Sv650 vs RVF400?

Hey everyone, new member, I passed my test a little while ago and I'm torn between the sv and rvf400 and would like to know the pros and cons for both, I'm about 5"8 and the sv is a little tall. Thanks

[andrewsmith]

Good luck finding a RVF400 for less than 4 grand, and they are becoming a nightmare to maintain (parts are like gold dust)

The SV will be fine with a lowered seat, it'll need some regular TLC (brakes) and suspension if its too soft for you

[aesmith]

RVF (NC35) is less powerful, and will need a lot more revs to get that power. I don't think it was ever an official import (which might be why the quoted specifications are inconsistent) so parts and information might be harder to find. Probably more expensive than an SV. Plus would be that brakes and suspension should be better.

Have you ridden both? I think they'll be so different that you'll feel a definite preference one way or the other.

If your only issue is seat height, Suzuki offer a lower seat as an option for the SV.

I have owned both, to be honest they are 2 completely different beasts. The RVF's are expensive to maintain and as andrewsmith says parts are like gold dust ('some' VFR400 parts do fit) as they were never officially a UK model so all those available are imports and demand a high price second hand.

The RVF is a nice bike don't get me wrong it great fun and very 'chuckable' round corners when ridden correctly, but I personally prefer the SV it is more comfy lots of grunt low down and much cheaper to run/maintain.

At the end of the day it is up to you, I would suggest riding both and seeing how you feel, just bear in mind the RVF will cost a lot more to buy and be much older and will cost more to maintain. And also the RVF is likely to cost more to insure as you have just passed your test.

[sniff]

I had a VFR NC24 you can rag the **** off it and will happily carry on going. Its a fun bike and can keep up with most bikes round the bends but then they become a little dot on the landscape on the straights. For spares you can get these from David Silver if still about. I'd have another 400 at the drop of a hat again.

Thanks for the advice, think I'm going to have a go on both and make my mind up

[andrewsmith]

It's sad to say this goes for all the 400's hence the prices going mental in the last few years.

Just remembered what the last RVF that my dealers went for ; offers in excess of £4k and it sold within a month

sent from a weapon of mass distraction