Suzuki SV1000S vs Honda VTR1000 [Archive]

dangerous

8th April 2005, 18:52

Well you do know that this post is going to be very one sided aye :ride:

Ok..... If the question was VTR v TL then it would be a very tricky desision, but as its VTR v SV..... then IMHO Honda take it away :Punk:

The 1st thing that comes to mind is looks.... the VTR is a old looking bike now, well it has been around since 97, were as the SV is a modern looking bike which in my view is fuking ugley... altho the 05 SV's do look nice in black including frame, but your not looking at a 05, so looks are intirly up to you.

The series 2 VTR's are very comphy to tour on were as the SV is not so ie: ass is above ya ears.
The power on the SV is sooooo boring it has no kick in the arse power but a very lineal feel. The VTR having the largest carbs ever put out by the Japs (48mm) on a bike has a awesome power delivery tons a grunt down low slightly mild mid range then on comes all 110hp at once (SV 108hp) nothing in the bikes hp wise but compleatly differant feels to them.

So you need to ride both.... that will soon have your mind made up you will know as soon as you get on the 2nd bike.

ps: SV's are having some coolent leaking probs and noisie bottom ends (depending on who you listen too)
VTR's are knowen to have the oll cam chain problems I have heard of them going as early as 50km (Aussie) but the Honda shop in Chch assures me that they have done 1 since 1997.

dangerous

8th April 2005, 19:04

Suzuki SV1000S vs Honda VTR1000
BTW.... welcome to KB mate :ride:

The Honda looks beter....
Ohhhhhh.... you do like my bike, and Manuboys SV is way harder to wheelie but stays up easier :niceone:

ajturbo

8th April 2005, 21:31

yep... i have taken them both out for a test ride....

the honda was really smooth, plenty of power......but..... boring

the suzuki... that was FUN it was twitchy, you could feel the power coming on the bike felt like it was alive....it had soul!!!

why didn't i buy?????

no money:angry2: :angry2: :angry2:

thehollowmen

8th April 2005, 21:55

funny... two exactly opposite reviews there

Try riding them
Go with the one you like best

dangerous

8th April 2005, 21:56

the honda was really smooth, plenty of power......but..... boring

the suzuki... that was FUN it was twitchy, you could feel the power coming on the bike felt like it was alive....it had soul!!!

1st of all aj.... no jap bike has 'soul'
Now I dont understand how you find a 48mm carbed V2 'boring' as I said above heaps a down load snot (the SV will not lift frount at as a low rpm) every time a coconut the VTR will loft at 3k...... then a bit mild in the mid rpm's then a rush as the carbs dump every thing in the pots at about 6k... power wheelie time.

The SV is injected revs out another 1k it is bland right from 1k to red line...... it does however pulls evenly right through the rev range more like a common muilty. The SV has no sudden get up and go like the VTR, this is why I think the SV is the more boring.

marty

8th April 2005, 22:16

Now I dont understand how you find a 48mm carbed V2 'boring' as I said above heaps a down load snot .

as he said - the fuel economy is not that flash on the VTR, but they have typical honda reliability. i rode both before buying the TL, and i'd go for the ohlined rear shocked TL over both of 'em :)

dangerous

8th April 2005, 22:25

as he said - the fuel economy is not that flash on the VTR, but they have typical honda reliability. i rode both before buying the TL, and i'd go for the ohlined rear shocked TL over both of 'em :)
yeah I know... like I said if it was TL v VTR...... but a SV is nothing like a TL, Suzuki detuned a bloody sweet motor... and made a girls blouse outa it.

And yes..... when Manu and I ride together, the bitch sits at the servo with a gay grin on his face as I refuel for the 2nd time to his one.
SV= :yes: on gas..... VTR= :no: on gas.

Cajun

9th April 2005, 07:24

Okay i did a side by side shoot out with a 02 vtr1000f(bog standard) and a 04 sv1000(nepture muffles, change screen, not to sure what else but its BRM mag bike) last weekend put 150km on each in one day, went from the vtr to the sv.

