best years for purchase SV650s/SV1000s

[howard richman]

I'm researchng the many rides out there comming off a BMW K1200GT. The bike is way too heavy for my solo riding. I'm not touring, doing backroads and some hiway. I'v got much experience riding, but usually ride w/ the slower crowd. I've 1st demoed a Kaw650R, and was very fun w/upright bar positioning, little small, The DL650/1000(Vstroms); not my liking.  I've been directed to the SV 650s/1000s, but not thier bar positioning. The only option to get a much higher bar position is the convertabars or similar to have more choices of bikes. Which years SV650s/SV1000S should I be looking for.( recalls/improvements/pricing)?

                                                                                     Howie...

[DogBoy]

The only recall I can think of was a recall for something to do with the fuel tank on the fuel injected SV650's (2003 to present).

You have a few options for changing the clipons on the "S" models. Convertibars, Helibars or replacing the clipons entirely with handlebars. To convert to handlebars, you can buy a kit from LSL or search SVrider.com where there are several threads about the conversion. You might need longer cables and brake lines with the handlbars.

SVrider.com is the best source for anything and everything to do with both versions of the SV.

A brief (but incomplete) overview would be:
SV650(s):  1999-2002: carbureted with attractive tube frame.
               2003 - present: new frame, preload adjustment in front fork, fuel injection, aluminum frame. Frame is black from 2005 to present.

SV1000s:   2003 - present: fully adjustable suspension, Fuel injection, aluminum frame.
               2005 - present: frame is black and several upgrades including, bigger valves, higher compression and slipper clutch.

All are great, fun bikes with good aftermarket support and a reputation for being very reliable. IMO, the SV1000s is one of the most underrated bikes on the market.
                

[TRaGiK]

The only recall I can think of was a recall for something to do with the fuel tank on the fuel injected SV650's (2003 to present).

A brief (but incomplete) overview would be:
SV650(s):  1999-2002: carbureted with attractive tube frame.
               2003 - present: new frame, preload adjustment in front fork, fuel injection, aluminum frame. Frame is black from 2005 to present.

SV1000s:   2003 - present: fully adjustable suspension, Fuel injection, aluminum frame.
               2005 - present: frame is black and several upgrades including, bigger valves, higher compression and slipper clutch.

All are great, fun bikes with good aftermarket support and a reputation for being very reliable. IMO, the SV1000s is one of the most underrated bikes on the market.
                

If you really want to get techincal, 2002 650's had preload adjustable forks as well. Also, I think in 04, the 650 got a narrower radiator to help keep it from getting screwed in a tipover.

The SV1k, I don't think got bigger valves in 05 (i could be wrong), but got bigger throttle boddies (I know I'm right) in 05. Also, the 2003 SV1K S model is kind of a bastard bike due to subframe changes in 04. If you want exhaust for a 03 SV1KS, it MUST BE for a 03 SV1KS. A 03 naked will not work, and a 04 up 1KS (all SV1K's from 04 up are S models) will not work. On the other hand, 03 nakeds, ALL year exhausts will work. I THINK this also applies to the 03 650 (naked or not), but am not 100 percent sure.

The "slipper clutch" is NOT a true slipper clutch. Suzuki calls it something like a "back torque limiting" clutch or some shit. It reduces wheel slippage on downshifts, but definately will not eliminate it. Bang a couple downshifts from redline, and you'll think someone dropped a brick on the rear brake. I'm pretty sure it was included in ALL year 1k's as well.

The tank recall on the SV's from 03 to present is limited to California bikes only. There's a problem where they'll leak fuel. I THINK it's actually limited from 03 - 05 or 06.

If you're looking at the 1k, I'd go for the 05 and up just because of the revised stuff. In all honesty though, it doesn't seem to make that big of a difference from the dyno graphs I've seen.

[DogBoy]

I'm glad a I tossed the word "incomplete" in my post.  

Great info TRaGIK.    (You'll note I stayed away from aftermarket hard case discussions involving a particular Italian supplier.)

[TRaGiK]

I'm glad a I tossed the word "incomplete" in my post.  

