Just a quick question, but why do so many of you dream of SV's? Cost? Looks?
1I got one because it was a natural upgrade from my GS500E, was very affordable, good riding position and had a lot of great reviews. After a year, I'm still loving the bike. Its a very capable bike with a cult following all over the world and lots of aftermarket mods.
I guess you could say it was popular because it covered a niche market that didn't have any competition. There are no other standard v-twins in the market in the U$6K range. The closest is a Monster 620, but that'll cost you $7,500 with expensive maintenance costs, (although way sexier). The closest inlines in its price range is either a Katana 600, Bandit 600, ZX-7. Neither one of them could compete in ride, handling and power with a stock SV.
Truth is, there's many upgrades to a GS. You could go get an inline 600/750/1000 superbike if you like fast riding. Or a tourer if you want a great freeway bike. I think the SV has just done a darn good job of penetrating the market.
For me its looks... the SV is twice as sporty looking....
if you want an idea go to:
http://www.suzuki.com.au/motorbike_webpages/motorbikes_STREET.htm
Roll over the bike list on the left hand side, and as you go down the bikes get less and less sporty... good indication of the height and shape differences of the GS500 to SV - just look at the pipe, the SV is high and sporty, the GS is low and commuter looking!!
Theres a lot to love about the GS500 though!
Stay Safe :thumb:
because the sv is the best all around novice bike (some consider it a beginner bike). As such it makes a great second bike.
I really like the way the SV650 without the fairing looks. I have also read a few great reviews that make it sound like all the fun and manuverability of the GS500 with the extra kick and styling of the larger V-twin engine. I was damn close to getting one on e-bay that was only a 100 miles or so from my house but in the last hour of bidding a couple of guys ran the price beyond the limit that my wife set for me. I guess I'm PW.