SV650 or V-Strom 650?

[Toad Rider]

I've been thinking about what I want for a second bike when I decide to move on from the GS.  I want either a SV650 (naked) or a V-Strom 650, but I can't decide which would be better for my usage.  I am primarily a recreational sport rider; I rarely have time for touring.  I like to do 200 mile Sunday rides on curvy scenic roads.  Although, I'd like to have the ability for touring.  I like the look of the naked SV a little better than the V-Strom.  But I hear rave reviews of the V-Strom's combination of comfort, speed, and manuverability.  Is the SV650 comfortable on long rides?  I know I can probably find a much better deal on a used naked SV than I can on a used V-Strom.  But is the scarcity of available used V-Stroms an indication of how much their owners like them?  What are your thoughts on this?  Both are awesome bikes.

[GeeP]

Definately SV-N!

(My opinion might partly be due the fact that there's no way in hell I can get both feet down on a 'strom, even without the seat on it.   

I'm looking for an SV for spring myself.  Lots out there if you know where to look.   

[pandy]

The SV is an awesome bike. I have the SVs model, because I like the sportier position. He's pretty darned comfortable on long rides. Of course, I had to build my "butt stamina" up, but I still ride on the stock seat. The only time I was a little sore and grumpy after a ride was the day I did 400 miles...I'm just not used to the iron-butt rides... 

[max_boost]

I did a little over 600 miles on my SVS in 28 hours and wasn't uncomfortable at all.  I'm still on the stock seat too but I'll be getting the gel seat before next season.

[bombadillo]

F4i   



FTW!!!!!

[DrtRydr23]

SV 650.  I am biased though, since I can barely stand to look at a Vstrom.  U-G-L-Y Vstrom got no aliibi.  Its ugly, its ugly, yo mamma said its ugly.  Also, like Geep said, shorter people (like me) have some issues with getting a foot down.

[Mk1inCali]

Basically a question of how leaned over you want to be (In order of most upright to most leaned over: V-Strom, SV-N, SV-S/SV-F) and how much wind protection you want to have (Most to least: V-Strom, SV-S, SV-N).


No one can make up your mind for you on those two things, totally personal preference.