Great info TRaGIK.    (You'll note I stayed away from aftermarket hard case discussions involving a particular Italian supplier.)

Oops. Didn't notice the incomplete word you threw in there.

And I'll gladly educate anyone on what I think of Givi as well....as well as give them a long list of alternative luggage options.  

[howard richman]

The only recall I can think of was a recall for something to do with the fuel tank on the fuel injected SV650's (2003 to present).

You have a few options for changing the clipons on the "S" models. Convertibars, Helibars or replacing the clipons entirely with handlebars. To convert to handlebars, you can buy a kit from LSL or search SVrider.com where there are several threads about the conversion. You might need longer cables and brake lines with the handlbars.

SVrider.com is the best source for anything and everything to do with both versions of the SV.

A brief (but incomplete) overview would be:
SV650(s):  1999-2002: carbureted with attractive tube frame.
               2003 - present: new frame, preload adjustment in front fork, fuel injection, aluminum frame. Frame is black from 2005 to present.

SV1000s:   2003 - present: fully adjustable suspension, Fuel injection, aluminum frame.
               2005 - present: frame is black and several upgrades including, bigger valves, higher compression and slipper clutch.

All are great, fun bikes with good aftermarket support and a reputation for being very reliable. IMO, the SV1000s is one of the most underrated bikes on the market.
                

Thanks for great info; looks like SV1000S may be under some research. I'm leaning towards the 1000. How's the best way to describe the differences of the 650 to the 1000. I do have much riding experience, but want a good road bike ,not a racer. As I said the 650S seemed slightly small. I'm 50yrs. 5'9" 175lbs.

                                                                                                                  Thanks again!
                                                                                                                             Howie...

[skater69]

Hey Howie......I'm a Howie as well...
I had an '04 SV650 naked-GREAT bike.  Just picked up a naked '03 SV1000 w/12K mi (only year in US that the naked is available).  I prefer the naked handlebar riding position to the "S" clip-ons.  To me the 1000 seems only "slightly" larger thand 650 but the 1000 has a LOT more grunt!  To me it feels like it has substantially more power and it handles well.  I haven't had my 1000 long but I'm super happy with it so far.  Sounds to me like you'd be a good candidate for an '03 SV1000 naked as well.  Have you ridden the BMW F800ST?  I did.  It's light, comfortable and pretty fast as well....it has a handlebar rather than clip-ons and I think you'd like it.  I would have gone for one but my SV was like 1/3 the price and is faster......so I got the SV.

Good luck.

-Howie

[FJRmgm]

the '03 was the first year of fuel injection on the SV-650.  Some parts for the '03 SV 650 only fit that year but the 04-07 650 share parts OK.

I just bought an '04 SV-650s and its a great bike but I will probably get the Helibars for it since the handlebar position is a little extreme for me.  

Otherwise, its a hoot to ride and MUCH lighter and more nimble than my '05 FJR>

[rauchman]

Hi,

I started on a brand new SV650S in silver 2002 (last year of the 1st gen) and loved it.  I personally like the looks of the 1st gen better, but that's all preference.  I've been so close to pulling the trigger on an SV1K a few times.  There are deals that come up a lot for these bikes since they don't sell well.  The one thing that keeps stopping me is the limited tank range.  From everything I've read, you're looking at an average of around 120 miles to the reserve light (slightly less if more aggressive, slighty better if more conservative).  If that works for you...great.  For me, it's definitely a limiting factor.  Also for 2007, they changed the look of the tach.  Looks much better IMHO.  Other gripes you'll run into on this bike are that the suspension and brakes are so/so.  I've never ridden one, so have no comment, but don't go looking for current sportbike level suspension and brakes.  Also, the 2003's have been known to have a "knock" from the engine.  Not all, but it comes up frequently.  The 2003 SV1KS's have a 20mm higher subframe than the "N"'s of the same year and all going forward.  If I were looking at one of these bikes, I'd be going for a 2005+.  As Tragik mentioned, there were a bunch of small revisions on the 2005's.  20% lighter flywheel and other engine mods, supposed to be 3% better HP.  Most 2003/4 dynos I've seen on stock SV1KS got about 102-108hp/67-72 torque.  2005's +, again from the dynos I've seen, go 104-113hp/ 69-73 ft lbs.  Not much difference.  I do think it is a sleeper of bike, but for me, the tank range is a deal breaker.

