SV is getting a lot of press just now and deservedly so. They're simple, straight forward, good fun and bullet proof reliable if looked after. Look forward to this mini series 👍
I bought a MY2021 SV650 (Pearl Brilliant White / Red Frame) in February 2022, from a superb local dealership. It's a bit of a long story, but I got an excellent deal, and bought the bike for well less than the manufacturers £7,000 asking price. It was a bit of a bargain; I had a Ténéré 700 at the time, and I sold that a few weeks later. I ended up with cash to spare, so, I was quids in, and that certainly makes a change! I'm so happy with the SV650 - what a bike - it just brings a smile to my face every time I get on it and ride the thing. The engine is fantastic, it's nimble, it handles brilliantly, and it's deceptively quick. It's best described as a traffic light dragster! It's about as basic as a bike can get these days, but I think that's its endearing quality. There are no fancy electronics to worry about (or to go wrong), it's just you and the bike. The suspension, brakes and the tyres are okay, but I plan to upgrade them in the future. So far, I've just made some styling mods to my bike, and I must say, it's a very easy bike to work on. I fitted the obligatory tail tidy, an upgraded LED headlight, fancy sequential LED indicators with very bright DRLs, and some LED spots. The best mod through, was fitting a Yoshimura Alpha style slip-on, the bike now sounds epic! The SV went off my radar for some reason a few years ago, why, I couldn't really tell you. Maybe I thought the bike was too basic, how wrong I was. It's more than a sum of its parts. I had my Ténéré for a year, and it's a great bike, but wasn't the bike for me. I found it too top-heavy, and couldn't wait to get back on a sports bike, with 17" wheels. That's when I came across the SV650 again, and I haven't looked back! I've heard on the grapevine that Suzuki are working on a replacement SV650, but it will have a parallel twin engine, not an L-twin, so I can't see myself ever selling my SV650, it's a classic!
The Legendary SV 650. Suzuki has been my favourite brand lately. From their little 125cc scooters to their 750 nakeds, and probably the rest of the line ups are never boring. Peppy engines and usually outperforms the other makers in their respective classes. Love Suzuki. Very reliable too
If their class is the one of manufacturers that rebadge 20 years old designs every year, then you're right: Suzuki has no competition. By the way, would you be kind enough to point me towards the 750 nakeds in their range?
1998 - my first bike, a brand new, yellow, SV650. I absolutely loved it. It later got a few mm over-bored and became my track bike, then my V-twin series race bike for a few seasons! 24 years, and a lot of different bikes later, I still remember what it felt like to ring it out and get the absolute most out of it! -- EDIT: Also the first bike I broke a bone on!!!
Same here. 2008 SV650SF (light blue, slightly used) was my first bike. My first drop, my first corner low side, my first time getting cut off in traffic, my first time breaking any bone, first time totaling a bike (it wasn't that serious), but it was the very last time I've ever drop or laid any bike down. That bike taught me everything I know. I went out to the dealership today and almost came home with this exact bike in the video. I'm still hesitant about it but I'm waiting to see what Suzuki will replace this with.
@@tomnorris1734 omg yes!!! I was on the highway with 18 wheelers in the heavy rain and, sure enough, the front cylinder flooded. I also had a blocked drain port so it was a fiasco at the local gas station ha! Good times!
First of all the presenter is underrated what a nice human! I Learned how to ride on one of these and still till this day after owning several bikes its just so damm good. I was disappointed when I bought my first bike after driving a 650 at the driving school for 2 months. Only bike that made me more fizzy inside was honda vtr firestorm 1000f. pretty much a big sv650 :) any else seems kinda dull I might just buy one cant beat it for how usefull it is :)
In my not so humble experience, many road testers get blinded by the 180 hp+ bikes that normal people never really buy and if they do; they don't hunt laptimes or chuck wheelies. Add maintenance, insurance and reliability and none of it makes any sense to me. I love Neevesy's reviews but he gives off the impression that it's almost unthinkable to have fun on a track day on something that isn't a fucking V4S. It's refreshing to see someone who's a true Motorcyclist who understands the fun one can have on any bike, from a Honda 125 to whatever the fuck rich old men buy. So... Point being: Nice review as always Chris. Love what you do.
I did my lessons and test on a 2020 SV and it was so nice to ride. Admittedly I only had a Z650 to compare it to at the time, but my god it was 1000x better than the Kawasaki! I practically begged my instructor to make sure I had the SV for my test because it was just so much smoother and easier to ride. I think it was that Suzuki low rpm assist that really made the difference as a learner.
At the moment I'm properly considering getting a new one of these as a daily for the next 10 years. I'm utterly over rusty cars, stupid tax and insurance. Used prices are rank too so a new one actually makes sense. For the price too you can't complain. It's reliable but not utterly boring like most in this category.
