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A couple of folks asked me to post up a review after owning this bike for a while, so I'll do it now.
When I was looking for a bike this time out, I wanted something very particular. In order of importance, it had to be: reliable, comfortable, capable of doing up a dirt road or a bumpy road, and fun in the twisties. I initially had my heart set on a Triumph Tiger from the 200-2005 era. However, I was simply never able to find one that I wanted to buy - they were either too spendy or too far away.
So, when I thought about alternatives, I posted up here regarding the Kawi Versys, Triumph Tiger, or a V-Strom. The new Tiger didn't hold much interest for me because it was a bit too road oriented, and a bit on the spendy side. The Versys seemed like a good fit, but I had never ridden one, and none of my local dealers were keen on the idea of letting me test ride a new one without signing a Purchase and Sale Agreement.
I went to Cyclewise in Middlebury, and they were only too happy to toss me the keys to a V-Strom 650. I rode it, liked it, got a good deal, and now I own the f'n thing. Here's a pic:
I have never *liked* a bike as much as I like this one. It does everything I ask, and well. It is very comfortable, mostly due to a good riding position. The seat is a bit hard, but it will either break in, or I'll buy something aftermarket.
The motor is....well, its an SV650 motor. It puts out a surprising, but not overwhelming amount of power. Passing cars is easy. One nice thing that I notice is that it seems to have a heavier flywheel than the SV, making stop and go traffic a bit easier and less jerky.
The bike is heavy, but you cant really tell unless you are moving very slowly. At speed, the bike feels light and flickable. It is incredibly stable, and even though it seems wide, it turns in and leans over easily with a rock-solid, confidence inspiring suspension. Even the dual sport style Trail Wing tires have surprisingly good bite on the road, and are very predictable at the limit.
The headlights give cast a great amount of light, and the full fairings are nice, especially on a cold night. The bike is a fun and comfy 2-up rig that is just as happy tooling around with the wife on the back as it is zipping up Route 17 through the twisties. When you're done with all that, jump on the interstate and it cruises along at a rock solid.....65.....with ease.
Oh, and it gets 50 MPG.
Long story short, I'd recommend this bike to anyone at all - seasoned rider or new, young person or old, occasional rider or everyday rider.
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Originally Posted by gregp
