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Old 08-15-2012, 09:47 AM   #31 (permalink)
jkv357
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Quote:
Originally Posted by stillsearching View Post
I would also look at the Suzuki SV650. It's no longer sold but is a very similar concept - upright standard riding position, sport bike styling (or remove fairings and go for a naked bike style, which you cant do with a ninja that i know of), V-twin torquey type power instead of a peaky racey 4cyl. Mileage will be even better than the Ninja 650 by 5 or more according to average biker reports everywhere i've seen (same magazines and such reported it about 5 higher than the ninja) - my friend never drops below 50mpg and he doesn't drive slow, 55-60 is pretty normal and I think he's gotten 63 at best. Power is the same, a fast bike by any car standard.

I've no clue why the SV650 isn't made any more, it and the Ninja 650 are almost in their own class of sporty standards, honda and yamaha have nothing like it that i've seen nor suzuki anymore.
The Gladius replaced the naked SV650 a while ago ('08?). Not quite the same - steel frame, odd styling... The SV650 "S" model continued, but I believe it is also gone next year.

I bought this one new in '06, and am very pleased with it. Performance, mileage, comfort, and handling are all very good. Best I've personally seen for MPG is 58, but it can do better.




Jay

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