Suzuki TL S 1000

[Jerry74]

What do you guys think of the TLS?

[tate35]

Hey there,

I don't know what the boys think lol but this girl likes them :yes: A guy at work came in on one Friday, really nice sound to them and they look GREAT!!

[wilber]

Great bike ,things I found not so good ,tank range ,comfort on a long run [sorted with high rise bars],suspensions not great standard ,eats back tyres, not a around town beast likes to be above 3000rpm.
But yes I recomend a TLS ,my tl's suspension is standard only a few times I have found it wanting at pace but that can all be sorted with a after market shock replacing the rotary damper.
And theres the vee twin noise at whatever level always makes me smile,you wont regret it if you buy one .

[Winston001]

I've always thought they were wicked bikes. Seat a bit thin maybe. Here's a member who upgraded http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?p=1700897#post1700897

[98tls]

What do you guys think of the TLS?
Love them,had one for years and its never let me down,sort the suspenders and there fun in the twistys,pack them up with gear and go touring,great bikes.Ignore the bullshit from "my mates cousins brother" about them.Thing to watch out for pre purchase is the rotary damper mounting point on the frame can crack.Cheap as chips nowdays but still a heap of fun.Best place to get info on them is TLZONE.NET.

[dino3310]

TLS the tamed TLR
re-invented as the sv1000.
farkin great bikes with a sound of thunder

[Boob Johnson]

Ive loved every millimeter of the riding of done on mine, fricken awesome bike. The best bike ive ever owned or riden, easily. Im only selling mine now as I want a TLR otherwise would keep it. I know guys that have owned 40+ bikes & say that a TL will always be in the shed. A cult following is brewing with them now, TL planet & TL zone forums both humming with TL owners. Heaps of parts trading & ideas swapping etc, both great sites.

[98tls]

TLS the tamed TLR
re-invented as the sv1000.
farkin great bikes with a sound of thunder Having spent years around both of them i disagree,any horsepower the R has over the S is nullified by the xtra weight which although only 10 kg or so feels much more when your on it,besides that the R is pig ugly:shutup::innocent:Who wants to ride round looking like you have a platypus sticking out ya bum:shit::shifty:J/K like i say the R feels huge in comparison to the S,well does to me anyway.

[Jerry74]

I am tossing up between the TLS and a Ducati 900ss

Which is best bang for the buck?

[James Deuce]

I am tossing up between the TLS and a Ducati 900ss

Which is best bang for the buck?

The TLS.

But why bring the bang for buck equation into a decision between an air cooled V-Twin and a water cooled twin, one of which is a Ducati?

The TLS is more comfortable and has more horsepower, but eats tyres and sometimes people.

What do you want? Pride of ownership or people thinking you're a hard man?

[Jerry74]

The TLS.

But why bring the bang for buck equation into a decision between an air cooled V-Twin and a water cooled twin, one of which is a Ducati?

The TLS is more comfortable and has more horsepower, but eats tyres and sometimes people.

What do you want? Pride of ownership or people thinking you're a hard man?

A bit of both hahaha, nah just a reliable bike that is suited to comute and do a bit of long distance riding.

[98tls]

A bit of both hahaha, nah just a reliable bike that is suited to comute and do a bit of long distance riding. Thing to remember about the TLS is that there getting long in the tooth nowdays and most of them have lived a fairly hard life,personally mines just been a bit of a toy and over the years has had a fair whack of dosh chucked at it with aftermarket stuff because thats what i enjoy doing,ive never had to use it as my only form of transport but have read of many that have on the TL website and lots of them have run into problems when relying on it day in day out to get to work etc,as i say there getting old and things wear out.Another option worth looking at would be an SV,Suzuki chucked them out the door damn cheap from new and as a result theres some ridiculously cheap in fact not long back there was one for sale only $500 more than a TLS in the same shop..crazy.Fwiw i had a guy offering to swap his SV for my TLS last year but i just couldnt bear to part with the old girl.If you have never owned a Ducati then go do it,i am well over it but still say everyone should own at least one in there bike riding lifetime.

[James Deuce]

What he said (he is cleverer than most of us, so make sure you listen), plus it depends what year 900SS you are looking at in terms of potential reliability.

I'd go for a UJM of some sort if those are your requirements.

