1997 Suzuki XF650 Freewind
Summary:
Best there is in Duel sport. 10 out of 10
Faults:
My Freewind had a starter motor fail @ 23,000 klm's. Replacement cost $500 au.
General Comments:
For a bike built as a road and trail duel sport, I would have to give the Freewind 10 out of 10.
I have traveled around Australia for the last 5 years, and apart from normal wear and tear, brake pads, tyres etc, the bike has been 100% reliable. Apart from a failed starter motor early in its life, no problems at all.
I just love the flexibility of this duel sport; Suzuki went badly wrong when they discontinued this model.
It can cruise 2 up with the top box fully loaded at 120-130 klm's all day every day, and can out corner and out brake most mid sized sporties.
As for styling? Each to their own, but I love the euro looks and styling. The LCD dash is fantastic!
Faults, I can honestly say, nothing worth mentioning.
Improvements, fit Metzler MT duel sport tyres asap, wear better and handle much better on and off road than the Italian counterparts.
Highly recommend this bike; I've been riding for 37 years, and this is the friendliest and most forgiving bike I've ever owned.
Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 7th July, 2007
28th Dec 2021, 08:40
Suzuki had to stop production for the Freewind because the dealers did not make any money in service and spare parts. That's why they made the V-strom to replace it, more money for the dealers in service and spare parts.