COMMENTS AND INFO

Thanks in advance.........Kevin.

Dynojet just released a stage 1 jetkit for the SV650. Price is $63 and the part number is 3171.

Got my SV650S back from the dealer on 11/6/99 and now running sweeter than ever.

Turns out there was a problem with front inlet manifold , It didn't fit onto the cylinder head properly hence it was spitting out gaskets all the time. Because there is a two week waiting list for inlet manifolds,they had to strip a shop bike to be able to repair mine! They also replaced the spark plugs from Nippon denso's to NGK's whick makes quite a difference,Especcialy since they balanced the carbs s well.

Still this now my 4000 MILE service (4800 actually) tomorrow a little cheaper.

P.S Does any body know if a TL1000S seat hump will fit the SV?

Hi - I love the site and would like to post a question, if you think it's appropriate...

Very appropriate, good question.....

"Hi. I am 2 weeks away from delivery of my new, blue, sv650s. I was wondering if any of you, with benefit of hindsight, would have done anyhting to your brand new bikes - eg any type of waterproofing etc, before you had really run the bike in?"

I'll tell you after it's been through it's first British winter.......hopefully with regular cleaning and application of WD40 I should stave off most of winter problems although I expect deterioration and would be interested to hear from others who've treated other bikes and whether it was worth the effort.

G'Day,

It must be an Australian thing....... I had the same reservations about the low bars as Steve, but bought it anyway! Having owned it for 3 months now, the bars aren't all that bad, but I feel they would be much better if they were about 25-50mm higher.

During the many hours spent drooling over the bike, I've looked at what would be involved in raising the bars. For starters, the standard bars can't be raised, so custom made clip-ons or a conversion to one-piece bars would be necessary. The naked SV has one-piece bars, but comes with a top triple clamp to suit. I think the SV-S triple clamp can be drilled to suit, but it would be a bit dodgey. Another hassle is the cables and wiring - they are cut to length to the millimetre, so any movement would require some wires to be extended and a longer brake hose (not a problem, really).

The biggest problem is that gorgeous fairing - it's designed to fit perfectly around the standard bars without more than about 15mm to spare. So you either hurl the fairing and make a nudie out of it, or move the fairing up with the bars, which might look a bit silly with its long nose up high. It looks like moving the fairing wouldn't be too hard. It doesn't look like the fairing would foul anything, and the brackets look like they would co-operate with the move. I'll do some sketches with the fairing raised to see how it looks, but since the bike looks so horn as it is, I'm not getting my hopes up.

The naked conversion (as an alternative when the mood suits me, not as a replacement!) looks attractive. Any Yanks out there with naked bits for sale?

I also have a tucked-in high-rise exhaust system (which retains the standard passenger pegs) and compact gear rack on the drawing board. I'll keep you posted............(Oh dear, I've lost the plot again....I bought a new bike so I would stop modifying bikes!!!)

Chris - any pics of the exhaust system?

When are the bikes going to become available in California ? I havent even managed to see one yet ! Are they planning to import the SV650s for the Y2k model year ?

I'm drawing a blank on each question...help....anyone know for sure? I've not heard about the S model being sold for 2000.

I recently talked to the people at Airtech and they say they are making a street legal fairing (upper only I believe) with headlight and brackets for around $500. Availability is supposed to be late June or early July.

I tried talking to Suzuki USA about a fairing retro-kit but they gave me the "talk to your dealer" bit.

I presently own a Yamaha R6 which I like very much but I am considering a SV650 also. I like the look of the SV and everything I read about it sounds very positive. My question is very subjective = will I be disappointed with a SV if I already have a R6? I realize this is a difficult question to answer but wondered if anyone on your board has gone from a true sportbike to a SV.

Will appreciate comments.

My comments are that after an R6 you'll notice a lack of power and the difference in v-twin power delivery as opposed to the Yamaha four. Also thr R6 brakes are superior to the SV. The handling of the SV is a match for the R6 but the top end howl and power just isn't there. If you expect that you'll be disappointed, if you don't then give an SVS a test ride and see how you get on.

Hi there, great site.. =) Got my Yellow 650s a few weeks ago, and have been slowly running it in.. (On L plates, 'cause it's my first ever bike..)

My question.. Does anyone do covers for the backs of the mirrors? My bike lives round the back of the house, and as it's a narrow gap between houses, I've scratched them.. =(

Mirror covers? I don't think you'll find anything like that. I guess you've folded the mirrors back? They go back pretty well and make the bike much narrower.

I'm from Spain. Iīd like to ask you if my sv650s needs unleaded fuel or not, because in my dealer , they told me to use super (leaded). Which one is
better?. Thank you.

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UPDATE!!!!

24/06/99 The GiVi fairing I have on my bike probably was not designed for the sv, anyway it fits ok, even if it partially covers the revs counter. No big deal to mount it, although the bike feels like "floating" a little bit at around 120 km/h (but itīs ok over, so just go faster!). I hope this can be useful, because I received some mails , and I canīt answer to everybody (this is my job email).

Thanks Matteo.

I want to hear from a SV s owner who have installed a Yoshimura pipe on his bike.Any jetting to do?And got a little more power from it? My
girlfriend and i are interested in putting this pipe on our bikes because it looks so good! And i had Two Yosh in the past on my GS 750 and 1000 and just like that brand.

We live in Quebec,Canada so we have SV650S ( any jealous? :)) and are very pleased with the bikes but i ll look to more power in the near future.If you want to see some pictures of our bikes go to http://members.xoom.com/sylvyn/ and click on "ma moto"... i just begin to put some pics so check back for updates !

I have installed the GIVI MAXIA 50 litre bag on my 650SV using the GIVI Multirack that attaches to the passenger seat and locks with the helmet lock. I am very happy with it but will switch to the hard mounting when available.

GIVI says nothing is in the pipeline yet. I have attached a photo of the the case on the bike.

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Does anybody have information about after-market screens for the SV650, because it would be nice to sit a but out of the wind. Companies like GIVI or Powerscreen are they doing screens for the bike yet.

Thanks

UPDATE !!!!!