[F5 Dave]

OK this isn't the KB way, but I'm going to say it. You want to go from a 250 to a thou. This will stunt your riding learning. More-so it could kill you badly, esp with a bike like the TL.

Better to find something newer & mid sized, esp for any commute.

[98tls]

OK this isn't the KB way, but I'm going to say it. You want to go from a 250 to a thou. This will stunt your riding learning. More-so it could kill you badly, esp with a bike like the TL.

Better to find something newer & mid sized, esp for any commute. Actually thats a good point and one i missed entirely,didnt realise he was on a 250,damn all that key tapping for nothing:innocent:Go look at an SV650 or if its to be a Duc maybe a 600ss.

[Jerry74]

Actually thats a good point and one i missed entirely,didnt realise he was on a 250,damn all that key tapping for nothing:innocent:Go look at an SV650 or if its to be a Duc maybe a 600ss.

I used to ride a GSXR 750 but decided to get back into riding after a 10 year break, 250 was cheap but a bit limited for what I want

[98tls]

I used to ride a GSXR 750 but decided to get back into riding after a 10 year break, 250 was cheap but a bit limited for what I want Fair call.Good luck with whatever you decide on eh,hurry up summers coming:soon:

[F5 Dave]

So were you riding the 750 with some experience? Just to be aware of what you are getting. The TL is fun, but a bit wayward esp with the std damper arrangement. As an older bike they will have shagged a few things (steering brgs, discs etc) + they tear through tyres & chains. You should really budget for all of the above. In which case an SV would be a better bet.

But a 650 shouldn’t be sniffed at, I know someone moved from a GSXR750 to an SV650 for $ reasons & loved it. Better suited to every day too.

[Jerry74]

Cheers for all your good info.... the 750 was being ridden outside licence conditions naughty me lol...

Decided to follow the correct laws regarding cc's etc

Going to get full in Jan.

Just thought the TLS would be a bit easier on pocket than the 900ss

[James Deuce]

Just thought the TLS would be a bit easier on pocket than the 900ss

Other way round. Service intervals are practically 33% longer than the TLS, and they tend to be better looked after. You'll have less to do to a 2nd hand Ducati, provided you find one with a full service history and a clued up owner.

There's also less to go wrong with them, and the things that have to be done religiously are well documented. Some owners of Japanese motorcycles are a bit Lassez Faire. Shocking, but true.

[Morcs]

Lovin it.

Read my first impressions of it: (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?p=1467844#post1467844)
though it has progressed somewhat since then.

EDIT. you'd better get reeeeal friendly with ya local tyre shop...

[Jerry74]

Sweet as mmm lotsa tyres... oh well twist my arm and call me a Ducati 900ss then.

:headbang:

[rocketman1]

Seen a few, nice TLS's around lately, with the right cans on they sound great, but for me I would still go the SV1000S.

[Squiggles]

Good strong bike, i've found mine to be good on the tires (i run M3's, and im anal about pressures), kitted out with a few mods and i've not found anything to beat it yet... i couldnt last on a SV, they're just a neutered TL, something about them gurgling with power. Went from a RGV250 to a 88 gixxer 750 then this. The R has only a fraction more power but a fair bit more weight too.
I fell for mine with the sound, beautiful deep note, some find it deafening, personally i find it makes the ride quieter (she doesnt pillion with me very often now :D) In for the long run too, got a sub 10,000k motor sitting in the shed if things go pearshaped in a few years (mine was stripped and rebuilt 10k ago, im now just shy of 86,000 clicks)

[avgas]

um get a cagiva raptor and get the best of both worlds

[Squiggles]

Other way round. Service intervals are practically 33% longer than the TLS, and they tend to be better looked after. You'll have less to do to a 2nd hand Ducati, provided you find one with a full service history and a clued up owner.

There's also less to go wrong with them, and the things that have to be done religiously are well documented. Some owners of Japanese motorcycles are a bit Lassez Faire. Shocking, but true.

I'd disagree there, you're only shimming every 20k, not doing the belts as well...

