VTR1000 or SV1000?

[Maha]

Two very combatable and well sort after Sports Bikes over the last decade or so. Sadly no longer in production but there are some tidy examples out there at the moment. I am more inclined to like the older VTR's (late 90's- 02)
If the choice was to be made as to which one has an edge over the other... it would be? On looks alone, the SV, and I guess they are very similar bikes to ride.

[SMOKEU]

Buy an RC51 VTR1000. You know you want one.

[bogan]

Quite like to get a VTR1000 myself, despite being fairly biased toward the VTR, I don't think there is much hidden difference between em, the VTR's are supposed to be quite shit on fuel consumption, but perhaps offset by a smidge higher build quality. Try a few of each, go with the style, comfort, and price you prefer.

[Maha]

I am not after a bike, but if I were, it would probably be in the Triumph range. Though the SV in that bronze colour is quiet smart.

[240]

I love both those bikes it beats the fuck out of me why they stopped making them

[EJK]

Some SV1000S comes in really nice blue. :shutup:

[bogan]

I love both those bikes it beats the fuck out of me why they stopped making them

Some Nancys probly got their panties in a wad about emissions or fuel consumption or manufacturing cost...

[Maha]

Some Nancys probly got their panties in a wad about emissions or fuel consumption or manufacturing cost...

Janette McDonald should stick to eating horse shit infused food...:eek:
I know these bike models are nothing special, but for $K5-7 it's easy enough to own a comfortable VTwin... with a bit of added fruit.

[Banditbandit]

Go with the Ghey one (oh sorry - the VTR ...) I'm not impressed with either ... but I'm less impressed by the SV than the VTR ...

[Mike.Gayner]

Objectively the SV is a better bike. Which is why you should buy the VTR. Unpopular bikes are usually the best value, and a 5-10 year old VTR is $2000+ cheaper than an equivalent SV.

Plus the VTR looks better.

[5150]

I just picked up a mint one owner K7 SV1000s in blue and with black frame. It came with aftermarket Yoshis (ohh the sound :drool:) pack rack and sorted suspension. I love it. Traded down my 2012 Bonnie. They even gave me 5K back my way. Bike just had a full service before I got it with new oils and filters, plugs chain and sprockets brake pads and brand new Michelin tyres. I absolutely love it. And fuel consumption is around 180kms to reserve around town and around 200kms on the open road if I ride it like a nana. But then you don't buy a Vtwin like this to ride like a nana, do you? :no: ;)

[smmudd83_1999]

I was in this very quandry myself 18 months ago.
I fancied an SV thou. But there were a couple of Firestorms on offer locally-ish that were maybe a grand cheaper for similar mileage...and they're not massively dissimilar bikes.
It depends how budget driven you are. For me, I went the SV thou route. I bought it for $5.4k, a 2004 model with full service history. Owned by a nice older gent who was a member of the Ulysees crowd. Little things like seat cover, scottoiler and throttle wrist support indicated touring use. Being the example it was, and with those goodies, I bought it.

HOWEVER, if I found a VTR in similar condition and use, and was a few hundred bucks cheaper I would have bought that.

I'm under the impression the VTR is SHOCKING on fuel, whereas I can happily get 50mpg commuting, 60mpg with gentle tootling use, and somewhere between 40-45mpg for harder use. I think the best a VTR can hope for is a tad under 40 and can easily drop to the low 30's without trying too hard...but I'm only going off reviews for the VTR figures.

Also, I was willing to pay a little more for the more adjustable suspension on the SV. Hence my decision. But I know some people who think that the more ways you can adjust your suspension is just more ways to ruin your ride.

Performance-wise...who cares? Both bikes have plenty. Slipper clutch is vaguely useful on the SV. Both sound good too. I like the bronze/burnt orange SVs.
Buy the nicest example you can find, basically, as you get what you pay for. Stay away from the bogan with loud exhaust, polychromatic paintjob, and carbon fibre mudgaurds. but that's true of all bikes apart from track tools.

[5150]

Apparently Suzuki NZ was offering the SV's new with Yoshi cans, and I beleive mine is one of them.

