Suzuki SV650
The Suzuki SV650 is a motorcycle that is hard to pin down. Most motorcycles that are great for the experienced rider are much too powerful for someone new to the hobby of motorcycling.
This has led new riders buying 600cc+ motorcycles in an effort to 'plan ahead' for when they are experienced. The 90-degree liquid cooled V-twin, 645cc, fuel injected engine delivers power in a very managable way and is great for both a new and experienced rider.
The Suzuki SV650 has mid-range power in spades, and is the type you need when riding on the street. That is also the primary reason why the" Suzuki SV650 "makes such a great beginner motorcycle. If you pick up an older SV650 (pre-2003) you will find that the frame is more rounded compared to the new versions, this allows the frame to be 100% cast aluminum alloy. The older tube frames were partially cast and the rest was welded together. Couple that with the stock Metzler Mez 4 tires and you have a bike that can keep up with other more race oriented bikes in the twisties.
One gripe that most Suzuki SV650 owners have is the suspension.
While the Suzuki SV650 has a family resemblance to the TL, no parts are shared between the two bikes. Although the Suzuki SV650 undoubtedly carries a sporting slant, its styling doesn't imply the perceived commitment to performance riding of more hard-core sporting machinery, such as the GSX-R line.
Although the SV's engine may look similar to its big brother, the 90 degree V-twin was designed specifically for the Suzuki SV650. Constructed of thin-walled aluminum tubing which Suzuki claims lowers the bike's weight without compromising stiffness, the frame looks similar to the TL1000S chassis, but was designed specifically for the "Suzuki SV650". A pair of 290mm stainless steel front discs and dual piston calipers transfer the braking forces from the road to the chassis, and a 240mm disc handles the rear.
The quick-steering bike changes lines midcorner without incident and feels perfectly planted until rough pavement overwhelms the stock suspension. The Suzuki SV650 carburetion makes transitions from off to on throttle somewhat abrupt, which novice riders may find disconcerting on corner entrances. Similarly, we expected our less experienced riders to initially struggle with the Suzuki SV650 slightly grabby clutch engagement. A couple questioned the bike's long distance comfort due to the sporty riding position.
Riding the Suzuki SV650 impressed upon us how much performance can be had for $5749.