2017 Suzuki SV650 Preview

When introduced in 1999, the Suzuki SV650 provided the cheapest thrills available on a sport motorcycle. The small V-twin SV650 not only became the ultimate entry-level sportbike, it also became the ultimate track-day weapon, considering the bike required practically no maintenance and was easy on tires.

But in 2009, the SV650 was dropped from the Suzuki lineup in favor of the SFV650 Gladius, a bike that was not as well received as the original SV. But Suzuki is returning to the “simple thrill of V-twin motorcycling” with a rebirth of SV650, which joins the the lineup as an early 2017 model release. The SV650 is expected to hit USA showroom floors in late spring/early summer.

Suzuki didn’t sway much from that original design; it took the original 645cc liquid-cooled, 90-degree V-twin, and redesigned the powerplant with 60 new parts. This provides more reliability and a cleaner-burning, more efficient engine. the engine, which uses two spark plug per cylinder and Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve fuel injection, is claimed to produce more horsepower and torque in the low-to-mid range. As usual, Suzuki didn’t release any horsepower figures, but expect the 2017 SV650 to produce around 75 horsepower.

The SV650 features a slim design and lightweight body, and a chassis that utilizes 70 new parts and components. The new SV650 is 15 lbs. lighter than the SFV650, which had a dry weight of 426 lbs.

Speaking of the bike, Suzuki says “The new truss frame is constructed of lightweight steel that proudly emphasizes the beauty of the robust V-twin engine. More than just looking good, that slim body and reduced weight translates into a more comfortable, more powerful and more responsive ride experience.”

Suspension duties are handled by a 41mm telescopic front fork, and the rear uses a link-type setup. The suspension is complemented by 17-inch five-spoke aluminum wheels. The SV’s LCD instrument panel is loaded with data, also, and includes a gear position, digital speedometer, tachometer, and includes indicators for odometer, trip meter, average/instantaneous fuel consumption, driving range, clock, water temperature gauge and fuel gauge. Back light is adjustable in six levels of brightness and can be set to your preference.

Speaking of the bike, Suzuki says “The 2017 Suzuki SV650 delivers on two design goals: It brings back the concept of a simple and fun V-twin sports ride; and it delivers that with improved power and a lighter overall package. Suzuki restores the simple thrill of a V-twin.”

Stay clicked to Ultimate MotorCycling for additional details as they are released.