It’s satisfying to take a knackered old bike and restoring it to a good sound bike (which can cost more than you think) but it’s also satisfying to buy a brand new bike which always feels like it’s yours and yours alone. There’s a blue framed one with blue wheels in my area and it’s gorgeous. I say go for a new one. The SV is one of the best "bang for the buck" motorcycles ever made. I suggest the blue one.
There's a lot of BS in the bike world (no pun intended) I've had just as much fun (speed) on humdrum bikes like CB500, XJ900 even 125/250 scooters as my 'big bikes'. Keeping up (or nearly) with 'the fast boys' for easily less than £2k really is fun. Plus you don't have to be precious with it. A new SV is a good call in my humble op. Though I would also look at CB500X. GET A GOOD VFR750 BEST BIKE EVER (sorry VFR tourettes)
I like the sound of this. The SV has always been good and I rode a track prepped one a few years back which shocked me by being much better than I ever gave them credit for. I can't wait to see how it does and what state it ends up in.
Honourable mention for the cagiva raptor 650. Bought one for £1500 .. as well as the excellent Suzuki engine( injected) mv agusta frame, brembos, usd forks.. came with twin cans also.. epic bike at a fraction the cost of a low CC monster. 👍
Early 2000s insurance rate skyrocketed for young people, so I reluctantly sold the 929rr and jumped on a SV. Didn't really like it much at first, but a bunch of track days and few long trips later I learned to love it! It was the bike that taught me to ride fast through corners and to this day has a special place in my heart. Long live the SV
Outstanding video. As a proud owner of a 2020 SV650, this made my day. Everything you mentioned about the SV is just so spot on. You mentioned Ducati's, which are obviously fantastic bikes as well. Perhaps the SV650 is the culmination of what the Monster always wanted to be: Affordable, reliable, smile-inducing fun that will do anything you ask of it.
That is a spot on review. I had a gen 2, and now have a gen 3. As a heavier rider, I've put a Nitron shock on it, uprated fork springs and 15w oil. But I'd do that for virtually any bike. Only other addition is a Fuel road legal can. Needs nothing else. One of the best engines ever made in one of the best overall packages. I've had over 25 bikes including SP1, SP2, Fireblades, GSXRs etc. For pure riding fun, I'd take one of these anyday.
Yay! Thanks for throwing some light on fun, affordable, bikes. $20 grand bikes are cool, but you don't have to spend that much to get a kick out of riding a bike. 👍
I purchased a 2016 sv650 last year (latest gen like yours) and have really enjoyed it. I’ve been touring around Southern Ireland, done a week at the tt and a few laps, took it through gravel roads watching the RAC rally with freezing roads riding on super corsa tyres😄, and have done Pembrey, llandow and brandshatch track days. Awesome bike! Look forward to watching your lastest vids. Cheers Kipsy from Caerphilly
It’s the blue collar hero of the street bike world, love it. Personally I think the suspension and brakes are shocking and should be binned straightaway but that’s part of the fun.
Brilliant video. It’s great to see you doing stuff with bread-and-butter bikes. It just goes to show 70 odd horsepower is still plenty for British roads
My first bike was an 05' SV. Such good memories, went thru all my bike firsts with that thing. Trips, twisties, modding, track days and crashing. It never let me down.
This challenge is going to be great fun! I bought a 2019 SV650X about a year and a half ago, I love it. The only downside for me are the clip-ons, which of course is not a problem the standard model has. However, the dealership had an extraordinary discount on it, I really couldn't turn it down. It's a perfectly wonderful bike that does just about anything anyone could want. I can certainly see now why so many people like them. 😎
@@DoctorZisIN I prefer a more upright position, personally. The price on this bike was about $3k under MSRP and well below even a new standard SV, so I bought it. I picked up some Woodcraft side mount clip-ons that raise the height about 20mm. I just need to get a longer brake hose first.
Great review of a cult classic. Can't wait to see what ya have in store for SV shenanigans. Started riding late in life (54) and purchased a 17' non abs as my first bike. It was an absolute gem to ride. I commuted, toured, back road hooning and track days. Sold the bike to a friend of who was getting back into riding after a 10 year hiatus. 29K miles and the bike is still going strong. Ride safe! Cheers from the US!
I've got the pointy nose 2004 one. Love the thing, and really happy to see what you get up to on the new one! I'm genuinely thinking maybe for my next I do just want the new model.
It would be interesting to see how close to a (insert superbike name here) you could get, around the same track on this SV with a sticky set of tyres fitted.
