There are certain motorcycles that leave a mark on you, and Suzuki’s SV650 is undoubtedly one of them.
Since arriving in 1999, its combination of an engaging 90-degree V-twin, friendly handling and accessible performance has made it a firm favourite with new riders and seasoned bikers alike. Now, that familiar recipe is getting a thoroughly modern makeover with the arrival of the all-new SV-7S.
And before you start worrying, Suzuki hasn’t thrown the baby out with the bathwater. The SV-7S retains the characterful 645cc V-twin that helped make the SV650 such a hit, but wraps it in a more contemporary package with ride-by-wire throttle, rider modes, traction control and a bi-directional quickshifter. It’s a proper evolution of an established favourite, rather than a complete departure from what made it special in the first place.
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The engine has been around in one form or another for more than 25 years, with over 500,000 examples produced. For the SV-7S, it remains a 90-degree, liquid-cooled, DOHC twin, producing 54kW (73bhp) at 8,500rpm and 64Nm at 6,800rpm. Those aren’t earth-shattering figures, but the SV has never been about chasing dyno records. Its appeal has always been the accessible torque, distinctive V-twin pulse and willingness to get stuck into a good road.
Suzuki has introduced electronic throttle control, revised intake and exhaust systems, dual iridium spark plugs and a collection of internal refinements to meet Euro 5+ emissions requirements while retaining the engine’s familiar character. The six-speed gearbox now comes with a bi-directional quickshifter, too, allowing clutchless up and down changes.
The bigger news is the arrival of Suzuki’s Intelligent Ride System. Three riding modes adjust throttle response, while three-level traction control can be switched off altogether. There’s also ABS, Low RPM Assist and Suzuki Easy Start. It’s a substantial technology upgrade for a bike whose appeal has traditionally been its simplicity.
The chassis remains reassuringly familiar, with a tubular steel trellis frame and swingarm, 41mm conventional forks and a preload-adjustable rear shock. Braking comes courtesy of twin 290mm front discs with four-piston calipers, while Dunlop Roadsmart III tyres are fitted as standard. A 785mm seat height and slim midsection should keep it approachable, while the wider tapered aluminium handlebars promise improved leverage and a more relaxed riding position.
Styling gets a refresh, too. The new mono-round LED headlight gives the SV-7S a hint of retro character, while sharper bodywork and updated detailing bring it into line with Suzuki’s latest road bikes. There’s also a 4.2-inch colour TFT display with Suzuki Ride Connect+ smartphone connectivity, including turn-by-turn navigation and notifications.
The SV650 was one of those bikes that never needed to be the fastest, flashiest or most technologically advanced to win people over. It simply got the important stuff right. The SV-7S looks set to carry that spirit forward, adding a healthy dose of modern technology without losing sight of the character that made the original such a hit. The legend lives on. And we’re rather glad it does.