See Matteo's posting of 21/06/99

The stock air filter in the sv650 has what seems to be a restrictive opening for air. I decided to open up the air filter to get more air into the engine. I used a "hot knife" and opened up the air filter, now the opening for air is almost twice as big.

I don't know if the bike is making more power, but it now has a stumble (surge) in the midrange when accelerating hard. Almost as if the engine is getting too much air, not enough fuel. My bike has stock jetting and a M4 exhaust.

Will jetting the bike solve this problem. Can using my bike like this cause my engine internal damage. Running to lean?? (I can't afford to jet it anytime soon). By the way K&N are making an air filter for the SV.

UPDATE !!!!!

24/06/99 This from Ian (ian.sisson@nottscc.gov.uk)....thanks for the feedback on this one....

Getting carburation right is a bit of a black art and the airbox is very important.

Chopping hole in it is likely to make things worse rather than better. Fitting a M4 pipe (which Carlos has already) gives about an extra 10bhp with the standard jetting, which is a pretty impressive power gain. My advice would be to chuck the bastardized airbox in the bin and replace it with a new OE item. If you start messing with the jetting you'll just keep making it worse. If it aint broke - don't piss about with it!

Hi. I was wondering if it would be possible to swap the bars from a SV650S with those of the unfaired SV650, and vice
versa. Note: I dont actually own a 650S _yet_, but I think I will as soon as I resolve the 'I dont want to have the bars that low' problem.

How does the clamp holding the tubular bars to the 650 attach to the forks? With the 650S, the bars just clamp around the fork struts, so
Im sure they could migrate to the 650 with no problem.

Would the 650S need longer brakes lines etc with higher bars, or do both bikes share the same length cables?

Steve - did you send the email of the 18/06 below where I forgot to post your email address?

I was one of lucky few (apparently) that was successful in importing a Canadian SV650S to the U.S. I've just scanned in some images of the
"unboxing" the day I received the bike, April 26, 1999. Also included are some digital photos of my SV's maiden voyage.

http://www.inficad.com/~ecrigg/sasena/index.htm

Hello fellow SV riders!

I have attached a couple of action shots from Gingerman Raceway in South Haven Michigan. Nick Devnick is the one who takes the outstanding shots at our races - thanks Nick.

I have finally installed a Penske racing shock and Yoshimura full race exhaust - both a must for racing. The suzuki is very competitive in all
the light weight classes. I have had all top-10 finishes in the expert class for the first four weekends of racing. Our grids average about 28
riders per event. I believe a podium finish will come soon as soon as I get the suspension dialed in. I have added 3/8" spacers to the front forks
changed the fork oil to 20 weight and added an additional 2 ounces of fluid to each fork - the forks are still pitiful. I'm hoping to put some GSXR
600 forks on in the future but money is the big issue!

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Rubber Down and Bubble Up!

Man... Things have turned out sooooo well for me... Here's a little "HAPPY"  story of Mine:

Saw an add in the paper for a Hawk GT, a bike I would drool over in the past. Went to see it; it was practically brand new 10000km black with red seat, SuperTrapp, didn't have the cash at the time (DAMN! He was selling it for 3000$ CANADIAN, can you believe it??!!) so what happens is the owner sold it to a BornAgain biker that just bought a BMW and needed something to learn on. Well two months, and 3000$ later ( I worked day and night sacrificed all indulgences to get this money!! ), I call the guy up and he says he's got a problem: He's fallen in love with the bike and likes it more than his 25 000$ BMW!!!!!

I WAS in a state of depression for quite some time, until a miracle happened and a dealer called me up Thursday saying  they had a SV650S coming in and it would be ready for Friday June 18 and I could pick it up on Saturday morning!!!!!!!! I'm SSOOOOOO HAPPY...

See the thing is that I landed a SWEET scholarship at school so as reluctant as my parents are about me riding a motorcycle they're going to spot me the money!!! IT ALL SOUNDS TO GOOD TO BE TRUE, I'm still in denial. THINGS OFTEN DO WORK OUT FOR THE BETTER!!! Cheer up all you who didn't get one... your break will come too!

Tony has made available this 1.4Mb MPEG video clip of him, his SV650 with Two Bros oval muffler and some great twisty road.

If you need it the latest MS Windows Media Player can be found on the MS site at http://www.microsoft.com

See Tony posting of 04/04/99 for more information.....

PS...I'll be posting an AVI sound clip of my bog standard S model soon.

G'day. Im from Australia and we only have the 650S available here. I want the fairing, but would rather the lower gearing and higher bars of the naked...I think the 650 would make the perfect fun commuter with style, with the ability to day tour comfortably in the hills.

q1) How can I raise the bars on the 650S...is there a kit available or a third party?

I have not heard of one but (as per the posting below from today) it's possible other Suzuki bars may adapt.

q2) If I were to buy this bike, I would like a top box that would fit my helmet and jacket. ???

Givi do a large (45litre) Monokey top box and I think they may be thinking about doing a rack for the SV by now. It'll destroy the looks but you'll get a helmet and jacket in it.  Do a search on the web for Givi - they have a site (www.givi.it ???)

UPDATE !!!!!!

24/06/99 An update sent by Chris can be found above.

Kevin - SV650S - Is the rear brake supposed to be as weak as mine? The front grabs really well but the back has very little effect on my speed.

The rear brake isn't mega powerful on mine but it's enough to lock the back at lowish speed (the road wasn't bone dry at time).

It also stuggles to get above 9400/9500 in top. I suppose a new pipe would release more rpm but how much are they in the UK?

In top at 9500 you're doing about 125mph indicated, you're not going to get much above that - I can't anyway. Wind resistance and power tail off stops you. An M4 complete system is about Ģ550, I don't have costings for end cans only as yet.

Otherwise the bike keeps making me grin. Cheers, great web site.

Going to have installed the Yosh R3 Carbon Exhaust System and a Dynojet Jet Kit at Graves Motorsports in Van Nuys, CA. Will keep you posted on what the bike dyno's before and after the exhuast system upgrade.

Please do.