Loved this review! And you are such a fun character with a great sense of humour! Thanks! Looking into “beginner bikes” and the SV seems to be right at the top there, with the ninja 400 .. can’t wait for spring to come…
Really excited for this series, all of your videos are excellent but this reminds people that flash 30 k bikes aren't the be all and end all, riding a postie as a commuter now has reminded me it's more fun to go fast on a slow bike then to go slow on a fast bike
My recent purchase after being out of the saddle for 14 years. It’s a great bike, and has given me back my confidence. It’s easy to ride, but definitely not boring. It was interesting that you mentioned the steering lock - I am glad it’s not just me that noticed it struggles with tight u turns. 😬
I was just saying in the comments on another channel how I can’t understand some of the newer parallel twins specifically the r7 for around 10k+ when there is a late model sv650s sitting on sale for 3k in most localities that can do it all just as well. Great series idea! Looking forward to it.
Loved the 30,000 miles that I did on my ‘99 with full Micron race system then my standard ‘02 that went to France, used the a686 ‘race track’ and would hit an indicated 147mph!! Never warmed them up and constant abuse and neither ever missed a beat. Just wish they had gsxr brakes and suspension and an extra 155cc and 30 extra bhp
SV's are great. For me they bring the essence of a motorcyle. The Gladius was my first big bike. I had 2 and a SV650S. After owning many other bikes; last week I bought another SV650S as a commuting bike. I love the engine on these things.
Those are the roads I ride on, whether it's an SV or something else that's a bit analogue, you won't get a better, more invigorating experience. Love it.
Last December I ordered a blue frame SV. I waited 5 months, it never arrived. It was still cold in Idaho and the dealer had a black and blue new Z900 in the back. Couldn't wait any longer. Bought the Z and really am addicted to it. Still would have liked to experience the little Vtwin, before Suzuki reverts to parallel twin. They're like hens teeth . Suzuki doesn't ship many bikes here. Oh, well, maybe someday.
looking forward to seeing next episode. I would love to see what SV is capable of vs some fancy cars. I would rather real live but I don't thing I could afford to please my SV to this fascinating challenge ;) Thanks for making that happening for me!
So glad you are doing this. I've always thought that the SV was a good bike. One mate rated it nearly as good as his 748 & nicer to just jump on & rip. Would you prefer it to a comparable Ducati ? Get a wah-pipe on it asap young lad.
it was this sv650 when they 1st came out that got me into Vtwins and i still have Vtwins to this day unfortunately not the sv im KTM superduke fanboy and iv had 4 but thanks to this suzuki Vtwin many years ago im still into big Vtwins there is no sound like a big Vtwin well apart from me 690smc r but thats another story, great review as always
I've got a 2009 SVs and it's been an absolute blast for the 6 years I've owned it. Bulletproof, cheap and easy to work on. Put a proper can on it (mine came with an M4), some decent tires and you're set. Bonus is I can sell it for what I paid for it after all this fun. Love these bikes.
First big bike was a 2012 sv650s, put 30k miles in it in 2 years and was ridden hard, never missed a beat, I’d still have the bike today as I adored it! Unfortunately the bike was stolen and I’m yet to find a bike I love as much! Fantastic idea with the series, subbed 👍
Excited to see this series, but no wheelies! Anywhere I read says the oil pickup is not designed for it and you'll cook the front cylinder, so I never have on my Gladius and previously my gen 2
After 30 years they must be doing something right. My first bike was an SV and I still miss it. Its fast (enough), it's forgiving in so many ways. It sounds great. Used to have a pal who insisted on following me every ride as he loved the noise it made.
Cool video Chris. The SV is what made me go do a DAS course and I bought one the very next day. A 2009 SV650 S in blue with the white go faster stripe down the middle. Fast forward 13 years I now have a Tuono V4 but will always have a soft spot for the SV.
I remember these, I challenge you to ride one down to Faro to the Faro rally my miss's did with camping kit while I was on my V-Max with passenger and kit, hell of a laugh, I drag raced it and supermoto raced it a couple of times. Fun Fumn Fun.
Just passed Mod1 with this bike, rides really nice. Bit jumpy on the revs and feels like an on/off switch but that's just probably my lack of exp. Good bike though. And good video :)
Haha. I remember my '99 sv650 which was 'restricted' to 33hp, with carb slides I think I claimed. Great fun at 17 / 18 riding around on a proper bike. As long as you didn't crash it no police or any body were ever going to take it off you and dyno it or take the engine apart to check for slides. I can't wait to get another at some point.
i have an identical sv just coming up to 3500 miles, just love that engine. Very looking forward to the next episode, great job. Personally i would like to see suzuki give the sv a minor upgrade, namely the seat! and led lights all round. great job!