Edited to ad, from everything I've seen 2007 is the last year of the SV1KS.

[shil]

I've asked before why the SV has a 'not so good suspension'.  It's got suspenders adjustable for preload and both compression and rebound damping at both ends.  What's wrong with it?  The answers are usually something like 'It's not an Ohlins' and 'You've got to set it up for your weight'.  No kidding.  There's nothing wrong with an SV's suspenders.  You might (or might not) need to respring it for your weight.  How is that different from any other bike?  
I've never heard anyone complain about the brakes.

[TRaGiK]

The only people that really complain about the brakes or suspension, are the magiziness. Everyone else is repeating what they've read. The mags for whatever reason slammed the SV (I'm talking about the 1000 only here) every chance they got, and it's mostly bullshit.

I weigh ~210 pounds, and the suspension suits me fine...even with the extra weight in the luggage. If you're doing track days a LOT, or can spank Rossi on your favorite mountain road, then yeah, you might need to upgrade the suspension. Otherwise, ignore what you've heard. The forks might be undersprung, but even so, they suit me fine.

The brakes stop plenty good as well. They were plenty good on older GSXR's, and they're plenty good on the SV1k. It's got good feel, and good stopping power. Brembo good? No, but they're not Brembo's.

My 1k dyno'd 106hp and 65 ft pounds on a dyno that supposedly reads low. Plenty enough hp and torque for me.

Tank range on my 1k when it was stock was 135 - 140 miles before the low fuel light came on (leaving approx 1.4 gallons in reserve). When I added the luggage, it dropped to 132 - 137 miles. When I geared it -1 on the front sprocket, it dropped to 120 - 125 before the low fuel light on. The absolute worst its ever given me is about 95 miles and the low fuel light came on, but I was running the bike pretty agressive in the mountains.

What's the best way to describe the differences between the 650 and the 1k? Well, I've owned both and that's an easy question to answer in one word. Better. EVERYTHING on the 1k is just plain better. Better suspension, better brakes, better power. The only "downside" to the 1k, is it weighs about 60 pounds more than the 650. Noticable? Yeah, but I've gotten used to it. SV1k weighs in at 485 pounds wet, where as the 650 is about 425.

[skater69]

I've asked before why the SV has a 'not so good suspension'.  It's got suspenders adjustable for preload and both compression and rebound damping at both ends.  What's wrong with it?  The answers are usually something like 'It's not an Ohlins' and 'You've got to set it up for your weight'.  No kidding.  There's nothing wrong with an SV's suspenders.  You might (or might not) need to respring it for your weight.  How is that different from any other bike?  
I've never heard anyone complain about the brakes.

It's because #1 it's just damper rod forks which are cheap to begin with but they're also undersprung for someone like me for instance who weighs 200lbs (they're more suited for a 160lb rider)  Lean hard into a corner and you can feel the front forks wallow.  The front end will also dive when the the front brakes are applied.  You can't "adjust" your way out of that if you're a heavier rider.  You need different springs.
Heavier springs ordered for your weight (ohlins, racetech) with heavier oil makes a noticeable difference.  I made that change on my SV650 when I had it.  Of course cartridges and valves and an aftermarket rear shock is even better.  

[shil]

The SV1K does not have damper-rod forks, it's got cartridge forks.  And, once again, you're repeating that it's NFG 'cause it's not sprung for me.  

[howard richman]

The only people that really complain about the brakes or suspension, are the magiziness. Everyone else is repeating what they've read. The mags for whatever reason slammed the SV (I'm talking about the 1000 only here) every chance they got, and it's mostly bullshit.

I weigh ~210 pounds, and the suspension suits me fine...even with the extra weight in the luggage. If you're doing track days a LOT, or can spank Rossi on your favorite mountain road, then yeah, you might need to upgrade the suspension. Otherwise, ignore what you've heard. The forks might be undersprung, but even so, they suit me fine.

