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Suzuki SV 650S
When it first appeared in 1999, the SV650 was one of the highest-spec bikes in its class. An all-new purpose-designed V-twin engine housed in an aluminium trellis frame with sporty styling was much more advanced than competing bikes like the Bandit 600 and Kawasaki's ZR-7.
Suzuki extended the appeal of the SV by offering two versions. An unfaired SV650 is ideal for town use, but this half-faired version extends the SV's remit to include longer-distance commuting and light touring. Higher gearing gives an increased top speed, while lower handlebars and a twin headlamp fairing keeps wind stress off the rider, allowing relaxed high-speed cruising. The SV650S also has twin trip meters and an integrated cockpit dash. The engine looks like a miniature version of the firm's TL1000 motor, the eight-valve, quad-cam design producing an impressive 52kW (70bhp), with a pleasing, torquey delivery. The chassis provides similarly easy handling, the conventional upside-down forks and rear monoshock providing soft, predictable damping while the light weight and sporty geometry mean the SV steers quickly. Twin front brake discs with two-piston Tokico calipers provide ample stopping power.
The naked version of the SV is 4kg (8.81b) lighter than the faired 'S' model, and is also geared lower, giving a lower top speed and faster acceleration. The result is a markedly different bike: much livelier round town, and more fun to ride. The engine and chassis is largely identical to the unfaired machine, although the different riding position gives a more sporting feel. The aluminium frame is more than stiff enough for the power output, and sporting radial tyres give sportsbike levels of grip. As an all-round budget or novice machine, the SV650S is an excellent choice. But more sporting riders may find the V-twin motor short of outright power compared with four-cylinder rivals, although the narrow, firm chassis is as sporty as anything else in the budget middleweight class. |
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