Anyone interested in a mounting system for a Givi Hard Bag which replaces the passenger seat? Thought I'd use my rocket science skills
for something in the motorcycling realm.

Has anyone tried Dunlop 207 tires on the SV?

Yes, Andy Downes from MCN fitted them. I have no in-depth report but he mentioned they are grippier than the Metz and are an improvement.

A headlight fairing for the american SV650? Would love to have the European half fairing, any rumors on suzuki offering a kit?

Ha, ha, ha (sorry, couldn't resist)........no, afraid not......

First a praise. I've been following your site since around February or March and I have to say I'm pleased to see the growth. Did you think it would turn into this when you first started it? Your site is the best and most helpful I've run across (probably due to the HUGE international flavor). Now, on to the meat of the letter.

Thanks for the kind words. No I didn't think it would get this big and only started it to find out information for myself. Having said that if others benefit too then great.

In regards to Ian's broken brake lever in his posting of 10/06/99, he said he broke the front brake lever. I noticed in the article posted by the Cycleholics (who are racing a SV605 in Texas) (surf.to/cycleholics) that they suffered what sounds like a severe crash in which several things were broken, to include a rear brake lever and foot peg.

According to the author, these parts from a GSXR-600 matched almost perfectly. Has Ian tried fitting a front brake lever from a GSXR-600 on his SV650? Also, how many other parts are interchangeable?

I don't know. Anyone else who successfully interchanged parts let me know and I'll start a table of swappable components if it's what you guys and gals want.

I don't own a SV650 yet, but will soon. I'm waiting to see if they will introduce the faired model (at an increased price I'm sure) here in USA. Also my dealer (Riverside Suzuki in Monroe, Louisiana) hasn't even gotten in his first SV650. He told me "they are on order, I just don't know whan they will come in. Thanks once again for a great site.

Fellow SV'ers,
Your SV's forks can be stiffened a bit by adding 1-2oz of 5wt fork oil. I added 2oz and the difference is tremendous. Much less dive under braking and much more stable turning into corners. Still not enough rebound damping. That will reqire modifying the damping rod.

Yes, I've seen a racer who grafted a set of USD 750 GSXR forks onto his SV650. All that was required was a specially made spacer to make the triple tree fit the steering head. Didn't seem to be a big deal according to this racer. BTW, he won the 650 Twins race and did very well in the 600 Superbike race against modified F4's, R6's, FZR's, ZX6R's and Gixers. Pretty impressive especially considering the fact that the motor in his SV is still stock.

Speed Safely

I just installed an M4 system on my sv650. The service was great. I got my system just 2 weeks after I ordered it. It took me 30 minutes to install with simple hand tools. It was very easy to install.

The bike sounds awsome, a mix of a ducati and a triumph triple. (Ducati on the mid range, triple on the upper revs). The bikes feels stronger on the top end, but the mid range feels the same to me.

My only complaint is that the system leaks air when cold. My system leaks air out of every junction where the tubes bolt on. I was told by
M4 that this is normal when cold and should go away when hot. (pipes expand and close the leaks). Still I recomend the system you wont be disapointed.

Has any one experienced any bad missfire problems?
At about 3000 miles mine starting coughing and throwing small flames from the exhuast!

When I took the bike back to the dealer they promptly took the keys from me and told me not to ride any further.

Two and a half weeks later, new o-rings were fitted between the inlet manifold and carb. Problem solved me thinks....

1500 miles later,while cornering at about 30MPH the engine stops dead - locking back wheel breifley almost causing one nasty high side!

Back to dealer to throw bike through shop window (not quite!)  Turns out It's the same problem, engine back pressure blowing carb gasket clean out and bike now running on one cylinder.

Still, Have nice Kawasaki ER5 to play with. AGAIN!!

Nice to have an ER5????? Are you sure?????   Good luck with the repairs and hope it's sorted soon.....keep us informed.

UPDATE!!!!!!

24/06/99 An update from Ian can be found above.

My name is Ralf Peters from LEICHLINGEN in GERMANY. A really great Site. Thanks for this good job!!

I'm a poor boy. At 16.04.99 i hab an bad accident with my Suzuki RF 600 R on a german highway. A car bumps me from behind and drove over my fine bike.

After the insurrance of the driver payd the money for the dammage I run to my local suzie-dealer and ordered a new SV 650 S. The dealer said me that I have to wait until july before he gets one and he don't knew the color! I can't believe this and phoned to the german headquarter of suzuki. They said me that I'm a lucky guy, because when a german dealer ordered now(may) a bike of this type, he will get it in SEPTEMBER!.

Now I'm sitting here, finest weather in germany, no bike 'till july. My tears running in big streams.....

Many greetings to all the lucky owner of this wonderfull SV 650 S

Ralf.....stop, stop...you'll have me in tears soon..........................

I had read several articles and tests on the SV650 and that convinced me to buy the red one on 5/1/99. I have since put 1200 miles on it.

I can't say enough good things about this cycle. The midrange rpm's are stunning and it handles like a dream!  It does tend to get loose in gusty wind, but I'm guessing that's because of the light weight.  I previously rode a GS500E and found many similarities, but the V-Twin definitely makes this bike.

I've had many looks from other bike owners. Everyone gives me compliments on the looks and my friends whom I've allowed to ride it say they can't stop riding it, they love it!

I replaced the round mirrors with rectangular ones and that's the only change I've made to my cycle.

For any bigger guys looking at this bike (I'm 6'3" and about 220lbs), don't worry about a thing! This cycle doesn't feel too small and you don't look out of place on it either. I found many people telling me I should be riding a Katana or GSX-R 750 because of my size, but I feel completely at ease on the SV650.

Quick summary: This is a fun bike to ride and the price is even better! If you don't end up buying one, ride a friend's bike.

I've had my SV650S (Black) for over a month now and clocked up just over 2000 miles, but I have this problem, I need more power. Every thing about the SV650S is perfect, it looks fantastic, and in my opinion there isn't a better looking bike, and thats the reason I would rather expand the performance of this bike instead of trading in for another like the TL1000 or Yamaha R1.

