Calling all SV & VTR 1000 riders

[far queue]

I’m thinking about getting another road bike and the SV1000S and VTR1000 are top of the list at the moment. I’ve done a search on here, and elsewhere on the web, and everyone with these bikes seem very happy with them. There’s a couple of things I want to know though – what sort of range can I expect from a tank and what are they like comfort wise on a long haul to a rally, up to say 400-500km a day.

I’m taking each of these for a ride on Saturday, but only short rides – I’m only allowed 30 minutes on the VTR and 1 hour on the SV - so that wont tell me much about the long distance stuff.

I’m swaying towards the SV at the moment, but want to keep an open mind until I’ve tried them both. I’d considered a Blackbird too, until I sat on one – too big and heavy for me thanks, but the SV & VTR both seem good.

[bungbung]

Hiya,

First do a search, there are several threads about each. Then go and ride. They're both good. The SV has the edge on range, but otherwise they're pretty similar. I assume we are talking new? because the early VTRs have crap range and poorer suspension than the later models.

[SpankMe]

Check out

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=36901

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=10730

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=21087

or you could have just searched yourself :)

and of course: http://www.sv-portal.com

I'd go with the SV, but I'm biased.

[Edbear]

Have a look at TL1000R's bike, too. It's in real nice order and he's selling it to go to Aus. He wants me to buy it but I don't think my geriatric old bones would last too long and the Missus REALLY wants a cruiser for pillion comfort! However if you want a very quick, great sounding bike, you could do a lot worse!

[Fatjim]

I'd go with the SV as well, and I'm not biased.


But ride them both and choose the one that fits best. If you prefer the VTR then go for it, put some decent rubber and brake pads on it and save for some fork internals.

[GMGirl]

Well for a woman's perspective and you should all know we all go for comfort but without having had a VTR1000 I recommend the SV1000S. (check out mine in my profile). It's an awesome bike and I went from a VTR250 to this and man it's definitely a confidence booster that's for sure. I love riding it, it's the best. It looks sexy and goes really well. Also I recommend putting some great sounding pipes on too then everyone can hear ya coming. Good luck with the choice.:Punk:

[Fatjim]

Come on girl, get your tight leathers on and post us a piccy of you on your bike. If it's good I'm sure Far Q will buy one. If you don't I will and no-one will look at this thread again.

[Chisanga]

From my ignorant (only ever ridden a 250 :)) point of view, the SV1000s looks heaps better than the VTR1000, however I have heard the finish on Suzukis is rather crap.

[paturoa]

what sort of range can I expect from a tank .

K3 SV1000s commuting in AK, 220ks from full to light on with a 13 litre fill, varies bugger all. Travelling on trips at 120kmh speeds I always get 260 / 270 ks for same 13 litre refill. At light on there should be 4 litres still in the tank, but I've never drained it too see.


and what are they like comfort wise on a long haul to a rally, up to say 400-500km a day

I did the Brass Monkey from AK last year and in reality was quite confortable. Seat is a little firm, and I'd recommend a sheep skin for longer distances.

From all of the threads I've read, including on other forums, SV owners will always recommend SVs and VTR owners always recommend VTRs - go figure!

Have you had a butchers at a VStrom?

[bungbung]

I have low fuel light on at 150-160kms with normal cruising (11 - 12l fill). This is a '97 model with the small tank.

VTRs are thirsty.

[Eric]

I bought a SV650S and get about 275Km out of a tank. Good overall performance with plenty of low down grunt.

This is after my last bike back in 1978, which was a Beema.

Love it

[Grahameeboy]

The SV is more uptodate but the VTR still sold more than SV in Aussie....maybe price is the motivator.......not sure if VTR is fuel injected as my mind is slow today..............

[imdying]

Do not buy one without trying a GSXR750 of similar $$$$$.

[far queue]

I assume we are talking new? Yep, new


… or you could have just searched yourself :)

and of course: http://www.sv-portal.com As I said, I did search and did find some threads, but was looking for bit more info. But thanks for the sv-portal link, I hadn’t come across that one.


Well for a woman's perspective and you should all know we all go for comfort but without having had a VTR1000 I recommend the SV1000S. (check out mine in my profile) ... Also I recommend putting some great sounding pipes on too then everyone can hear ya coming. Thanks for that, and yep some new pipes to bring out the great V2 sound will be on the shopping list, and a tail end tidy up – yours looks great.


Come on girl, get your tight leathers on and post us a piccy of you on your bike. If it's good I'm sure Far Q will buy one.Sounds like an idea – another tail to check out :shifty:


K3 SV1000s commuting in AK, 220ks from full to light on with a 13 litre fill, varies bugger all. Travelling on trips at 120kmh speeds I always get 260 / 270 ks for same 13 litre refill. At light on there should be 4 litres still in the tank, but I've never drained it too see. Thanks, that’s what I was after. So that’s 20km/L and 320Km to empty, just what I was hoping for.


I did the Brass Monkey from AK last year and in reality was quite confortable. Seat is a little firm, and I'd recommend a sheep skin for longer distances. Again, what I wanted to hear. That was a good effort you guys put in to come to that rally with some loooong days, so if you were happy with the ride that’s got to be a big tick for the SV.


SV owners will always recommend SVs and VTR owners always recommend VTRs - go figure! Yep, to be expected and that’s cool. I’d rather be hearing the good stuff from the owners of both bikes than the silly slagging off of rival brands that normally goes on. Happy to hear about any genuine faults too, just not the slagging off stuff.


Have you had a butchers at a VStrom?Yup, doesn’t do it for me. Whatever I buy has to look sexy to me when it’s sitting in my drive as much as it has to do what I want.


I have low fuel light on at 150-160kms with normal cruising (11 - 12l fill). This is a '97 model with the small tank.

VTRs are thirsty.Christ, that’s around 13km/L and 256km to empty with the current 19L tank.


The SV is more uptodate but the VTR still sold more than SV in Aussie....maybe price is the motivator.......not sure if VTR is fuel injected as my mind is slow today..............Both near enough the same price at the moment – SV=$12500, VTR=$12995. SV=injected, VTR=Carbs


Do not buy one without trying a GSXR750 of similar $$$$$.Nah, GSXR’s a good bike but I don’t want one. BTW, was that your SV parked outside cycle treads yesterday lunchtime? Looks good – I bet it’s bloody loud. Where did you get the full fairing from?

[far queue]

Thanks for all the replies guys and gals, happy to hear whatever you've got to say.

