First bike, 650 vs 650S?
 

I'm getting ready to buy my very first motorcycle, and have narrowed it down to either an SV650 or SV650S. From looking at pictures I can see what the difference is in terms of looks, my question is what the differences are in terms of riding and performance. Which would you guys recommend?

Go to your dealer and take a test ride, The S has a more sporty riding position due to clip-ons and pegs, has more wind protection due to the fairing. The naked I think has one less tooth for better acceleration. wider handlebars for leverage.

Re: First bike, 650 vs 650S?
 

S model has clip-on handlebars and a more focused riding position than the naked. I'd imagine this might make the naked more comfortable to ride on longer journeys, and possibly a little more manouverable around town (I've never ridden one so I don't really know). However on motorway blasts, you get better wind protection from the fairing.

My advice - buy whichever one you prefer the look of. :D

If it's your first, definitely go with the naked. The sit up and beg riding position is going to be a whole lot easier and it'll enable you to build confidence.

The "S" riding position isn't the easiest to start off with, the extra weight on your wrists/arms, neck bent back, more difficult to look over your shoulder etc.

I've been riding bikes for 34 yrs and currently use a K1 SVS and a Honda Deauville mainly. The Deauville is way way easier to ride.

I'd say take them both for a ride and see what you feel best on. I went for the S because i it looked racier which for me = cool. If I lived in the city though i think i would go with the 650 now for pure ease of riding... You sit higher so you can see more and its easier to steer/control. So think of your own needs but most end up on an S.

:lol: well thats pretty definative!

S is more popular so you could get a better deal haggling on a naked at a dealer. Assuming you are looking at a new one.

Re: First bike, 650 vs 650S?
 

My S is my first (and only) bike. I found it to be OK. The good thing is the wind
protection, the bad thing is the stress on the back. If you think your back can take
it go for the S.

I am now 50 but in due course (when I am 60?) I will probably get a bike with
a more upright riding position.

Haven't decided whether to buy new or used. Kinda depends on what's available in my area I suppose. Another thing I should probably consider is that I'm fairly tall, coming in at about 6'3"-4" depending on which convenience store I'm leaving. Do either of the bikes cater more towards taller riders?

Also, since this is going to be my first bike, it will mostly be used on the weekends out in the country away from traffic.

No point buying secondhand at a time when there are good offers on
new SV's. Check out, for example http://www.fowlers.co.uk/ They
offer SV650SK6's for £3999 and SV650K6's for £3799, both with £1
deposit and 0% finance.

And if you plan to ride mostly in the countryside you should definitely go for the S.