Suzuki GSF650 Bandit (2005-2006)

I bought this bike to get back into biking, and have found it to be a much better bike than I expected. Most of my riding is done two up and it copes brilliantly, It does not require endless gear changes to make good progress. It is a very comfy bike as a 6hr trip to Ireland confirmed, although I found side winds a bit of a problem. Ive also found that the engine is very willing to rev and results in great performance. So pleased am I with this bike I dont plan on changing it anytime soon. Strengths: Smooth power delivery right through the rev range, ease of handling and novice freindly brakes. