SV1000[S] vs. Honda 919

So, I'm looking to upgrade from my venerable (but a little too
old and small) '83 Nighthawk 650 to a newer, bigger bike; from the
subject, you can likely guess on what I have my eye
Anyway, I've found a dealer that will allow a test ride of the
919. However, I've not been so lucky on the Suzuki side of things. I
suppose that that is not the end of the world, as I'm about 70%
convinced that I want the Honda, anyway, but still, I'd prefer to be
certain.
Now the real question: does anyone know where I might be able to
do a test ride of an SV1000 (S or naked)? Any shows or anything coming
up? Any enlightened dealers? Thanks in advance for any leads!


-Joe

 

Call around to Suzuki dealers to see if they have an SV demo. The local
dealer here had a naked SV1000 demo for a while, and I got to ride it.
What a hoot! It was my Hawk GT with real horsepower. Same upright
seating position, same light feel and willingness to be tossed around,
same kinda torque curve (but amplified x2).

The naked SV1000 is not available as an '04. But I think there are
leftover '03s available, and they should be selling at a good price.
Knock a grand off MSRP and it's not just a great motorcycle, it's a
killer deal.

 

One other to look at is the V-Strom 1000, a bit bigger and heavier,
but one HELL of a tourer.

 

I've been lucky enough to ride friends' bikes. And I've been surprised to
discover that I really can't guess by looking at them, reading the
reviews, and sitting on them, how the bike will really feel once I get
going. You might want to consider a slightly used bike purchase from an
individual. That way you will be able to test. You'll save money too.
Of course, that won't work if you really want a new one.

 

Dan Carter uttered poignantly:

Well, I wound up buying it without riding it, and I have to say,
no regrets. I found a 2003 SV1000 K (in Silver) at a dealer in Los
Angeles (LA Triumph) for $6999 out the door. I called a friend on
Friday night to see if he would like to roadtrip down the next morning,
he did, we went, and I rode it back last night. Yes, my ass is still
sore, and yes I know how good my friends are

Anyway, I totally agree with you: it is a great bike. Now I
just need to find a decent flyscreen for it, maybe a center stand, maybe
some hard cases...


-Joe