Time to upgrade.. Sv650s-sv1-fz6-fz1

[BassWoW]

So I've loved my gs and it was my second time back to getting a gs. I want something more stable on the highway and 2-up with my fiancee.

I really enjoy twins vs i4. I like cruising around 4-5k and would rather not have to have a high rpm take off.

The fz6 and fz1 seem to be great commuters. Both forums say how comfortable they are and less wind issues. Just high RPMS with the fz6. The look of the Fz6 looks more fierce and I like that.

The Sv650 and sv1000 are both twins and have the low rpm take off factors. I've heard that the sv650s is pretty cramped and it isn't good for long trips. Thats why I ended up with a gs500 again. The look of the sv650 with dual seats really entices me.

My commute daily is 55 mi each each way. Most roads are back routes going 45-55 mph and then a 25 minute strip of highway.

Please can someone help me decide? give me the pros and cons because its going to be quite a while till i can and test ride out here.

[jacob92icu]

I personally would go with the sv models, either size. I was also looking at those two bike models. You might as well get a liter bike (sv1) because I know a few people who have gotten tired of their sv650s. That's just my opinion though. good luck 

[Funderb]

I want an FZ1 so bad, but don't have the disposable income yet. one day. all that power is just.... 


I'd say an FZ1 with stock sound suppression and airbox, yes, will have a higher cruising rpm, but will still be quiet, and you'll never (unless you're crazy) want for more power.

The sv650 will probably be better on gas, and will definitely be more flickable, and I think is a little tighter on the tall folks. You may find yourself getting into trouble on the fz1 if you get throttle happy the way i do. ride both if you can.

[BassWoW]

That's the thing. A litre bike might be a good place to be so then I don't need anything bigger. Plus from what I hear there's more stability on them verses the 600 league.

Now the fz6 has a sexy under exhaust. I mean that has me bought but the fz1 looks more fiercer. Just better body work.


The fz1 wins me on comfortability and mileage is around 40 to 50.  The sv1000 gets around the same as well.

The sv650 averages 55 and fz6 is 45 to 50 something.

Is it worth the extra mpg. The tank on the fz is 5 and something gallons so I'm not too worried.

Lets get more oppinions because I want to hear it from riders not a salesmen.

[jacob92icu]

Have you ever had anything bigger than a 500? if not i would say try and test ride a couple 600s and 1000s so that you know what the power will be like. I know when my best friend ride his first liter bike he said it almost bucked him off every time he hit the throttle. But you might not rest till you have a liter bike haha. I know that's probably how I am.

[Twisted]

As previously suggested, test ride as many of the bikes you can. If you are going to pillion you may find the SV650 a little lacking power and suspension wise. I have heard the FZ6 can be little buzzy hence why you should try and test ride one. Remember also a litre bike is gonna cost you a lot more in insurance. The power difference will scare you at first and takes a little getting used. A litre bike is not as forgiving as the lil GS so be very easy with the throttle. Have you had a look at the Triumph Street Triple? I have ridden one and highly recommend a test ride on one of em.

[simon79]

I can give a bit of personal experience having upgraded last July from a GS to a Mk1 FZ6.

Pros:
-Riding position - more upright and confortable, wind also seems to affect me less than on the GS even though we're still talking naked bikes.
-Power delivery - well, first of all I've got to admit I'm not often heavy on the throttle, I like cruising more than racing. At 6k rpm there's already enough oomph to overtake without downshifting, anyway past 10k things feel different. The (few) times I opened the throttle that much I could feel as though my arms were going to be ripped from the sockets haha. In a word: plenty enough for me.
-Looks - it's modern without looking like an anime character. Which a lot of present Jap bikes do, unfortunately.
-Fuel economy - of course it can't be as economical as the GS, but if you just cruise 55 mpg (about 20 km per litre) are at hand. You can shift at 4k without the engine lugging and/or you feeling like a complete idiot. Overall, I expected worse.

Cons:
-Gear shifting - not as smooth as the GS's, by all means. Especially when downshifting you have to give a sharp kick on the pedal. I found myself wanting a gear indicator at times - something I never missed on the GS even at the very start. I suppose I'll have to just get used to it.
-Parking Maneuverability - maybe it's a higher centre of gravity but the FZ is heavier and it does feel.
-Under-seat exhaust - you'll be better off with a rear rack and top box to deflect air flow, otherwise you'll end up smelling like exhaust smoke at the end of every ride. You may not mind (personally, I do) but your pillion could, especially if it's your significant other and she has to do the washing.

As a matter of fact I haven't had much time to ride since buying my FZ (about 1000-1200 miles I guess) so I still have to get 100% used to it.
But I'm happy and satisfied with the purchase anyway.

Best of luck with your choice!

[BassWoW]

What year is the mk1

[xunedeinx]

Why not a honda VFR?

its a v-4, comfortable, quick, nimble for its size, and reliable.

[jacob92icu]

As previously suggested, test ride as many of the bikes you can. If you are going to pillion you may find the SV650 a little lacking power and suspension wise. I have heard the FZ6 can be little buzzy hence why you should try and test ride one. Remember also a litre bike is gonna cost you a lot more in insurance. The power difference will scare you at first and takes a little getting used. A litre bike is not as forgiving as the lil GS so be very easy with the throttle. Have you had a look at the Triumph Street Triple? I have ridden one and highly recommend a test ride on one of em.

No insurance here in Washington muhaha, but a liter bike will sure cost you a lot to purchase.

[BassWoW]

I don't like the whole cruiser bike look. The vrf is nice but I want dual headlights. Just something about it gets me going.

[jacob92icu]

You mean the Honda vfr 800? Thats a pretty smexy bike, you might like it. It has dual headlights, however; the new models are pretty spendy.

