New rider - what to look out for buying an SV?

[redders]

First of all, hi everyone!

I passed my mod 2 direct access test on Monday so am now legally 'ready to ride' as it were. I know I have a lot still to learn, and am planning on taking it pretty slowly to start with.

Anyway - even before I'd started learning to ride, I'd decided that the SV650 was to be my first bike (did a fair bit of research, and went to some shows). Now the time has come for me to buy one, and it looks like this forum would be a great place for advice =)

So I'm wondering, in general, is there anything in particular to look out for when buying a bike, in particular SV650s?

Many thanks in advance,
~Redders

[Razor]

ride one first, what if you don't like it?

[Jackk]

I was in a similar situation a few months ago, cant really advise you too much about the technical stuff. But got a 2004 650s and love it! Good luck!

[Shonky]

Shame you did not get a copy of ride magazine a couple of months ago, it had a big article on buying an SV.

I am no expert, but have a look here:

http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/Buyingselling/Buyingsellingresults/2010/march/mar0310-buyers-guide-suzuki-sv650/

[andrewsmith]

Generally i would advise a test ride, look for extras like huggers belly pans, r+g's etc...

Look to buy off a orger as there is always a few up for sale on here

Curvies MK1's carb fed 1999 to 2002 (mod years x,y k1 and k2)
Pointies mk2's efi 2003 onward (k3 through L0)
Gladius replaced nakeds k8 onwards

Technical (start of)
- With the nature of the bikes, most a lightly dropped at least once in their lives
- brakes can sieze if not cleaned regularly
- Look for a well kept bike as suffer from rot easily
- Japan always budgets for 1 tube of grease for a factory each year so invest in grease and grease up
- Stock suspension is pants unless a anorexic jap rider, allow for mods
- Wet plug syndrome, 1 cylinder won't fire, easily cured with fender extender, vasaline and acf50

[redders]

Thanks for all your help so far! I'll keep looking + try to get some test rides in...

[redders]

Is it likely dealers will let me test ride?

Also what's the deal with test riding bikes from private sellers? Presumably I need insurance for it to be legal?

[Reeder]

You've almost stolen my user name! This could get confusing :D

[Razor]

Is it likely dealers will let me test ride?

Also what's the deal with test riding bikes from private sellers? Presumably I need insurance for it to be legal?

depends on your age, but most will let you test ride,but it will only be 3rd party

pvt sellers may let you test ride if you put all the readies in their sweaty palm, insurance after that would be up to you

[redders]

Ah right, I'm 24 - I bet the extra year to 25 would make all the difference!

I'm also checking out the options and looking at the 2010 SV650s new, which I think is £4999. How much do fairing lowers cost? That one only comes in white - I'm having trouble finding any around..

[Razor]

think about crash bungs, not pretty lowers for your first bike

[redders]

Well, those too, but I don't like the look of the bike without lowers :/

[Razor]

yeah they're all ugly whatcha gonna do

[Biker Biggles]

Id buy an old one cheap for your first years riding.You probably will drop it and make a few mistakes as you gain experience,and that gets very expensive on a new bike.Get over that stage and then think about a newer bike.You might even want a more powerful one by then,as a lot of people on here will testify.

[badsaboy]

i passed my test in april and bought a k8 sport. I love it but i think it has become too slow. like you - i still have a lot to learn so i wont get rid of it yet.
What is your budget? Have you priced the accessories you want? have you found a bike that you like?
You will get loads of opinons. My best advise is stick to your budget of bike, kit, insurance.
You will be surprised how much some stuff can cost. Ive spent loads and bike looks no different to when i bought it.
Last bit.......buy a pointy....lol

[Razor]

buy a naked sv, keep your license and give you neck muscles, strong like bull

[Fruity-ya-ya]

First of all, hi everyone!

I passed my mod 2 direct access test on Monday so am now legally 'ready to ride' as it were. I know I have a lot still to learn, and am planning on taking it pretty slowly to start with.

Congrats!
I got a Gladius as they scored high on every review I read.
When I went out on one they are sooooooo easy to ride.
I've gotten loads of confidence and really enjoy my Gladius.
Okay, I'm the first to admit they aren't as sexy as it's sv counter part but as an entry level bike you'd be hard pushed to find a more 'new rider' suited one.

Happy hunting!