SV1000 - first thing you notice is how bud fucken ugly the fucken thing is, its only a 5 speed, which isn't to much a problem at legal speeds, its geared alot lower so gets to 150 quicker than the vtr in its current form, but the sv felt like it was losing puff about 190ish mark, where the vtr just started stomping away from it. Being a FI bike its smooth and with good old suzuki gear box that smooth as. It feels like a long strech from seat to bars, and the screen gets in the way of the dash a touch, it feels more like you are sitting on top of it and in it.

vtr1000f - good looking bike, everything looks good, well designed, 6 speed, its a little high geared really, i mean wife close to never uses 6 gear(unless over 200) in the 2 years she has had this bike, tons of grunt, it feels torque then than the sv, but with the carb motor its not as smooth as the sv, and the gear box is a little clunky, the vtr fuel range is good as long as you get one with a bigger size tank(02+ models had larger size)

Personally if i was given the choice of these two bikes, i would buy the vtr over the sv,the vtr is an older model bike(pretty much around since 97 with no major changes[had a revamp in 01 or 02]) compared to the sv(around 2002 or 2003) as new bike.

Teflon

9th April 2005, 08:08

If you want reliable, buy the VTR.

So far i have 116,000k's on the clock. Only problems i've had is a starter clutch failing, and the usual regulator prob.

I rode a later model VTR not so long ago, i can see why people call them boring. So i'm still biased towards Suzuki.

Teflon

9th April 2005, 08:11

http://www.micapeak.com/reg/bikes

Motorcycle registry site.

Also, with the VTR, you wont have a problem with finding part's.

dangerous

9th April 2005, 08:44

I rode a later model VTR not so long ago, i can see why people call them boring.
You have lost he here... how can the later model be boring over the series1 VTR?
Or is thay not what you mean?

dangerous

9th April 2005, 08:55

SV) Being a FI bike its smooth and with good old suzuki gear box that smooth as.
VTR) It feels torque then than the sv, but with the carb motor its not as smooth as the sv, and the gear box is a little clunky
This being so..... then how come some people call the VTR boring over the SV, sorry still dont get it.

BTW agree with the quotes above :ride:

Differances with the series1 v series2 VTR are:
-body markings
-paint colours (03-colour matched belly pan, and engine casings gold)
-radiator, fork, wheel, disc colours
-smaller indercators
-didgy dash
-HISS
-tank 3L larger
-clipons 15mm taller & 6* less rake

campbellluke

9th April 2005, 11:19

I have taken a 2001 VTR for a ride.

I was told that the fuel consumption sucks, sometimes getting less than a 200km range for it's tiny 16 litre tank.

I think that the ones 2003 onwards have slightly better fuel economy and 19 litre fuel tank.

Very very nice bike. It is morealess impossible to hold 50-60 kmph in 6th gear. Even with minimal throttle it will try to go 70+ in 6th. I found that I tended to ride around built up areas in 3rd.

Something like 3500 rpm at 100 kmph, with insane twin torque. I can't wait to sell my 250 :love:

If you buy an older one, make sure that the regulator has been upgraded. Because the one that came stock on older models was 2nd standard. I remember about hearing about the majority of Aussie vtr owners having problems with that part screwing up.

Sadly, I have never ridden a SV1000s

ajturbo

9th April 2005, 13:33

1st of all aj.... no jap bike has 'soul'
Now I dont understand how you find a 48mm carbed V2 'boring' as I said above heaps a down load snot (the SV will not lift frount at as a low rpm) every time a coconut the VTR will loft at 3k...... then a bit mild in the mid rpm's then a rush as the carbs dump every thing in the pots at about 6k... power wheelie time.

The SV is injected revs out another 1k it is bland right from 1k to red line...... it does however pulls evenly right through the rev range more like a common muilty. The SV has no sudden get up and go like the VTR, this is why I think the SV is the more boring.

all right rub my nose in it....:lol: i ain't a reporter.....
the 2 bikes i took out felt that way to ME... remember i have a turbo.and even a late model 250 has MORE power than the 650..(power/weight ratio)

i'm not into pulling wheelies.....:sick: the thought of doing that gives me the shits....

oh woops.. just noticed.. you are talking about a SV..... i was talking about a TL......:2thumbsup

but like i said this is MY view only.. if i were you take em both out...PLUS a duc.... and a 4 cylinder bike.... :drinknsin

Zapf

9th April 2005, 13:57

which one has the better suspension?

dangerous

9th April 2005, 14:03

all right rub my nose in it....:lol: i ain't a reporter.....
the 2 bikes i took out felt that way to ME... remember i have a turbo.and even a late model 250 has MORE power than the 650..(power/weight ratio)

i'm not into pulling wheelies.....:sick: the thought of doing that gives me the shits....

oh woops.. just noticed.. you are talking about a SV..... i was talking about a TL......:2thumbsup

but like i said this is MY view only.. if i were you take em both out...PLUS a duc.... and a 4 cylinder bike.... :drinknsin
Mate I wasent rubing ya nose in anything aye...... The SV and TL are 2 differant anamals even the 1st TL had more powerthan the 2nd TL and Suzuki still kept dropping the hp on them in the SV engine.

