15th Aug 2011, 20:32
The Suzi is so sweet. I've put 12,000 miles in 18 months on my 2004 Savage 650, only normal changes of oil, and just now a spark plug that it didn't need, but since I was in there checking it out...
Pretty much stopped the popping by putting two mouse clips behind the choke to keep it open a little because it's too lean at sea level (I live at 5,000 ft in Reno, NV).
Added a block under the front of the seat to level it (it was tilted downward/forward) and a gel pad. Added road pegs, 10" Harley ape hangers (it has great turning radius), extended the sissy bar, throw over saddle bags and 2 web bungies from Walmart.
Added a 12 volt charger for CPH etc. Going to add two more smaller head lights and running (side) lights.
I've been told a larger Road King tank works, but I haven't seen one.
Stock muffler was almost 14 lbs, swapped for a shorter straight pipe; I like the throaty sound. Going to experiment more with muffler. I have a 2004 Sportster and this is much more comfortable on long rides, as much as 10 hour day. Does 75 mph easily, unless it's really windy. Fuel in town/hwy average 63 mpg.
Get a Clymer Repair manual, it's excellent.
I'm a 5'2" ladybiker, DATAKID. Thanks, Dad, it's fun working with you!
17th Apr 2011, 13:40
Just got a 2000 Savage 650 for my girlfriend. She loves the bike.
Working on the running lean thing... LOL they run very lean, and yes the pipe is too big and back fires on stock settings.
We have removed the big stock pipe, put a shorter Harley pipe on the bike... WOW, she runs a little loud, but more power, smoother ride, but still a little too lean. We are thinking a bigger jet to richen it up and get it all dialed in.
The Suzuki Savage 650 is a good bike for smaller, newer riders. They need to be tuned for the rider when you get them. I think if Suzuki puts a better card and pipe on all of them, more people would like them.