The words Re-jetting, Race Cans, Re-bore spring to mind, but being very new to bikes, the age of my SV to be exact, I'm not sure if getting these thing done will satisfy my need for more power.

Help me, what can I do and how much will it cost ?, should I forget the all the hasle and just upgrade to a more powerfull bike ?

Fitting an aftermarket exhaust system can realise about 10bhp at least, add in stickier (Dunlop D207??) tyres and you have more power and improved handling. This is by far the best option I would say. Andy Downes from MCN (01/06/99) said in his column this week that he fitted an M4 system (cost about 550 UK pounds) and Dunlops and it has transformed the bike.

If you want more power still I have heard that a 750cc upgrade is available from a company but I have no more details of cost, who does it or what's involved although it was said that power was upped to 90bhp (if anyone's got more details on this please drop me a line).

If you need more power still then you'll have to wait around for someone to bring out further upgrades or swap the bike. To my way of thinking the SV is such a good bike now because it is ideally matched in terms of power and chassis (and price). Start to mess with one and the other then feels 'lacking' - this is a never ending spiral of cost and reliability trade-off. I am aware that many complain about the 'cheap' suspension and others about lack of power. It's possible to play with both but with regard to power if I wanted a v-twin with 100+ bhp then I would have bought a TL1000S and not an SV.

I'm not saying don't upgrade, I'm just saying there's a limit before you might as well change the bike altogether. I'm sure many will disagree with this....it's only my personal opinion, as is all of the stuff I write.

I have done 1100 miles on my new SV650S and I am having problems ,mainly,when I shift up.

At the moment I am staying under 8000 revs.When I go to shift up from 4th to 5th & 6th,the transmission gets stuck. This is happening at least once per journey,which average 30 miles. When I release the clutch lever, and open up the throttle the revs redline, at times this can be a real bummer in congested traffic.

Tried adjusting the gear shifter using the threaded nuts etc? It might make it a bit easier to shift although it sounds as if something else is up here. If you get no response from this page have a word with your dealer.

Please email me if you can help.

P.S.

The bike also comes off it's centre stand occasionally (yes on level ground!)

You do have to be a bit careful. Mine has wanted to come off a few times but I park on a slightly sloping driveway and tend to pull the bike bar when I get off it (for leverage). At times this pulling effect can push the bike forward slightly and the stand moves back to a point where it no longer supports the bike. I'm just more careful now.

14/06/99 Thank you very much Mike (mkurland@bellatlantic.net) for this invaluable information. I get many many emails regarding this subject, hopefully this has shed some light on the whole process.

I have had my red SV650S now for about 6 weeks after importing it from Canada to Virginia. I had a beautiful ride home through Niagara Falls,
western New York and Pennsylvania. While I cannot speak to the importation process differences between Virginia and California, I
believe the process is similar as I researched this on Federal Government web sites.

The process to import from Canada to the States (this took me about 4-6 weeks) is as follows:

1. Find a bike in Canada, place a deposit with a credit card, and get the VIN. The Suzuki Canada web site has a dealer locator which I used
to contact 14 dealers until I found a dealer that had not already sold its allotment for the year.

2. Contact American Suzuki Motor Corporation (714-996-7040) to get a letter certifying that the particular bike, identified by the VIN,
satisfies DOT FMVSS and EPA standards. Specifically there is someone named Jeff Link who is the Certification Manager responsible for these letters. The letter you receive will indicate that it satisfies the EPA and DOT standards with the exception of the speedometer which registers KM/Hr with no secondary MPH scale. It took me about 2 weeks to get the letter.

3. Get a speedometer from UK. The Canadian dealer got one through their personal contacts in UK from a dealership named Fowlers, but you
may be able to find one yourself. I tried many, many avenues to get such a speedometer, including investigating whether the TL1000
speedometer would work but this was the only way I could find to get a match for sure. The speedometer and air freight cost about $400. This
process, including dealer installation, took about 4-5 weeks.

4. Once you (or the dealer) has the speedometer and you have the letter from Suzuki, you are ready to take delivery. Remember to get a
foreign bank draft for the balance in Canadian dollars made up before you leave, as the dealer may charge you 2% for using a credit card.

5. Be sure that the dealer charges you GST (7% goods and services tax) but not PST (Additional 8% Provincial Sales Tax). If you do not
register the bike in Canada, you should not have to pay PST. When you get to the Canadian border you can get the GST back at a duty-free shop, or you can apply for a refund by mail. The Revenue Canada web site has the form and mailing address for the Visitor Rebate Program.

6. Call your insurance company and acquire the necessary liability insurance

7. In order to legally drive the bike in Canada, I got a 10 day Ontario transit tag, which was a piece of paper that looks kind of like
a license plate that I mounted in the fairing. The folks at US Customs also looked for that tag. I don't know what the equivalent is for
provinces other than Ontario, but the dealer should be able to help.

8. At the border, you need to get valid importation documents from US Customs, so be prepared to produce the letter from Suzuki, the itemized sales receipt/invoice, and the New Vehicle Information Statement, which is the closest thing to a title you can get. There is no duty on the bike since it is less than 700 cc.

9. Enjoy your ride. Since you will be in the break-in period, you need to be mindful of the break-in guidelines -- vary the throttle and
keep the RPMs under 5000 for the first 500 miles. That was kind of tough for a long ride. Once I got to 500 miles I found a Suzuki dealer
in Altoona PA and got the oil changed. It was a lot more fun being able to open up the throttle the rest of the way.

10. Registering the bike, in Virginia anyway, turned out to be somewhat challenging as the DMV was not prepared for registering a bike
without a title. I had to have them call the dealer, who assured them that the NVIS was the certificate documenting the vehicle origin for all
intents and purposes. After they cleared that up I had to pay the Virginia vehicle sales tax in order to get a title and registration.

Yes, this was a challenging process but it has been well worth it.

After figuring the additional costs and the favorable exchange rate, I came out about even or even slightly ahead of the US cost. And more
importantly, I got the bike I wanted, and am having a blast riding it around. Hopefully posting this information will make importation
simpler for others, as a lot of the challenge was figuring all this out.

Thanks again.

