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Suzuki SFV650 Gladius | Comments Welcomed

3.5K views 10 replies 10 participants last post by  Mikethebear  
#1 ·
I've got a mate at work who suggested this bike (model 2010+) as a contender to accompany the CBR. I've had a look at the specs, reviews on YT and selling prices. Looks quite good. Anyone seen or ridden this 650? If so what do you think?
 
#8 ·
well since i decided the cb(r)500(r) are more of a side step instead of upgrade i have narrowed my choices of new bike to either the 2013 (or 2014) Ninja 650 and SV650.

The sv here comes in 2 flavours. The SV "s" and Gladius. As for the ergo of the bikes i find the s version too aggressive - more forward than the 250. I need something more upright or at minimum equal to the cbr250(due to cervical disc issues)
The Ninja and Gladius are just about perfect ergo wise. If i went the SV route i would probably go with the s (for the full faring) and change the handlebar to the Gladius style.
But at this point i am more leaning towards the Ninja. Performance wise - both seem about the same in top speed.

From what i have read tho, the sv motor is bullet proof and well proven as a great and reliable motor.
 
#10 · (Edited)
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Not sure what bikes you get up there, but the Yamaha FZ6R and Suzuki GSX-650F might also be options. They're both inline 4's, but the engines are detuned for lower torque from what I've read so they're good for normal riding. Both also have a more upright riding position like a Ninja 650. Around here, they are all about the same price used except the SV's you can find for a lot less. The SVF's I don't know much about, but they don't look like they have the same heart as regular SV's.
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#11 ·
I was seriously considering this bike, but in Australia the version approved for my license cannot be legally derestricted, and it doesn't have ABS. Hence why I've chosen the CB500F.