So cool hearing Chris with the SV stories. Back in 03 a 650s was my first big bike. I managed to snap that big beautiful aluminum frame being a bit too much of a hooligan, good times. I also picked up a few first injuries on my SV, good lessons
It's that kind of bike that you only understand as good as it is after you've tried other. I had one between 1999 and 2005 and I regret selling it. Fun, fun and fun :)
I just got a 2017 sv with no abs and only 1.4k miles for 6k USD. I absolutely love it. It is a fantastic bike. Also my first so I know I don't know much about how different bikes ride lol
Really looking forward to this series. I have a 2019 sv650x with a top yoke handlebar conversion. Please can you complete the series - BJ didn't.... Ride safe!
Having ridden (and owned MAN many bikes), but not the SV lol, I CAN agree with the V-Twin approach to torque. Now, Yeah yeah I know, you shouldn't with the type of bike the Honda NTV650 is, but... Back on 2000, I worked for Daytone M/C in Ruislip, and, had use of a NTV650, and a mate on a '97 ZX6R, and we had loadsa fun through country lanes, tight turns and such, and even the heavy 'Courier' bike, the NTV pulled HARD out of corners and with right tyres leaned over and handled surprisingly well! I had some surprising times on that bike I can tell you, even Martin (ZX6 owner) raised an eyebrow at how much she could be 'Chucked about'. But either way, the sound of a V-Twin, the torque of the V-twin.. (and being a Kwak 4cyl lover).. IS addictive! 😏 😎🇬🇧
I’ve been fortunate enough to acquire a bit of a collection of super sports over time, one thing has remained clear… My 2006 Sv650 will never be sold!!
Look forward watching your SV videos! Have always wanted one of these, but somehow always ended up with something else. Especially interested in the bike's touring capabilities.
Had the SV sport. Only bike I have ever hated and I’ve had a few (from SS50 to Blackbird). Gutless and boring. Swapped for a 600Bandit which I kept for 50,000 miles. Guess I am just an inline 4 man at heart. Love the reviews.
SV is getting a lot of press just now and deservedly so. They're simple, straight forward, good fun and bullet proof reliable if looked after. Look forward to this mini series 👍
I bought a MY2021 SV650 (Pearl Brilliant White / Red Frame) in February 2022, from a superb local dealership. It's a bit of a long story, but I got an excellent deal, and bought the bike for well less than the manufacturers £7,000 asking price. It was a bit of a bargain; I had a Ténéré 700 at the time, and I sold that a few weeks later. I ended up with cash to spare, so, I was quids in, and that certainly makes a change!
I'm so happy with the SV650 - what a bike - it just brings a smile to my face every time I get on it and ride the thing. The engine is fantastic, it's nimble, it handles brilliantly, and it's deceptively quick. It's best described as a traffic light dragster! It's about as basic as a bike can get these days, but I think that's its endearing quality. There are no fancy electronics to worry about (or to go wrong), it's just you and the bike. The suspension, brakes and the tyres are okay, but I plan to upgrade them in the future. So far, I've just made some styling mods to my bike, and I must say, it's a very easy bike to work on. I fitted the obligatory tail tidy, an upgraded LED headlight, fancy sequential LED indicators with very bright DRLs, and some LED spots. The best mod through, was fitting a Yoshimura Alpha style slip-on, the bike now sounds epic!
The SV went off my radar for some reason a few years ago, why, I couldn't really tell you. Maybe I thought the bike was too basic, how wrong I was. It's more than a sum of its parts. I had my Ténéré for a year, and it's a great bike, but wasn't the bike for me. I found it too top-heavy, and couldn't wait to get back on a sports bike, with 17" wheels. That's when I came across the SV650 again, and I haven't looked back!
I've heard on the grapevine that Suzuki are working on a replacement SV650, but it will have a parallel twin engine, not an L-twin, so I can't see myself ever selling my SV650, it's a classic!
The Legendary SV 650. Suzuki has been my favourite brand lately. From their little 125cc scooters to their 750 nakeds, and probably the rest of the line ups are never boring. Peppy engines and usually outperforms the other makers in their respective classes. Love Suzuki. Very reliable too
If their class is the one of manufacturers that rebadge 20 years old designs every year, then you're right: Suzuki has no competition. By the way, would you be kind enough to point me towards the 750 nakeds in their range?
@@fabiena1787 Suzuki continues to refine their years old designs making them better and better year after year!
@@fabiena1787 GSXS750.
I was always honda boy but i bought a xf freewind 650 and i changed my mind)
The sv will always have a place I'm my heart as my first "big" bike when I past my test was a 2000 sv650s. Rode that thing everywhere
1998 - my first bike, a brand new, yellow, SV650. I absolutely loved it. It later got a few mm over-bored and became my track bike, then my V-twin series race bike for a few seasons! 24 years, and a lot of different bikes later, I still remember what it felt like to ring it out and get the absolute most out of it! -- EDIT: Also the first bike I broke a bone on!!!