The brakes stop plenty good as well. They were plenty good on older GSXR's, and they're plenty good on the SV1k. It's got good feel, and good stopping power. Brembo good? No, but they're not Brembo's.

My 1k dyno'd 106hp and 65 ft pounds on a dyno that supposedly reads low. Plenty enough hp and torque for me.

Tank range on my 1k when it was stock was 135 - 140 miles before the low fuel light came on (leaving approx 1.4 gallons in reserve). When I added the luggage, it dropped to 132 - 137 miles. When I geared it -1 on the front sprocket, it dropped to 120 - 125 before the low fuel light on. The absolute worst its ever given me is about 95 miles and the low fuel light came on, but I was running the bike pretty agressive in the mountains.

What's the best way to describe the differences between the 650 and the 1k? Well, I've owned both and that's an easy question to answer in one word. Better. EVERYTHING on the 1k is just plain better. Better suspension, better brakes, better power. The only "downside" to the 1k, is it weighs about 60 pounds more than the 650. Noticable? Yeah, but I've gotten used to it. SV1k weighs in at 485 pounds wet, where as the 650 is about 425.

 Well; The downside for me is the fuel range. still researching...
                                                                                           Howie...

[rauchman]

The only people that really complain about the brakes or suspension, are the magiziness. Everyone else is repeating what they've read. The mags for whatever reason slammed the SV (I'm talking about the 1000 only here) every chance they got, and it's mostly bullshit.

I weigh ~210 pounds, and the suspension suits me fine...even with the extra weight in the luggage. If you're doing track days a LOT, or can spank Rossi on your favorite mountain road, then yeah, you might need to upgrade the suspension. Otherwise, ignore what you've heard. The forks might be undersprung, but even so, they suit me fine.

The brakes stop plenty good as well. They were plenty good on older GSXR's, and they're plenty good on the SV1k. It's got good feel, and good stopping power. Brembo good? No, but they're not Brembo's.

My 1k dyno'd 106hp and 65 ft pounds on a dyno that supposedly reads low. Plenty enough hp and torque for me.

Tank range on my 1k when it was stock was 135 - 140 miles before the low fuel light came on (leaving approx 1.4 gallons in reserve). When I added the luggage, it dropped to 132 - 137 miles. When I geared it -1 on the front sprocket, it dropped to 120 - 125 before the low fuel light on. The absolute worst its ever given me is about 95 miles and the low fuel light came on, but I was running the bike pretty agressive in the mountains.

What's the best way to describe the differences between the 650 and the 1k? Well, I've owned both and that's an easy question to answer in one word. Better. EVERYTHING on the 1k is just plain better. Better suspension, better brakes, better power. The only "downside" to the 1k, is it weighs about 60 pounds more than the 650. Noticable? Yeah, but I've gotten used to it. SV1k weighs in at 485 pounds wet, where as the 650 is about 425.

Count me in the group reguritating what has been written by the bike mags.  But, like I said, I don't believe the brakes/suspension are up to current sport bike standards.  Don't get wrong, I LIKE the SV1K/S.  Also, I'm sure the brakes/suspension could be easily lived with as a road bike.  The deal breaker for me is the limited tank range.  I'm used to getting 200+ miles on a tank from the Roadstar I'm currently riding.  Getting down to 65% of that doesn't work for me.  I've come so close to buying an SV1K/S over the last few years.  At least 4 times I had it in my head that I was getting the big SV, but again, the limiting tank range is a deal breaker for me.  If a person can live with that, the SV would probably make a great bike.

[shil]

But, like I said, I don't believe the brakes/suspension are up to current sport bike standards.  

Well, true, I guess.  What else is?  

Won't argue with you regarding fuel range.

[skater69]

The SV1K does not have damper-rod forks, it's got cartridge forks.  And, once again, you're repeating that it's NFG 'cause it's not sprung for me.  

Was referring to the 650...which I don't believe has cartridge forks.

[TRaGiK]

 But, like I said, I don't believe the brakes/suspension are up to current sport bike standards.