There are enough big sites (think, KB size) dedicated to the tl's that theres plenty of info on anything to do with them, with getting parts/bling/mods cheap and piss easy.


um get a cagiva raptor and get the best of both worlds

Old man just bought the 650 version, it will be interesting to compare, might have to go ride its direct competitor (sv650)

[Jerry74]

Ducati or Suzuki hmmmm... I am going to go the Ducati way cheers guys

[Vtwo Fiend]

Actually thats a good point and one i missed entirely,didnt realise he was on a 250,damn all that key tapping for nothing:innocent:Go look at an SV650 or if its to be a Duc maybe a 600ss.

I have had both a TL and SV and sad to say the i liked TL better(Id still have it if someone else didn't) and hay at least he has something to aspire to later on.
:Punk:

[Jerry74]

Ducati 900ss is next on the shopping list.

[98tls]

Ducati 900ss is next on the shopping list. Good on ya and enjoy,if your ever down south sing out and we will see how the TL and the SS compare over the pig-route.:2thumbsup

[98tls]

Other way round. Service intervals are practically 33% longer than the TLS, and they tend to be better looked after. You'll have less to do to a 2nd hand Ducati, provided you find one with a full service history and a clued up owner.

There's also less to go wrong with them, and the things that have to be done religiously are well documented. Some owners of Japanese motorcycles are a bit Lassez Faire. Shocking, but true. After many years on a TLS and having owned Ducatis i find this a bit odd,Valve clearances every 24000 kms isnt hard and its a piece of piss,why would a second hand 900ss tend to be better looked after?Think ive seen just as many shitty old Ducs as TLs,less to go wrong?biggest bugbear on an old TL would be the rotary damper mount cracking and at this stage in life most will have had there suspenders done already,if a same age Duc hasnt had them changed it will need doing.Dont get me wrong i love Ducatis and grew up with an old man obsessed with early 900SSs etc so much so that i wanted nothing else but to grow up and buy my own,i did so,not being the type of person to give a shit about the badge on the tank i found that the later model ones (at the time) left a lot to be desired,remember riding a 89 or 90 SS/sport and feeling..how do i put it,:gob:took the heap of shit back to the bike shop and declined there offer.In the TL the japs built a motor to die for,for sure they got a lot wrong but out of the box power wise it measured up to a 916 which on its own was some feat,i couldnt give a flying fuck about what happens on a race track but i do know that a well ridden TL will be planted fair and square up a 916s arse through real world roads such as the Hundaless etc if not in front of one.As for reliability/ease of maintenance etc give me the Jap one ta.

[JimO]

um get a cagiva raptor and get the best of both worlds

i like the way this guy thinks

[Dino]

98tls - A man that makes a lot of sense.

.

[JimO]

98tls - A man that makes a lot of sense.

.

ooooh nooooo dont encourage him

[Drew]

I'd be on the TL over a 900SS any day. But it's mostly an asthetics thing.

Always loved riding the TL, but I know some real horror stories about them.

[Jerry74]

The late model TL and Ducati are both nice looking bikes, however i think they are both worth having but it comes down to this.

1. Do you want a Jap or Italian bike?

2. Compare to a car - Toyota Corolla or a Ferrari Enzo.

It is a matter of taste and personal preference.

I have researched lots and for my budget I would get either a 97 TLS or a 01 900SS for $8500.

I LIKE THE STYLING OF BOTH AAAGHH WHICH ONE ??

[Number One]

I don't know what the boys think lol but this girl likes them :yes: A guy at work came in on one Friday, really nice sound to them and they look GREAT!!
oooooooo yeah!!! My man had the Candy Lime Yellow one...(brought it just before we got together)increased his sexy meter by heaps! One look at his leather clad arse on that bike and a couple of good raps around the Wairarapa on the back wrapped around him and I was his...still am.

Shitty suspension on it though from what I recall.

[98tls]

The late model TL and Ducati are both nice looking bikes, however i think they are both worth having but it comes down to this.

1. Do you want a Jap or Italian bike?

2. Compare to a car - Toyota Corolla or a Ferrari Enzo.

It is a matter of taste and personal preference.

I have researched lots and for my budget I would get either a 97 TLS or a 01 900SS for $8500.

I LIKE THE STYLING OF BOTH AAAGHH WHICH ONE ?? Fair call,never liked those early model TLs myself.:shutup:

[Drew]

2. Compare to a car - Toyota Corolla or a Ferrari Enzo.



900ss = Ferrari Enzo ???