Same here. 2008 SV650SF (light blue, slightly used) was my first bike. My first drop, my first corner low side, my first time getting cut off in traffic, my first time breaking any bone, first time totaling a bike (it wasn't that serious), but it was the very last time I've ever drop or laid any bike down. That bike taught me everything I know. I went out to the dealership today and almost came home with this exact bike in the video. I'm still hesitant about it but I'm waiting to see what Suzuki will replace this with.
Did yours also have the 'rain mode' where the front cylinder stopped working in heavy rain?
@@tomnorris1734 omg yes!!! I was on the highway with 18 wheelers in the heavy rain and, sure enough, the front cylinder flooded. I also had a blocked drain port so it was a fiasco at the local gas station ha! Good times!
My dad had an sv1000n and that's a bike I really wish they still made. The sound was just great!
First of all the presenter is underrated what a nice human!
I Learned how to ride on one of these and still till this day after owning several bikes its just so damm good.
I was disappointed when I bought my first bike after driving a 650 at the driving school for 2 months.
Only bike that made me more fizzy inside was honda vtr firestorm 1000f. pretty much a big sv650 :) any else seems kinda dull
I might just buy one cant beat it for how usefull it is :)
In my not so humble experience, many road testers get blinded by the 180 hp+ bikes that normal people never really buy and if they do; they don't hunt laptimes or chuck wheelies. Add maintenance, insurance and reliability and none of it makes any sense to me. I love Neevesy's reviews but he gives off the impression that it's almost unthinkable to have fun on a track day on something that isn't a fucking V4S. It's refreshing to see someone who's a true Motorcyclist who understands the fun one can have on any bike, from a Honda 125 to whatever the fuck rich old men buy. So... Point being: Nice review as always Chris. Love what you do.
Passed my test 7 weeks ago and bought this bike new , love it .. so pleased I went for it . Still learning the craft so,it’s just gonna get better .
This is a scam don’t fall for it.
Congrats on the bike! What’s your average mpg? I’m considering this for food delivery.
@@danielhonick5521
60mpg
@@danielhonick5521 I’ll answer that question I’m getting 64mpg and I’m doing town riding
@@peterkenworthy9219 thanks Peter, much appreciated….have a great day !✌️
just bought a brand new one today. In NZ$ it cost £5400 - can't possibly go wrong. looking forward to following the series 😁
I did my lessons and test on a 2020 SV and it was so nice to ride. Admittedly I only had a Z650 to compare it to at the time, but my god it was 1000x better than the Kawasaki! I practically begged my instructor to make sure I had the SV for my test because it was just so much smoother and easier to ride. I think it was that Suzuki low rpm assist that really made the difference as a learner.
Great honest review for a damn honest bike. Challenge SV …. brilliant
This is a scam don’t fall for it.
At the moment I'm properly considering getting a new one of these as a daily for the next 10 years. I'm utterly over rusty cars, stupid tax and insurance. Used prices are rank too so a new one actually makes sense. For the price too you can't complain. It's reliable but not utterly boring like most in this category.
It’s satisfying to take a knackered old bike and restoring it to a good sound bike (which can cost more than you think) but it’s also satisfying to buy a brand new bike which always feels like it’s yours and yours alone. There’s a blue framed one with blue wheels in my area and it’s gorgeous. I say go for a new one. The SV is one of the best "bang for the buck" motorcycles ever made. I suggest the blue one.
@@blipco5 bro I have a rusty 2004 Clio that is my baby project. She'll be my rough and ready bit on the side to the shiny SV.
There's a lot of BS in the bike world (no pun intended) I've had just as much fun (speed) on humdrum bikes like CB500, XJ900 even 125/250 scooters as my 'big bikes'. Keeping up (or nearly) with 'the fast boys' for easily less than £2k really is fun. Plus you don't have to be precious with it. A new SV is a good call in my humble op. Though I would also look at CB500X. GET A GOOD VFR750 BEST BIKE EVER (sorry VFR tourettes)
Great idea.
@@fizzy49cc Exactly, well said.. thanks for saving me the effort lol
I love my 2001 Sv, cams, full pipe, gsxr plastics, zx6 forks, TL 1000 carbs, oil changes and love keep her going
I like the sound of this. The SV has always been good and I rode a track prepped one a few years back which shocked me by being much better than I ever gave them credit for.
I can't wait to see how it does and what state it ends up in.
Through town in top, then effortlessly accelerate. That is so attractive.
Honourable mention for the cagiva raptor 650. Bought one for £1500 .. as well as the excellent Suzuki engine( injected) mv agusta frame, brembos, usd forks.. came with twin cans also.. epic bike at a fraction the cost of a low CC monster. 👍
Early 2000s insurance rate skyrocketed for young people, so I reluctantly sold the 929rr and jumped on a SV. Didn't really like it much at first, but a bunch of track days and few long trips later I learned to love it! It was the bike that taught me to ride fast through corners and to this day has a special place in my heart. Long live the SV
This is a scam don’t fall for it.
