Buying first sv, two options...advice would be great!

Im doing my direct access test soon and all my researching leads me to an sv650 as a good choice for a first bike to buy. Im looking at putting a down payment on one soon and theres two options im seriously considering. Both bikes seem to be in excellent condition but one is 55 reg with 15000 miles or so on the clock and the other is 08 reg with just 3000 on the clock and I THINK some time left on the manufacturers warranty. the 55 reg is affordable and Im thinking I could talk a couple hundred more off given the time of year. The 08 reg bike would mean pushing my budget £600 more, which could otherwise cover my insurance and some riding gear.

Basically the question is whether or not its worth spending the extra cash for a newer less used machine or is my money better spent elsewhere?

If the 55 looks in good nick, shiny, no scratches and sounds like a good runner then i would choose that as you can save abit of money. Which will help with gear and insurence, and if you happen to have a small drop you wont be doing it to a brand new bike. ( could help the guilt )

A bike is a bike but you should really get what you want so you are happy.
Gear is what keeps you warm and injury free though so never skip on it.

Both bikes are essentially same, give or take a bit of emissions voodoo, they offer the same riding experience and comfort along with the same performance.

Good stuff cheers, just wanted that little bit of reassurance.

As Dave says, both bikes are essentially the same. You're probably better off buying the slightly older model- 15k miles is nothing if properly maintained- and paying a bit more for your gear.
If you go for the 55 reg, make sure it's had it's major service done

I'd go for the higher milage, older model, but do make sure it has service history. The bonus of it will be you know the engine is nicely run in. And 15,000 miles isnt that much....go ask rictus about how many miles he put on an SV650

[yorkie_chris]

I'd get the older one. Cheaper to change spark plugs.

[Stu]

I bought a 2000 mile bike with 6 mths of warranty left. I never got round to claiming for new forks that were pitted under warranty so depends how proactive you are whether the warranty will be any use to you.

As you can't skimp on gear or ride without ins. does this mean you can't afford the '08? therefore decision made?

[fizzwheel]

Buy the 55 plate one, as has been said make sure its had it major service done as this includes a valve clearance check.

This will leave you money for kit and and other bits and pieces you might like, such as an aftermarket exhaust etc etc.

it really does come down to your affordable budget and which one you like the colour off really I think.

I'd go for option c)

http://forums.sv650.org/showthread.php?t=121716