Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

I am a 72 year old, daily rider and this bike in my 75th bike. I do not ride hard and do overmaintain it. I get over 50 mpg and it is not hard to service, which I do all of myself.

Acceleration is terrific, as are brakes.

OE seat is terrible, as is true of most Japanese bikes. I replaced mine with a Corbin which is much better.

OE suspension is mediocre. I have Race Tech forks and rear shock modifications and these are excellent.

I fitted a 2" taller handlebar and Buell footrests, which combine to make the riding position much better.

I also fitted a Scottoiler which automatically drips oil onto the rear chain when the engine is running. This eliminates a lot of bother and extends chain life.

I strongly recommend this bike, but note that it was sold in the US only in 2003. The "S" model was sold here until 2007, but these are seriously uncomfortable due to the silly riding position.

Faults:

None.

General Comments:

Brutal torque, and handles good after front fork adjustments.

The acceleration of this bike takes some getting used to. It's very responsive with tons of torque. There is no sweet spot in the rev range, it is all sweet.

If you hit a bump and your throttle hand shakes a little, it will leap forward. Wheelies are simple, just blip the throttle in first and get it to around seven grand for second gear, no clutching required. Although extended wheelies are risky, something to do with the oiling system and could damage the engine.

I have the SV1000, not the S model. It is more upright and very comfortable for long rides.

My previous motorcycle was a 2002 Yamaha R1 - insanely fast, 100 mph wheelies with ease, but for me not that great for long rides, and almost over kill with the power.

The SV is a real good all around bike, and sounds incredible with after market pipes.