Outstanding video. As a proud owner of a 2020 SV650, this made my day. Everything you mentioned about the SV is just so spot on.
You mentioned Ducati's, which are obviously fantastic bikes as well. Perhaps the SV650 is the culmination of what the Monster always wanted to be: Affordable, reliable, smile-inducing fun that will do anything you ask of it.
Enjoy it. Abuse it. Love it. It's a cracking little bike.
One of the most underated, reliable excellent motorcycles !!
Just bought an 07 sv650. Absolutely love it
That is a spot on review. I had a gen 2, and now have a gen 3. As a heavier rider, I've put a Nitron shock on it, uprated fork springs and 15w oil. But I'd do that for virtually any bike. Only other addition is a Fuel road legal can. Needs nothing else.
One of the best engines ever made in one of the best overall packages.
I've had over 25 bikes including SP1, SP2, Fireblades, GSXRs etc. For pure riding fun, I'd take one of these anyday.
Looking forward to the series, bikes are getting so expensive these bikes will help motorcycling survive.
Yay! Thanks for throwing some light on fun, affordable, bikes. $20 grand bikes are cool, but you don't have to spend that much to get a kick out of riding a bike. 👍
I own a 2018 sv and had it for 2 years. I love this machine, can’t wait to see the challenge.
Wonderful machine. Have one. I am very happy with it. To see my videos about it, drop by mate. You may like it.
I purchased a 2016 sv650 last year (latest gen like yours) and have really enjoyed it. I’ve been touring around Southern Ireland, done a week at the tt and a few laps, took it through gravel roads watching the RAC rally with freezing roads riding on super corsa tyres😄, and have done Pembrey, llandow and brandshatch track days. Awesome bike! Look forward to watching your lastest vids.
Cheers Kipsy from Caerphilly
It’s the blue collar hero of the street bike world, love it. Personally I think the suspension and brakes are shocking and should be binned straightaway but that’s part of the fun.
Brilliant video. It’s great to see you doing stuff with bread-and-butter bikes. It just goes to show 70 odd horsepower is still plenty for British roads
My first bike was an 05' SV. Such good memories, went thru all my bike firsts with that thing. Trips, twisties, modding, track days and crashing. It never let me down.
SV650 track days ! Incredible little bike, one of the all time greatest
This challenge is going to be great fun! I bought a 2019 SV650X about a year and a half ago, I love it. The only downside for me are the clip-ons, which of course is not a problem the standard model has. However, the dealership had an extraordinary discount on it, I really couldn't turn it down.
It's a perfectly wonderful bike that does just about anything anyone could want. I can certainly see now why so many people like them. 😎
If I got a regular SV I would put clip-ons on it. Why don't you like yours?
@@DoctorZisIN I prefer a more upright position, personally. The price on this bike was about $3k under MSRP and well below even a new standard SV, so I bought it. I picked up some Woodcraft side mount clip-ons that raise the height about 20mm. I just need to get a longer brake hose first.
@@Siper2 Cool. Thanks!
Love it, a bike that's fun, simple and quick for reasonable dough. You do a great job.
Great review of a cult classic. Can't wait to see what ya have in store for SV shenanigans.
Started riding late in life (54) and purchased a 17' non abs as my first bike. It was an absolute gem to ride. I commuted, toured, back road hooning and track days. Sold the bike to a friend of who was getting back into riding after a 10 year hiatus. 29K miles and the bike is still going strong.
Ride safe! Cheers from the US!
I've got the pointy nose 2004 one. Love the thing, and really happy to see what you get up to on the new one! I'm genuinely thinking maybe for my next I do just want the new model.
That sliver version @ 0:27 was my first bike ever. That picture brought back some good memories.
Miss the SV1000s. Had 2 of them and they were awesome!
Good bikes with a bomb proof engine. They are not fancy, but they last and are fun. Even the Euro 5 versions have a nice sound to them.
It would be interesting to see how close to a (insert superbike name here) you could get, around the same track on this SV with a sticky set of tyres fitted.
Awesome. Never has there been a more affordable & entertaining bike that you can make your own & do pretty much anything with.
Loved this review! And you are such a fun character with a great sense of humour! Thanks! Looking into “beginner bikes” and the SV seems to be right at the top there, with the ninja 400 .. can’t wait for spring to come…
Really excited for this series, all of your videos are excellent but this reminds people that flash 30 k bikes aren't the be all and end all, riding a postie as a commuter now has reminded me it's more fun to go fast on a slow bike then to go slow on a fast bike
My recent purchase after being out of the saddle for 14 years. It’s a great bike, and has given me back my confidence. It’s easy to ride, but definitely not boring. It was interesting that you mentioned the steering lock - I am glad it’s not just me that noticed it struggles with tight u turns. 😬
I've had my 2023 a week. Love nearly everything about it besides the terrible steering lock! U-Turns are painful!!!
