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Soooo, I'm in the market for a new bike, my last bike was a standard UJM Vulcan 800 drifter, and I'm looking for something a little more sportier. Right now I'm torn between two models, the Suzuki GS500E and the SV650. I don't need GSXR power, just reliability and some fun on the twisties I've read that both bikes are popular, but would like other peoples thoughts and input. This bike will see alot of windy road commuting and some highway action. Thanks in advance...

SV650's are popular track bikes, if that means anything. They have kind of a cult following. GS500's, not so much. I'm sure you'd have a good time on either.

Tenney wrote:Soooo, I'm in the market for a new bike, my last bike was a standard UJM Vulcan 800 drifter, and I'm looking for something a little more sportier. Right now I'm torn between two models, the Suzuki GS500E and the SV650. I don't need GSXR power, just reliability and some fun on the twisties I've read that both bikes are popular, but would like other peoples thoughts and input. This bike will see alot of windy road commuting and some highway action. Thanks in advance...

Going from a cruiser to either of those bikes you'll definitely feel the change in riding. I think either of the bikes you mentioned would be good, but for a good fit, go sit on each and decide from there.

Definitely find out which bike feels more comfortable for you, but remember the SV650 is much faster than any GS500E. The GS is a great bike all around, but so is the SV. But whichever ride fits you best is the most important for making a decision IMO.

Well I ride an '06 SV650S as my second bike and I must say it handles quite well on the highway and the twisties, quite well indeed. (It likes going fast...or is it just me?)

SV, hands down.

Much better bike overall, far more current, big aftermarket, sounds about four times better.

The SV is a much better performer in every department...engine, brakes, suspension, etc and looks better and more modern in my opinion.

But if you are just looking for a simple, sporty-looking bike with mild power to cruise around on, the GS500 might be what you are looking for.

Thanks for the advice guys; my cousin has started learning how to ride on my Vulcan, would he be able to handle a SV? It doesn't really matter that much, but I'd like him to want to become a rider, and so far he's show some interest, would the SV scare the "poo poo" out of him?

I ride SV as my first bike. It isn't scary, but you have to respect its power. Handles well from the first ride. And I would say it is a bit idiot proof. Something in the middle between simple 500cc street and 600cc supersport.

The SV has a much larger depth than the 500. It has both breakfast run and long distance capability. It is a very torquey machine but still retains fine control and will take anyone a long time to reach the full potential. It is stable at speed and the ergo's will promote good riding techniques due to the slightly forward controls. Capable of much more than most riders will admit to. I have seen good riders thrash litre bikes with ease and can bullet out of corners. I also watched a young lady the other day take her bike license on one(this is done at 25kmh here) and the fine control was a pleasure to watch. 2nd gear and she idled around everything with no stalling.

Would recomend this over the 500 as a second bike any day.

My 2c hope it helps