Now a TL v VTR...... yeah the TL is a ball, forget the VTR, UNTILL you want to cover some distance then the VTR is once again the better bike IMHO.

ps: aj turbos rock..... every bike should have one been there done that too remember :Punk:

dangerous

9th April 2005, 14:34

which one has the better suspension?
How'd I know thats what you were going to ask....... neither to be honest, the series1 VTR had shit frount n rear but in the series2 VTR the frount was up graded..... but still like a 4x2 showa in the rear.
I however have managed to set mine up how I like it which is too hard for a avarage Joe.

The SV650 from what I have heard you and otheres say is suckymoto.... however the SV1000 has a very good frount end but the back lacks a bit, having said that I reckon get a good frount end set up and 80% of the battle is won.

ajturbo

9th April 2005, 14:52

How'd I know thats what you were going to ask....... neither to be honest, the series1 VTR had shit frount n rear but in the series2 VTR the frount was up graded..... but still like a 4x2 showa in the rear.
I however have managed to set mine up how I like it which is too hard for a avarage Joe.

The SV650 from what I have heard you and otheres say is suckymoto.... however the SV1000 has a very good frount end but the back lacks a bit, having said that I reckon get a good frount end set up and 80% of the battle is won.

the sv650..... front end..??? frosty let me take out his one around taupo..(well i was on the bike and moving when he yells out..WTF?? :whistle: lol)

i'm no racer..(yet:whistle: ) and i was a bit concered about going into the hair pin........... but every where else:banana: :banana: :banana: mmmmmm

dangerous

9th April 2005, 16:20

the sv650..... front end..??? frosty let me take out his one around taupo..(well i was on the bike and moving when he yells out..WTF?? :whistle: lol)

i'm no racer..(yet:whistle: ) and i was a bit concered about going into the hair pin........... but every where else:banana: :banana: :banana: mmmmmm
So you are saying the SV650 frount end is sweet? Ive not studied or riden one so I can only say what I'v heard, and a couple of KBer's with the 650's arnt happy. Yet I would have thought that it was the same frount end as the thour?

ps: sorry bout the off topic 650 shit

Sensei

9th April 2005, 17:10

Tryed a SV1000 03 out for a change before buying the Beast . Good bike ok power for a twin not what I was hoping for but alright . Handled fine . Then there was the Firestrom . More power I felt front end pretty vage & soft . Made for a great 130k ride but got abit nasty when you pushed it . Over all I think they are both great bikes for the money & thats why they are what they are . They have been built for a price which has given them both some short falls but still excellent bike's for our road's given the 100k speed limit !!
SENSEI

svs

9th April 2005, 17:29

So you are saying the SV650 frount end is sweet? Ive not studied or riden one so I can only say what I'v heard, and a couple of KBer's with the 650's arnt happy. Yet I would have thought that it was the same frount end as the thour?

ps: sorry bout the off topic 650 shit

Frosty's (and my) race bikes both have racetech springs and emulators, and different fork oil to standard. Makes the world os difference.

BTW anyone after a 650, then mines still for sale (http://www.trademe.co.nz/structure/auction_detail.asp?id=25341165)

Teflon

9th April 2005, 20:46

You have lost he here... how can the later model be boring over the series1 VTR?
Or is thay not what you mean?

I've ridden two other VTR's, both lacking grunt that mine has.

I'm 90% sure mines standard, apart from K&N, and maybe a jet kit.

dangerous

9th April 2005, 21:09

I've ridden two other VTR's, both lacking grunt that mine has.

I'm 90% sure mines standard, apart from K&N, and maybe a jet kit.
K&N and dyno jet makes a big differance, also ther are restricters in some models... what year is yours? the series1 had 102hp series2 110hp... but I dont know what the diff is. I do know that the later models have restrictors in the inlet manafolds.... yet they have more hp????? hmmmmm

Check trhis out Tef http://www.dynobike.com/vtr1000_tips.htm

Teflon

9th April 2005, 22:20

K&N and dyno jet makes a big differance, also ther are restricters in some models... what year is yours? the series1 had 102hp series2 110hp... but I dont know what the diff is. I do know that the later models have restrictors in the inlet manafolds.... yet they have more hp????? hmmmmm

Check trhis out Tef http://www.dynobike.com/vtr1000_tips.htm

I'm sure there were no changes to the motor.

