 1000 and 650. The DL650 is the one that we are talking about (reference: your comment about insurance 800cc max). I believe that it is basically the same motor as the SV650. Suzuki uses this motor in several different models.

[cali_beemer]

I believe that it is basically the same motor as the SV650. Suzuki uses this motor in several different models.

 

Same motor but tuned a bit differently.

[Finitw0]

Yes, the WEE STROM is a (I believe) lower geared SV V twin engine. It helps in out in the dirt by giving more low-end in lieu of top end power. Still very much a road bike, but it has more bottom acceleration to get around corners and up hills (citing Youtube videos of the racing WEE and V... Plus the MotorcycleUSA review)

 

Yeah, I am aware of the V STROM / WEE STROM thing, came acrossed it enough in my "research".

[cali_beemer]

Plenty of umphhh for around town and twisties but I could see the power being an issue when say, crossing a desert.

 

I saw an indicated 120mph on my SV650 while crossing the desert in a western state. And that was loaded as shown in the photo.

 

Bob

 

My comments were directed to the strom whereas the aerodynamics of the SV are a bit different. I am sure an SV does a bit better. However, reaching 120 capability and cruising on a trip are two very different things. My RS can reach over 150 but I would never do that on a trip.... I personally am not going to want to ride with the bike damn near redline for hours at a time. On the Vstrom site, its heavily commented that the bike feels taxed cruising on the highway (please note Vstrom not SV). After riding one, I could see that not being the preference for the bike. Dont get me wrong, it had alot of pep for 650 cc's and I am a huge fan of the Vstrom and SV 650 bikes. However, if I spent the majority of my time on the freeway , I could think of better choices such as the 1000. I think of freeway friendly being a bike that can get up and move at a moments notice. I dont think of the 650 as a bike that can accelerate very quickly from say 70 or 80 mph and sprint to 100 at a moments notice if need be. I am not saying the bike cant see higher speeds but I think in terms of real use and not a land speed record.

[Finitw0]

Does anyone have any first hand experience between the WeeStrom and SV650? I could use that in this discussion too. I have seen them compared before, but it seems that it depends on the rider. Both are good bikes.

 

Off to Nanotechnology Engineering class. Test today Fun Stuff!

[BFish]

I've been really happy with my SV650. Last Summer, when the R1200ST's driveshaft went south, I used the SV for a multi-day road trip. The longest day was probably in the neighborhood of 400 miles.

 

The SV does some things better than the BMW. Some things not as well.

 

Bob

 

 

 

sweet looking SV....is the windshield cowling/fairing OEM? (apologize for the 'jack)

[Roadwolf]

It's a GIVI

 

http://www.giviusa.com/Screens--spoilers/Cupolini-universali-en/A750

 

 

[tallman]

$4000 OTD should not be a problem.

 

A quick search on Cycle Trader showed several for under $2,400 w/miles between 6 and 11,000.

 

'03/'04 models.

For a bit more I'm sure thre's newer ones out there.

Don't know the bike well enough to know of significant model changes.

[Finitw0]

I think in '03 it went to EFI. minor changes from 03 on. This is all speculation based on the availability of service manuals. They have a service manual for Pre-03 and Post 03. I am willing to bet there was a major change in 03.

[russell_bynum]

I think in '03 it went to EFI. minor changes from 03 on. This is all speculation based on the availability of service manuals. They have a service manual for Pre-03 and Post 03. I am willing to bet there was a major change in 03.

 

I believe that's right.

 

At some point in the last couple of years, ABS became an option. I don't have experience with Suzuki's ABS, but if they did a good job with it, that might be a worthwhile thing to look for...though it does mean a newer (and more expensive) bike.

