Suzuki’s SV650: helpful and fun
If you’re looking for a motorcycle that is both involving and capable of delivering a good time then Suzuki’s revived SV650 might be just what you’re after.
The original SV650 arrived in 1999, shortly after it’s half-faired sibling. This steel tubed model gave way in 2003 to the pressed aluminium frame, fuel-injected setup adopted by the faired model. The naked SV was dropped entirely in 2009, replaced by the softer-styled Gladius, which was itself dropped in 2016 with the SV650 being reintroduced.
We took out a 2016 model with 12,382 miles on the clock.
Give me some spec
A tubular steel trellis frame (welcome return, looks much better than pressed aluminium) houses the 645cc V-twin. Peak torque of 47lb-ft now comes in at 8100rpm (from 6400 on the old model), making for a more rewarding ride when pushing. Maximum power is 75bhp (up 4) with an estimated 130mph top speed. Twin 290mm, twin-pot caliper front discs with a single 240mm, onepot caliper rear stop proceedings.
So what’s it like to ride?
Let’s quick-shift that elephant. The SV650 has a shorter wheelbase and a more taut rear than the Gladius. While the Gladius was perky and eager to please; the SV wants more of and from its rider. I like both, always did, they go about their job in slightly different ways.
The SV650 has a forward-tilted riding position with bars that somehow give a ‘clip-on’ feel without any of the inherent aches. Pegs are slightly rear of centre, the effect of which is to tuck you in around the tank, relaxed but ready to drop into a more purposeful stance.
Newly qualified riders will love ‘Low RPM Assist’ activating the moment the rider releases the clutch, it raises revs just enough to avoid accidental stalling. The SV650 is light, really easy to get used to, turns with little effort and it can sit at low revs at 5mph comfortably. Great for new riders and commuters, but what about more experienced riders?
Ladies and gentlemen, open that throttle and hunt that torque at the top end. 7000-8000rpm sees the SV stride forward with purpose, taut and together, encouraging the rider to get involved. It corners easily but likes the rider being part of the process, adjusting weight and rolling with the bends.
The suspension is budget and non-adjustable, but copes well with most stuff (poor road surfaces fine, but didn’t like ripples). Brakes give an easy application of power with no surprises. The mirrors are great, the riding position is comfortable with no aches or pains after a couple of hours in the saddle... but ah, here’s the weakest link. After a couple of hours the need to fidget was kicking in and I’d like to swap the seat material for something more grippy.
What nick is it in?
SVs always held up well (except forks made from soft cheese), from the evidence the new model will – with forks made from less pitting-friendly metals – this one was unblemished.
What’s it worth?
The dealer wants £4395 for a 2016 bike with 12,382 miles recorded and time left on the factory warranty. Sticking with the new model, there are a decent number around ranging from a 2016 bike with 744 miles logged at £4494 to a 2017 bike with 8000 miles clocked for £5199.