I was just saying in the comments on another channel how I can’t understand some of the newer parallel twins specifically the r7 for around 10k+ when there is a late model sv650s sitting on sale for 3k in most localities that can do it all just as well. Great series idea! Looking forward to it.
Loved the 30,000 miles that I did on my ‘99 with full Micron race system then my standard ‘02 that went to France, used the a686 ‘race track’ and would hit an indicated 147mph!! Never warmed them up and constant abuse and neither ever missed a beat. Just wish they had gsxr brakes and suspension and an extra 155cc and 30 extra bhp
SV's are great. For me they bring the essence of a motorcyle. The Gladius was my first big bike. I had 2 and a SV650S. After owning many other bikes; last week I bought another SV650S as a commuting bike. I love the engine on these things.
It is reliable, powerful and cheap to keep. Have one. :) Drop by to see my long-term review and some other stuff.
This is a scam don’t fall for it.
Those are the roads I ride on, whether it's an SV or something else that's a bit analogue, you won't get a better, more invigorating experience. Love it.
Last December I ordered a blue frame SV. I waited 5 months, it never arrived. It was still cold in Idaho and the dealer had a black and blue new Z900 in the back. Couldn't wait any longer. Bought the Z and really am addicted to it. Still would have liked to experience the little Vtwin, before Suzuki reverts to parallel twin. They're like hens teeth . Suzuki doesn't ship many bikes here. Oh, well, maybe someday.
I cant believe you didn't mention the TL1000 in the beginning ! Absolutely loved mine with some suspension mods.
looking forward to seeing next episode. I would love to see what SV is capable of vs some fancy cars. I would rather real live but I don't thing I could afford to please my SV to this fascinating challenge ;) Thanks for making that happening for me!
Looking forward to the rest of this SV challenge
So glad you are doing this. I've always thought that the SV was a good bike. One mate rated it nearly as good as his 748 & nicer to just jump on & rip. Would you prefer it to a comparable Ducati ? Get a wah-pipe on it asap young lad.
Had a 99 model and it was faultless ran it into the ground with 27,000 miles on it and never missed a beat loved it
it was this sv650 when they 1st came out that got me into Vtwins and i still have Vtwins to this day unfortunately not the sv im KTM superduke fanboy and iv had 4 but thanks to this suzuki Vtwin many years ago im still into big Vtwins there is no sound like a big Vtwin well apart from me 690smc r but thats another story, great review as always
I've got a 2009 SVs and it's been an absolute blast for the 6 years I've owned it. Bulletproof, cheap and easy to work on. Put a proper can on it (mine came with an M4), some decent tires and you're set. Bonus is I can sell it for what I paid for it after all this fun. Love these bikes.
Been on a lot of bikes and I still love wringing the neck of my 2006 thru the gears….such a fun motor
First big bike was a 2012 sv650s, put 30k miles in it in 2 years and was ridden hard, never missed a beat, I’d still have the bike today as I adored it! Unfortunately the bike was stolen and I’m yet to find a bike I love as much! Fantastic idea with the series, subbed 👍
This is a scam don’t fall for it.
Excited to see this series, but no wheelies! Anywhere I read says the oil pickup is not designed for it and you'll cook the front cylinder, so I never have on my Gladius and previously my gen 2
My Gf has an sv650 ! Absolutely beautiful machine. I love it so much, it's such a awesome bike
After 30 years they must be doing something right. My first bike was an SV and I still miss it. Its fast (enough), it's forgiving in so many ways. It sounds great. Used to have a pal who insisted on following me every ride as he loved the noise it made.
What about a Nurburgring leg? Kit it up, load it up and go play? Could get bike world fans involved..count me in 😁
are we going to see that challenging SV?? I can't wait mate!
Cool video Chris. The SV is what made me go do a DAS course and I bought one the very next day. A 2009 SV650 S in blue with the white go faster stripe down the middle. Fast forward 13 years I now have a Tuono V4 but will always have a soft spot for the SV.
This is a scam don’t fall for it.
Take it to Cadwell for a TD. it’d be great there. I’m watching with interest.
I remember these, I challenge you to ride one down to Faro to the Faro rally my miss's did with camping kit while I was on my V-Max with passenger and kit, hell of a laugh, I drag raced it and supermoto raced it a couple of times. Fun Fumn Fun.
Just passed Mod1 with this bike, rides really nice. Bit jumpy on the revs and feels like an on/off switch but that's just probably my lack of exp.