They might say it's 110hp motor, but i don't think so. I've seen dyno charts ranging from 90hp to about 100.

The firestorm will always be the underdog, so no use defending it.

dangerous

9th April 2005, 22:25

I'm sure there were no changes to the motor.

They might say it's 110hp motor, but i don't think so. I've seen dyno charts ranging from 90hp to about 100.

The firestorm will always be the underdog, so no use defending it.
Yeah... thats just what the book says.... which I expect is crank hp.
That link above shows stock, 92rwhp

Cephas

10th April 2005, 14:01

Thanks to all who replied - will make my decision later this week
I 'spose it was really like asking if anyone can tell whether a Ford is better than a Holden....anyway thanks for the feedback, it's appreciated

Cheers :2thumbsup

riffer

10th April 2005, 15:53

Good luck on the new bike Cephas.

I look forward to picking up your (soon to be) old one on Wednesday...

Go for the Suzuki... :msn-wink:

although I have the feeling you would love either of them...

See you on the road sometime :ride:

Simon

TonyB

11th April 2005, 08:13

I've ridden two other VTR's, both lacking grunt that mine has.

I'm 90% sure mines standard, apart from K&N, and maybe a jet kit.
Interesting that you should say that. A couple of years back I did a training day at Ruapuna, and one of the excercises was to line up against another bike and have a short drag race then brake as hard as you could at some cones. I lined up against a black VTR several times, the VTR got away by a few bike lengths initially while I battled with an unhappy clutch and a low rpm miss, but then the FZR simply inhaled the VTR and blew past. So I figured VTR's weren't particularly fast.
Then I met Dangerous, and Aarons mate Steve. Their VTR's seem to have a LOT more go than the one mentioned above. So if there are restricted ones, where are they coming from and how do you recognise them?

dangerous

11th April 2005, 19:08

Then I met Dangerous, and Aarons mate Steve. Their VTR's seem to have a LOT more go than the one mentioned above. So if there are restricted ones, where are they coming from and how do you recognise them?
I dont like blowing my own trumpet Tony........... but its not the bike :Punk:
Actualy I'm not sure why some seem to differ a bit, if in fact that they do.... yank models are often down on power a bit due to the cat converters.
As far as a model diff goes, I know that the series 2 have a slightly differant tuning to them........... mines stock series 2 and Steves is a moded (intake/exhust restriction removed) and is Dyno jetted series 1... so thats why his hauls ass........ but honestly, I do believe its the rider, if a twin rider gets on the juce soon enuff then its harder for the muilty to catch in short runs. you have said your self that you have seen blackies exiting my rear tyre..... I open the taps earlier than most perhaps :2thumbsup

Kickaha

11th April 2005, 19:45

I dont like blowing my own trumpet Tony........... but its not the bike :Punk:

Dunno what it could be then,cause it sure as fuck couldn't be the rider :shake:

dangerous

30th April 2005, 19:59

SV1000 - its only a 5 speed
Ummmmm.... all the SV's I've ridden have 6 gears.

Today I spent the arvo degreasing/washing/polishing these two bikes, so you could kinda say I was intimate with them so heres my thoughts.

The VTR scrubed up easy as, per usual. I then scrubed the SV up and decided that it isent as well finished as the VTR even poloising it up dident buff up as nice, also found the reg/rec bolts missing and this isent the 1st time things have fallen off this bike.

Ride time, 1st the VTR went as per norm small feel to it tucked in tightly behind the screen (d/b) and a old feel to the carbs defintly a old school bike. As the huge carbs dump the tank of fuel in its a good rush of hp.

SV started revs droped back and the 1st thing I noticed was the smoothness over the VTR, also the gear box was great in comparasion. The inj SV pulled like a moderen bike should some what deceptive accelation and very snapy in comparasion to the VTR.
The postition is more on top rather than sit in and the cockpit has heaps more room (d/b screen) to it over all not as homely, but a buzzy bike to ride.

End result as far as deciding 'which bike' well its personal prefrance at the end of the day.