[imdying]

Nah, GSXR’s a good bike but I don’t want one. BTW, was that your SV parked outside cycle treads yesterday lunchtime? Looks good – I bet it’s bloody loud. Where did you get the full fairing from?Must be someone elses. Compared to the GSXR, the SV is a piece of shite (handling/power/build quality/even comfort if the mags are to be believed), they're worth a ride if you haven't already :yes:

[miSTa]

You're still going to be keeping the DR though aren't you?

That's a hell of a surprise...:gob:

[Dafe]

Must be someone elses. Compared to the GSXR, the SV is a piece of shite (handling/power/build quality/even comfort if the mags are to be believed), they're worth a ride if you haven't already :yes:

I used to own a 2003 SV1000S. I upgraded to a 2006 GSXR1000 and a few months ago, switched to a 2006 SV1000S.

The SV and GSXR should never be compared. They serve completely different purposes and are designed for different types of riding.

I find the SV far more relaxing on longer rides and the better commuting choice. An all round better road bike. It doesn't persuade you to ride like a maniac. However, If you're on a racetrack or if highspeed riding is a big factor for you - The GSXR is as good as it gets. The SV will struggle all round on a track, but it will still be enough for at least %90 of riders.

The SV is a fantastic all round bike. Most reviews done by motorcycle magazines put the SV ahead of the Firestorm. Both bikes are great and have proven track records for reliability, good all round performance/setup and value for money.

I love the SV. There are untold aftermarket parts available so you can bling it how you like. I've never had a hairy moment in my 20,000 kilometres of SV riding. The SV treats me well, hence I went back to it and I don't miss the GSXR ride. However, I still think the inline 4's will always look the shit!

However, you may think I'm biased by owning a SV. Infact - I let reviews and test rides do my deciding. The reviews pointed at the SV and I found all the things the reviews mentioned to be accurate. See here: http://www.sv650.org/reviews/PB_mag_sv1000s/PB%20review.htm

Good luck on your decision. Either way, you can't go wrong with either of those twin beasts.

[NighthawkNZ]

Well as someone said, VTR owners will recommend VTRs and SV owners will recommend SVs...

Being an VTR owner... I will recommend it... and not slagging off the SV but I found the VTR more comfortable than the SV when I took one for a test blat (but, thats just me... i'm 6'1" and have a different riding style to you) :scooter:

Range wise the VTR on the older models were well shyte, the newer not too bad, around 300kms, (but if you start playing that soon drops to maybe 250 kms ;) )

VTR is classed as a sports tourer, and shouldn't be compared to other pure sports bikes, because its not a full on sports bike nor is it a full tourer, its the best of both worlds...

You will need to play around with suspension to get it to your liking but thats pretty much on all bikes these days...

VTR is not as fast as the SV but heck on NZ roads not really needed is it? both just as torquey both have the big V-Twin and have there own quirks.

Take them for a good ride, see which one meets your riding style, comfort, needs, price, colour, and which one appeals to you...

[gav]

Where are you taking the bikes from for your test ride? Just Motorcycles in New Brighton has a tidy VTR for sale, you might be able to sneak a longer ride on that. If you were looking second hand I'd suggest maybe a TL1000 could be a consideration?

[far queue]

Do not buy one without trying a GSXR750 of similar $$$$$.I just checked out Suzuki NZ's website - no GSXR750 listed. The 600 is $16295, the 1000 is $19995, the SV1000 is $12500


Must be someone elses.Oh OK. I assumed it was yours as I'd read on here about your under seat exhaust, and the one o/s cycletreads had what looked like a home grown under seat exhaust as well. Black SV1000K6, full fairing with some red trim on it. Belly pan had been there but not currently fitted. It had just had a new back tyre fitted.


Compared to the GSXR, the SV is a piece of shite (handling/power/build quality/even comfort if the mags are to be believed), they're worth a ride if you haven't already :yes:I would expect a GSXR to be a better performance bike, but I don't know that I'd be the one to extract all the extra performance from them.

[SpankMe]

Yep the GSX-R750 is a far superior bike than the SV1000s when it comes to performance, but it does cost $6,000 more than the SV.

There's a heap load of mods listed of the SV Portal (http://www.sv-portal.com/) that will make the SV an even better bike. First thing I would do is get someone who knows what they are doing (like Shaun (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/member.php?u=4323)) to setup the suspension properly. The stock setup leaves much to be desired, well the '03 model did anyway.

[Dafe]

I'd go with the SV as well, and I'm not biased.




Some strong words coming from a staunch Firestormer.

FJ, Are you in the frame for a SV sometime soon?

[GIXser]

Thanks for all the replies guys and gals, happy to hear whatever you've got to say.
dont even think about the vtr, they are shit compared to an sv, i have ridden both extensively, whilst the seat on an sv is harder , and slightly uncomfortable, the suspension outweighs the vtr by a longshot, dont even think about it,,

ps go and see haldane motorcycles they have new sv for about 12500
and if ya want a vtr, a friend of mine has one for sale (05)about 11 k with 6 k on the clock

[GIXser]

Must be someone elses. Compared to the GSXR, the SV is a piece of shite (handling/power/build quality/even comfort if the mags are to be believed), they're worth a ride if you haven't already :yes:
na dont agree, yes i do think the Gix is a more of a bike, but you cant compare a twin compared to inline 4, they are just a different bike"

[Dafe]

dont even think about the vtr, they are shit compared to an sv, i have ridden both extensively, whilst the seat on an sv is harder , and slightly uncomfortable, the suspension outweighs the vtr by a longshot, dont even think about it,,



You can always buy the gel seat and solve that problem. I got mine from ebay. They are also available from any Suzuki dealer, via Suzuki Japan.

[far queue]

You're still going to be keeping the DR though aren't you?

That's a hell of a surprise...:gob:Too right I'm keeping the DR, it's a great bike and I'd miss the playing in the mud and exploring the back blocks too much. But I also enjoyed my GSX750F (although more power would have been nice at times) when I had it and have been thinking about another road bike for a while now. Circumstances at the moment see me with the opportunity to have a foot in each camp - so to speak. What I really need to complete the ensemble is is a small dirt bike as well - something like a CRF230. But that might be a bit much right now.


I used to own a 2003 SV1000S. I upgraded to a 2006 GSXR1000 and a few months ago, switched to a 2006 SV1000S.

