Overall rating Next up: Ride & brakes 4 out of 5 (4/5) Author: Jon Urry Published: 08 February 2018 Updated: 08 February 2018 There is no denying the SV650X is a lazy attempt at retro by Suzuki as it is little more than a few bolt-on parts added to an aging bike. But in the SV650 Suzuki have added these parts onto a brilliant base and that makes the X surprisingly appealing. It’s great fun to ride, reasonably well priced and an absolute back road weapon. But by the same token it’s also just an SV in disguise, which is a bit disappointing…

Ride quality & brakes Next up: Engine 4 out of 5 (4/5) Armed with a set of clip-ons rather than the SV’s flat bars, the X’s sporty riding position reminds you just how impressive this V-twin middleweight’s handling is. Through bends the SV is a joy, flicking from side to side with effortless ease. On the back roads it will destroy the softly sprung Yamaha XSR700 and probably also the Ducati Scrambler. In fact, it wouldn’t embarrass itself on a trackday!

Engine Next up: Reliability 4 out of 5 (4/5) While we all wish Suzuki had increased the V-twin’s capacity in the 2016 update to nearer 750cc, the SV650’s engine remains a joy to use. The exhaust note is pleasingly deep, the clutch light and the V-twin revs in a soft and assured way that builds up its power with deceptive ease. It’s quick when required, but also extremely easy-going and relaxed.

Reliability & build quality Next up: Value 4 out of 5 (4/5) The SV’s engine is a thoroughly tried and tested unit and as long as it isn’t run low on oil it is pretty much bullet-proof. Suzuki’s build quality is always called in for question and fasteners and nuts and bolts show signs of corrosion quite quickly if not cared for with anti-corrosion spray.

Value vs rivals Next up: Equipment 3 out of 5 (3/5) There's no getting away from the fact that the SV650X is good value for money. It's cheaper than the nearest rivals, the Yamaha XSR700 and the lowest-spec Ducati Scrambler.