mpaton2004

Hi everyone

I am new to these boards so "hi!", and I am a reasonably new biker who currently has a SUZUKI BANDIT 600S 2004 model.

I am thinking of changing this to an SV-650 naked bike - I have a couple of questions maybe you can help me with.

1. How much weight is saved over the Bandit with the SV? I have to get my bandit up a hill which is very difficult due to the bulk and the mass - I think it weighs about 210kg (I have a scott oiler and a fairing) DRY so that must be pushing about 230-240 with a tank of petrol.

I have seen the kerb weight of the SV is 162 dry - but these are manufacturers figures so I always take with a pinch of salt!

What do owners think? Will there be a lot of weight savings? The theoretical saving seems very high - almost 50KG which is a lot when you're pushing up a hill! What are the dimensions like in comparision?


2. What is the fuel economy like? I subscribe to bike and see that they get 140 miles to a tank on their tests - but I feel they are ragging the hell out of it all the time - I am a more sedate rider who keeps to about 80MPH max speed and is more interested in smoothness and acceleration/torque - I get about 190miles with the Bandit - obviously it's a V Twin so it will be slightly more thirsty, but I'd rather not get 140 to a tank if I can avoid it!


3. How is the pillion accomodation - it looks very comfortable in pictures - I have a mrs who is interested in bikes and comes with me a lot on trips so that is important - as is the amount of equipment that can be added later (panniers, soft bags, etc)

4. My Bandit was bought in June 2004 for £4,200 new - I have only done about 2000 miles on it, it has been serviced and has a scott oiler - the condition is excellent. In a trade/swap what do you think would be a realistic price to expect? I've had someone offer me £2300 for it which I just laughed at - not even Korean cars depreciate like that - I was hoping for more like £3,200 - £3,300 on a NEW SV650. is this realistic?

Thanks for your time

Martin