Maybe not, but is the 919, FZ1, or Z1000? I could be wrong, but I don't think they have it either. The SV1k was never marketed as a full on sportbike...it unfortunately, just has the ergo's of one.

The limited tank range does suck sometimes...but honestly, after 125 miles, I'm ready to get off the bike anyway. The only time I'd ever wish for more range is when gas stations are sparse.

[howard richman]

Maybe not, but is the 919, FZ1, or Z1000? I could be wrong, but I don't think they have it either. The SV1k was never marketed as a full on sportbike...it unfortunately, just has the ergo's of one.

The limited tank range does suck sometimes...but honestly, after 125 miles, I'm ready to get off the bike anyway. The only time I'd ever wish for more range is when gas stations are sparse.

 Do any here consider the DL 600/1000(Vstroms)? They have a great tank capacity, and comfort. What are the pro's and cons of these models?  If not I'de consider my 1st choice which was the Kaw 650R. a bit small; but a lot of fun and 150-170+ mls per tank.
                                          
                                                                                       Howie...
                                                                          

[skater69]

 Do any here consider the DL 600/1000(Vstroms)? They have a great tank capacity, and comfort. What are the pro's and cons of these models?
                                          

I've only ridden the DL650 strom (not the 1000).
Pros-comfortable...much more comfortable than an SV650 if you like do some distance (and if you like to sit bolt upright), great engine, super easy to ride, super reliable from all I've read, easy to attach luggage, great mpg and good range, awesome headlight, superb value (even better if you buy used)

Cons-some get bad buffeting at 70 or above with stock windshield (I noticed it a little bit), they sit tall (1000 even taller), higher center of gravity....some more buffetting and cross winds are felt more, quick but not FAST....if you want more kick in the pants power...the 1000 is better.

I think you should ride both but I really though the DL650 was a fabulous bike when I rode it.  I just can't really sit that upright or don't prefer to.

[TRaGiK]

 Do any here consider the DL 600/1000(Vstroms)? They have a great tank capacity, and comfort. What are the pro's and cons of these models?  If not I'de consider my 1st choice which was the Kaw 650R. a bit small; but a lot of fun and 150-170+ mls per tank.  

I actually love the bike. Unfortunately, I'm to short for it (atleast for the 1k), and haven't even test rode one.

I really need to see if I fit better on the DL650. I'd really like to have one as a second bike...

[howard richman]

Hey Howie......I'm a Howie as well...
I had an '04 SV650 naked-GREAT bike.  Just picked up a naked '03 SV1000 w/12K mi (only year in US that the naked is available).  I prefer the naked handlebar riding position to the "S" clip-ons.  To me the 1000 seems only "slightly" larger thand 650 but the 1000 has a LOT more grunt!  To me it feels like it has substantially more power and it handles well.  I haven't had my 1000 long but I'm super happy with it so far.  Sounds to me like you'd be a good candidate for an '03 SV1000 naked as well.  Have you ridden the BMW F800ST?  I did.  It's light, comfortable and pretty fast as well....it has a handlebar rather than clip-ons and I think you'd like it.  I would have gone for one but my SV was like 1/3 the price and is faster......so I got the SV.

Good luck.

-Howie

 Hey Howie!
 Nice bike. How do you deal with the lack of wind protection?? For me even a half fairing is just bareable. A handlebar shield is not as stable as a frame mount as the S version, but it's bar placement is too low for my comfort on the SV1000S.      

                                                                                                                                Howie...

[vitaminC]

 Do any here consider the DL 600/1000(Vstroms)? They have a great tank capacity, and comfort. What are the pro's and cons of these models?  If not I'de consider my 1st choice which was the Kaw 650R. a bit small; but a lot of fun and 150-170+ mls per tank.
                                           
                                                                                       Howie...                                                                      

If you're not in CA, you can also consider the Kawi Versys, which is basically a slightly upgraded 650R with a larger tank and more upright riding position.

Oh, and lots of people around here own and love the Stroms. Use the search button, and you'll find lots of info...

[skater69]

 Hey Howie!
 Nice bike. How do you deal with the lack of wind protection?? For me even a half fairing is just bareable. A handlebar shield is not as stable as a frame mount as the S version, but it's bar placement is too low for my comfort on the SV1000S.      