I can't seem to find that link to the French company that made the tail section on "Pascal's" blue SV. I tried them once but have since been off-line so I'm not sure if they responded or not. Actually, I couldn't get Pascal to respond either. Have they gone by the wayside?

Well the webpage is still there...try : http://www.webmoto.com/roca/list/650sv.htm     I emailed them a while back too and got no reply, I was interested in the rear hugger.

While I'm here I might as well put in my 2 cents on the SV.

Far better balance than my '94 900SS with, I feel, equal performance! Of course, the suspension needs help but I haven't owned a bike in the
past 30 years that didn't, so critics can stop griping about that. I've ordered the Two Brothers pipe but have a wait 'til the end of the month due to demand.

Love the bike! Thanks and safe riding!

Below is an email that i had from a guy called terry, terry visited my homepage and wanted to know how i had got on with my M4 exhaust, wow what a system, if you wanted to see the system please look under the photo gallery on my homepage..

http://www.btinternet.com/~andy.southard

The reason why i am emailing you is what do you think of the comments that terry has made about the carbs???...do you think this is worth trying??..also have you had this type of question on your homepage??please could you let me know i would be very interested in the outcome...thanks...

I haven't had this type of question before and attempting this would scare me to death (but I'm a chicken when it comes to mechanics!!).

andy southard

"Thanks for the info Andy. Ya, who cares about loud. Motorcycles are supposed to be loud. They're safer that way. I know people don't see me
coming, but if they can hear me maybe they won't try and run me off the road.

Any difficulties installing the system? That rear header looks like a bear to get to. Does it slip onto the little extension off the rear head or does
it bolt directly to the head?

Have you done any rejetting? I took the slides out and shimmed the needles ..020" and cured the mid range surge that it had stock. When you remove the needle you'll find a washer on top of the circlip. It's exactly .020".

Just take it off and slip it under the plastic spacer. Works great! No more lean mid range. Starts easier and warms up faster also. It's fairly
difficult to get to the front carb top. You have to remove the radiator bolts and push it down and out of your way. After that it's still hard to
get in there and loosen the screws (thank god there's only two of them) but it is possible. I had to actually chisel the screws loose from the side because I couldn't get enough torque on them, kind of Mickey Mouse but it worked. For a moment I contemplated removing the tank to get the carbs out but that looks like a nightmare. It appears to me that removing the tank requires removal of the rear sub frame members. Ugly!!!"

Iīm a proud owner of a sv 650 in black.

I rode it from Italy (where I bought it) to denmark (where I live). Itīs 1500 km of motorway, part of it a german autobahn with no speed limit (...)

My is a naked model , with a little windshield from an italian brand called GiVi. I paid it about 100 USD and it proved really useful. My top speed in Germany has been of 215 on the odo , with this little windshield , a tank bag and a backpack tied up on the pillion seat (12 kg total luggage).

I have only 2 complaints:

first, the bike didnt feel so stable as it should at medium speeds (140kph-150kph) or it was simply a little bit too sensitive to the wind (north of germany).Maybe I will look for a steering damper like the TL1000

second, after 150 km in Denmark with rain, the bike felt like the response to the throttle was not immediate (in Germany was perfect).I donīt know if the rain was the cause or the fuel (maybe poor quality?). I have to point out that at top speed the bike was cool.

I hope this can be useful, see you next time!

UPDATE !!!!

14/06/99 This from David (dwasserm@scooby.sbs.ohio-state.edu).....

Matteo reported (6/10/99) the same problem I had -- except I actually "lost" a cylinder. Rain tends to really soak the front spark plug.

Wow! What a great site. I just wish I had known about it sooner...

I'm interested in the SV650S. Unfortunately, that version isn't offered here in the U.S. From the archives, I read about people from Michigan and Washington importing the bike from Canada. I was curious if anyone from California has successfully imported this bike. If not, I might have to settle for the SV650 and convert it myself.

Has anyone done anything like this (ie add fairings, clip ons, etc)?

Thanks and I look forward to the next update.

Steven (who supports the sv650.org server) is looking into the possiblility of creating a messaging forum on this site. Many people have requested it and it maybe be beneficial in providing more answers to questions than is the case at the moment. I will let you know how it goes.

Some theories on some of the "noises":

The clatter under load at low revs: I'm now convinced that it is normal. My old CX650 didn't do it, but it had quite a chunky water jacket around the cylinders with heavier castings and only about 9:1 compression compared with the SV's 11.5:1, so I'm sure the noise is just combustion doing its usual thing. The noise on mine is becoming less noticeable also.

The hissing sound: I like all the theories put forward, but it's the chain you fools! I recently cleaned my chain and haven't really lubed it
sufficiently, so the hissing is quite prominent. I dare say all that light alloy amplifies the sound. After two shaft drive bikes, it's hard going back
to the chores of chain maintenance. Because the chain is endless, I had to remove the back wheel to get the chain to hang down into a tin of petrol to clean it. I don't intend doing that every 1000km!

I just took the bike to a rally. It attracted a lot of attention, especially my antics in the dirt! What a terrific dirt bike! The V-twin really bites into
the dirt and it handles it well for a sports bike. I won the slalom event in the gymkana which was held in a soft sandy paddock. It could even wheelstand in the dirt (much to my unpleasant surprise)!

10/06/99 More noise releated material from Tony (ynotfix@wgn.net) - got your name right this time!! : )

My SV is at 6600 miles now and the noises are all still there. No change, so I'm not worried any more.

I've run mine hard enough that if there were a problem it would have surfaced by now. A friend with a TL1000 says his bike is nosier than mine [the engine, not the pipe], and he's got 20,000 miles on his.

I built a stand that supports the bike by the swingarm pivot bolt and it's easy to put the bike up for chain lubing and tire changes. I'll send a pic
as soon as I paint it. Added heated grips too and it sure is nice to have warm hands on those early morning rides.

Your problem sounds like a fault (maybe). I did not experience these effects and bike pulled hard and smooth straight after running-in period. I can't recall either anyone else complaining of this. If you have then please write in. Andy - maybe see how it goes for a bit longer then get the bike back to the dealer?