Also a usefull point to know is that VTRs only came out with carbs, and SV is fuel injected. Whether that has anything to do with VTRs poor fuel milage, I don't know.

[Maha]

Objectively the SV is a better bike. Which is why you should buy the VTR. Unpopular bikes are usually the best value, and a 5-10 year old VTR is $2000+ cheaper than an equivalent SV.

Plus the VTR looks better.

This VTR is a quality example http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=663686483
I have heard that SV gets uncomfortable around the arse area after a short while, this one is a K7 and $1800 cheaper than the VTR http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=664511820 Possible that 06' Firestorm is a tad on the highside price wise?.. then again, it is a great example, plus it has girly grips. :confused:

[5150]

This VTR is a quality example http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=663686483
I have heard that SV gets uncomfortable around the arse area after a short while, this one is a K7 and $1800 cheaper than the VTR http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=664511820 Possible that 06' Firestorm is a tad on the highside price wise?.. then again, it is a great example, plus it has girly grips. :confused:

Hmm, I done a 500km day in the saddle on my SV and didn't noticed being uncomfortable at all. I am 6ft 2"

[nzspokes]

RC51. Sold the Bandit?

[Mike.Gayner]

This VTR is a quality example http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=663686483
I have heard that SV gets uncomfortable around the arse area after a short while, this one is a K7 and $1800 cheaper than the VTR http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=664511820 Possible that 06' Firestorm is a tad on the highside price wise?.. then again, it is a great example, plus it has girly grips. :confused:

That VTR is way too expensive and won't sell quickly at that price. They're just so insanely cheap now. I wouldn't pay more than $3,500 for a 2000 or older, and for a 2006 I would pay $6k for a great low KM example.

[wynw]

290119 Heres a piccy of the one i had a few years back. Fantastic for a sportsbike built to a budget:yes: Absolutely beautiful sound with the carbon yoshi's.

[Maha]

Hmm, I done a 500km day in the saddle on my SV and didn't noticed being uncomfortable at all. I am 6ft 2"

After 500K, I am ready to kick any bike in the head..:crazy: Even my GSX 1250FA, but I have been like that with all my bikes, I am 51 now and being in a physical job for over 30 years, has taken its toll on the lower back/shoulder area. No bike will change that.

[Maha]

Heres a piccy of the one i had a few years back. Fantastic for a sportsbike built to a budget:yes: Absolutely beautiful sound with the carbon yoshi's.

That is real nice Wynn, Spank had one the same colour iirc? :niceone:
I recall (back in my GN days) seeing an SV Thou parked up at a local servo and thinking how nice it looked, they still hold good in the aesthetics arena.

[5150]

After 500K, I am ready to kick any bike in the head..:crazy: Even my GSX 1250FA, but I have been like that with all my bikes, I am 51 now and being in a physical job for over 30 years, has taken its toll on the lower back/shoulder area. No bike will change that.

I suppose each rider has different pain / comfort threshold. I won't lie that I wasn't mentally tired from concentrating all day, but it didn't kill my back or shoulders.

[imdying]

The SV is typical Suzuki; a poor quality finish.

Yes, the seat is painful after not too long, although an OEM gel seat is available.

The SV is quite easy to ride, and has enough power to see off 600cc supersports in a straight line.

The suspension is a bit rubbish, but only bites hard if you're pushing on some.

Not much gives trouble, although you will want to rewire the 'green connector', and whip the side cover off to ensure the primary nut is tight. No big deal, a few hours work tops.

I still have mine in the garage, and no I would not buy another. They are good value for money. I would rather spend more and get something worthy though. If that is not an option, then there are definitely worse places to spend your money.

[DrunkenMistake]

The SV is typical Suzuki; a poor quality finish.

Yes, the seat is painful after not too long, although an OEM gel seat is available.

The SV is quite easy to ride, and has enough power to see off 600cc supersports in a straight line.

The suspension is a bit rubbish, but only bites hard if you're pushing on some.

Not much gives trouble, although you will want to rewire the 'green connector', and whip the side cover off to ensure the primary nut is tight. No big deal, a few hours work tops.