The SV and GSXR should never be compared. They serve completely different purposes and are designed for different types of riding.

I find the SV far more relaxing on longer rides and the better commuting choice. An all round better road bike. It doesn't persuade you to ride like a maniac. The SV will ... be enough for at least %90 of riders.

Good luck on your decision. Either way, you can't go wrong with either of those twin beasts.Thanks, you just confirmed what I was thinking about the GSXR v SV.


Being an VTR owner... I will recommend it... and not slagging off the SV but I found the VTR more comfortable than the SV when I took one for a test blat (but, thats just me... i'm 6'1" and have a different riding style to you) :scooter:No problem, I was hoping you would see this and pop in with some words on the VTR - thanks.


Where are you taking the bikes from for your test ride? Just Motorcycles in New Brighton has a tidy VTR for sale, you might be able to sneak a longer ride on that. If you were looking second hand I'd suggest maybe a TL1000 could be a consideration?Planning to head out Litttle River way via Halswell to get some straights and back over the port hills for some twistys ... or ... Tunnel Rd to Lyttleton and back over the hills. I'll pop in and see R1 as well too now thanks. there's also a VTR in Ashvegas on Trademe - 11 months old, 2800km, $10800.

[far queue]

dont even think about the vtr, they are shit compared to an sv, i have ridden both extensively, whilst the seat on an sv is harder , and slightly uncomfortable, the suspension outweighs the vtr by a longshot, dont even think about it,,I'd the SV had the better suspension and I know it has more adjustments than the VTR. I'm swayed more towards the SV, but it wouldn't be right to not look into the options properly and ride what's available to confirm.


ps go and see haldane motorcycles they have new sv for about 12500That's the standard price at the moment, supposedly it's part of the Suzuki Summerfest, but I think the price was down before that started.


You can always buy the gel seat and solve that problem. I got mine from ebay.How much, and what does it do to the seat height?

[Dafe]

How much, and what does it do to the seat height?

I paid $125 US (add $20 US for shipping). At the moment the exchange rate is near %80. A good time to buy from the states. You should land it for under $190 NZ. I don't know what the shops sell them at but I'd be thinking over $250 NZ.

Ride height increases very slightly. I'd say about a 10mm increase.

[sinned]

Dafe's bike is looking fantastic with the aftermarket stuff. But nothing beats SpankMe's bike for sex appeal (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/member.php?u=1)

[Babelfish]

Got my vitter about 6mnths ago, and I love it, really nice balanced feel and I prefer the look to the SV which to me looks a little too sharp. I'm not a hard rider so I couldnt tell you about the limits on the bike. Range wise, mine is a 98, so shyte...but I've found NZ handily has things called service stations spaced fairly close together. Since you're going for a newbie this wont be an issue.

I love the fact you're looking at twins and all the inline4 freaks come out with advice for you though.

Good luck on the weekend, would love to hear your feedback next week.

[Paulus]

I would expect a GSXR to be a better performance bike, but I don't know that I'd be the one to extract all the extra performance from them.

That's not what it's about. As Ronnie (RIP) from Performance Bikes used to say a sports bike should be exciting and should blow your skirt up. Hardly any of us can extract the full performance from a big sports bike but we sure finish every ride with a big smile on our faces! For me that's what it's all about.

Neither the SV or VTR are very exciting but they'll get the job done. Haven't ridden a VTR for a while but the SV suspension is pretty dire. I guess it's hard to explain until you've owned one but certainly take those other guys advice onboard and at least try some rides on something else.

[Babelfish]

comes down to what kind of rider you are, what riding you want to do etc...the bike will be as exciting as you want it to be and I heard plenty of great exploits from both sv and vitter.

Just to put the whole inline4 thing to bed, why are you looking at twins?

[NighthawkNZ]

comes down to what kind of rider you are, what riding you want to do etc...the bike will be as exciting as you want it to be and I heard plenty of great exploits from both sv and vitter.

Well said that man... bling

[Spyked]

Both are budget big capacity allrounders that provide a heap of fun for the money. Can't go too wrong with either really.
I settled on the SV because I preferred the styling, like the fuel injection, the suspension is at least adjustable so although both bikes use cheap components the SV is easier to taylor to your needs.
Didn't like the instruments on the Honda, too fussy.
The VTR does have a better finish, but I don't mind waxing the SV a bit more often. The seat could be better, but there are plenty of options as other folks have pointed out.
Overall comfort comes down to which fits you best.

[Fatjim]

BTW, after riding both the VTR and SV against the gixer thou the old argument of low down vtwin torque is pretty much mute. If you want real gixer eating torque you need to go for a more tuned vtwin. the VTR/SV will still outpull the R1 and ZX-10 down low, can't comment on the CBR but must see if I can get a demo out of Sparky.

The VTR isn't as "savage" as the SV because the the CV carbs, maybe someone less ignorant than me can explain why.


I've riden a stock RSV-R and the low down was disappointing. But someone said that a new pipe and a remapping would make a world of difference


To date, the bike with the greatest low down punch I've ridden is the 998 (my one at least). That things the shiz when you crank the throttle open. It pisses all over the VTR everywhere in the rev range.

[far queue]

comes down to what kind of rider you are, what riding you want to do etc...the bike will be as exciting as you want it to be and I heard plenty of great exploits from both sv and vitter.Yup, too right. If one bike was the best then everyone would be riding it. But we're all different with different likes, dislikes, wants, and needs.


Just to put the whole inline4 thing to bed, why are you looking at twins?mmm OK, you'll need to put up with a bit of rambling for an answer to that. There's a couple of reasons. I've had an IL4 (GSX750F), I've now got a single (DR650). Completely different sort of power. The GSX was a fun bike on the road and I loved the twisties, but it got to the point where I wanted more power overall and I wanted more lower down especially. Especially, when 2 up with gear. When the TL's 1st came out I liked the look of them, like the stories I was hearing about the power they made and loved the sound they made. Then one of the guys in our group sold his GSX750F and bought a VTR - I never got to ride it, but rode with him heaps. I liked the way he handled it, liked the power it obviously had and loved the sound. I wasn't in the position to be able to upgrade at that point. Out of interest for you the others in our group were riding CBR1000F, Blackbird, GSXR1100, CBR750, GSX600 etc - all IL4's. We were a fairly quick group and usually caught up to and passed everything else in the twisties.

