Bike of the week - Suzuki SV 650

Almost the perfect 'everyman' motorcycle!

John Newman

• ACU
• BikeOfTheWeek

I declare an interest. This versatile vee twin was on the market in the UK and Europe from 1999 until 2009 when it was replaced by the strangely named Gladius. It was one of the most enjoyable motorcycles I've had in my garage and provided everything I wanted from a bike at the time, from touring rides to track days.

It's appeal was in the light weight and easy handling, combined with a 645cc liquid-cooled torquey vee twin motor that provided a different configuration from the 'usual' four or twin offerings that the manufacturers presented us with.
It could be used as a reliable commuter, a tourer, a reasonably quick sports bike (depending on how much you wanted to invest in the motor), or an out and out racer that spawned a very popular 'MiniTwins' series. The Suzuki SV650 is almost the perfect 'everyman' motorcycle – I converted my own machine to 750cc (to harass Ducatis), and the front and rear suspension was replaced with WP units, as the original equipment was a spongy compromise if you wanted to ride quickly.


The models produced pre 2003 had quite curvy lines and design features. Suzuki carried out some mods to the bike from '03 onwards, introducing a more angular look. While this didn't meet with universal approval initially, the new models were soon selling in good numbers.
The new model came with an aluminium pressure cast truss type frame and new bodywork. The carburettors were replaced with fuel injection and a new exhaust system was fitted. In 2004 Suzuki reduced the height of the sub frame and seat by 40mm which made it easier for shorter riders who wanted to gain experience with a slighter larger and more powerful bike.
Seventeen inch wheels gave the motorcycle sharp handling if sport tyres were fitted, and because the 73hp or so was delivered 'gently' they were able to rack up the miles. The weight with full oil and fuel on board was a mere 190kgs, meaning that twin discs at the front and a single rear provided ample stopping power.


Like many motorcycles that have to face the rigours of north European weather, regular cleaning and maintaining of the bike is advised to avoid alloy damage and rusting of certain components. Other than that, the motorcycle excels in credibility.
Confirmation of the SV650's credible performance came in 2003 when Bemsee (British Motorcycle Racing Club) agreed to run a 'MiniTwins' series. Initiated by two track day instructors, Mike Edwards and Tim Jones,  they devised a formula and rules to set up an 'affordable' race series. To keep costs down no engine tuning was allowed, but riders were able to carry certain modifications to suspension in order to bring the handling up to race track specification.
The bike has also covered itself in glory in the Supertwins racing class. It has won numerous races, most notably the 2011 Super Twins race at the Manx Grand Prix, setting a new lap record of 109.547mph in the process.
There are plenty of good examples of these bikes for sale, and a cursory cruise through ebay revealed a 2003 bike for £1,000 open for bids, and an immaculate 2005 bike with very low mileage at £2,695. Credible, versatile, affordable... everything that makes for the almost perfect 'everyman' motorcycle!
Have you ridden a Suzuki SV650? We would like to know your opinion on this motorcycle; and if you have any recommendations for future Bike of the Week features please contact us [email protected]
wemoto