Carb icing? I don't know, the guys from colder climes would be able to say...so far none have as far as I know.

UPDATE !!!!!

14/06/99 Thanks for this Bart (dammans@planetinternet.be).....I'm sure we'll get more in this subject as time rolls on....

Just a little note on the carb icing: I do not (yet) own an SV myself, but will probably within a year or two.

Anyway, I read a test in a Belgian magazine (Motoren & Toerisme) and those guys did experience carb icing. Carb heaters seemed to have solved the problem for them though...

A word of warning!!

After dropping my SV on a patch of diesal i was fairly pleased that the only damage was some very minor scratching on the fairing and a broken front brake lever, that was until i tried to geta new brake lever. After phoning around about 20 companies i found that only 2 even had a part listed and none had it in stock.

I decided to go with Motorcycle City who ordered the part. Then i waited, and waited..... I gave them a call to check and they phoned suzuki. It seems that even suzuki UK do not have the part in, they actually admitted that they had an sv650 clutch lever on order for over 2 months!!!

As it stands i still do not have a brake lever although im told that it will be here by the end of the week. So be carful not to drop your bike you may have a long wait to get it back on the road.

Let us know how long it takes Ian.

UPDATE !!!

14/06/99 Thanks for this update Ian.....hope the part(s) arrive..

Just an update. Apparently suzuki now have some parts in and my brake has been despatched to Motorcycle city so i should be able to pick it up at the weekend. I cant wait to get the bike back on the road as i hate having to drive the car!!

We are two proud owners of a yellow and red sv 650 - what a fine bike!

Two questions.

Does anyone know what is going to happen whith the prices on the bike - is it going to rise, and if so, how much?

The front suspension is a bit soft, can anything be done to it, without violating the warrenty, e.g. more fork oil ?

Has anyone tried to fit GSXR 750 USD forks to an SV yet?

I am planning to get an SV in about a months time and am looking at a few minor trick bits (carbon fibre hugger, seat hump, mudguard extention) and a few major ones including USD forks and a full exhaust system with quickchange cans (twin exhausts, TL1000S style with one set of road legal Alloy Cans and a non legal set of Oval Carbon cans - probably going to have to be made specially).

Could be interesting with GSXR 750 Forks though!

Duncan - where were you going to get the hugger from?

UPDATE !!!!! 18/06/99

See posting of 18/06/99 above

I have just got a red SV650 which I found in a second hand bike shop with 60 miles on the clock for Ģ3500 all legit and warranties intact. Am I lucky or what. (ummmmm.....yes!)

Good to see that so many people feel as I do that this is a very good motor bike. I have had great fun on mine riding around Southampton and the New Forest. Here's hoping for a very good Summer.

Well, we haven't had a summer yet so fingers crossed..

Excellent rescource you have here! May I suggest a dedicated forum format? Anyways, onto the SV stuff.

I've had my SV for almost a week, and am halfway to the first service. It has all of the noises other people have mentioned, but seem to be fading in and out as the motor loosens up.

I have heard that 96+ GsxR clipons will mount to the SV. Is this true for the US model in particular? After owning a Zx6 for a while I have come to appreciate what a bit of wieght on the bars does for control, and the SV doesn't allow me to lean on the bars. Can't wait to break it in and start modding it - and I'd love to know about the non-US fairing and what changes would need to be made to the US model to mount it.

Any feedback is appreciated!

Page just getting better and better - great thet you are doing all this work- thank you.

I've taken some pictures of my SV which has got a Scorpion Race can fitted to it - It might be of interest to others, as the Scorpion can is fairly cheap and actually looks great (so does the fitting I think). It now kicks out 71 Bhp on the Dyno.

Image 1

Image 2

Finally got my Yellow SVS!!! Importing the thing from Canada has proven to be a trying experience. The broker I hired went on vacation, and nobody in the office could find my paperwork. I almost didn't get my bike! Finally, after several irate phone calls, things were straightened out, and I got the bike.  Tomorrow, I will go for the State Patrol inspection and first attempt at licensing this thing.

Kudos to the guys down at Renton Motorcycle Company, for helping me set up the bike after unpacking! The Canadian spec SVS sure drew a crowd!

First ride on the SVS was a thrill! It feels similar in riding position to my TL-R, but SOOO much lighter! Great handling, and that engine sure makes a beautiful sound! This bike is so much more fun than I expected! I wouldn't be surprised if I find myself riding this bike instead of the TL-R.

I was wondering whether shifting my SV without using the clutch when going up the gears (on the gas) can do damage to my transmission, engine mounts and/or chain. The gears go in without trouble or grinding, but the bike jerks and buckles pretty hard. I do lift off the gas a little before shifting to the next gear. Just in case I am doing it wrong, What is the proper way to shift without using the Clutch.

Will shifting withou the clutch on a daily basis do long term damage? Thanks.

Most of the time I use clutched changes but when I'm giving the bike some stick I use clutchless i.e. when at speed, the slower you go the harder it is to perform without horrible gear crunching noises. They take a little practice but you can get them very smooth and they are obviously faster again than messing with the clutch action. I just ease off the throttle a little before giving the gear shifter a firm pull upwards then get back on the power. Constant badly performed changes are bound to have some detremental affect on the gearbox but if done with some degree of symphathy then I don't think it causes problems.

Anyone else care to comment? What about racers, do you use the clutch?

UPDATE!!!!

07/06/99 Thanks to Tony (not Greg as I previously renamed him!!) for this information....

It's a Two Bros. oval alum can.

It has a power valve in the inlet which quiets the sound a bit for city running. It's not really very loud anyway but it's nice to be able to hush it down. The inlet size is 2" inside dia. I cut the stock pipe about 3" from the weld on the straight section of the inlet pipe to the muffler, this way I can reinstall the original if I want, by just using a short section of pipe to join the two ends.

I used a piece of 2" exhaust pipe that the muffler shop swedged out to fit over the original pipe [which is 2-1/8 outside dia.]. Then I cut that
piece at an angle and fitted it to get the head pipe and the muffler to align. It was really easy as it took only one cut and a bit of fitting and
welding to get it to work. A small slot in the head pipe end to allow the piece to be clamped down and the muffler was ready to slip on. I had already made a bracket for the original muffler [in order to remove the rear footpegs] so I just bent a piece of alum to fit between the mounting hole and the backside of the muffler.