[Missouri Bob]

sweet looking SV....is the windshield cowling/fairing OEM? (apologize for the 'jack)

 

Actually, it is an A760. I bought it from Twisted Throttle.

http://www.twistedthrottle.com/trade/productview/730/291/

 

Bob

[cali_beemer]

I think in '03 it went to EFI. minor changes from 03 on. This is all speculation based on the availability of service manuals. They have a service manual for Pre-03 and Post 03. I am willing to bet there was a major change in 03.

 

I am not certain about the SV650, but if its the same as the Vstrom, they made some significant changes to the fuel injection systems in 2005 (changed up to a 24bit processor). Basically there is less need for adjustments (although a dealer trip is required when they do) but most of all on the Vstom, the owners were reporting significantly better fuel economy of around 10 mpg. It also received a better alternator if you decide to farkle your bike. Something to think about. I know on the Vstrom ABS became an option in 05 as well. I am not sure how this relates to the SV, but I would think it would coincide with the strom. I have seen some nice near new SV sports with only a few hundred miles on them for 5k. Deals on those are abundant. A good source for info on these 2 bikes are here: http://www.stromtrooper.com/forums/

 

There are alot of those guys have owned both, and some currently own both. A good source, I used it alot. I came very close to buying a 650 strom ABS. I even had an offer on one but the guy never came up with the pink slip. Then I found a 02 K1200RS with cruise control and full luggage like new for 6k. I couldnt pass it up. Although I sure would love a strom 650 to play with.

[cali_beemer]

I have read a lot about the weestrom's touring abilities, but I am young and would like something with a little more grunt on the highways. Unfortunately, even though I know th V Strom is a tough bike, my insurance won't allow for anything over 800CC. That rules out the Bandit as well.

 

Just out of curiosity, why is your insurance constricting you to 800cc? I had an 1100 at the age of 18. No insurance problems at all. At 19 I had bought a brand new 1100RT and even with maxed out full coverage there was no issue. Personally, I would be looking for a new insurance company if they were trying to dictate the cc's.

[Missouri Bob]

My comments were directed to the strom whereas the aerodynamics of the SV are a bit different. I am sure an SV does a bit better. However, reaching 120 capability and cruising on a trip are two very different things. My RS can reach over 150 but I would never do that on a trip.... I personally am not going to want to ride with the bike damn near redline for hours at a time. On the Vstrom site, its heavily commented that the bike feels taxed cruising on the highway (please note Vstrom not SV). After riding one, I could see that not being the preference for the bike. Dont get me wrong, it had alot of pep for 650 cc's and I am a huge fan of the Vstrom and SV 650 bikes. However, if I spent the majority of my time on the freeway , I could think of better choices such as the 1000. I think of freeway friendly being a bike that can get up and move at a moments notice. I dont think of the 650 as a bike that can accelerate very quickly from say 70 or 80 mph and sprint to 100 at a moments notice if need be. I am not saying the bike cant see higher speeds but I think in terms of real use and not a land speed record.

 

Good points. I probably would not attempt to hold a sustained speed of more than 90. Bad things could happen to my license.

 

Interestingly, at high speeds (90+), I find the SV650's motor vibrates less than my R1200ST's motor. And the SV motor has power everywhere: 3000 - 10,000 RPM. It impresses me.

 

Bob

[russell_bynum]

Interestingly, at high speeds (90+), I find the SV650's motor vibrates less than my R1200ST's motor. And the SV motor has power everywhere: 3000 - 10,000 RPM. It impresses me.

 

Bob

 

It is very not v-twinish in that regard. It really likes to be revved.

[NonComp]

The 650 engine (at least on the V-Strom) got dual spark plugs in 2007, along with the ABS option. I think that there were some other engine changes at that time. I think the alternator was bumped from 375 watts to 400 in 2008.

[Finitw0]

SO I found a 2008 SV650 for $3000 on cyclertrader. It is a little over 2 hrs from me. Not looking to purchase anything, but I am finding (although a small amount) of 2006+ SV.

http://www.cycletrader.com/find/listing/2008-SUZUKI-SV650-SV-650--95877598

 

Really not finding too many Wee-Stroms or V-Stroms.