I know what you're saying, but if you're gonna call the TL a Carolla, only the Desmocidici would come close to an Enzo.

[Jerry74]

900ss = Ferrari Enzo ???

I know what you're saying, but if you're gonna call the TL a Carolla, only the Desmocidici would come close to an Enzo.

Fair call mate, ok lets compare it to a WRX lol.

[wilber]

For 8500k you could find a really good TLS ,keep an look out for one with a ohlins shock , much easlier on back tyre so i'm told .
Go find both and take them for a test ride .

[Drew]

Fair call mate, ok lets compare it to a WRX lol.

Still a stretch.:Pokey: LOL

[flyingbrick]

im ive drunk so much.

Sp keen for a ride.

going ot crank some mean fibreglass tomorrow.

hey cunts.

-nahtan

[imdying]

2. Compare to a car - Toyota Corolla or a Ferrari Enzo.That would be reasonable comparison... except for the bikes in question are:

97 TLS or a 01 900SSSo perhaps a Fiat Punto to a Corolla GT would be more realistic?

[Jerry74]

hahahahaha.....

Fiat Punto vs Corolla GT lol thats a good one.....

Dukes sound and look cooler than Japas

[Kiwi Graham]

TLS = weird rear shock, Better than the TLR- turns like a super tanker! But not as good as the SV. A mate had a TLS, changed the shock and loved it to bits, They look nice in red. Just my 2 penneth.

[Drew]

TLS = weird rear shock, Better than the TLR- turns like a super tanker! But not as good as the SV. A mate had a TLS, changed the shock and loved it to bits, They look nice in red. Just my 2 penneth.


Not baiting here, I would like to know how the SV is a better bike than a TL.

Yep, the rotary damper is unpredictable and overheats, but the rear shock on an SV is just poo as well.The forks on a TL are FAR superior to the SV (they are cartridge items and good internals are easy to find), as is the motor with the exception of the clutch, (which will work fine if you only use it on take off, and not to pull wheelies.)

The SV decks out when ya punt it on a twisty road, where the TL seems to have limitless lean angle abilities.

But that is all academic, given that the TL is meant to be a sports bike, and the SV is not.

Apples and oranges I reckon.

[98tls]

hahahahaha.....

Fiat Punto vs Corolla GT lol thats a good one.....

Dukes sound and look cooler than Japas Never heard the sound of any Duc i owned cause the damn clutch was to loud.:shutup:

[Morcs]

Not baiting here, I would like to know how the SV is a better bike than a TL.

Yep, the rotary damper is unpredictable and overheats, but the rear shock on an SV is just poo as well.The forks on a TL are FAR superior to the SV (they are cartridge items and good internals are easy to find), as is the motor with the exception of the clutch, (which will work fine if you only use it on take off, and not to pull wheelies.)

The SV decks out when ya punt it on a twisty road, where the TL seems to have limitless lean angle abilities.

But that is all academic, given that the TL is meant to be a sports bike, and the SV is not.

Apples and oranges I reckon.

ya dont need clutch to get her up, unless you want to pull up at 100k...

A TL even with stock suspension, adjusted by someone with the knowledge of how they should be, is fantastic. mine turns now.

[Kiwi Graham]

Not baiting here, I would like to know how the SV is a better bike than a TL.

Yep, the rotary damper is unpredictable and overheats, but the rear shock on an SV is just poo as well.The forks on a TL are FAR superior to the SV (they are cartridge items and good internals are easy to find), as is the motor with the exception of the clutch, (which will work fine if you only use it on take off, and not to pull wheelies.)

The SV decks out when ya punt it on a twisty road, where the TL seems to have limitless lean angle abilities.

But that is all academic, given that the TL is meant to be a sports bike, and the SV is not.

Apples and oranges I reckon.

I agree the front & back end on the SV is a bit on the soft side and this is what courses the ground clearance issue. Firm them up and its a different package.

I think the TLS can only be considered a sports/tourer now, they brought out the TLR to cover the sports category shortly afterwards.

My mate that had one had issues with potential tankslappers, he had a few that shook the pistons back into the calipers!! He didn't fancy shelling out for a new rear shock so traded it in. If I remember right alot of others did the same thing and the press hed a field day with sensationalising the handling and claiming it to be dangerous.