One by one my mates dropped out of riding and rallies for various reasons, and the cops were making life more difficult on the road. So I didn't ride as much and eventually ditched the GSX and got the DR to sample the back blocks. Much less power than the GSX but I love the low down grunt, and still get a blast out of the twisties, and still manage to catch and pass plenty of road bikes. But the lack of a road bike has been nagging at me for a while and seeing what’s out there and the low prices has got me wanting to go and play on the road again with some more power. I still love the sound of the V twins and I know I'll be able to punt one around just fine. As a bike to live with everyday, it's got to be something that I like the look of, and the sound of, and it’s got to have usable real world power. I don’t want a screaming IL4 that I have to work at to keep in the power and pay big bucks for the pleasure. From the reviews I’ve read, the V twins sound the way to go for me, they’re certainly value for money, I like the look of both the VTR and the SV, and I listened to an SV1000 with aftermarket pipes the other day – it still does it for me.

I guess buying a bike is an emotive thing, and the sound is a big part of that. How many Harleys are sold because of their sound – must be a few, the manufacturers have gone to a bit trouble to keep it that way.

Some of you may think this is all nonsense, and that’s cool, but that’s my view.


BTW, after riding both the VTR and SV against the gixer thou the old argument of low down vtwin torque is pretty much mute. If you want real gixer eating torque you need to go for a more tuned vtwin.

To date, the bike with the greatest low down punch I've ridden is the 998 (my one at least). That things the shiz when you crank the throttle open. It pisses all over the VTR everywhere in the rev range.I'm not worried about gixer eating torque and I'm not spending bucks to beat someone. From what you say here, you are reinforcing the value for money to be had from the VTR and SV. The only GSX I'm comparing to is my old 750F.

[Babelfish]

I'm not worried about gixer eating torque and I'm not spending bucks to beat someone. From what you say here, you are reinforcing the value for money to be had from the VTR and SV. The only GSX I'm comparing to is my old 750F.

Yep, sounds like you know what you are after, and after the weekend you'll have decided which one is you. I think you'll bloody enjoy em mate, and I all for listening to another twin on the road, whichever brand it is.

There's certain aspects of the SV I like, like the arse on em, with the tail that looks like a praying mantis belly, the more modern approach to a v twin. But like I said before, the lines are to angled and sharp and for some reason that I've yet to figure out, I prefer the sound of the vitter. The vitter has more rounded lines too and with a bit of a tidy the arse can look good on them (alright, Im an arse man, but only on women and bikes, right?!). To me its a hairier bollocks approach in comparison to the SV which is more clinical.

Note I havent really mentioned the performance stats as tbh, they arent THAT much different unless you're really pushing em, which it sounds like you're past. Im picking one will feel right on the day, and I'm looking forward to hearing how it goest....its a game of two cyclinders and twins are the winner on the day

[Paulus]

BTW, after riding both the VTR and SV against the gixer thou the old argument of low down vtwin torque is pretty much mute. If you want real gixer eating torque you need to go for a more tuned vtwin. the VTR/SV will still outpull the R1 and ZX-10 down low, can't comment on the CBR but must see if I can get a demo out of Sparky.



Possibly an 04-06 R1 as that is weak in the low end but certainly not a ZX-10R. One thing that surprised me about the SV1000 was its reluctance to pull from low rpms. It also signed off early - disappointing.

[Fatjim]

Possibly an 04-06 R1 as that is weak in the low end but certainly not a ZX-10R. One thing that surprised me about the SV1000 was its reluctance to pull from low rpms. It also signed off early - disappointing.

It's all relative. The ZX-10R may pull better than the R1 down low, mate even peewee hermin does that. But I don't remember it pulling as good as the VTR. I'm talking about how "savage" the thing is when you yank open the throttle, not rolling it on and building the revs up till you think the thing pulls from down low.

Anyway, the 04-05 ZX10R's not on debate here, it's almost a bike in it's own class.




There's certain aspects of the SV I like, like the arse on em, with the tail that looks like a praying mantis belly,


I've always thought the tail light looks kinda a feminine, if you know what I mean wink wink nudge nudge.

[Fatjim]

I'm not worried about gixer eating torque and I'm not spending bucks to beat someone.

No your not....... yet.


BTW, if you buy an SV and don't like it, and want a VTR, come and see me, although mine's got 58k on it now.

[Deviant Esq]

If you're looking for bang for buck brand new the Honda CB900 Hornet is a compelling buy (around $10,995 new). One major drawback from your point of view, though: it isn't a V twin. Torque in spades though, and they look pretty cool IMO. Just thought I'd add another option ;)

[BarBender]

Aprilia Tuono. Fantastic twin that'll wipe both a SV and VTR :dodge:

Comfortable as its a little more upright. Good looking (it aint bland) and has got plenty of go-go.
Mt Eden Motorcycles has a 05 with 0ks on the clock. Id go for it as a second bike but I'm already floating on thin ice on the home front.

Its a steal at 19K.
Try one (and get real confused) before you decide on the others.

[Toaster]

I had a VTR once.... brakes were utterly poo if pushing it. Fuel economy was pretty poor, nice enough budget v-twin bike though. Blue looked good too. Basic technology. I considered the SV similar, but less appealing to the eye.

[imdying]

Aprilia Tuono. Fantastic twin that'll wipe both a SV and VTR :dodge:

Comfortable as its a little more upright. Good looking (it aint bland) and has got plenty of go-go.
Mt Eden Motorcycles has a 05 with 0ks on the clock. Id go for it as a second bike but I'm already floating on thin ice on the home front.

Its a steal at 19K.
Try one (and get real confused) before you decide on the others.
Yeeeshh..... I could buy a brand new SV, put a brand new Ohlins shock on it, and get JHS to build me a motor with 140rwhp and still have change over a 2 year old Tuono. Enough change to buy me some sedatives to stop myself giggling about the Tuono owners who pay that much :lol: Or I'd just spend another grand and buy the GSXR1000, and enjoy that 186bhp :lol:

[bungbung]

You could buy 2 SVs or vtrs for 19k, how about one of each?

[imdying]

Well that's a point... or a nearly new SV and a still tidy GSXR600? Best of both worlds :D

[SDU]

But the lack of a road bike has been nagging at me for a while and seeing what’s out there and the low prices has got me wanting to go and play on the road again with some more power. I still love the sound of the V twins and I know I'll be able to punt one around just fine. From the reviews I’ve read, the V twins sound the way to go for me...
.

Guzzi rules!:innocent:

Glad you are keeping the DR. FQ

Don't forget to blast around to show us your new toy when you get it!
Happy testing!