 

You guys are making great points and I verified that the changes to the processor did occur in 2005.

 

When would I really need to accelerate quickly between 80-100. I understand the need to get up to 80 since people around here regularly cruise the highways at 75.

 

If my physics is correct, the acceleration is governed by the ability for the engine to make power at each rpm range and the amount of drag force acting on the vehicle as it accelerates. V-twins like to be torquey in the low and mid range, and sometimes drop off at the top. So, How is the bike at cruising RPMS (70MPH) and is there enough juice to accelerate quick enough to take a pass in a legitimate time frame? Can someone verify if it is uncomfortable at highway speeds?

 

Also, I found on svrider.com that those people report heavy buffeting from the faired version of the SV, hence why I would like to go for the naked. But The naked with a windscreen seems to be fairly nice on the highway although a new seat or gel pad might be in order.

[Finitw0]

 

Just out of curiosity, why is your insurance constricting you to 800cc? I had an 1100 at the age of 18. No insurance problems at all. At 19 I had bought a brand new 1100RT and even with maxed out full coverage there was no issue. Personally, I would be looking for a new insurance company if they were trying to dictate the cc's.

 

I am actually looking for a new insurance company for moto insurance. Right now I have State Farm, since my mom has them and I use them for my car. They are restricting me to under 1000CC until I am out of college. Basically they reject my discounts on a bike over the 1000CC limit.

 

I looked at progressive and they would let me have whatever I want, but they charge a butt load more for over 1200CC. I don't have any crashes within the past 4 years, so I should be good. But at last, I am not.

 

The third thing is, I haven't really looked for anything over 1000CC because they seem out of my price range, at least when I looked at bandits earlier this month.

 

Thats my $0.02 on that. Now back to the bike info!

 

Keep it coming! Thanks Ya'll

[tallman]

Are you sure it is just the cc's?

 

Perhaps it is the classification of the bike.

 

For example, for me, the insurance on a K1200RS was more than on a K1200GT becasue of the way the company classfied the bikes.

Same displacement, basically same performance, yet one is a sport bike, the other isn't.

YMMV, but it may be something for you to investigate.

Best wishes.

[cali_beemer]

 

When would I really need to accelerate quickly between 80-100. I understand the need to get up to 80 since people around here regularly cruise the highways at 75.

 

 

I will give a brief narration but I am sure there will be alot of people dispute this. After taking the safety course, they illustrate that overcoming an emergency is often best solved with accelration over desceleration. For example, you are on the freeway and two lanes merge. There is a car right next to you about the merge. Slowing down would be the natural response if in a car but the safer practice on a bike is to accelerate past the vehicle. Personally, I find the high performace a required virtue in a bike. Its what I love about the bmw k motor. Power and sheer acceleration in an instant.

[cali_beemer]

The 650 engine (at least on the V-Strom) got dual spark plugs in 2007, along with the ABS option. I think that there were some other engine changes at that time. I think the alternator was bumped from 375 watts to 400 in 2008.

 

Yes, it was in 2007, not the 2005 as I mentioned...

[bakerzdosen]

I'll 2nd the vote for a better seat. My brother bought an sv650 (2008 - naked) after hearing the advice of a lot of people here. (He's 24 and it was his 2nd bike.) We bought it and immediately drove/rode 13 hours or so home. The stock seat sucks. The OEM gel seat only slightly less so.

 

He's going on a year of ownership and I don't believe he has any regrets. But it is indeed VERY different than my r12st. It made me really appreciate the clean air from the r12st's wind management.

[Boone60]

You might want to check out Geico (government employee discounts) and Dairyland for your motorcycle insurance.

 

I see some real good buys on the Suzuki Bandit 1200, if you can get affordable insurance this might be a bike to check out.