Two large stainless hose clamps to hold the bracket to the muffler and I was done. Total time not including the running around for material was under 1-1/2 hours.

Well I just got my SV650S yesterday after waiting 6 weeks for delivery (bit slow here in Denmark??) (bit expensive too I hear!!), but now I'm happy puppy indeed. Just one question what's the best way to get the warning stickers off ????

I removed the stickers by carefully peeling as much of the sticker off the bodywork as possible. The top layer of the sticker would come away and leave the bottom 'sticky' layer intact. At first I used a silicon based wax polish to try to remove the sticky remains but I would *not* do this again. It started to leave very faint scratch marks so I quickly stopped. Instead I used kerosene (parafin <sp?> in the UK) and it worked a treat. The sticky bottom layer came away with gentle rubbing and did not mark the bodywork at all. Result - everything look so much better without the idiot stickers reminding you to wear a helmet etc.

With regard to the kerosene I bought it from a typical hardware shop (lawn mowers and garden items, not CPU's and HDD's!) and had to supply my own container. Cost  - a whopping Ģ1.75 for 5 litres - if only my car & bike would run on the stuff, I'd save a fortune!

In reference to Josh Mac's comments about the left side hissing, I noticed the exact same noise today. In fact, when I moved my leg out of the way to try and get a look, the hissing became very pronounced, exactly as Josh describes.

Since I am taking the time to write this mail, I would also like to mention that I have several of the other problems mentioned on this and other sites dedicated to the SV650. These include the ticking from the front cyclinder, cam chain noise, surging, and poor finish on areas of the engine.

But, these problems are simply annoyances and are quickly forgotten after I mount the bike. My red SV650X is a blast to ride, and is centuries ahead of my previous 'standard', a Nighthawk CB700SC.

Finally, thanks for the site.

Thanks very much. If enough of you find it useful then it's worth doing.......(my surging problems have all but disappeared by themselves).

I have a red US version SV with 400 mile on the odometer.

First question is if there is any more info regarding the false neutral between 5th and 6th gears. I read about others with the problem a bit ago, but have seen nothing more. It hapens to me with some frequency and generally results in the engine hitting 9000-10000 RPM before I realize that I'm not in gear. This particularly bothers me as my dealer told me to keep the bike under 5000 RPM for the first 500 miles.

I had this problem as did others. I'm pretty sure that you'll find it no longer happens after the run-in period. Certainly, mine has been fine since about 1000 miles and it is no lobnger a problem. If yours continues on after run-in get it checked out.

The second question is related: How strictly must I follow the 500 miles=5000 RPM; 600 miles=6000 RPM etc., break-in schedule? Since I've already redlined the bike due to the false neutral, I am a bit concerned.

Don't worry about this. Stick as near as you can to the schedule but it's not critical. Main points to remember are not to labour the engine (trying to pull at low revs)  and do not run continuously at constant rpm. Try to vary the rpm otherwise prolonged running at the same engine speed can 'glaze' the pots (so I'm told). The occasional redline due to a false neutral isn't a problem, the engine is not under load and the revs drop away quickly.

My red U.S. SV650 is now three weeks old, and I love it to death.

One more "phantom" noise to report, though. On the left side ONLY, when over 10 miles an hour or so, there is a hissing noise that is barely audible. When I splay my left knee out, though, it is very pronounced (the inside of the leg becomes an effective sound tunnel from the hiss to the ear). It sounds kinda like bacon frying. I first thought it was just road noise or the sound of the tires sticking to the pavement. But the fact that it's only on the left side and that it shows up abruptly during acceleration and leaves abruptly during deceleration rule out that theory.

Anyone else notice this (or is my bike messed up!), and anyone got any theories? Thanks.

That's got me thinking now...I haven't noticed anything though. I'll try riding around with my leg left stuck out and see what happens (I'll either get nicked or fall off probably!)

UPDATE !!

03/06/99 Thanks for this feedback Mark (jeepster1220@hotmail.com), sounds fair enought to me.....

How's to bike? Good I'm sure! Anyways, Josh Mac e-mailed you about a hissing noise, so here's my take on it.

It is simply the sound of air being sucked into the carbs. Josh and I would probably hear it more because of the total lack of bodywork but you might not notice it as bad because of the half-fairing. I wondered what it was at first too, but it's really quite simple. When you ride normally, your leg is blocking the sound from coming up to your ears, but when your leg is out, it's letting the sound bounce up so it's noticable. That's my opinion, I'll keep watching for others. Talk to you later.

UPDATE !!

04/06/99 This from Harley (harleysoltes@sprintmail.com).....

I have heard the hissing noise too. I have about 150 miles on my SV and I only hear it when I start off in the morning at under 15mph as I go
out the driveway and before I have squeezed my knees into the tank and hit the road.

Thanks.

PS....there's a good quality new image of a red S model in the images section....

I am soon taking delivery of my new SVS from Canada. I live in Washington state, so I would like to convert the speedo to miles from kilometers.

Does anyone in the UK know racers that don't need their speedo? If so, I would like to buy it.

Firstly let me say Great Site..It took me a while to find it but it was worth the wait. (mmm...how can I make it easier to find??)

I purchsed a new SV650S in the blue and love it. I've spoken to some dealerships in Australia and they told me aftermarket gear for the SV650S is almost available.

We all wait for the pipe options. If there are any SV fans in Australia or new owners send me an email. If anyone can tell me if there is a Suzuki riders club in Australia I'd like to know. Keep up the good work.

You recently posted a message re MPS Ltd and stated that the web site was not yet ready, well I am pleased to tell you that phase 1 is now ready to view at http://www.thefastone.co.uk and covers new products, web only specials and ordering.

Phase 2 will be in a few months and will have a full product catalogue on-line with full e-commerce facilities.