[98tls]

I would expect a GSXR to be a better performance bike, but I don't know that I'd be the one to extract all the extra performance from them. Congrats on being honest........seems theres quite a few GSXR 1000 owners that cant seem to extract there extra performance.........unless ive just met some having a leisurely ride through the twistys.......the image is everything mentality ive always stuggled to understand.........am sure the SV or the VTR will measure up to your needs just fine..........

[paturoa]

.... and what are they like comfort wise on a long haul to a rally, up to say 400-500km a day....

The slow ride home after work today also got me thinking about this thread.

For long distance riding the SVs has the weight on my wrists neutral at about 110kmph, but commuting is literaly a pain - lol.

If you have any back or arm/wrist issues I'd stay away from the s version. That said, there are several mods available to raise the bars.

[Paulus]

Congrats on being honest........seems theres quite a few GSXR 1000 owners that cant seem to extract there extra performance.........unless ive just met some having a leisurely ride through the twistys.......the image is everything mentality ive always stuggled to understand.........am sure the SV or the VTR will measure up to your needs just fine..........

Maybe they just like the bike - lets face it, there's a lot to like! Most of the time you'd be faster on a 400 through the twisties so why buy anything bigger?

[BarBender]

Well that's a point... or a nearly new SV and a still tidy GSXR600? Best of both worlds :D

Yah...good point. :)

[stify]

you'd be faster on a 400 through the twisties so why buy anything bigger?

cause when the twisties get bumpy ya need a kidney transplant on most 400's before the ride is done :yes:

[stify]

I'll add, had an 03 vtr loved it, noisy, heavy( compaired with an 06 cbr600rr )
real bad on rear tyres(due to my ham fisted riding style), but comfy and easy to push when feeling lazy

[far queue]

The slow ride home after work today also got me thinking about this thread.

For long distance riding the SVs has the weight on my wrists neutral at about 110kmph, but commuting is literaly a pain - lol.

If you have any back or arm/wrist issues I'd stay away from the s version. That said, there are several mods available to raise the bars.Cheers. I won't be commuting on it. The DR will be more fun for that, I can't imagine an SV/VTR being too flash hitting speed humps at pace and so on :innocent:

It's been raining here all day today, still pissing down now. If it's still like it in the morning I'll postpone the test rides.

[paturoa]

I'll add, had an 03 vtr loved it, noisy, heavy( compaired with an 06 cbr600rr )
real bad on rear tyres(due to my ham fisted riding style), but comfy and easy to push when feeling lazy

I get real good distances on my rear tyre on the SV. It probably has more to do with commuting in orkers and being a nana rider though.

Current Avon ST has 8000 km and looks about half worn, though it is hard to tell.

[Pumba]

I picked up my SV in December, ivr but 5000 odd km on it in that time and I love my bike. The bike will never keep up with a full blown sports bike but I also dont think that is what you are after, athough giving it to someone that knows a thing or two about suspension will certinly help.

I brought the SV

1. the price was right
2. I sat on the VTR and didnt like the postion, cant explain it me and bike didnt fit thats all
3. I rode it and liked it

But if you do get one make allowances to dump the stock pipes from the start, no point having a twin if you cant here it:Punk:

[stify]

I get real good distances on my rear tyre on the SV. It probably has more to do with commuting in orkers and being a nana rider though.

Current Avon ST has 8000 km and looks about half work, though it is hard to tell.

had dunslop on vtr when i got it at 5k managed to get it to 8k, got a z6 metz the first one did 2k an got a puncture, next z6 did 7k, got a strada after that an was knackered when i flicked the bike off another 7k later, not to much comutin done on any of the tyres.....on a side note after having a 06 cbr600rr for a while, i'd like to have another vtr in me shed as a back up bike...

[JimO]

hows this for a backside raptor 1000 tl suzuki

[far queue]

But if you do get one make allowances to dump the stock pipes from the start, no point having a twin if you cant here it:Punk:Yep, that's the plan. What pipes do you guys recommend?

[paturoa]

Yep, that's the plan. What pipes do you guys recommend?

Micron stainless cans are middle noisy. Sound good at low revs up to about 4000rpm but somehow aren't too noisy at high revs.

Yoshi's sound the best, but are too loud for me (I like my neighbours and they still like me)

[Pumba]

Yep, that's the plan. What pipes do you guys recommend?

I put the stainless Yoshis on mine, then went and removed the silencing pipes at the back, there loud without the silencing pipes, with them they have a great thob at idel put has soon as you take off the sound is well muffled.

I thought for a start they were to loud, but I have either gotten used of them or lost some of my hearing, not really to sure which one.

[JimO]

I put the stainless Yoshis on mine, then went and removed the silencing pipes at the back, there loud without the silencing pipes, with them they have a great thob at idel put has soon as you take off the sound is well muffled.

I thought for a start they were to loud, but I have either gotten used of them or lost some of my hearing, not really to sure which one.

what!!!!!................

[imdying]

I put carbon fibre Microns on mine, they're fantastic, would recommend them if you buy a black one :yes:

[SDU]

Go Italian FQ!:yes: You know you want to really:innocent:

[NighthawkNZ]

Go Italian FQ!:yes: You know you want to really:innocent:

hahahaha... no comment :D :lol:

[imdying]

One other thing worth thinking about is the local dealers. Buy a Honda new, you're likely to get it from, and serviced at Casbolts. Which would be akin to cutting your scrotum with something rusty approximately every hour on the hour... unpleasant to say the least. At least entering the local Suzuki shop isn't likely to end in a homicidal rampage.

[far queue]

Well then, it’s been an interesting day with some surprises for me. The weather was a bit grotty before I left home with some blue patches and some intermittent light drizzle, but I thought she’s right it’s clearing up and headed off to Sportzone to take the SV out. There was no sign of the port hills, they were well hidden in cloud, so I figured they were out for a test ride as it’ll be pissing down up there.

The SV
I picked up the SV demo, it was an ’03 model with an aftermarket pipe and 28000km on the clock. I took it down Lincoln Rd to Tai Tapu and back down the Old Tai Tapu Rd for a mix of some straights and twisties, followed by a bit of a ride round the general Tai Tapu - Lincoln area. The weather was an intermittent mixture clear and dry with periods of light to medium drizzle. The roads were a mix of wet and dry in different areas.