[Finitw0]

Ok, So I have some good news! I went to the local STEALER and sat my tush on a Wee-Strom ( ) , Versys ( :| ) , ER-6N ( :] ) , Gladius ( ) , and a Bandit 1250 ABS ( ). Also got my V star appraised, and the Stealer's Mechanic said it was in better condition than most kids bring in ( lie or true, you decide). They wanted to give me around 2500 for it.

 

They did not have an SV650, but the guy reassured me that they are reliable and excellent fun-mobiles. He improved upon his cred. by showing me picture of him with his 06 SV650.

 

I really liked the Wee-strom, but I could not afford their $8k so they would not let me test it on the road. The gladius (which I hear is the SV replacement) was right there in the naked standard range I was looking at, but being a new bike, there probably are none in my price range used. The ER-6N was similar to the Gladius, and I think that would be a capable machine. The Versys was not up to my standards. I don't know why, but it just did not fit me as well as the Wee-Strom. I liked the bandit almost as much as the gladius, but I don't know if the Bandit is my style.

 

 

So right now, it is sort of neck and neck with the Wee-strom and SV650. I saw both with touring packages, which both looked great.

And so, unless a deal comes knocking my way for a good Beemer or other bike like a naked ER-6N, I will be looking for one of these.

 

I still am interested in people's opinions, and it looks like now the main issues are Power and Maintenance.

 

P.s. The Wee-strom looked very maintenance friendly, so I bet by murphy's law, the wee-strom will be more underpowered compared to the SV650. Can someone straighten me out on this? I know... same engine, just geared differently, right? How will on these best sellers do on the road past 80MPH?

 

 

P.s.s. If anyone has any local deals on any of these bikes... let me know!

[EffBee]

When I reluctantly sold my belaoved Boston Green RT, I bought an FJR. Great motor. Average chassis/suspension. Ultimately, though, I wanted something not so heavy and bloody fast.

 

I settled on a 650 V-strom w/ABS and outfitted it with a Russell Saddle, Pelican cases on Givi brackets, Pelican trunk, a Cee Bailey windshield, suspension mods, Pilot Road street tires, and a bunch more stuff. Rode it from WA to CO and again later from WA to UT. Loved it. Not as comfortable as my old Boston Green 1100RT was, but at that time I had given up ever finding another RT in that rare color. At least with low miles on it. So I was happy to carry on with the Wee-Strom. It railed around the twisties up here in the PNW, and it cruised at 85 out on the interstates (once I left this forested laser trap) and gets between 45 and 50mpg. And I weigh about 250. Seriously, it's one damn fine bike with plenty of power. As for its power vs. the SV, it's within a couple of HP, but yeah, there's a lot more bottom and mid-range. Makes riding more relaxed.

 

Anyway, long story short I actually came across another Boston Green RT with 14K miles and I bought it. So as much as I don't want to, the Wee is going to go on the block this spring. Maybe. I'm still trying to justify two bikes, two insurance bills, etc. But I've found my original love (my RT in Boston Green) and I think the Zook is fighting a losing battle in my heart. Stay tuned.

[Finitw0]

Anyway, long story short I actually came across another Boston Green RT with 14K miles and I bought it. So as much as I don't want to, the Wee is going to go on the block this spring. Maybe. I'm still trying to justify two bikes, two insurance bills, etc. But I've found my original love (my RT in Boston Green) and I think the Zook is fighting a losing battle in my heart. Stay tuned.

 

Believe me, I am trying to justify to my girlfriend about keeping the VSTAR and getting another bike like the Wee-strom. She is 5'1" and barely able to foot my V-Star, so unless I give it a Julio Slam so she can ride it, she wants it gone if I get a new bike. I honestly think that the V-STAR is nice for long trips on only highway, and maybe showing up at the local bar on bike night. Makes me feel legit beneath these Harley Riders .

 

I agree with what you said about the Wee-strom being capable. Saw 3 of them pull in and out of the dealer today while I was there and each one had a different flavor, but they all looked sweet (even though ppl say they are ugly).

