I have heard of the Suzuki SV650 but never rode it.
Now, I have finally gotten a chance to review the naked bike.
The model comes with the red trellis-style frame which could be mistaken for a Ducati naked bike.
With a slim overall look, the SV650 is easy to manage even in the most difficult traffic jam in city centres.
Meanwhile, the brushed stainless-steel exhaust pipe offers the bike a sporty look.
The height of the seat is perfect for anybody with a 170cm height and above, while the slimmer saddle makes it much friendlier to riders who are not tall.
I had no problem with the height of the seat and found the ergonomics to be extremely spot on.
The sitting position of this bike is upright with ample space for the knees and legs.
While riding to Lumut and back to Kuala Lumpur, I did not feel any discomfort in my lower back and shoulder.
I am happy with the width of the saddle.
A friend of mine, who rode the SV650 around his housing area for a good 10 minutes, said the saddle needs to be wider but admits that the seat is comfortable.
This bike does not come with a fancy colour instrument panel, riding aids to boast about nor even LED lighting.
The SV650 offers very basic features which help to keep the price low from RM38,800 (excluding registration, road tax and insurance).
The instrument panel of this bike is simple and easy to read.
All the necessary information is legible during the day and night.
The instrument panel has been fitted with an LCD that screen offers information like speedometer, odometer, tachometer, clock, ABS alert, gear position, fuel consumption, and riding range.
Suzuki ensured that all the basic information is accessible with a flick of a button which is located on the right handlebar.
It is simple to use when you are on-the-fly.
In the middle-weight motorcycle segment, the new SV650 faces strong competition from the Honda CB650R, Kawasaki Z650, Yamaha MT-07 and Triumph Trident 660.
However, each of these bikes has strong following among the relevant target group.
Will Suzuki become the new favourite?
It is a matter of time before Suzuki Malaysia and motorcycle fans find out.
The SV650’s throttle is smooth and responsive, offering low-end power specially tuned for newbies.
The bike has enough mid-range power that will get any newbies and experienced riders excited.
While riding towards the peak of Genting Highlands, the engine showed its linear power delivery.
After a few hours on the bike, I sort of know how the bike responds at a certain engine revs.
Even when riding fast on the Karak highway, the engine delivered power well along with good response from the clutch and transmission.
The gear engagement was smooth that I did not even realise I had changed gears a few times.
Meanwhile, in the city, I could not avoid low rpm but the engine was able to deliver powerful torque. Simply amazing.
The decent braking performance of this bike comes courtesy of the 290mm dual front disc brake and a 245mm rear brake disc.
I have experienced better stopping power within the middleweight class but I guessed you get what you paid for.
The SV650 unique selling point is its handling and agility.
Its well-tuned chassis allows nimble performance on twisties and corners on the highland roads.
The SV650’s suspension played an important role in ensuring that the bike is able to soak up bumps on rough roads.
Not only that, I am able to flick the bike effortlessly without losing confidence.
The suspension system is just right, not too stiff nor soft for an aggressive or slow ride on any surfaces.
This naked bike is a must have for any new riders or smaller-built riders who are looking for their first affordable big bike.
Aside from having enough power to provide riding enjoyment to experienced riders, the SV650 is also perfect for daily commuting or interstate journeys.
SPECIFICATIONS
Suzuki SV650
Engine: 645cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled V-twin, eight valves
Maximum power: 75hp at 8,500rpm
Maximum torque: 647Nm at 8,100rpm
Transmission: Six-speed
Suspension: Front telescopic, coil spring, oil damped; rear link-type, single shock, coil spring, oil damped
Braking system: Front dual, 4-piston calipers, twin disc, ABS-equipped; rear single system, 1-piston caliper, single disc, ABS equipped
Fuel capacity: 14.5 litres
Wet weight: 196kg
Price: RM38,800 (excluding registration, road tax and insurance)
Keyword: Suzuki SV650: Easy on the newbies