Likes
Plenty of power right through the range
Great Brakes
Nice smooth gearbox
Liked the digital speedo easy to read and easy to keep the exactly where you want it
The whole instrument cluster was pretty good

Dislikes
The riding position – I finished the 1 hour ride with sore hands, sore arse and becoming sore lower back, but figured I could fix this with new bars and a sheepskin.

It was hard work in the twisties, in that I had to think about what I was doing and consciously work at putting the bike where I wanted it, but I figured maybe I just needed to get used to it, not having ridden a road bike for a couple of years.

No fuel gauge – not a biggie, but hey other road bikes have them

I didn’t like the indicator switch – it’s an odd shape – easy to turn on, not so easy to turn off.

Summary
I ended the ride reasonably happy with the bike, but thinking there’s a couple of things that were the best.

The VTR
Then it was over the road to Casbolts for a ride on the VTR, this was a new bike with 377km on the clock and I was told the engine would still be bit tight as they come right till around 2500km or so. I rode basically the same roads as the SV in the same conditions.

Likes
The riding position – It just felt right to me – my arse was closer to the ground for getting my feet down, the bars weren’t such a stretch, the seat was a better fit, I was more upright and more comfortable.

It was easy to ride in the twisties – It felt lighter, and more natural. I didn’t have to think about it, it was so easy to flick it through the bends. It felt a great wee bike to ride. It’s 7kg heavier than the SV and the same size, but it felt smaller and lighter.

It had a fuel gauge.

The indicator switch was easy to use

Dislikes
Instrument Cluster – Speedo tucked away and not easy to read. Speedo and Rev counter both on the small side. Overall the cluster seemed a bit cluttered and busy.

Power – not as much power down low or overall as the SV, but this could improve when fully run in and with a new set of pipes.

Brakes – Not as good as the SV

Gearbox – Clunky

Fuel gauge – Although it was good to have one, it was a bit disconcerting to watch the fuel drop 2 bars in the relatively short ride I did.

Idle – This was all over the place with temperature changes, I assume due to the carbs v injection on the SV.

Summary
I had headed off to do these 2 test rides pretty much already decided that the SV was going to be the bike for me, but to give them both a fair go and see if I was right. I was wrong. Both bikes had their good points and their bad points for me, but the ease of riding the VTR came as a real surprise to me after riding the SV. If only the VTR had the power, brakes, gearbox and instrument cluster of the SV then it would be easy to decide. As it was I was left still undecided which bike I wanted but swaying way more toward the VTR than the SV purely due to the ease of chucking the VTR around and the comfort.

I had another VTR lined up to look at, a used one this time, so maybe that would answer some questions about the power and brakes once run in. So, home for lunch, and have a think about things, then out for another ride on another VTR … I thought!

The Surprise
Well, when I got there, there was another bike parked up there that I hadn’t considered in this equation. I’ve always liked this bike but never seriously considered I’d ever get one, as I thought I’d never be able to afford a decent one … and here was one here, used, but only 7800km on it and looking like new … and … affordable. Is the suspense killing you? A 2002 Ducati ST4s :drool: a red one :love: “Would you like to take it for a ride” HELL YES!

The weather was better now, so it was out to Redcliffs up to the Summit Rd, around to the top of Evans Pass, down Sumner Rd to Lyttleton, through the tunnel and back down the Tunnel Rd.

Likes
Power – Awesome power everywhere
The seat height was spot on
The riding position was great
The handling was great
The fairing worked a treat, if anything it worked bit to well at times as I was warming up
The seat was comfy
Great gearbox, it just clicked into each gear
The instrument cluster was well laid out
The switch gear was easy to use
It’s got a centre stand

Dislikes
The clutch lever takes more effort to use than I’m used to and it was quite an effort towards the end of the ride. I assume I’ll get used to that.

Summary
This bike had everything I liked about the SV and everything I liked about the VTR. Plus it looks great and sounds great. I opened the taps a bit going through the road tunnel – oh, the music. I ended the ride with a grin a mile wide, although there was one other wee problem I mentioned to the shop owner – it’s uncomfortable to ride with a hard on.

I’m taking it out for another, longer ride, tomorrow. I think I may have a sexy Italian redhead at home sometime soon.

[far queue]

Go Italian FQ!:yes: You know you want to really:innocent:You couldn't help yourself, could you :shutup:

[NighthawkNZ]

I’m taking it out for another, longer ride, tomorrow. I think I may have a sexy Italian redhead at home sometime soon.

Goes to show you have to take it for a ride, every one is different :scooter:

[miSTa]

Go Italian FQ!:yes: You know you want to really:innocent:
And your not biased are you?



You've got a great day for a extended ride today FQ, have fun mate.

[laRIKin]

I mentioned to the shop owner – it’s uncomfortable to ride with a hard on.

I’m taking it out for another, longer ride, tomorrow. I think I may have a sexy Italian redhead at home sometime soon.

The first line is way to much info for me to handle when we go for a ride today.:sick:

I think that I will have to ride with a good distance between us.:yes:
And I will have to think about, if it is a good idea to sit at the same table as you when we stop for a coffee.:whistle:

[Unit]

SV and long range, think I can speak on this one. I brought an '06 SV1000 in July last year brand new. In November I was sent from Whangarei to work in Tauranga, exactly 400kms. I spent the next nine weeks commuting and did 10,000kms as we had a few organised rides during this time.
Range, Tauranga to Dairy Flats exactly one tank (and thats with one tooth the front sprocket) which is about 270ks approx. Thats cruising at a solid pace with luggage.
Overall loved the bike, the supension will need firming up which I didnt bother doing cause I was so used to the wollow of the old TL. Im now on the Aprilia RSV1000R Factory, different again and loving it, but only changed cause a really good deal came along. Love the SV, would reccommend them

[Edbear]

Ummm! Ask about servicing costs on the Duc! Not cheap!

[Edbear]

PS. Just noticed, 2000 posts!!!! :woohoo: Doesn't itme fly when you're having fun!!!!:rockon:

[far queue]

And I will have to think about, if it is a good idea to sit at the same table as you when we stop for a coffee.:whistle:Don't worry mate you're way too hairy for me.


Ummm! Ask about servicing costs on the Duc! Not cheap!Yeah, so I understand ... but aren't all sexy italian redheads expensive to maintain, at least this one won't say no :love:

[Edbear]

Don't worry mate you're way too hairy for me.