I shaved an inch off my seat and I still find it comfortable on a long ride, as for the green connector issue, my bike is second hand but It hasnt had the fix and at this stage still doesnt need it,

Suspension is ok, but I havnt known better to be able to compare it.

82,000km on my 04' K3 and its still a workhorse.
http://i.imgur.com/jELLIrn.jpg


I did umm and arr about getting a VTR, just wasn't available when I was looking at buying another bike so settled with the SV,

[5150]

The SV is typical Suzuki; a poor quality finish.

Yes, the seat is painful after not too long, although an OEM gel seat is available.

The SV is quite easy to ride, and has enough power to see off 600cc supersports in a straight line.

The suspension is a bit rubbish, but only bites hard if you're pushing on some.

Not much gives trouble, although you will want to rewire the 'green connector', and whip the side cover off to ensure the primary nut is tight. No big deal, a few hours work tops.

I still have mine in the garage, and no I would not buy another. They are good value for money. I would rather spend more and get something worthy though. If that is not an option, then there are definitely worse places to spend your money.

Can you please expend on the green connector? What is it? mod or a fix? Never heard of this before.

[DMNTD]

Can you please expend on the green connector? What is it? mod or a fix? Never heard of this before.

If it is what I am thinking of, it is the "poor man's" TRE.


The missus really enjoyed her SV1000 which happened to be her first new bike.
She'd commute between Tauranga and Whangarei every week with nil issues of comfort too.

[DrunkenMistake]

If it is what I am thinking of, it is the "poor man's" TRE.


The missus really enjoyed her SV1000 which happened to be her first new bike.
She'd commute between Tauranga and Whangarei every week with nil issues of comfort too.


Its an electrical issue that seems to be common on SV's,

the TRE mod is something different again.

[5150]

Its an electrical issue that seems to be common on SV's,

the TRE mod is something different again.

What are the symptoms?

[BuzzardNZ]

What are the symptoms?

Total loss of electrical power.

[mulletman]

Build quality on a VTR is bloody good compared to the SV.
I wouldnt bother with the first model VTRs, crap bottomming out suspension and a smaller 15-16lt tank, you really need the 19lt one.

[mulletman]

Can you please expend on the green connector? What is it? mod or a fix? Never heard of this before.

SV Portal and search green connector under tuning/tweaks

[imdying]

*snip*FYI, I have you on ignore. You're nothing more than a common thief, I have no interest in anything you have to say.

[imdying]

The green connector is just a wiring connector by the headstock on the right hand side that was underspecced. Replacing it with a new one with higher amperage rated contacts is quick, easy, and cheap to do. Do not let that put you off an SV1k, just make it a priority to change it out after you buy it.

[Gremlin]

Given the choice, I'd get a TLR1000.

Wow they sounded good with a set of pipes :drool:

[haydes55]

Given the choice, I'd get a TLR1000.



Wow they sounded good with a set of pipes :drool:





Or even the TL1000S. They are getting a bit old, but I'd rather a TL than an SV or VTR

[Maha]

Or even the TL1000S. They are getting a bit old, but I'd rather a TL than an SV or VTR

TLS over the R, the Ducati SS1000 is another model I have liked for long while, still a few around with low K's.

[reggie1198]

Omg 40mpg is bad?
I'm getting 7l per 100km out of my twin (nana riding)
And 9L when pushed. Without the Waitiki Landing GAS station, trips to the cape would only be a very slow affair or wear comfy walking shoes

[Maha]

Omg 40mpg is bad?
I'm getting 7l per 100km out of my twin (nana riding)
And 9L when pushed. Without the Waitiki Landing GAS station, trips to the cape would only be a very slow affair or wear comfy walking shoes

N Plater eh Sean?... :killingme your bike has the sweetest tone, not bad for a V-Twin mobility scoot.

[imdying]

That's a point... mileage isn't good, but it's not bad either. Wouldn't put me off buying one. The TLR is pretty sexy for a whale, I'd probably go the TLS between the two though.