I'm an old dirt bike guy...250s were just right for me. "Motor Cyclist" shows some interesting low priced options...but this one except perhaps for the exaust system looks like my kind of bike. Only thing is I'm skinny and 6'4" this bike looks awful low. Any tall riders out there?

Well, I'm 6 foot 1 inch and I'd say I'm nearing the limit of what's comfortable for the S model bike. The unfaired bike may be a different story. If you're tall and ride an unfared SV please write in.

UPDATE !!!!

15/06/99 See posting above of 15/06/99 from Brian who claims his size on an unfaired SV650 is not a problem.

I just got my new SV 650 last week Friday. May 28th. It took me about a month to find one here in Wisconsin. These bikes are selling like hot cakes here.

I was wondering if anyone has put a Slip on pipe on the SV. The bike is just a little to quiet for me. I've always liked my bikes to have a little sound to them. The factory pipe may break in a bit but I would bet it will always be quiet. In the Dennis Kirk Catalog Yoshi makes a slip on for the SV. On line I've found an M4 and Two Brothers but I think those are both complete systems. And didn't say how much they cost or if the bike needs to be jetted. I'm sure with a complete system it would be.

If anyone knows of a pipe that looks good and sounds good please let me know.

I was riding my SV650 (only 1300 miles on the odometer) in some fairly heavy rain when I lost power. It turns out the front sparkplug was not
sufficiently waterproofed -- and the front fender kicks up a lot of water directly onto that sparkplug! Has anyone else had that problem? My dealer has since claimed to have fixed the problem -- though I cringe whenever I take it out in wet weather.

If you find this problem too please report it to me. So far I've had no problems when riding in rain.

UPDATE!!!!!!  See Fredericks posting of 14/07/99 (in July archive) for an update..

I just bought a SV650X and have also noticed a VERY annoying 'muffled ticking' type of sound coming from what appears to be the front cylinder. It is most noticeable while accelerating in 4th or 5th gear at low RPM - below 5000. During deceleration it goes away. I'm wondering if this can be fixed or if it's normal for this bike.

Great to find a Suzuki SV650 website.

As a journalist with Motor Cycle News in England I am running an SV650S for the year and would love to hear from any owners about the bike and their experiences.

Also wanted to let people know that I have now fitted an M4 full exhaust system that has given an extra 10bhp at the back wheel (71.2bhp now) and it sounds fantastic.

Anyone who wants to get in contact please do.

Yours

Andy Downes
Sports Reporter
Motor Cycle News
20-22 Station Road
Kettering
Northants
NN15 7HH

Tel: 01536 386721    Mob: 07788 726576    Fax: 01536 411750

Sonia (brea_z@hotmail.com)...

I have the US model and would liket to convert to the Canadian model 1/2 fairing/windshield etc. Is there any one that may know how or where to purchase the fairing kit/instr panel/windshield/headlights (the whole thing)???? Interested in finding out. Thanks....

Bruce ( bruce.r.wilhite@lmco.com)...

I recently bought a blue SV650 and would really like to put a fairing on it. Does anyone have one for sale(racers who changed theirs out)? I'd pay for shipping etc. What does a fairing direct from Suzuki in Europe cost? Any help would be great. Thanks.

Frank (frank.cheatham@capitalone.com)...

Where can I get full-fairing for the SV650? How much does it cost?

Chris (lozano99@hotmail.com)...

I have bought a red SV650, and I was thinking of putting a fairing or a pipe on it. I was wondering of you know who to contact about
a fairing. On the pipe, if it has a deeper sound to it, and how much louder it is. Please E-mail me with any sugjustions.

The answer I currently have to all queries is that the only fairing available is the full fairing on offer from SharkSkinz (link below). If anyone knows of offical Suzuki parts the PLEASE let me know, loads of people are asking for information and it's currently very thin on the ground...thanks.

If you have an SV- S, check out http://www.ventura-bike.co.nz/ - these people make excellent headlight covers - I have one on my TLR,
and I just heard the SVS gaurd has been released - strangely they only show pictures of the packrack systems on each bike, probably
due to not owning the bikes the pics are taken using. Anyway I can highly recommend these items - well worth the postage if you're in
the US or Europe.

More from Mike........

Here's a copy of a message I sent to Grant Anderson - gives an update on my SVS situation V TLR. BTW the Two Brothers full system is really hot!!

I've had the bike 10 days now, stock Two Bros full system from new. I'm looking at the std system bubble wrapped in the corner of my office.
The stock system is apparently quite restricted. It' s a lot quieter from what I've heard (a bike standing still and taking off) and I know it weighs
heaps - I was moving it this afternoon. The 2B system has measured length headers/pipes made out of thin walled stainless - it is a shear
work of art compared to the std straight back flowing Suzuki pipe. The baffle canister is available in oval stainless or carbon fibre, and a swept up pipe is available that removes the rear footpegs (I didn't get a choice).

The demo I was riding had been cut at the can, and a TL/R 2B oval had been fitted - sounded great. I was a bit disappointed at first as the
impression was quite dull sounding initially, but the packing is starting to burn inside and the last couple of days its starting up with a real cracking crisp exhaust sound, on the street it starts to howl at about 5800 rpm, sounds very nice. I can't say much else yet - only 600 km's so far.

I'm having more pure fun on this bike than the TLR - the SV nearly rides itself after the weight of the TL. But the R is an animal that has to be ridden and the SV will never give me the rush the TLR does. Overall the TLR is the bike, but for dollar value the SV is probably better.

By the way - the two yellows of the TLR and SV are different, and I didn't like them side by side. That's why I got red - for some strange reason the red SV is the standout bike, just like the yellow TLR is.

On 26/5/99 you posted my mail asking for help with a gremlin in my bike - the engine stopped without notice while riding hard...

Anyhow, after checking over electrics, tuning the bike, and looking at everything I could think of I was ready to give up. But I never thought
of looking at the choke... Turns out that the cold weather in my part of Australia lately had caused the choke cable to seize up a little, and
when I thought it was totally off, it was on a fraction. Anyhow, a bit of grease, and replaced the choke return spring at the lever end (bars),
and all is cheery!

So cold air and a not-so-strong spring was to blame!