Yeah, so I understand ... but aren't all sexy italian redheads expensive to maintain, at least this one won't say no :love:


Yep! But there's expensive and then there's:gob: :sick: Can take some of the sex out of it....:bye: A mate owns a workshop in Whangaparoa, (Classic-Z), and he's done some servicing on the water-cooled Ducs since their owners were floored by the costs at the dealers!

I like the Ducati's but prefer the older motors as they're simple to service and look great! Agree with everything else you like about them, though!:yes:

[laRIKin]

Don't worry mate you're way too hairy for me.

Yeah, so I understand ... but aren't all sexy italian redheads expensive to maintain, at least this one won't say no :love:

Well that does it the beard stays.

Arrrr sexy red heads :love: . (I have to say that don't I)

See you soon and I hope she's all YOU want her to be.

[far queue]

A perfect day for a ride today. SVBoy came around, then we went and met up with Lemans, picked up the ST4s, and went and met up with SDU and went for a ride - V twins only. Through the tunnel to Lyttleton, round the bays, past the Wheatsheaf, and over the hill to Little River for a coffee. The bike was feeling great, and I was right at home with it. Back home the same way, I opened it up some more to push it a bit more – wonderful. At Governers Bay, carried on up the hill to the Summit Rd, round the summit to Mt Pleasant and back to the shop … where … I bought it. It's just getting some new tyres and a new battery fitted and it’s all mine on Wednesday.

Pics
1. Just about to head off
2. Coffee at Little River

I stop to take any individual pics of the bike, I was having too much fun.

Thanks to you guys for coming out on the ride today and offering your opinions.

Thanks to everyone who contributed to this thread with views on the SV & VTR - I guess it wasn't meant to be. But I'm happy with I ended up with.

Cheers

[laRIKin]

It's a good bike you have there and it was a wonderful day for a test ride.
I'm sure that riding and owning it will just get better and better.

I noticed that you did not mention something. :shutup:

[far queue]

I noticed that you did not mention something. :shutup:There were a couple of things I didn't mention - one of which I have photo's of :yes:

[Edbear]

There were a couple of things I didn't mention - one of which I have photo's of :yes:


And.....????????????????:shifty:

[NighthawkNZ]

There were a couple of things I didn't mention - one of which I have photo's of :yes:

vaiting.... :innocent:

[Pumba]

Good stuff Far Queue, hope you enjoy the new bike

So what are these photos of you mention?

[laRIKin]

What I'm talking about there are no Photo's.:shutup:

[far queue]

What I'm talking about there are no Photo's.:shutup:
I know what you're talking about, but what I'm talking about, there is :yes:

[imdying]

Nice choice... I've considered one of those to ferry the good wife about on :yes:

[Crisis management]

Great choice Far Queue......I was going to suggest Ducati's earlier but thought it may have ended in howls of laughter and blood letting so kept my trembling paws off the keyboard.

What more could you want, a DR and a Duck, superb! :yes:






(thank god it wasn't a Guzzi, sorry, couldn't resist....)

[gav]

Just Motorcycles? He's a good guy to deal with, thats for sure. Damn good idea having a bike shop open on a Sunday too. Thats where I took a silver VTR for a ride from, the one you were looking at? Saw that ST4 there too, great price.
Took the XJR1200 he's got, for a decent ride, very impressive, very tempting!
But looks like I'm buying a RF900.....

[far queue]

Just Motorcycles?Yep

He's a good guy to deal with, thats for sure.Yep. Ian and Shelly have been great, and he's a KB'er.

Damn good idea having a bike shop open on a Sunday too.Too right. They're open Mon, Thur, Fri 11-7 and Sat, Sun 10-4. 165 Bowhill Rd, New Brighton - just in case anyone down here didn't know about them. I'm happy to give them a free plug.

Thats where I took a silver VTR for a ride from, the one you were looking at?Well ... that's what I went there to have a look at, but the ST4 sidetracked me, and I never actually sat on his VTR until after I'd bought the Duc today.

Saw that ST4 there too, great price.Yep, I'm happy with the deal.

Took the XJR1200 he's got, for a decent ride, very impressive, very tempting!Yep, that's a nice looking bike.

But looks like I'm buying a RF900.....They're a usefull bike too. I've never ridden one but they seem to go well.

[SVboy]

I,m not so sure all the KBers are getting the FULL Duc test ride picture, as LeMans said.........! Glad to hear the deal is done!:dodge:

[miSTa]

Come on FQ post some pics...:wait:


You going to be bringing her down to the March Hare?

[laRIKin]

Come on FQ post some pics...:wait:

Only if he wants a visit from a RED head.:shutup:

If you want to know these thing, you have to be on the ride.
As the saying goes, want happens on tour, stays on tour.
We don't kiss and tell.:shutup:
We just tease the rest of you.:rofl: :moon:

[Pex Adams]

It goes to show that comparing bikes is a black art. Sometimes you narrow yourself down to a couple of asian babes, choices and then end up with an Italian Red Head!

Anyways, its been an interesting to see what you did. As I'm in the same boat currently, as I'm looking for something a bit more practical than my GSXR600. My current thoughts are evolving around the Tuono, SV, and Superduke. I realise the Superduke is impractical, but I just might not be able to resist...

TSS ( a little while ago) had me looking at a ST2 - which they sold before I had a chance to test. But it certainly had me thinking outside the square, especially when my ears keep on getting a whipping, from Dafe and Shayno to get an SV. Then having Fatjim telling me about a Blue bottle which has to be the worst bike I've ever had the misfortune to swing my leg over.

Nonetheless its all good, I love it how KBer's are not only passionate about bikes, but also the passion they have for their own bikes, and getting everyone else to get one as well.

[Fatjim]

Then having Fatjim telling me about a Blue bottle which has to be the worst bike I've ever had the misfortune to swing my leg over.



Mate, from what I here, you haven't swung anything in a very long time. Anyway, the 'bottle is set up for a fast rider, not someone who finds the GN250 " a bit too crazy".

[Pex Adams]

Mate, from what I here, you haven't swung anything in a very long time. Anyway, the 'bottle is set up for a fast rider, not someone who finds the GN250 " a bit too crazy".

Compared with 'the bottle', it is crazy - it handles, it stops, and best of all its a Suzuki. So you know its better than anything you own!

[sandman]

Later VTR models got 19litre tank & improved suspension.I liked my first one so much I bought a second one. Thrash it u get about 14 - 15 K.'s per litre, cruise mode (sittin on 120k) u get about 17k per litre.
I read a comparison road test on both VTR & SV 1000, VTR got big raps over the SV across the board.I never rid an SV so probably a bit biased,but I just loved ma VTR's

[SDU]

And your not biased are you?