Its a shame that to make a bike go as well as there are 'intended' can often involve spending over and above the purchase price ie: suspension upgrades etc.

I think as a package the SV is better all be it with soft suspenders, the motor is strong the brakes are adequate it doesn't look half bad (if you can get over that rear light) and it handles well enough and its cheap!

As you say oranges and apples.

[imdying]

Not baiting here, I would like to know how the SV is a better bike than a TL.More torque everywhere you need it is a good start...http://www.motorcycledaily.com/070103side1.jpg

Yep, the rotary damper is unpredictable and overheats, but the rear shock on an SV is just poo as well.Nowhere near as poo... apples and oranges. Don't think an SV has managed to snap the mounts off the frame yet either :lol:


The forks on a TL are FAR superior to the SV (they are cartridge items and good internals are easy to find)No less common for the TL guys to dump the front end for a GSXR one than it is for the SV guys.... Tray Batey (http://www.vesrahsuzuki.com/ForSale.aspx) has managed to quick great quantities of arse on his SV1000 forked race... against GSXRs etc... Interestingly nobody races TLs against them.


as is the motor with the exception of the clutchThe clutch... the rear shock... the 16 bit injection system... the heavier internals... the huge valves that rape the bottom end whilst only providing a little more top end...


The SV decks out when ya punt it on a twisty road, where the TL seems to have limitless lean angle abilities.Given the budget nature of the suspension on an SV, setup makes a big difference. Moot point though... both models could benefit from some replacement gear if pushed hard.


But that is all academic, given that the TL is meant to be a sports bike, and the SV is not.Not how Suzuki markets them, but whatever...

[imdying]

My mate that had one had issues with potential tankslappers, he had a few that shook the pistons back into the calipers!! He didn't fancy shelling out for a new rear shock so traded it in. If I remember right alot of others did the same thing and the press hed a field day with sensationalising the handling and claiming it to be dangerous.Lotta wanking went on then... today people just call them 'fun' :rofl:

They thought the 92 Blade and the 98 R1 were killers too (although noone actually got killed so they were unable to sensationalize it quite the same).

[98tls]

Lotta wanking went on then... today people just call them 'fun' :rofl:

They thought the 92 Blade and the 98 R1 were killers too (although noone actually got killed so they were unable to sensationalize it quite the same). Absolutly correct.A Frenchman actually started it all by having a decent off at the launch in Florida resulting in breaking both ankles,a few poms planted themselves in hedgerows Suzuki slapped a damper on them blah blah blah,how many times ive read "cant see what the fuss is about ive had worse slaps from a GSXR"i dunno,could have a look ive a huge collection of TLS tests from over the years.The SV v TLS thing i dunno,whatever floats your boat i guess,was offered one as a straight swap for the S but didnt do it,something about the TLS to me anyway will ensure theres always one in the shed.

[Jerry74]

Got passed by a TLS and very nice sound coming out of it

[98tls]

Got passed by a TLS and very nice sound coming out of it Must have been an SS dressed up as a TLS,TLSs sound like shit.:mellow:

[Jerry74]

Must have been an SS dressed up as a TLS,TLSs sound like shit.:mellow:

hahahahahahahhahaha yeah the Duke sounds much nicer, was a 1000 ss at Caltex Yaldhurst in ChCh the other day and I love that V Twin growl.

I can't wait to get mine...... 900 ss is my dream bike.

[98tls]

hahahahahahahhahaha yeah the Duke sounds much nicer, was a 1000 ss at Caltex Yaldhurst in ChCh the other day and I love that V Twin growl.

I can't wait to get mine...... 900 ss is my dream bike. umm yea ok.

[2much]

Not baiting here, I would like to know how the SV is a better bike than a TL.

Because it's softer, more comfortable, more forgiving, and safer for noobies....

yup, I think that about covers it.




I think the TLS can only be considered a sports/tourer now, they brought out the TLR to cover the sports category shortly afterwards.

Ahh no, actually they brought out the TLR for homologation for WSB (and other racing of course)... hence R= racing, S= sports... pretty obvious really.

having owned 2 Gsxr1000's as my last two rides (and ridden a few sports-tourers), I'd be hard pressed to call the TLs anything but a pure sportsbike...