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=9674

Dunno what it could be then,cause it sure as fuck couldn't be the rider :shake:
Yeah yeahhhhhhhhh................ buckets tomorow mate we will see :niceone:

Dafe

19th July 2005, 20:28

Read this review from "Performance Bike" Magazine. All the riders were given each bike for one week and then rotated through each and every bike. The VTR rates last and the SV is the top of four bikes. Find out why..........

http://www.sv650.org/reviews/PB_mag_sv1000s/PB%20review.htm

The above review and another very similar review from another top bike mag was the reason I brought my SV1000.

SPman

19th July 2005, 20:42

1st of all aj.... no jap bike has 'soul'

Bull-Fucking-Shit!!!

dangerous

19th July 2005, 20:52

Bull-Fucking-Shit!!!
It dosent man........ too smooth, too economic, too comfy, too user friendly, too bloody perfect...... mate own a Iti bike like my Guzzi then go to a Jappa like my VTR..... no way is there soul in a jappa, its just not built in.
Every time ya start the Guzzi it does something differant... so unpredictable the VTR... same every time, boreing as but hassel free..... see what I'm saying here :ride:

Sensei

19th July 2005, 21:00

Dafe

19th July 2005, 21:02

Dangerous, I'm hearing ya.....
I rode a Harley V-Rod a few weeks back and man, It's truely a whole new element to motorcycling. I'm not disagreeing with SP either though, I'm curious to know if SP has riden a Harley or something similar. If not, then Sp you should go down your local store and take one for a spin, they really are fantastic, be sure to try a V-Rod too.
I'm still buzzing from that Harley, If I could have afforded I would have.
Infact, It's only a time thing for me!!!
I wouldn't say Jap bikes don't have soul though, In their own way, they are your soulmate, because they're reliable, dependable and they aren't goona spring some unknown suprise on you.

gav

19th July 2005, 21:03

pffft, RC30, RD350LC, Z1, first CBR900RR.......
my old Z1...

Dafe

19th July 2005, 21:05

Dude, Farking nice pic.....
Dunno about the reply though, trying to hear you man!!!
Whats this pain your feeling? You need to see a SV or Firestorm Doctor dude!
Your hallucinating about the CBR's, No fours to be found here man.

SPman

19th July 2005, 21:06

Obviously never ridden my YZFSP. That has loads of soul - frequently prefixed with "you fucking R.." - just like my Ducatis in the '70's. When it is good it is brilliant, on an off day.........:nono: And it shakes, growls and vibrates like any good old European shi....class act!

Nearest Ive got to a Harley is a Buell XB9R and XB12R. Great bikes - shame about the engine...:rofl:

dangerous

19th July 2005, 21:15

Every time ya start the Guzzi it does something differant... so unpredictable

Yea like wont start . Floods it self . Shakes like shit . Rattles as if the rod has come loose . Clunks into gear .
The list goes on & on &.................... :rofl: Sorry D to good to pass up :whistle:
Na mate you are on to it never flooded tho was injected, but yes on all the other tho :drinkup:

The remark that SP quoted was regarding a SV vs a VTR... I have both in the garage and the SV is so bland compared to the VTR however it does rev a shit load more, like a mulity does so yes it can be a beter buzz that way but thats not Soul...... the rougher vib of the big carbed VTR is more so very lumpy and quicker through the gears, but nothing like a b.e.a.r's bike.

Obviously never ridden my YZFSP. That has loads of soul
Not yours but a mate had one for many a year.......... just another muilti be it a bloody fast one back then, sorry no soul... just rang its tits off, mind you it did have a lot of tuning problems, was a race bike after all. :ride:

marty

19th July 2005, 21:23

i rode both, eventually settling for the TL instead, but the bike right up there was the VFR800 - much better than the VTR/SV combo

Sensei

19th July 2005, 21:24

Good friend had a MK1 850 with a 1000cc kit in it Le Mans ?? not sure any ways .Road it up the road & stopped at the corner & gave it a hand full to hear what it sounded like Fuck me nearly hit the heads on the road LOL . Went up my fav bit of road & put it into a bend which it was a bit fast for so dropped it down 2 gear then let the clutch out to find you don't do this as it locked up big time & tryed to spit me off . Still sounded the Bizz down changing from Revs Hummmm Lovely just about as nice as my Ducati's :yes:

k1w160

22nd July 2005, 11:43

"its only a 5 speed"??? - Cajun, you possibly rode the only 5 speed SV1000 in the world, every one I've ridden is 6 speed.