Never!:yes:


Just Motorcycles? He's a good guy to deal with, thats for sure. Damn good idea having a bike shop open on a Sunday too. Thats where I took a silver VTR for a ride from, the one you were looking at? Saw that ST4 there too, great price.
Took the XJR1200 he's got, for a decent ride, very impressive, very tempting!
But looks like I'm buying a RF900.....

Looks like you have a story to tell too Gav. Look forward to seeing your new toy next time we see you.
& Yip Ian & Shelley are great to deal with - fun too! ChCh have finally been getting a few good people/ places to deal with.


I,m not so sure all the KBers are getting the FULL Duc test ride picture, as LeMans said.........! Glad to hear the deal is done!:dodge:

Nothing like jumping into the thick of things first time up eh SVBoy!
Nice to meet ya yesterday & hope to see you on more rides soon.
Take your ear plugs with you to the March hare if you're camping with FQ:dodge: .


It was a good test ride for FQ. Great weather, pity about the cops lining the route though! lucky we were warned.

[imdying]

So he droped it first time out or what?

[far queue]

You going to be bringing her down to the March Hare?Hopefully. I've ordered the pack rack today, which should be here Weds. So all going to plan, yes I'll be taking it. Otherwise it'll be the DR.

Take your ear plugs with you to the March hare if you're camping with FQ:dodge: . What are you trying to say:innocent:

It was a good test ride for FQ. Great weather, pity about the cops lining the route though! lucky we were warned.Lucky that cop didn't appear untill I'd slowed down for the corner too :whistle:

So he droped it first time out or what?No, he didn't. The bike's in the same condition it was when I picked it up from the shop.

[98tls]

Congrats on the new bike............look forward to seeing it in the weekend...enjoy.

[Edbear]

Nonetheless its all good, I love it how KBer's are not only passionate about bikes, but also the passion they have for their own bikes, and getting everyone else to get one as well.



Quite, quite! Old Chap! I can heartily recomend the C50T Boulevard!:yes:

Fuel injected, grunty V-twin, etc. etc....:rockon:

[Spyked]

Yup, and 05 up SV's got some extra horses.
For every article that puts the VTR ahead, there's another that picks the SV.
It's a matter of personal taste, just ask any Fireblade, R1 or Gixxer fan which is the best out of those three..........:2guns:
You bought another VTR without at least checking out some of the alternatives.:gob:




Later VTR models got 19litre tank & improved suspension.I liked my first one so much I bought a second one. Thrash it u get about 14 - 15 K.'s per litre, cruise mode (sittin on 120k) u get about 17k per litre.
I read a comparison road test on both VTR & SV 1000, VTR got big raps over the SV across the board.I never rid an SV so probably a bit biased,but I just loved ma VTR's

[gav]

Hey Pex, you seen that ST2 on Trade Me? $8K no reserve! :scooter: :gob:
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-88959938.htm

[Babelfish]

Congrats on the new twin in your family mate, if I could a. afford the costs or b. learn how to service one myself, then I'd definately be a memeber of the italian twin club....one day.

Good write up on the SV and VTR too, fully confirmed what I think of the two bikes.

[R1madness]

Hey Pex, you seen that ST2 on Trade Me? $8K no reserve! :scooter: :gob:
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-88959938.htm

Gav, thats a ST2 (2 valve with no good bits) It is a good buy if you want a 2 valver. You cant :nono: compare it to a ST4S which was the flagship sports tourer for Ducati. The ST4s has all the best equipment on it. Better shock, forks, brakes, more power, and this one has lots of carbon fiber extras also.

Basicly it works like this
ST2 = 2 valve
ST3 = 3 valve
ST4 = 4 valve
ST4s = 4 valve + other stuff.

Oh yea we offer a full (covers everything) 3 month warrentee on all our bikes as well.
Cheers

[Babelfish]

WOAH! My ears are popping that plug hit so hard

[Pex Adams]

Hey Pex, you seen that ST2 on Trade Me? $8K no reserve! :scooter: :gob:
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-88959938.htm

Thanks for that Gav


Gav, thats a ST2 (2 valve with no good bits) It is a good buy if you want a 2 valver. You cant :nono: compare it to a ST4S which was the flagship sports tourer for Ducati. The ST4s has all the best equipment on it. Better shock, forks, brakes, more power, and this one has lots of carbon fiber extras also.

Basicly it works like this
ST2 = 2 valve
ST3 = 3 valve
ST4 = 4 valve
ST4s = 4 valve + other stuff.

Oh yea we offer a full (covers everything) 3 month warrentee on all our bikes as well.
Cheers

After doing a little bit of research, the 2 Value has a lot less problems, compared against the 4. Also servicing is quite a bit cheaper as well.

However, it depends on what sort of thing I need in a bike. Reliability been quite high on the list. Along with the ability of going 2 up, without losing to much in the way of comfort and performance. Which is where the Gixxer600 had me a little disappointed. However on every other front the Gixxer was absolutely awesome.

Hmm... Decisions Decisions...

[gav]

This photo came up on another forum, not sure if its been seen before. Apparently a Japanese firm were given a design brief to sharpen up the VTR back in 1997/98, looks bloody fantastic if you ask me! :yes:

[imdying]

Yep, like that a lot! Would go for a sharper more modern tail section, but loving the front.

[far queue]

Just to finish this off I thought I’d let you know what I think of the new bike after a weekend away with it. I took it to the March Hare bike rally over the weekend – a round trip of 601km. 216km down the straight and boring SHWY 1 on Friday, a brief ride on Saturday and 321km the long way home today with lots of twisties. It’s comfortable at 100kph and at significantly higher speeds, it’s great in the twisties, and I arrived home with nothing sore. I’m very happy with my purchase.

Here's a couple of pics before I left ...

[far queue]

Oh, and this fully faired SV1000 was at the rally too. I like it better than what's currently on offer.

[Highlander]

Oh, and this fully faired SV1000 was at the rally too. I like it better than what's currently on offer.

Agree with that. The SV looks unfinished to me, but that full fairing rounds it off nicely. That colour suits it too.

No patch on your Duc though. Well done.

[Babelfish]

What a trip it must have been FQ, you picked up some farking roadkill on the way by the looks!

Nice bike though mate.