One
of the best bargains in motorcycling, the SV650 is, we feel,
not suitable for most beginning riders. While the SV's 645cc
V-twin engine delivers its 70 horsepower in a friendlier, smoother
manner than, say, Suzuki's own Bandit 600, that much power can
get you into trouble. Like Honda's 750 Nighthawk, though with
more performance and agility, it makes a stellar second bike.
Suzuki also offers a sportier version, with a half-fairing and
lower handlebars, called the SV650S. Seat height: 31.7 inches.
This
is a highly powerful sport/standard. Torquey twin is very
sensitive to throttle inputs. Higher center of gravity makes
it feel heavier pushing around. In short - this is only
slightly removed from the 600 supersports which I won't
even consider for a first bike. The SV650 (with or without
S) is a marginal choice for first bike.
I honestly
feel more comfortable recommending a 750 Magna to a first
time rider when compared to the SV650, and the Magna is
not something that immediately comes to mind when I think
of a suitable learning tool. Nay, like the Magna the SV
is a second bike, something to graduate to.
The
SV650S, despite the many magazines that recommend it as
a "good starter bike", is a poor first choice.
It's reputation as a wheelie monster is well deserved and
its suspension is supposedly marginal at high speeds. Like
Darwin, I see it as little more than a baby TL without the
fairing. I give it a D rating. Great second bike though.
Recommendations
made by Beginner Bikes Magazine, it's staff, team members
or riding club officers, are based on the skills of a novice
rider, of average stature and do not necessarily represent
the ideal for every rider. While Beginner Bikes encourages
safe, smart riding, we do not assume responsibility for
each individual. Please ride with care at your own risk.
Beginner
Bikes Buyer's Guide