On this topic, my SDTV eliminator has just arrived. Basically the SV has dirty big 54mm oval throttle bodies (03-04 are 52mm). On top of those are the typical Suzuki Dual Throttle Valves. They're basically an anti-fun device... you try to twist the fun stick too far, they artificially limit the air that can get to them... not cool. The alternatives are to disconnect the linkages and jam them open, just remove the blades (leaving the axle in the way), or fit one of these and completely gut the SDTV, epoxying up the holes where the axles used to run. If you disconnect the motor that drives them without one, it throws EFI fault codes. Everyone reports improved fun all round, so looking forward to trying it.

[Gremlin]

TLS over the R,
Hehe, I knew someone would... nah, the TLR looks better than the TLS, but it's really comparing two ugly chicks for which one is better.

Then again, if it's the sound you want, that sort of upright position, a superduke... (990 or 1290)

Except now we're way :Offtopic:

[haydes55]

Hehe, I knew someone would... nah, the TLR looks better than the TLS, but it's really comparing two ugly chicks for which one is better.



Then again, if it's the sound you want, that sort of upright position, a superduke... (990 or 1290)



Except now we're way :Offtopic:









Off topic is what makes these threads fun!

The TLR is a bit heavier and more powerful. So would rape tires that much faster. In terms of living with a bike, the S would win out (unless track days are a priority).

There are plenty of ducati V twins around the same price range second hand if you were to look for older bikes (with character).

[98tls]

Hehe, I knew someone would... nah, the TLR looks better than the TLS, but it's really comparing two ugly chicks for which one is better.

Nope thats more like comparing a fat ugly chick to a slim ugly chick,some makeup and a do does wonders for the skinny one nothings going to help the other.That said personally i like the looks of the S and would rather one over both the VTR or SV though like me there getting long in the tooth so wouldnt reccomend buying one.

[98tls]

That's a point... mileage isn't good, but it's not bad either. Wouldn't put me off buying one. The TLR is pretty sexy for a whale, I'd probably go the TLS between the two though.

On this topic, my SDTV eliminator has just arrived. Basically the SV has dirty big 54mm oval throttle bodies (03-04 are 52mm). On top of those are the typical Suzuki Dual Throttle Valves. They're basically an anti-fun device... you try to twist the fun stick too far, they artificially limit the air that can get to them... not cool. The alternatives are to disconnect the linkages and jam them open, just remove the blades (leaving the axle in the way), or fit one of these and completely gut the SDTV, epoxying up the holes where the axles used to run. If you disconnect the motor that drives them without one, it throws EFI fault codes. Everyone reports improved fun all round, so looking forward to trying it.

Interesting stuff.:2thumbsup

[imdying]

The TLR might make more top end, but it has huge inefficient ports and no mid range punch to speak of... more of a track focus... given it's a whale you wouldn't want to ride at the track (given the multitude of other lither options), it doesn't seem like a good choice for anything.

[onearmedbandit]

Buy this!!

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-653501993.htm

[imdying]

Oh hell yes.

[bogan]

Wow, is it just me or is that stupidly cheap?

[98tls]

Buy this!!

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-653501993.htm

:clap:Nice find,that would be fun.

[onearmedbandit]

Wow, is it just me or is that stupidly cheap?

Seems it, but I remember there was another on tm a number of years ago and the asking then was $10k. If I had the money available now I'd snap that up as a track day bike.

[98tls]

All this talk of TLRs made me remember this one,only one ive ever seen that made me drool.Some spare $ and the permisson to do it (not likely) and i would in a heartbeat. http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a92/tlme/thumpthumpMedium_zps3e6034ff.jpg (http://s9.photobucket.com/user/tlme/media/thumpthumpMedium_zps3e6034ff.jpg.html)

[boman]

This VTR is a quality example http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=663686483
I have heard that SV gets uncomfortable around the arse area after a short while, this one is a K7 and $1800 cheaper than the VTR http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=664511820 Possible that 06' Firestorm is a tad on the highside price wise?.. then again, it is a great example, plus it has girly grips. :confused:

I have a lovely gel seat, for a SV Thou. Cheap. Will only fit later model one though. (black Frame). If you go this way.

