I am looking to replace my 'good ole reliable' Ninja 250R with something that's more long distance-friendly. I am torn between Suzuki's V-Strom and SV650, and the Ninja 650R.
While I am leaning towards the V-Strom because of its ergonomics, I am wondering how these 3 bikes compare since dealers don't give 'test rides'.
I am not really looking for interstate riding, but since I have friends and family around central FL, where I live, I am looking for something that will be comfortable for the 50-100 mile ride range, which is something that I can't do comfortably on my Ninja 250R.
So in sum, I want a sporty-looking bike that can do both short and long trips comfortably, either by going solo, or with a passenger. How do these 3 bikes compare? Which one will satisfy my needs? Thank you!
2007-12-13 04:15:30 · 9 answers · asked by Jose 3 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Motorcycles
As the owner of a 2005 VStrom 650 with over 100,000 trouble-free comfortable touring KM's, I highly recommend the WeeStrom.
Fantastic machine.
Cheers!
Rick
2007-12-13 13:39:16 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
The naked SV650 is a fantastic bike for the short runs you've planned (although I'm surprised that you think your 250 Ninja is not man enough for short hops like that).
I found the SV650S faired version far less comfortable - too much weight on the wrists.
The WeeStrom you may find a bit too "bolt upright in the wind", some do.
The 650R - too much bike for little trips like you want to do. Although it is fun.
I rate the V twin SV / Vstrom engine highly. It's a lot more powerful and easy to ride than your 250 and tourquier than the Ninja.
I have no axe to grind, I've bought none of the bikes you've mentioned.
2007-12-13 11:25:36 · answer #2 · answered by Steve C 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I love a Ninja! Anything that's not a super bike should work. My boss is a bit older and he has to have something up and back for neck and shoulder problems. But i think I little leaned forward is more wind friendly for "shorter" trips. 100 miles shouldn't be be bad. We thought of trying a 450 mile trip on a UM 650. HA! 8-)
2007-12-13 04:26:03 · answer #3 · answered by Pumpkin 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I love the Suzuki 650 V Strom, its the perfect choice for long touring trips, its comfortable, easy to ride, and plenty of power with great low rpm torque.
BUT! I HATE the sound of that engine, after the engine breaks in at around 2 to 3000 miles it sounds like that engine has loose nuts and bolts rattling around inside the engine.
If I was you I would take the Suzuki Burgman 650 instead
2007-12-13 08:50:55 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
The Suzuki SV650 and the V Strom DL650 is the same engine.
2016-05-23 09:30:11 · answer #5 · answered by luz 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'd say either of the suzuks, anything but a ninja in fact. you already know that doesn't work.
Check out a Honda VFR 750-800 looks great and technically a "cruiser" most comfortable thing I've ever been on.
2007-12-13 04:59:46 · answer #6 · answered by Nate 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would ditch the sport bikes and get a cruiser - like a suzuki boulevard.
Distance riding should be done in comfort - not hunched over a crotch rockets tank.
2007-12-13 07:26:17 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
get the suzuki. they're more reliable. i have driven both their dirtbikes and their streetbikes. and both are very reliable. also i own a suzuki gsxr 600 which i have modified into a stunt bike so i know that thry can take anything you throw at them.
2007-12-13 06:15:04 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would go with the V-Strom
2007-12-13 06:29:28 · answer #9 · answered by barry m 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