Okay, so I’ve been messing around with this Suzuki SFV650 Gladius for a while now, and I thought I’d share my experience with you all. It’s been a journey, let me tell you.
Getting Started
First off, I got my hands on this bike, which is pretty much the successor to the old SV model. But it’s not just a rehash – they’ve tweaked a few things. The seat height is lower, about 30.9 inches, which was a big deal for me since I’m not exactly the tallest rider. They changed the frame to a steel tube one, which I guess helped with that.
Diving into the Engine
Now, this Gladius has a fuel-injected 650 V-twin engine, which, I learned, is also in the second-gen SV. The engine’s the same as in the current SV and vstrom 650. When I started riding it I felt that it was a good starter bike and also one of the better-looking unfaired motorcycles, and has the power of about 45 Kw @ 9000 RPM 60 Nm @ 7000 RPM. It felt pretty smooth, and there’s enough power there to have some fun without being too scary.
Riding Experience
- Handling: One of the first things I noticed was how easy it was to handle. The wide handlebar and the upright position made it super comfortable. It felt like I could ride it all day.
- Seat: The seat’s a bit hard, but it’s shaped well, and it’s narrow where it meets the tank. It’s not the most comfortable thing in the world for long rides, but it’s not a deal-breaker.
The Price Tag
I got mine for around $10,490, plus some extra costs. Honestly, for what you’re getting, it felt like a pretty good deal. It’s not a top-of-the-line superbike, but it’s a solid, reliable machine.
Final Thoughts
So, after spending a good amount of time with the Gladius, I can say it’s a great all-around bike. It’s got a user-friendly engine, the ergonomics are spot on, and it’s got its own style. It’s not perfect, but it’s a lot of fun to ride, and it didn’t break the bank. If you’re looking for a mid-range bike that’s easy to handle and fun to ride, the Gladius is definitely worth checking out.
That’s my take on the SFV650 Gladius. It’s been a blast getting to know this bike, and I hope my rambling has been helpful to some of you out there!