                                                                                                                                Howie...

Lack of wind protection doesn't bother me at all as far as windblast goes.....I feel little of it really.  I had a naked SV650 with a small flyscreen and the wind never bothered me on that one either.  It's only an issue when temps get below 60...which is really only at night here in the winter when I'm not usually riding.  I may get a Givi screen (A755) soon enough.  But I cruise at 80 on the hwy and it really doesn't bother me much.  I guess there's enough lean even with the handlebar that I'm not sitting straight up into the wind.

[Spiffious]

Seriously, I don't get the big deal about the tank range.  There are plenty of gas stations around, except for the midwest, and who wants to spend much time riding there anyways?  


Best years for the SV1000s? 2005 & 2007.

Why?

BLACK!




and plug for touring mode:

[shil]

No kidding.  The SV's got enough range that I can ride for two hours before stopping.  That's long enough sitting in one spot that I'll stop and stretch while driving, let alone riding.  It's not an issue.

[TRaGiK]

and plug for touring mode:

Soft bags are for pansies.  

Here's mine in Tour mode.

[goodhawk]

Those pics - excel. ! THAT is what I mean - the SV 1000 is a sport - tour bike.  would essentially be perfect - with 200 mi range before reserve, even 180 . . .

[TRaGiK]

Those pics - excel. ! THAT is what I mean - the SV 1000 is a sport - tour bike.  would essentially be perfect - with 200 mi range before reserve, even 180 . . .

I think even 160 before reserve would be very exceptable for a SPORT-touring bike...

Then again, *I* am not extemely unhappy with the 125 I get before reserve. With reserve, I've gone around 175 miles, but was running on fumes when I gassed up.

[bedlamite]

In the 1K, they changed the forks in 2005 too. There are revalve kits available from Racetech for the early models, but after 2005, all you can change is oil and springs.



IMO, the black ones need the forks painted.

[hharvey]

No kidding.  The SV's got enough range that I can ride for two hours before stopping.  That's long enough sitting in one spot that I'll stop and stretch while driving, let alone riding.  It's not an issue.

I've done Vancouver island / sunshine coast home to Calgary in 1 day
a couple of times, something like 1000+ kms.    
Those get-off-and-pee-and-fill-up breaks every few hours go
a very long way towards making the trip bearable.  I've got
a gel seat and the oversize windscreen on my bike, both "highly
recommended" mods if you're going to do some serious mile-munching.

[DogBoy]

In the 1K, they changed the forks in 2005 too. There are revalve kits available from Racetech for the early models, but after 2005, all you can change is oil and springs.

IMO, the black ones need the forks painted.

They are fully adjustable cartridge forks so wouldn't one be able to change/tune shim stacks like any cartridge fork? I'm just curious why the shim stack can't be changed.

[shil]

Starting in '05 Suzuki's sealed the cartridge, it can't be easily opened.  Apparently it can be done but you've got to really want to.

[DogBoy]

Can't be that hard. I know two people who had fork work done on 05+ SV1000s. Both are occasional posters on this board.

[TRaGiK]

Can't be that hard. I know two people who had fork work done on 05+ SV1000s. Both are occasional posters on this board.

I read something on them, but can't remember EXACTLY what was done, nor am I any sort of suspension expert, but...

It seems I remember something like one end of it has to be cut open on a lathe, then brazed or welded back together after you've done whatever it is you do inside the cartridge. From what I understand, it's a huge PITA...

[Giaka]

My wife's SV650S has race tech up front and gixxer shock out back, ZG touring screen, convertibars, SWMOTECH rear rack with GiVi trunk. It works great for her as a Sport Touring application. We get about the same range usually (180 to res when loaded down).  The SV will be getting mounts for hard side bags for Christmas.  

[FirstVtwin]

I have several 700+ mile trips on my SV, and love it to death (its a 2003).  I almost ALWAYS get to at least 145 miles before my low fuel light comes on, and usually take it up to 185 to 195 before stopping for fuel.  I don't know why you would want to go much further than that.  Susupension is fine for track duty as well...I love my SV.