1999 Suzuki reviews

Nice bike and have really enjoyed it this summer. I have put 7000 miles on it in 6 months. I've only had one problem and that's once in a while when trying to start the compression release cable bounces up and down causing engine not to start. I've adjusted it a little and it's been okay so far. The starter switch does not working sometimes. Other than those problems, it's a nice motorcycle. I do not like the looks of the new ones. Show less

I bought my SV650 from a gentleman in his 70's who learned to ride on the SV. The bike had only 1400 miles on it. The bike starts well. Like all twins, it takes a couple of miles for the bike to warm up. Once it warms up, the twin really smooths out. Up to about 5,000 rpm the bike is quite tame. After 5,000 rpm you can hear the motor starting to roar and the power picking up. Handling is a breeze. The bike is quite light and fairly well balanced. You could literally eat a banana in one hand and counter steer with the other. The Metzler tires are very good rubber. On the highway the bike is really good. Even though it doesn't have a fairing it really doesn't feel that blowy. The only grief I have with the bike is getting at the battery. You have to take the seat off and a bunch of bolts. Also, I stripped the bolts that screw into the frame that hold the seat on. Luckily, I can replace it with a few stainless bolts with washers. The manufacturer has definitely taken a few cheap approaches to get it down to the price tag. The front forks bottom out if you hit a fair sized (but not huge) pothole or bump. At first, the rear mono shock feels like it has no travel, but eventually it loosens up. The front headlight looks like it is held on by really cheap brackets. The two stroke engine and clutch/shifting can feel a little thrashy. Suzuki's are meant to be shifted fairly hard, so wind up the rpm's to 6-7000, put some pressure on the foot shifter, then barely budge the clutch to get it into the next gear. The bike really doesn't even need a 6th gear. I like to cruise at about 5,000 rpm so I can slow down a little without downshifting, yet hit the power band when I want to crank it. I'd say this bike is a real bargain, especially if you can pick one up used with under 3,000 miles. Some people think a 650 is too small, or even too small for the highway. I'm six feet tall and have no problem on the bike. I've never felt it was underpowered in any situation. 60 horsepower on a sub-400 pound bike (wet weight) is really enough power for just about anybody except those with maniac tendencies. Anyways, if you feel like getting an SV, definitely go for it. Show less

This is my first bike and I am amazed! It handles very well and has a lot of speed and power. I have not had any problems with it as of yet. Just Ride! Show less

I just got a 1999 rm 125. This is my first motorcross bike and it is very fast. It has lots of low end power and a great midrange. Recomended for an experienced rider who wants to have fun on tracks or trails. Show less

I bought the Katana after being away from bikes for 10 years. Great Move! It's quick as any bike its well balanced for two riders and it definitely turns heads up and down the highways and streets. It could use a bit more power and I have replaced the stock exhaust with Yoshimura slip on and it's got a great sound now. don't buy a bike without at least seeing and sitting on a Katana. Show less

Awesome bike. The first I've bought but not the first I've rode. This bike is a go anywhere do anything kind of bike. I only wish the seat was a little bit softer because I enjoy riding it so much I always get a sore and I'm still young. Get one of these if you are thinking about it. Hands down an awesome bike and for the price it will rock your world. Show less

I just bought a used 1999 Marauder and only gone about 50 miles. The only previous riding experience I've had was about 30 minutes on an old 125 Honda dirt bike, so you could basically say I have never ridden before. This bike is sweet! It has more than enough power for a beginner but is still not too torquey or jerky. When you get on it you better hang on cause you'll be at 70mph in a heartbeat. Mine has Cobra straight pipes, the mirrors have been moved to the end of my handlebars, and the front signals are relocated to the frame next to the radiator. To sum it up in three words: Too Much Fun! Show less

Fabulous bike, everyday it is a delight to ride. I had FI woes at first, but once Suzuki replaced the computer, it has run fine, with no hesitation. The motor is a blast, tons of grunt with a super top end for a twin, smile-producing every time. I like the naked engine combined with the wind protection of the half-fairing. Only service problem was a weepy clutch-cover o-ring. It is very reliable. My biggest beef are the ergonomics, mostly that long stretch out to the bars, and the weight on the wrists that results. The answer, of course, is to keep the speed up, so the wind takes the weight off your arms, but around-town riding gets tiring. All-in-all, it had been a great bike to own, my sixth in 35 years of riding. Show less

It's sad that grown men pass over this bike because of peer pressure from their fellow squids. This bike has ample power. I've gotten it to 120mph with plenty of throttle room left. It really should be classified as a sport tourer. The riding position is amazingly comfortable for 2 up riding. The ride can be a little buzzy, but overall, it's a great ride. It also has a fuel gauge, and you've gotta like that! The only thing I don't like about this bike is the weight. It's a pig @ 458lbs. It's also too quiet for me, but a Muzzy will fix that! The only people who dislike this bike are selfconscience squids and those who've never ridden it. If you're looking for a comfortable durable bike with adequate power, then this is the bike for you. If you're looking to impress your fellow man, then look elsewhere. Sadly, I've gotten MANY compliments from Gixxer & R6 riders when their "friends" weren't looking. Show less

I had one...high sided after pulling a wheelstand showing off to my mates, just after i got it. Had the clutch problem, fixed by using semi- synthetic oil instead of fully synthetic. Had the oil leak through the air box problem...fixed by inserting a filter into the breather pipe for the airbox. Had the cracked suspension problem, fixed under warranty (nice!) Had the pilloins feet coming up past my helmet problem, fixed by not taking pillions! Had the "this thing has some power" problem...fixed by sorting out the suspension and thrashing it harder! All in all a fine piece of machinary with power to burn,with some of the earlier models having a few MINOR teething problems. Problems that are easily fixed with a little bit of know how, or a few bucks thrown at your local dealer. The most fun I have ever had on 2 wheels, and with two brothers pipes, and a K&N filter, (maybe a tweak or two in the suspension dept), the most fun most average riders will have too! Show less