I'm an avid motorcylist and have worked as a mechanical technician, in customer service, and current...
I'm an avid motorcylist and have worked as a mechanical technician, in customer service, and currently work in a motor based courier firm in the warehouse.
Member since:24.02.2009
Reviews:7
After my Z750 was written off (not pleased!) I had to find a replacement bike. I eventually decided to get an SV650s. I plumped for a used 2000 model "curvy" SV (as pictured)
I'll sum it up pretty easily for you guys
Engine
Carbed Vtwin with a 650cc (near enough!) capacity. Pulls well from between 2000 and 10,000, anything higher is wasted breath. Has no problem starting in the mornings which is nice from the previous carbed bike I owned.
Sounds meaty with an aftermarket can, with the standard bazooka tube it sounds like a lawnmower.
Handling and brakes
My particular one has Hagon progressive fork springs at the front, with 10w oil (A popular and effective mod) and a rear shock from a ZX10r. It's been set up for the previous rider and works well for me. I can honestly say that in this setup, it handles better than any other bike I've ridden (not a long list, haha) and deals with bumps very well. It's also very comfortable on a bumpy road and visibly less shaken up than most "modern" sports machines...Although totally standard I wouldn't expect it to be "bad"
Brakes are fine for me, mine doesn't have braided hoses yet the lever travel is quite short and has a nice action. Pulls you up well enough.
Tyres on mine are Continental Road attacks and are very nice actually. Only the 120/60 front tyre can feel odd coming from having only ridden bikes with (110)/120/70's up front, although a 120/70 can be fitted with no other changes needed. This sorts of the feeling that at lower speeds, the front end is going to wash, and allows fitment of Diablo Supercorsas and other high performance tyres - Although it's recommended if you lower the front of the bike by 6-12mm to keep rake the same.
It's very light as well, it took me a while to learn to ride it after coming from a Z750.. like it just turns in and I ended up having to sit up to get back on line :D
Reliability
Some issues with the curvy SV models are just silly, such as a clutch cover that can weep oil as it warps over time. It's made of plastic so what do you expect? Can be replaced with a metal one from woodcraft or a new plastic one, although the issue will come back after a while. When replacing a plastic cover with a new one, be sure to apply some Suzuki bond around the join to be sure it won't happen again, along with a new o-ring. Other than that it's a very durable engine and lasts forever, just keep it serviced ETC ETC.
Practicality
Fuel range is anything between 110 and 220 miles depending on how you ride it. I rode the bike back from Harrogate in Yorkshire to Thatcham in Berkshire and I was scared about my fuel. I had done 155 miles according to the trip computer, and when I filled up I could only get 10 litres in the 17L tank. Reserve comes on with about 3.5-4l to go so it should give you a range of about 35 miles when the light starts flashing.
Controls are typical Suzuki, very clear and simple. Dashboard shows revs and speed, low warning light but no temp gauge or fuel guage. Two trip meters (very handy) and an odometer complete the package.
Under the rear seat, it's hard to fit much as the fuse box is in the way. My bike has a tail tidy so I'm not sure if this affects underseat storage. I managed to fit a Scottoiler there, and I also managed to stuff a pair of Winter gloves under the seat... just.
My SV650S model has clipons instead of normal bars of the unfaired version, with rear set pegs. Comforts fine for me and I'm over 6ft tall :)
Overall
A very good bike for beginners, I hear it can be easily restricted. It's light, reliable, easy to ride and enjoyable. It can be modified to personalise it and it's a bike that everyman can enjoy. From newbie to seasoned pro!
Although in true Suzuki style, the laquer on the forks peels and then you have to spend 2 weekends with a scrounger and a polishing cloth/polish to fix it. Only for it to happen again next winter.
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Very nice review, though I'd like some information on servicing costs and when there needed doing...could also elaborate what 'woodcraft' is, as I have no idea :)
MAllen400 27.04.2009 15:55
sounds good although I must admit it went a bit over my head but thats me not you lol x
A middleweight V-twin bike, the Suzuki SV650 is nimble, versatile and incredibly popular ... more
with new riders. Maisto have introduced a highly detailed and officially licensed model of the Suzuki SV650. Featuring high detailing, full suspension, working kic...
Postage & Packaging: £3.25 Availability: Usually dispatched within 4-5 business days...
Advantages: Cheap, easy to ride, insurance friendly, great first bike Disadvantages: Build quality, when you park it next to a 900 or 1000cc, you'll want rid
fezza101 10.04.2006 (10.04.2006)
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Review of Suzuki SV650
Advantages: Performance, purchase price, cheap insurance, resale value. Disadvantages: May want a bigger bike after awhile. Cheesy-looking rear bumper.
matthewaggie 02.03.2009 (02.03.2009)
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Review of Suzuki SV650
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