Suzuki SV650S reviews

I've always read these reviews, hoping that everything said in them was true, but often times honestly thinking it wasn't. I just got the 2006 SV650S (virtually identical to 2007) after shopping bikes for months, and hopping between SV, VS, and SV-S for weeks. Being my first bike, then following my dad drive it off the lot left my stomach in my throat. I just want to let any newbies know, she will take good care of you. Hoping on for my first ride had me feeling as though I've been riding for a long time. She handles like butter and is just as comfortable. Being a long time cruiser fan, it was much different than expected, but nothing to complain about. Since I am not even close to breaking it in, I cannot say much for reliability. But if even more power is on the way, there is no way you can be dissappointed. For all you maybe younger guys/gals, or just less experienced, I'd recommend looking into the SV. Smooth to drive with plenty of power at hand, the SV truly is a great beginner bike. Look for continued review after the 500-mile mark!!! Show less

I traded in my Honda Shadow VLX Delux to get this bike. Went from the 600cc 4 speed to the 650cc 6 speed and I must say I was pleased. I've had it up too 145 and it was smooth still. And it's got enough power that I can pop wheelies along side my buddies that have the CBR's and Gixxers. All around, it's a great bike and I would recomend it to anyone. Show less

I put 3000 miles on my bike commuting 60 miles daily this summer. It's my first road bike and so far has been fantastic. It's capabilities far exceed mine. I love the torquey V-Twin (not to mention the exhaust note) and the handling. The fairing and it's headlights look really nice - much nicer than the stardard SV. Ergos could be better - standard SV is easier on the wrists. Mirrors could stick out another 1.5 inches or so so I could see more road and less arm... Also - the throttle is very touchy - hard to ride slow and smooth. Overall a great bike. I may go for a V-Strom 650 next year though - more wind protection and more comfortable highway commuting. Show less

Just bought a used Suzuki 2003 SV650. I couldn't be happier. It is without a doubt the best bang-for-the-buck out there in the sport naked/standard catagory, bar-none. The combination of its light stout chassis and its torquey motor that still manages to rev like a banshee is just wonderful. The handling is so well sorted for the "7-8/10ths" canyon carver that the bike seems to ride itself through the twisties! The brakes are the only thing that I feel like I want to "warn" anyone about. The brakes are in a word AWESOME, this means you had better be VERY judicious when coming to a complete stop at intersections, etc. You can lock the front wheel with light pressure from two fingers on the lever if you aren't careful. I have started using 1 finger under 20 mph! (this is more just an FYI for newbies). I give two thumbs-up on the SV650, it is a killer deal for a bike this price. I will probably never sell this one. Read the comparos and reviews online, I am only repeating the experts, this bike consistently beats out the competition. Nice work Suzuki! Show less

I like my bike because I could afford it and it's a very sharp and comfortable ride. This is the second bike I have ridden and owned and personally it's rated number 2, because my Honda CBR 600 F4i rocked. It had the throttle response and wheelie power. The SV does have torque and can do the wheelies but with more effort, great cornering and power but I wish I still had my true sportbike. Show less

This bike has great handling and in areas that have lots of curves and mountains, this is one of the best bikes to have. When I came to Murfreesboro I was racing a BMW M3 and I beat him by a good ways until I hit 130 MPH and then he blew by me at 160. So in flat land I feel it comes up short but in mountain and curvy areas you can keep up with anybody if not beat them. I have a 2004 sv650s but it is almost identical to the 2006. I think the windscreen is well worth it at high speeds. Great beginner bike and pretty forgiving. Has a great power band and I like it. I have a friend who has a GSXR 1000 and he said he is going to buy another sv650 because he loved it in the mountains. Show less

I just bought this bike after trading in my GS500F. It only took 3 days to tire of the GS, but you gotta learn somehow. All I have to say is WOW, what a difference! Before buying this bike, I was debating whether or not to get a gixxer, but I finally decided on this (mostly for the price and lower insurance rates). Man did I make a good choice. The low end torque on this bike is amazing. If you're not careful this bike will throw you to the ground. This isn't as powerful as the repli-racers, but there is plenty of power to use. And for those of you (like myself) that have to have a full fairing bike, Suzuki sells a lower fairing kit($587) complete with frame sliders, and painted. All in all, this bike has the power, style, handling, and price that is just too hard to beat. I highly recomend this bike. After finally getting past my 500 mile break in, I'm ready to see what she's really capable of. Remember to ride safe, and wear your gear. Show less

It's my first bike, I have ridden other sportbikes but wanted something different. With this bike you get the sporty look but you don't have to pay for it, with your back or your money. I feel that this is one of the best beginner bikes out there. I'm short and stockie and have short arms, for me on long rides at first my wrist did hurt some but I bought risers for my handlebars and it's made a world of difference. Show less

First of all I'd like to point out that I am rating this bike as a middleweight sport touring, and not a sport bike. The V-twin offers a very quick response and I admit always pushes the rider to go faster as it feels better in the high rpm. Torque very strong in low revs and surprisingly great response from 7000 to 10000. Braking is inpecable and offers confidence in those riskiy situations. Cornering feels like you are riding your good old 10 speed mountain bike, easy, turns on a dime, and responds to the slightest push on the handlebars. Ideal for beginners that want a little something more from a beginner bike, not surprising, you find these sv650s on the race track. I strongly do not suggest riding this bike with a passenger the feel is all wrong. Seat comfort is horrible. You have to buy a corbin seat. Show less

I love it. don't get me wrong. It's an awesome machine for the money. I however realized the GSX750R is what I should have gotten. Fun factor on Sv for me was a little low because of top end speed and throttle responce. At the same time that V Twin on the Sv is pretty kewl.I have read that the jet kit puts a bit of a spin on the Sv so for a little pep look into that. I love the Sv once more it's awesome for the buck but if you're looking for more adventure then just a simple ride I suggest going with the GSX750R and not having to worry about the trade in issues a few months down the road. Show less