Exactly what factors cause you to think otherwise? Obviously not the riding position (I'm assuming from you offering your opinions here that you have some experience on the TL). can't be the power, took till the 999 before ducati could match it, you consider the TLR a sportsbike so it's not the weight (which IMHO is it's weakest point). Handling perhaps, although (as already mentioned) it's considered ahead of it's time as far as that goes... Im out of ideas, please enlighten me?



My mate that had one had issues with potential tankslappers, he had a few that shook the pistons back into the calipers!! He didn't fancy shelling out for a new rear shock so traded it in. If I remember right alot of others did the same thing and the press hed a field day with sensationalising the handling and claiming it to be dangerous.

LOL! it was bullshit like this that put me off buying a TL originally too... It wasn't till I spoke to guys (&girls!) who had actually owned or ridden them that I heard the truth. "Wish I had never sold it" was the most common term.

As for tankslappers, any modern sportsbike without a steering damper will do that (refering to the original TLS before the recall)... With damper, my K3 GSXR was much more inclined to slap than the TL will ever be, sportsbikes are supposed to be light and twitcy, don't like it, get an SV.


Lotta wanking went on then... today people just call them 'fun' :rofl:

They thought the 92 Blade and the 98 R1 were killers too (although noone actually got killed so they were unable to sensationalize it quite the same).

What he said^^^

Take that steering damper off your late model sportsbike and go pull some wheelies... go on, I dare ya!

Funny how the 04ZX10R followed the same treand and yet didn't get the bad press (although they highly recommended fitting a damper)... perhaps we're finally learning to appreciate great bikes?



umm yea ok.

ROFL! couldn't have saind it better!



My 2c on the whole TLS vs 900ss...

If you want to be bored, comfortable and able to tell everyone you ride a Duc (even if it is the ugly sportstourer and not the 916 you've always dreamed of).... go the SS, enjoy.

Or you want a bike that's fun, challenging, shows you there are muscles in your forearms you never knew you had. (and it's no less reliable than a Duc btw). They are not an easy bike to ride hard and they demand respect... but fuck, that's half the fun innit? If you want a bike that makes you grin like an 16yr old girl on E, get the TL and thank me later.

Oh, almost forgot... if you wear a skirt, get an SV.

Goodluck with whatever you choose.

[Kiwi Graham]

...

Exactly what factors cause you to think otherwise? Obviously not the riding position (I'm assuming from you offering your opinions here that you have some experience on the TL). can't be the power, took till the 999 before ducati could match it, you consider the TLR a sportsbike so it's not the weight (which IMHO is it's weakest point). Handling perhaps, although (as already mentioned) it's considered ahead of it's time as far as that goes... Im out of ideas, please enlighten me?

Yes I do have experiance of the TLS my mate had one (I had a GSXR at the time) and we swapped rides all the time. Cant fault it for power it has heaps. No I dont consider the TLR a 'sports' bike, I said Suzuki did. Having ridden the TLR I found it lacked feedback and was very slow to turn and heavy. Regarding handling...ahead of its time!!!??? Mmmm personally I thought the GSXR handled better. I dont know that I'm capable of convincing you otherwise you seem a dedicated TLS :love: rider. Good on ya.

[dipshit]

Exactly what factors cause you to think otherwise? Obviously not the riding position (I'm assuming from you offering your opinions here that you have some experience on the TL). can't be the power

They started detuning the TLS from 98 so it wouldn't embarrass their TLR. By the end of production in 01, the TLS barley made more than 100hp. Thats much less than a SV.

The only reason they felt more lively to ride, was the way they delivered their power in more of a rush in the top end. That kind of power delivery will feel more like a rocketship even if it is actually less hp.

Imagine a 160hp il-4 that had a big gaping hole in its mid-range and only came in, in a rush at the top - compared to a 190hp il-4 that started making lots of torque down low and had a very linear spread of power. Which one do you think would be "more exciting" to ride and would feel more like a racer..??

