Faults:

I crashed on a curb and the radiator was $400, but otherwise the bike is built to last.

Get the naked version so there is less to break if a curb jumps out at you.

General Comments:

At first I was unsure about the bike, since being my first bike and have never ridden before, but after a few rides around the block and in parking lots, I got the feel for the throttle. A little touchy at first, but nothing so crazy it will take off on you.

The front forks are a little soft, but can be adjusted for stiffness.

Overall a great first bike and very easy to ride. I will be keeping the bike for a long time, and the power is always there if I need it.

Faults:

The chain showed signs of rust very quickly.

General Comments:

The SV650S is a great first time bike. I previously owned a Katana for a very short time and enjoyed it more.

The bike responds well and is easy to handle.

The bike does not accelerate as quickly as I had hoped, but does well enough. I would not run up against anyone.

The seat for riding more than 20 miles can be a little painful. Though you have a more upright sitting position compared to most crotch rockets, it is still tough.

There is also a good bit of instability at high speeds. The SV650S does not seem to grip the road as I would imagine or hoped it would.

Faults:

Nothing has gone wrong with the bike.

General Comments:

How is it that a bike like this is so light, yet performs like a Sports Bike. It is a standard isn't it?

Seriously though, this bike does it all. 5 minutes on the bike and I felt as comfortable riding this thing as I did riding my 06' Ninja 250.

The bike has a perfect balance of weight to acceleration ratio; very very manageable in the City, but on the freeway it leaves any car in the dust. Since it is considered a standard motorcycle, insurance is very very cheap.

Averages around 50 MPG when riding aggressively.

Faults:

I have experienced no problems with this motorcycle.

General Comments:

The SV650S is a great bike, particularly for the cost.

The fairing on the S model does not do much unless you are tucked in deep, which can cause a bit of discomfort.

The v-twin motor provides ample torque, giving a large degree of choice when it comes to gear selection for turns. At legal speeds you can ride through a twisty road in 6th gear safely, though 4th gear might be more fun on the corner exits.

The factory seat is not the most comfortable perch for a 100+ mile ride, however around town it is fine. If you plan to ride all day, try some bicycle shorts under your riding suit and/or stop every hour or so to stretch your legs.

I'm getting an easy 50mpg on the highway, even with loaded saddle bags and a tail bag. You'll be tempted to take 100+ mile trips frequently.

With a large following, the aftermarket for the SV650 is nothing short of impressive. If you can think of it - someone makes it.

From 0-60mph, the bike is a rocketship. A roll-on in any gear is also quite fast given the available torque across the powerband.

Top speed isn't stratospheric, though it's plenty high enough to get you a ride in the back seat of a Highway Patrol car.