I recently treated my self to a new bike, and when testing a few, both of the bikes your looking at were in the mix.

I tried both the VTR and SV 1K, as well as Buell XB12R, XB12S, new Triumph Speed Triple and the 1200 Bandit, and put the hard earned $$$ on a new 05 SV1000S (yes a 6 speed!!).

The VTR I test rode had 11K on the clock (I try to test bikes will a bit of use to see what the're like after a year or so of use) and a SV1000 with the same Kms.
Both bike had cans, but otherwise standard.

SV was tight, quiet engine and real fun power delivery all the way up to redline. Handled really well. The styling is a personal thing - personally I like it.

VTR in comparison was a DOG!! I realsie that this particular one I rode may have had a hard time by the previous owner, but this is why I test bikes with K's on if possible, I want to see just how they last.
VTR had a noisy gearbox, poor fueling down low and mid range, but was more comfortable seat wise, thought styling was a little boring.
The shop may have been able to swing me to a new VTR by providing a serviced example for the test, but they didn't really seem that motivated.

Buells were fun, and the Triumph awesome - but I couldn't justify another $4K - they weren't that much better in my opinion.

1200 Bandit - well I tested it 'cause of the low $$, but I'm just not a 4 cylinder fan.

Went back and bought the SV1000S and couldn't be happier. Have put F1 Engineering high bars on for a slightly less extreme riding position (am well into my 40's now), otherwise thats it.

I tend to use it in the weekend only, so 4000km since April is all it has on the clock.

As has been posted already, test ride both, and try throwing a few others into the mix just to keep it interesting, and which ever one feels good to you is the right one. Have fun testing, and let us know what you decide on.
C.U.

vifferman

22nd July 2005, 11:59

i rode both, eventually settling for the TL instead, but the bike right up there was the VFR800 - much better than the VTR/SV combo
Yeah, she's a great bike alright. :yes:
Only marginally heavier than the VTR, but same power (albeit delivered differently), still has that V-bike character, more comfy (especially with a pillion), better for touring, much more economical, better looking, more robust, etc etc.
And you can make cakes, muffins, biscuits and stuff if you get the attachments. :rofl:

Seriously, sometimes that gear whine is just WAY too cake-mixery. :weird:
So, I just whip the spud out, and drown it out with some Ferrari-like exhaust wail. :2thumbsup

marty

22nd July 2005, 13:59

some Ferrari-like exhaust wail. :2thumbsup

and THAT, they have plenty of....

and i don't mind the gear whine.

Morepower

25th July 2005, 13:12

Interesting opinions,
I ride a 97 TL and in the real world the on road performance of the 3 bikes is very similar and it will depend on who has had the most brave pills as to who wins a race.
The VTR has a bit more grunt down low than the TL but then the TL ramps up in the midrange witha big lift in torque that can be entertaining mid corner.And thats what gives it its entertaining slightly scary nature.
But this is about the SV / VTR .
The SV is a great bike to ride , handles well , its fast and the engine is still a gem with just as much real world go as the TL , its just better natured.
The VTR is different , its well finished softer riding , more comfortable with good low down torque.

They are all great bikes, chose what looks and feels best to you.

Dave

Kickaha

25th July 2005, 19:20

Quick Summary of my impression of the both of them

SV1000 horrible seating positon, good gearbox,likes to be revved and steers quicker than the VTR

VTR nicer motor with more bottom end and better seating position,clunky gearbox and steers like a truck

Ideally I'd have the VTR seating position,and motor with the SV gearbox and steering :yes:

If I had to choose I'd take the VTR as I think it's nicer to ride even though it needs to be muscled around a bit more to get it to turn in on slow corners and the riding position is easier on the wrists

White trash

25th July 2005, 19:33

Quick Summary of my impression of the both of them

SV1000 horrible seating positon, ....blah blah blah.......to ride even though it needs to be muscled around a bit more to get it to turn in on slow corners and the riding position is easier on the wrists

What the hell would you know? You're a dangerous, dumb fuck and I for one will stay well away from you no matter what gaY-Twin you're riding.

dangerous

25th July 2005, 19:50

What the hell would you know? You're a dangerous, dumb fuck and I for one will stay well away from you no matter what gaY-Twin you're riding.
Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh hahahahahahahaaaaaaaaaa roger is a dangerous dumb fuk LOL..... had I knowen that he wouldent have gone anywere near my VTR....... ohhhh hang on, I did know that :devil2:

*mutter mutter, call my bike a truck*

Kickaha

25th July 2005, 20:38

*mutter mutter, call my bike a truck*

I upgraded it from Artic :finger:

What the hell would you know? You're a dangerous, dumb fuck and I for one will stay well away from you no matter what gaY-Twin you're riding.