[BALZYBUELL]

I agree,i had a tls and mate it was great.the guy i sold it to hadnt riden for awhile and he ended up selling it soon after due to having to much power.although it is manageable he just wasnt comfortable when on it.i wish i still had it.go the tl

[2much]

Yes I do have experiance of the TLS my mate had one (I had a GSXR at the time) and we swapped rides all the time. Cant fault it for power it has heaps. No I dont consider the TLR a 'sports' bike, I said Suzuki did. Having ridden the TLR I found it lacked feedback and was very slow to turn and heavy. Regarding handling...ahead of its time!!!??? Mmmm personally I thought the GSXR handled better. I dont know that I'm capable of convincing you otherwise you seem a dedicated TLS :love: rider. Good on ya.

Yeah that's a fair call, my opinion is going to be rather biased. I've loved the TLs since I first saw one and owning one has only reinforced that. However in saying that, it would be very narrow minded and ignorant of me to not atleast listen to, and consider other's opinions before dismissing them.

Hence why I queried your reasons for considering the TLS as a sports tourer. As well as the fact that I bought the TL thinking that it would be more suitable for long trips around Europe than an 'all-out' sportsbike. However, having now clocked up some K's on the bike I see that the Gixxer thous' made better 'tourers' than the TL.

As far as the handing goes, I'm not sure what GSXR you are comparing it to, if an SRAD 750, then the Tl's never going to measure up to it's handling, but it couldn't be expected to. If you mean an 1100, then I have to be honest and admit I haven't ridden one so I can't comment. What I will add is that the stock damper that suzuki fitted to the TL really handicaps it's capabilities and if the bike you rode was fitted with one then I can understand your conclusions. Fortunately it's a quick fix and the TL can be a different bike, which is the one I was refering to.



They started detuning the TLS from 98 so it wouldn't embarrass their TLR. By the end of production in 01, the TLS barley made more than 100hp. Thats much less than a SV.

The only reason they felt more lively to ride, was the way they delivered their power in more of a rush in the top end. That kind of power delivery will feel more like a rocketship even if it is actually less hp.

Imagine a 160hp il-4 that had a big gaping hole in its mid-range and only came in, in a rush at the top - compared to a 190hp il-4 that started making lots of torque down low and had a very linear spread of power. Which one do you think would be "more exciting" to ride and would feel more like a racer..??

Are you sure that Suzuki continued to 'detune' the TL throughout it's production? The only changes affecting power output that I'm aware of were the replacement ecu which removed some the the TL's rough running at lower revs, and also castrated it slightly. And the new heads fitted to the '98 on which improved the midrange but lowered peak output slightly.What else was there?

I shouldn't bag the SV, so I apologise for that. It's a great bike for the price, and on paper it may be comparable to the TL, but on the road... imho it just lacks something that the TL has... what can you call it? grin factor?

[Squiggles]

imho it just lacks something that the TL has... what can you call it? grin factor?

Soul </10chars>

[imdying]

When the facts don't pan out... fall back on the intangible :rofl:

[2much]

That which you call 'intangable' is something that I think you'll find most riders value highly.

How many people have you heard say "I used to have an SV1000, fuck I wish I hadn't sold it"?

[lozz666]

I am tossing up between the TLS and a Ducati 900ss

Which is best bang for the buck?

Go the Mighty TLS i own 1 for 2 years and never missed a beat,handled good and im a fat bastard. After owning a 996 duke i'd never own another duke even if ya paid me.

[Jerry74]

Go the Mighty TLS i own 1 for 2 years and never missed a beat,handled good and im a fat bastard. After owning a 996 duke i'd never own another duke even if ya paid me.

Hmmmm this decision is getting harder

[imdying]

Fook the twin, get an early Fireblade :D

[Jerry74]

I want a twin but all you buggers are confusing me lol

[98tls]

End of the day it matters fuck all what we say,bum in seat and ride is what you need to do.

[Drumboy4468]

Hi all
I have owned a 97 TLS for the last wo years and have clocked up about 30,000 k in that time. I love it like a lolliepop. The only problem I have had was at about 90,000k ( on th clock) fifth gear wore out. Aparently fifth is cast where as the rest are machined so it is a weak point. It spits out back tyres on a regular bassis but thats the price you pay for that much fun

[Drumboy4468]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HclkpVK6GY

[98tls]

Hi all
I have owned a 97 TLS for the last wo years and have clocked up about 30,000 k in that time. I love it like a lolliepop. The only problem I have had was at about 90,000k ( on th clock) fifth gear wore out. Aparently fifth is cast where as the rest are machined so it is a weak point. It spits out back tyres on a regular bassis but thats the price you pay for that much fun Welcome to KB,nice to have another TL owner on board.