[boman]

290150

My old one, with aftermarket fairing's. FWIW

[imdying]

Those aren't aftermarket, they are OEM. It's easy to tell the difference, some of the aftermarket kits look ok.

[5150]

I have a lovely gel seat, for a SV Thou. Cheap. Will only fit later model one though. (black Frame). If you go this way.

PM sent :cool:

[Pornolio]

Well I have owned both the SV + VTR and some rare exquisite Italian Pr0n like the RSV1000 Mille.

All of them have their own issues and temperament ... But if you are seriously looking at a V-twin (which are marvelously fun!), I can summarize my personal experience of them in a nutshell :

SV1000 - replacement model for the hooligan TL1000S. There is nothing wrong with them, but they are toned down for smoother power delivery and its a "modern day" V-twin with fuel injection. Great for commuting, but yea, don't expect getting off of one with adrenaline pumping through your veins.

VTR1000 Firestorm - Awesome fun to ride, and it almost encourages hooligan behavior. I am now owning my second one, my first one was the pre-2001 model, and current one is the one with the larger fuel tank and digital clocks etc. Only bad things I can comment on them are, front forks are very soft, so if you want to sort it out properly, get some aftermarket fork springs. Fuel consumption is not bad, actually pretty good, but its more the fuel tank range which creates the impression that its heavy on juice. Even the newer models which have a larger fuel tank, they are OK, but it does feel like you fill up often.
Electrics wise, some of the earlier models had the famous Honda Rectifier issues. Battery dies because there was no charge going... The newer models have a different rectifier fitted with cooling fins on them, they also look slightly bigger. The VTR has a bit of a raw power delivery feel to it, but I thank the carbs for it... Hence its got quite a exciting power delivery, albeit not as aggressive as the TL1000S was. Excellent bike for day to day commuting, and they are damn reliable. Two open pipes are a MUST have for these bikes. They really transform them into hooligan machines with open pipes. If you want to go do some track riding, sort the forks out first.

I may be selling my 2007 VTR1000 soon, as I have bought another motorcycle I am in the process of converting into a streetfighter style, But I would prefer to hold on to my VTR for a while longer till the GSXR is ready to be released onto the roads.

Anycase, any V-twin will be awesome... they are loaded with grunt and torque ! :-)

[boman]

Those aren't aftermarket, they are OEM. It's easy to tell the difference, some of the aftermarket kits look ok.

If you are referring to the fairings, they are aftermarket.


They are fiberglass, and I modded them so they did not hit the road, and got them painted.

Also I bought them off the most unhelpful Just Fairings.

[paturoa]

On the daily commute home earlier this week I ended up doing several sets of traffic lights with a silver K3/k4 with carbon microns. That must be one of the best ever sounding v-twin combos. Not loud, rumble, authority but sharp too.

[98tls]

On the daily commute home earlier this week I ended up doing several sets of traffic lights with a silver K3/k4 with carbon microns. That must be one of the best ever sounding v-twin combos. Not loud, rumble, authority but sharp too.

Trust me an old TLS with full M4 system sounds better.

[98tls]

If you are referring to the fairings, they are aftermarket.


They are fiberglass, and I modded them so they did not hit the road, and got them painted.

Also I bought them off the most unhelpful Just Fairings.

Sad to hear that ive had a few dealings with Just Fairings and the guy was bloody great to deal with,even did me a one off hugger.

[Vinz0r]

All this talk of TLRs made me remember this one,only one ive ever seen that made me drool.Some spare $ and the permisson to do it (not likely) and i would in a heartbeat.

Wow, that is really fucking cool.

[98tls]

Wow, that is really fucking cool.

And easily done.

[ducatilover]

VTRs have a distinctive sound that makes my thingy happy.
SVs are a better bike.

I'd buy a VTR because I like noise and neither of them really do corner things, nor are they terribly fast.

[Addict]

I had a VTR1000 was a nice sounding bike but i really wished i had a sv instead. More powerful and better looks. If you don't like the sound just get a couple of cheap muffler - there are heaps on ebay or make a custom set like i did - looked like a mv with quad under tail pipes!

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