Faults:

Added a relay harness so the "green connector" won't burn out.

Stock suspension is below average - fork springs very weak, rear shock barely adequate.

"S" model ergonomics are too sporty - bars too low & forward, peg to seat short.

Stock gearing too low, close ratio transmission too close - not enough RPM change with a gear change.

Steering damper hinders handling - too stiff. I took it off, no head shaking.

General Comments:

Bone stock the SV1000S is nothing to write home about. My ratings are for a stock bike. The overall rating for my bike, after modifications, would be a "9". Properly set-up though, it's a very good all rounder, a V-Twin Bandit (which is a great bike properly set-up).

Ergonomics - bar clamps added to the upper triple clamp with tube bars (Daytona bend), Buell footpegs added an inch (no dragging with tires worn to the edge), seat built up to raise and re-contour. Actually comfortable now.

Suspension - Racetech fork springs (1.0 kg/mm for my weight) with 5 wt HVI shock fluid - completely different front end now! Kaw ZX6R shock rebuilt with bleed hole works well, has the proper spring for my weight and raises the back end about 3/4", along with raising the forks ~10mm, quickens steering. The bike is sluggish with stock rake/trail.

Engine - let that wonderful V-Twin breath! Stock the bike ran very well, but was too quiet for me. A set of Yosh TRS cans allows the SV to play beautiful music. K&N filter, opened up airbox, and raised tank let more air in. The intake changes don't require it (pressure sensor corrects fueling) but the cans require a Power Commander, which really requires a custom map (all complete). The bike makes good street power, pulling well from 4000 to 8000 RPM. It won't outrun I4 600s on the track, but will outdo them on all day rides - those 600s get tiring at 10,000 RPM and above.

The SV1000 is my pick for a V-Twin sporty bike. It makes a great book end to my '97 Bandit 1200S. I'll take the SV over the far more expensive European brands.

I've been riding and wrenching on street bikes since 1974.

General Comments:

I purchased my 2007 SV1000S in the spring of 2010. My intention was to buy a new bike, but the salesman suggested I take a look at the used SV1000S. It was instantly apparent that the previous owner had taken phenomenal care of the bike and added several very costly upgrades as well (nearly $2000 on the exhaust alone). I had the salesman give me the keys so I could hear it run. That was the ultimate selling point, as the bike sounds incredible! Yoshi pipes are amazing!!!

After riding the bike a week or so, I noticed that the stock handle bars were starting to kill my wrist when riding any significant distances. I order a pair of Heli-bars, which solved that issue and amplified my love for the bike. My only complaint left is the seat, as it is very narrow up close and wider when you sit further back. It can get uncomfortable after 100 miles or so. I plan on looking into another seat to alleviate the issue within the next month or so.

As for acceleration, I have zero complaints! No problems passing, entering the highway or any other time where pick up is needed. The bike will get you there quick if needed.

Braking, I was surprised because of how light the bike is, but the bike will stop on a dime! One time I almost felt like I was going to keep going as the bike abruptly came to a halt. The braking feels very even front to rear.

Handling is a thrill as the bike will weave like a snake if you need it too.

Overall, I cannot think of anything negative regarding this bike. I cannot see me letting go of it either. The appearance is stunning, the performance smooth and durability exemplary thus far. Planning on some nice long distance rides this year and super excited about it too. For what I was looking for, the Suzuki SV1000S surpassed my expectations!!!