Thats fucking good coming from someone selling shit to hairdressers
have one of these to :finger:

paturoa

1st April 2006, 21:52

I took both for rides and for all practical purposes they are much the same. I got a SVs.

My recollection was that the suzi has heaps more real world grunt. Looking at the dyno chart below backs that up. I also remember that the suzi is lower geared as well. So with more power and lower gearing it not surprising.

The biggest difference between the 2 (3?) bikes is in the ergos. The SVS with clip ons will kill your wrists around town, Honda is in the middle and the "plain" SV is very upright.

The thing that put me off the VTR was low rpm acceleration, it had hideous chain snatch. My SV has it too, but only below about 1800rpm. (I checked the Honda chain tension with the dealer and he said it was set correct).

I agree that the SV styling is duh with the standard rear guard, mine has it removed and looks a lot better, sharper somehow. The down side is that crap sprays all over the rear when it rains.

The mirrors are all elbow as standard so I made up some spacers about 40 mm thick, got some longer bolts and all fixed.

I've done 6000 ks so far and not a problem, its even better on tyres than I expected.

As far as gas consumption I dont know about the honda but for the SV from the bottom of the filler tube (on side stand) to the warning light is always about 220k of 100% commuting around Auck, and about 13 litres for the refill (17km per litre). It has a 16 litre tank.

As far as the performance the SV hauls from low/mid rpm and feels flat after 10,000 rpm (11 red line). It also has as standard the thingie that stops full ignition advance in gears 4 and below. Plenty enough power for me. Any more and I'd get myself in deep shit.

check out

http://www.deeknow.com/dyno/index.php?bike1=SV1000_2003&bike2=VTR1000_1997&action=Dyno+It

Likes for SV; good grunt where I need it for commuting, low weight, fantastic headlights, brakes good, adj span levers.

Dislikes for SV; sore wrists with S model, shit over tail piece with rear guard removed, crap horn, no centre stand (don't remember if the VTR has got one?), and to put the side stand down your heel goes on the hot exhaust pipe and leaves shit to clean later.

Other than that, I'm very happy with it.

moko

2nd April 2006, 05:45

One thing the press in the UK have always criticised the VTR for is heavy fuel consumption,same mistake Honda made with the 600 Hornet,crap fuel consumption and a small tank.Heard of camchain problems as well but only on the grapevine and not seen anything about it in the press.

Dafe

2nd April 2006, 06:14

When I brought the SV in 2003, I'd checked all the reviews I could find.

All reviews at that stage pointed at the SV being the exciting and fun ride.
At the sametime, the firestorm - being labelled, the Fireyawn!

I still have the Two Magazines (PB and Two Wheels) with the comprehensive Twin comparisons.

If I get time I will scan them in for you to read.

Dafe

2nd April 2006, 06:20

Just found the electronic version of one of the two reviews I was mentioning.

http://www.sv650.org/reviews/PB_mag_sv1000s/PB%20review.htm

This was very common to what I found in other publications reviews.

Gonzo

12th April 2006, 14:26

Ive owned an SV1000 for the past 18mths Bought it new with yoshi cans on .I have toured the sth island two up and solo and have put 25000 kms on it til now. Its brilliant! I had an RF(105000kms) and thought that the motor on that was good but this is the bomb.Its not a TLs but smoother like a TLR. I have ridden VTRs and found them to be good as well but different, you sit in a VTR and the power isnt as linear as an SV. Contrary to what someone else said SVs are 6 Speed boxes but fifth is all you need at highway speeds. I like the more aggressive look of the SV the VTr is dated. The SV does haul arse even 2 up. Dont be fooled It is as quick if not quicker than a VTR it likes abit of rev. Hold it in fourth and just ride its magic.:yeah:
Besides the fastest bikes on the road are normally riden by the guys with the hugest nads.
Try them both its your call in the end.

R-Soul

30th July 2010, 16:21

I'm sure there were no changes to the motor.