[BassWoW]

You mean the Honda vfr 800? Thats a pretty smexy bike, you might like it. It has dual headlights, however; the new models are pretty spendy.

Your right. It does look pretty awesome but I checked CL and dang 6-8k.

I can give a bit of personal experience having upgraded last July from a GS to a Mk1 FZ6.

Pros:
-Riding position - more upright and confortable, wind also seems to affect me less than on the GS even though we're still talking naked bikes.
-Power delivery - well, first of all I've got to admit I'm not often heavy on the throttle, I like cruising more than racing. At 6k rpm there's already enough oomph to overtake without downshifting, anyway past 10k things feel different. The (few) times I opened the throttle that much I could feel as though my arms were going to be ripped from the sockets haha. In a word: plenty enough for me.
-Looks - it's modern without looking like an anime character. Which a lot of present Jap bikes do, unfortunately.
-Fuel economy - of course it can't be as economical as the GS, but if you just cruise 55 mpg (about 20 km per litre) are at hand. You can shift at 4k without the engine lugging and/or you feeling like a complete idiot. Overall, I expected worse.

Cons:
-Gear shifting - not as smooth as the GS's, by all means. Especially when downshifting you have to give a sharp kick on the pedal. I found myself wanting a gear indicator at times - something I never missed on the GS even at the very start. I suppose I'll have to just get used to it.
-Parking Maneuverability - maybe it's a higher centre of gravity but the FZ is heavier and it does feel.
-Under-seat exhaust - you'll be better off with a rear rack and top box to deflect air flow, otherwise you'll end up smelling like exhaust smoke at the end of every ride. You may not mind (personally, I do) but your pillion could, especially if it's your significant other and she has to do the washing.

As a matter of fact I haven't had much time to ride since buying my FZ (about 1000-1200 miles I guess) so I still have to get 100% used to it.
But I'm happy and satisfied with the purchase anyway.

Best of luck with your choice!

So the would you recommend the 650?

[dry_humor]

the sv really isnt that bad for longer trips. there are a few inexpensive mods like rearset plates to get your feet into a more comfortable position, clip-on risers, etc, etc. i think the most expensive thing that people would upgrade first is the seat. most go with sargent or corbin. havent heard good things about the oem gel seats though.

i've had a "s" model SV650 for 2.5 years now an have loved every minute of it. my mileage usually averages around 48 mpg, but i do about 50/50 between city and highway riding, as well as 2-up riding. maintenance is pretty simple and straightforward if you have a manual as usual. SV1K's will have the same ergonomics as the 650, but in a heavier package as well as fewer mpg. not the way to go IMHO.

as far as the yamaha's go, the seating position will be more upright and more "commuter" style. with similar-ish mpgs. could be more pricey than the SV's but i dont really know. thats also 4 throttlebodies to babysit rather than 2 with the SV as well 

[Twisted]

I don't like the whole cruiser bike look. The vrf is nice but I want dual headlights. Just something about it gets me going.

Triumph Street Triple

[shonole]

I don't like the whole cruiser bike look. The vrf is nice but I want dual headlights. Just something about it gets me going.

Triumph Street Triple

This would be my choice if I was buying new.

My SV650n is fantastic.  It does everything so well.  Plenty of power, great mileage, and reasonably comfortable (though you may want to upgrade the seat, and the front suspension if you want to track it).  The only issue I have is that I'm really ready to move on to something with a fairing.  If I could find a 650s(f preferably) then I would be set. 

[BassWoW]

the sv really isnt that bad for longer trips. there are a few inexpensive mods like rearset plates to get your feet into a more comfortable position, clip-on risers, etc, etc. i think the most expensive thing that people would upgrade first is the seat. most go with sargent or corbin. havent heard good things about the oem gel seats though.

i've had a "s" model SV650 for 2.5 years now an have loved every minute of it. my mileage usually averages around 48 mpg, but i do about 50/50 between city and highway riding, as well as 2-up riding. maintenance is pretty simple and straightforward if you have a manual as usual. SV1K's will have the same ergonomics as the 650, but in a heavier package as well as fewer mpg. not the way to go IMHO.

as far as the yamaha's go, the seating position will be more upright and more "commuter" style. with similar-ish mpgs. could be more pricey than the SV's but i dont really know. thats also 4 throttlebodies to babysit rather than 2 with the SV as well 

I heard that the sv wasn't that comfortable for touring but thats why I'm asking people who have tried them.I live the faired SV650s. I wouldn't mind the sv at all I am just sick of my shoulders hurting when I ride. I love my gs and i'm keeping it but the riding position just aches 2 inches under my shoulder just above the blade.

I'm not buying new at all. Used is more of my new. The fz6 and fz1s are pretty low priced in my area and I wouldn't mind that. I'm more or less thinking when I go touring to ct and i'm 2-up what will be most comfortable and able to pass cars and trucks.

That speed triple looks nice too but im looking for that bug or anime look. How much gas does it run mpg wise?

[jacob92icu]

Ya they are very spendy, but in some cases you get what you pay for. I know they were police bikes, so they probably are pretty comfortable to begin with. If you cant decide between 650 and a 1000 maybe you should meet in the middle with a 750 or 800?

[Twisted]

That speed triple looks nice too but im looking for that bug or anime look. How much gas does it run mpg wise?

the Speed Triple is the bigger brother of the Street. The Speed has a 1050 triple and the Street 675 so the fuel consumption would be similar to an inline 4 of the same capacity. I wouldn't recommend the speed as an upgrade from the GS. I have heard is a bit of a handful in the roads.

[SAFE-T]

The SV1000 has been out of production for a lot of years. The SV650 is a tight fit compared to the GS500, so if your shoulders hurt on the GS it's not going to get better on the SV.