Good bike though.
And good video :)
Maaaan still waiting for the next episode!!!
Haha. I remember my '99 sv650 which was 'restricted' to 33hp, with carb slides I think I claimed.
Great fun at 17 / 18 riding around on a proper bike. As long as you didn't crash it no police or any body were ever going to take it off you and dyno it or take the engine apart to check for slides.
I can't wait to get another at some point.
I am building a trackbike out of a 2007s.Comins from a ZX10 and R1,i am enjoying this a lot more,and they are extremely capable with the right mods
i have an identical sv just coming up to 3500 miles, just love that engine. Very looking forward to the next episode, great job. Personally i would like to see suzuki give the sv a minor upgrade, namely the seat! and led lights all round. great job!
Excellent bike and colour.... :D Great video too!
So cool hearing Chris with the SV stories. Back in 03 a 650s was my first big bike. I managed to snap that big beautiful aluminum frame being a bit too much of a hooligan, good times. I also picked up a few first injuries on my SV, good lessons
ex k3’r here. Revs to the heavens too. Take that MT07. An absolute spankathon on any road, twistier the better. Fruity can is SV law!
Good one Chris looking forward to next in the series.
It's that kind of bike that you only understand as good as it is after you've tried other.
I had one between 1999 and 2005 and I regret selling it.
Fun, fun and fun :)
Awesome, got the same bike colour
Waiting for Part 2!!
I just got a 2017 sv with no abs and only 1.4k miles for 6k USD. I absolutely love it. It is a fantastic bike. Also my first so I know I don't know much about how different bikes ride lol
going from cruisers(largest one being a 1300cc), just picked up a 09 gladius 650, man what a quick little bike!!
Just awesome
Love from Scotland 🏴
I'm certainly looking forward to this series! 👍
Really looking forward to this series. I have a 2019 sv650x with a top yoke handlebar conversion. Please can you complete the series - BJ didn't.... Ride safe!
Really good review - love your passion for this Everyman bike! Love the channel!!
I`v just sold my 2022 tiger 900 gt today [health reasons] and bought a brand new 72 reg sv650 for £5900 in matte black.
Having ridden (and owned MAN many bikes), but not the SV lol, I CAN agree with the V-Twin approach to torque. Now, Yeah yeah I know, you shouldn't with the type of bike the Honda NTV650 is, but... Back on 2000, I worked for Daytone M/C in Ruislip, and, had use of a NTV650, and a mate on a '97 ZX6R, and we had loadsa fun through country lanes, tight turns and such, and even the heavy 'Courier' bike, the NTV pulled HARD out of corners and with right tyres leaned over and handled surprisingly well! I had some surprising times on that bike I can tell you, even Martin (ZX6 owner) raised an eyebrow at how much she could be 'Chucked about'. But either way, the sound of a V-Twin, the torque of the V-twin.. (and being a Kwak 4cyl lover).. IS addictive! 😏 😎🇬🇧
That's awesome that he got air under both tires. 😄
I just bought a brand new SV650 this week. Looking forward to many more rides with my new bike. 😊
Learned on it in DAS and almost bought it after passing my DAS, in the end i went for street triple r which i still got to this day.
SV650 ... I'd have another tomorrow...
That engine though 😍👍
Superb, can't wait to see the up and coming videos on this little belter.
SVs don't like wheelies by design, the oil pump runs dry since it picks up oil in the front part of the crank case.
But great review! 😊
Hi team, can’t wait for the next segment covering the SV650 👍
I’ve been fortunate enough to acquire a bit of a collection of super sports over time, one thing has remained clear… My 2006 Sv650 will never be sold!!
Since i own the 2020 model,i can't wait for the next episode 💯🤩
Got myself one of the last pointy svs in 2016 for £4400 brand new, still got it and love it. My 1 and only big bike.
This is a scam don’t fall for it.
@@Warrior6504 just googled it and found out but cheers for the heads up.
Chris ! Please review that against some tidy examples of the first 2 generations ?
It’s very similar to the early Monsters. Steal trellis frame, Stressed member, V-Twin, very light and handles great.
Follow up video please 🙂 Quite enjoyed this and look forward to seeing what you'll put it through
Look forward watching your SV videos! Have always wanted one of these, but somehow always ended up with something else. Especially interested in the bike's touring capabilities.
This is a scam don’t fall for it.
I was just looking at one of these to race in super twin!!!!
Had the SV sport. Only bike I have ever hated and I’ve had a few (from SS50 to Blackbird). Gutless and boring. Swapped for a 600Bandit which I kept for 50,000 miles. Guess I am just an inline 4 man at heart.
Love the reviews.
This is a scam don’t fall for it.
The sum of the SV650 might be "a fun bike that isn't expensive or breaks down all the time for the riding you actually do."