“I do like the SV650 but like a lot of people, the suspension especially lets it down. To remedy that I am currently replacing the rear shock with a 2004 Kawasaki KH10r one. It is 2mm longer and the spring is 6% heavier which with with lowering links that soften the springing and my being slightly heavier than the design weight (150lb) should work out fine. It will also help me being 5'4 to get my feet flat on the floor.
Before I bought my bike I read a lot in forums etc online so I have also bought KSS cartridge emulators for the front forks.
Hopefully this combination of changes will end any handling problems.
I had to replace the side stand and the ignition lock and will change tyres in the not too distant future.
One of the things I really like is that there is a lot of information about the SV650 online and many people have changed things without actually moving it away from the standard bike.
There will probably be other things I will address to make the bike into the bike I looked to have and enjoy but none of those really change it much.
Yes Im glad I bought it and hope to enjoy it for the next few years.”
“I am so happy with this bike. It's so smooth for a twin and has the right amount of power you would expect to get you up to speed. Handles and stops as you would hope”
“SV650 1999 X."Ronseal".Does what it says on the tin.Great handling.Good brakes.Good power and or economy.Reasonably priced parts etc.Fantastic Bang-for-buck 650 V-twin.”
“There is a reason these bikes have been around for so long , not the quickest ride , not the most comfy ride , but so much fun ,easy to handle , great on corners , engine solid, paintwork bit dodgy , good fuel economy for a 650, great engine sound with an aftermarket can , great for a first (big bike) , massive owners fan club sv.org , can assist with nearly all issues related , great people to get advise from”
