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SV650 good beginner bike?

17K views 31 replies 23 participants last post by  BikeCycleMan 
#1 ·
Hey all. I'm new to the motorcycle world, but have been doing my research. I've learned that it's not a good idea for a beginner rider to buy a big 1000cc machine as his first bike.

One bike that interests me is the SV650... would this be a good first bike, or is it too much? I do have some experience on 2 wheels as I've been riding a 150cc scooter for a while now, but I'd imagine the scooter is a MUCH different experience than the motorcycle.

Another bike I'm considering is the Kawasaki Ninja 650r. I believe it's comparable to the SV650, but I'm wondering if anyone has experience with either bike, and believe that one is superior to the other.

Thanks for your help.
 
#28 ·
I am also interested in getting the sv650, but the sf version. I went to a dealership and found a 2008 sv650sf for $5500. Seems a little low compared to the website price of $6899. It is a brand new model, not used. Anything I should be looking for when buying a new bike?
 
#30 · (Edited)
what do you mean "looking for"? do you mean "mechanical problems?", or things you should look for to accomodate your style preference?
If you're referring to your preference, just go out and sit on every and any bike you see.

If you see a dual-sport... sit on it!
if you see a sport bike... sit on it!
if you even see a cruiser... sit on it!

when you sit on it, don't just sit and imagine yourself lookin' pretty :tongue:, but get a feel for the bike's weight, whether or not you're on your tippy toes, the amount of reach/back-bend for you to reach the bars comfortable (without locking elbow joint), can you hold/balance the bike with just 1 foot on the ground.
Kick the kickstand up too, don't leave it down :)

A 2008 for 5500 would be about right... seeing how the economy is a bit slow, some dealers might be trying to rid their "old" inventory due to the new inventory coming in.

I have a SV going on my 3rd year now. I'm enjoying it quite well.
 
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