They might say it's 110hp motor, but i don't think so. I've seen dyno charts ranging from 90hp to about 100.

The firestorm will always be the underdog, so no use defending it.

What are you talking about? hp at the engine (flywheel), or hp at the back wheel? One is generally about 20 hp less than the other due to inefficiencies in the drive train. so thats about right. Dyno graphs are measured the back wheel.

Jantar

30th July 2010, 17:33

Is this the oldest thread dredge ever?

JimO

30th July 2010, 17:55

Is this the oldest thread dredge ever?

possibly.................

one fast tl1ooo

30th July 2010, 17:57

We could get into blast from the past with this one :lol:

davebullet

30th July 2010, 18:17

I work for Guiness World Records and can confirm this is now the oldest ever thread dredge.

Odakyu-sen

30th July 2010, 19:07

I work for Guiness World Records and can confirm this is now the oldest ever thread dredge.

I opened up the thread and wondered what the smell was...then I looked and saw it was from 2005.... Eeeeeeewwwwwwwwwwwwwwww!!!!!!!!!!!

Rogue Rider

30th July 2010, 19:26

Can anyone give me some feedback on the pros and cons of the above bikes?
I'm looking to buy new but can't decide which - one is a 2003 (Suzuki) or 2005 (Honda) Cheers

Get a real bike, get a Triumph lol.....

Seriously now why dredge up such an old thread lol, oh well, I have had both, depends what you are after and your riding style. The SVs has the more upright riding position. Personally I found the SVs a better bike than the VTR. The VTR was quite uncomfy by comparison, and wasn't as easy to wheelie.
The extras like the fairing made the SVs look hell mean, as well as the aftermarket integrated indicator and stop runway lights ruled.
Go for a ride and see what you think, I like Honda, but Suzuki wins my vote, sorry to say.... lol. I love my Triumph speed triple better than both, and it seems to hold its value better too. Man those rice burners depreciate hard.
:bye::bye::bye::bye::bye::bye::bye::bye:

98tls

30th July 2010, 19:32

Rogue Rider

30th July 2010, 20:10

Might just as well tack this question on here then,whats this SV worth?2004 done 18000 kms,Ohlins rear and fork internals done,PC2,Neptune carbon cans,Scottoiler, in very tidy nick.If anyones looking for one sing out.

Its hard to know for sure, I would expect it would be somewhere from$7,500-10k, but ultimately depends on condition, how quick a sale is sought, and how much someone is prepared to pay I guess.
I sold my 03, which had full fairng kit, integrated led indicator and stop runway, undertail tidy, micron cans, and heaps of other bits for $9,500 cpl years back. It had 16,000km on it.

98tls

30th July 2010, 20:14

Its hard to know for sure, I would expect it would be somewhere from$7,500-10k, but ultimately depends on condition, how quick a sale is sought, and how much someone is prepared to pay I guess.
I sold my 03, which had full fairng kit, integrated led indicator and stop runway, undertail tidy, micron cans, and heaps of other bits for $9,500 cpl years back. It had 16,000km on it.

Yea was thinking 7,500 tops myself.If anyone knows someone after such a thing i know he would take that for it,it is very tidy and ridden by a Nana.Would though need a new chain as he has the mechanical ability of a brick and as much as i have many times gone through the motions with him hes totally ignored it hence the fucked chain.

davebullet

31st July 2010, 07:20

With all that work done to it, I think $7,500 is a good price (for the buyer). Ohlins rear and front forks done is worth truckloads for the buyer. I'd start a bit higher personally. Problem is someone who doesn't know bikes will think that's a rip compared to a new machine.

My SV650 is the first year of the 2nd gen SVs (2003, 2004 reg), also lowish ks (21,000) and still looks in good nick.

scroter

31st July 2010, 10:19

as he said - the fuel economy is not that flash on the VTR, but they have typical honda reliability. i rode both before buying the TL, and i'd go for the ohlined rear shocked TL over both of 'em :)

after owning a TL which i absolutly loved, The SV felt very boring. I tried 2 of them but they both felt the same. I love riding my mates VTR but it does have an ohlins rear shock (the original shock is very hard). To be honest with you I would never by the SV1000, the strangest thing is that the SV650 is mega, it does everything well without making you work to hard for it, just pure unadulterated fun. none of these are a patch on the excitment levels you get on a TL1000 though.