 

 

Sooooooo, If it is going on the block........pics? I am fairly certain you have good tastes in machines and a good maintenance routine. Just saying..... might be interested one day....

 

[TEWKS]

I am trying to justify to my girlfriend about keeping the VSTAR and getting another bike like the Wee-strom.

 

she wants it gone if I get a new bike.

 

 

Be afraid, be very afraid! No just kidding, you'll be fine.

 

 

Pat

[Finitw0]

I am trying to justify to my girlfriend about keeping the VSTAR and getting another bike like the Wee-strom.

 

she wants it gone if I get a new bike.

 

 

 

Be afraid, be very afraid! No just kidding, you'll be fine.

 

 

Pat

 

No, No... I was just informed with a smack to the head that she really likes the V Star and wants to ride it one day. I think that she will end up taking it as her project bike and make it fit her. She likes those sort of things.... Maybe thats why she is God's gift to me! She likes motorcycles!.

 

 

 

[TEWKS]

 

She likes motorcycles!.

 

 

whew!!!!

 

 

Pat

[lvnvbiker]

Effbee's Wee is pretty nice, definitly well set up and taken care of. As for sv650s they are pretty common, but if you are anywhere near a track that has bike racing you need to be very painstaking in you inspection of the machine. If you find drilled and saftey wired fasteners be cautious as they are a hugely popular track bike... For me the Wee would be a better choice as I love to take dirt paths and find out where they go and it is a capable machine for light to medium dualsporting leaving you with alot more options in terms of riding area than the more sporty street focused machine...

[BarOne]

Check this out!: http://www.stromtrooper.com/forums/showthread.php?t=45925

[hopz]

OK, OK, you are going to force me to comment and post a picture.

 

Last summer, as some of you know- I went through a buying/selling phase... in the middle there somewhere I sold my Ducati 900 super Sport, and bought a SV 650. I kept it about a month, then went to the Triumph 955 RS. I liked the SV-650 but I didn't love it. Great motor, good systems, sort of weak in the front suspension department, but basically a bullet proof bike. There is virtually no difference in the SV engine and the V-Strom engine- that should not be a key factor in your decision. For what it might be worth- the rear brake on the 650 is just a mere suggestion, not an effective tool.

 

This is the SV-650.

 

 

 

This is what replaced it... Your choice. The aftermarket for the SV-650 is pretty good and you should be able to find one or more to choose from. There were several model year feature changes along the way toward the Gladius, so I recommend a vist to the suzuki forums for details.

 

Triumph 955i RS- fully dressed.

 

[Finitw0]

Check this out!: http://www.stromtrooper.com/forums/showthread.php?t=45925

Yah, I checked this out and that is a sweet deal.

 

OK, OK, you are going to force me to comment and post a picture.

 

Last summer, as some of you know- I went through a buying/selling phase... in the middle there somewhere I sold my Ducati 900 super Sport, and bought a SV 650. I kept it about a month, then went to the Triumph 955 RS. I liked the SV-650 but I didn't love it. Great motor, good systems, sort of weak in the front suspension department, but basically a bullet proof bike. There is virtually no difference in the SV engine and the V-Strom engine- that should not be a key factor in your decision. For what it might be worth- the rear brake on the 650 is just a mere suggestion, not an effective tool.

 

I heard the same things about the SV650's suspension and rear break. But I heard both could be fixed fairly easily. As for your buying and selling phase.... NO KIDDING! I know how you probably felt.

 

My main decider right now is availability. There seems to be more used SV's than Wee's. At least out in the open. The forum markets might have more Wee's, albeit higher miles.

 

Quick Question.... How do miles translate to motorcycle lifetime? I know that it depends on the rider and the maintenance schedule, how high the bike was rev'd and if it was ridden like it was stolen. But do high miles (20k +) mean a deal breaker?

[Finitw0]

You guys have done a great job giving me your inputs. Truly impressed.