[Drumboy4468]

Ive been a member for a while but a friend pointed out the TL thread so I thought i would jump in.

[98tls]

Ive been a member for a while but a friend pointed out the TL thread so I thought i would jump in. And why not,had mine for many years and love it to bits.Came close to selling it a few times but just couldnt bear to part with the old girl,ive spent that much money on aftermarket stuff i figure no point in stopping now so its a keeper for sure.:shifty:

[Boob Johnson]

When the facts don't pan out... fall back on the intangible :rofl:
Dress wearing SV owners aren't intangible are they? :innocent:

[Boob Johnson]

I want a twin but all you buggers are confusing me lol


End of the day it matters fuck all what we say,bum in seat and ride is what you need to do.
Spot on man, everyone can crap on all they like, me included, its up to you & what YOU prefer at the end of the day, from what I can see there is no bad choice, just a few dif bikes, no bad decisions.


Enjoy the ride, & by that I mean, the buying process, don't sweet it & take ya time ;)

[imdying]

I want a twin but all you buggers are confusing me lolThese might help:
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0208_dread.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0308_h0ssman.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0408_shrek.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0708_peglegtls.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0808_troy.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0107_h0ssman.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0207_sully.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0307_mikeford.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0907_pork.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0706_ziggy999.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0105_rupes.jpg

There's a heap more, these are just a few.

[Jerry74]

These might help:
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0208_dread.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0308_h0ssman.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0408_shrek.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0708_peglegtls.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0808_troy.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0107_h0ssman.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0207_sully.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0307_mikeford.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0907_pork.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0706_ziggy999.jpg
http://www.tlzone.net/images/tlotm/0105_rupes.jpg

There's a heap more, these are just a few.

Cheers mate, some very nice Suzukis on there:Punk:

[TLDV8]

Cheers mate, some very nice Suzukis on there:Punk:

Correct,but in fairness,out of that list the only TL that has done any real mileage is Mike Fords ie it is top shelf condition but used for normal duties/rallies etc in all weather. .:confused:

[driftn]

hahahahaha.....

Fiat Punto vs Corolla GT lol thats a good one.....

Dukes sound and look cooler than Japas



Dude how wrong can you be. The TL is the best sounding, Toughest looking bike on the planet with kick you in the balls performance to boot.

For me this is a no brainer go the mighty TL.

If any body wants to swap one for my srad then give me a shout im keen.

[98tls]

Correct,but in fairness,out of that list the only TL that has done any real mileage is Mike Fords ie it is top shelf condition but used for normal duties/rallies etc in all weather. .:confused: So wanna swap Les?:laugh:Will take the black one if i must.<_<

[Drumboy4468]

Mine is getting close to 100,000k and going like a charm. Still has the dodgy origonal suspension but considering I came from a 1980 XS100 it feels pretty dam good to me lol

[98tls]

Mine is getting close to 100,000k and going like a charm. Still has the dodgy origonal suspension but considering I came from a 1980 XS100 it feels pretty dam good to me lol Ive got my rotary dumper out in the garage if you want it,only had about 25000 k when i took it out.

[Motoxparts]

SV650 with a Two Brothers Racing Exhaust more power, sounds awesome can not beat that, bolt on power with no fuel changes.

Two Brothers in stock www.motoxparts.co.nz

[Morepower]

And why not,had mine for many years and love it to bits.Came close to selling it a few times but just couldnt bear to part with the old girl,ive spent that much money on aftermarket stuff i figure no point in stopping now so its a keeper for sure.:shifty:

Yep I couldnt part with mine , its done near 110,000kms now and I have not got bored with it yet.
I dont get into to much of this "whats better " stuff because every one has individual tastes and it would be a dull world if everyone wanted a TL.
A quick factiod , the 97 had larger round intake ports that were changed to smaller D shaped ports in 98 to mellow the peakyness of the original engine a little. Bugger all real difference on the road between a 97 TLS and a 01 TLS in my experience.

There is one thing though , I dont know of many bikes that were released 11 years ago that so many people are so passionate about still .
Thats got to say something.