SV1000 for first big bike?

Originally Posted by SVGrandad

I went from a Kawasaki AR125 to the current SV1000. Main problem was using 1st gear in roundabouts and threpenny bitting it with that high on/off torque characteristic. Nowadays I use a higher gear and corner faster - much better! Either that, or hold right hand fixed if cornering in low gear. But a great bike. It will always be able to do more than I am capable of handling............!

Going to say, 1st gear in corners isn't the best choice imo.

id say the sv1000 is a good first big bike, dead easy to ride and cheap to insure.

[ophic]

Originally Posted by SVGrandad

It will always be able to do more than I am capable of handling............!

But so did the AR125

most bikes can out handle their owners

Originally Posted by kwak zzr

most bikes can out handle their owners

Indeed.

[SVGrandad]

Originally Posted by ophic

But so did the AR125

Next time you wanna borrow the thou, the answer is no

[ophic]

I would actually say that the AR was more dangerous than any SV. It might have had only 22bhp but it delivered it all in one big wallop at 9000rpm. Lots of fun, aye, but would be unpredictable for learners. The engine was quite rough and totally gutless at low revs.

The snatchy throttle thing affects both the 650 and the 1000, and imho is worse on the 650. Also the engine braking seems more severe on the 650 - although this could just be my perception. As for the difference in weight - what is it? 20kgs?

i love the engine braking on the 650 best thing about it means pads last ages which is a bonus.

[ophic]

Originally Posted by zsv650

i love the engine braking on the 650 best thing about it means pads last ages which is a bonus.

Yup its awesome. I've never ridden an IL4, and i think if I do I might have to seriously change my riding style.

Originally Posted by SVGrandad

Next time you wanna borrow the thou, the answer is no

D'oh. Will have to use my own bike for wheelie practice then

i'd still say go for it. touch wood i'm still ok after two months ( and yes i know thats very little riding time ) on the thou. Only problems ive had are problems that would have happened on any bike, panicing coming into a corner and getting it messy and two occasions of nearly dropping it due to lack of concentration.

It is fast but no where near as mental as my mates blade. I think if you want the thou get it cause if you don't you'll only want it after a little bit. I thought the same and didnt want the hassle of having to then sell a 650 in a few months to get the thou.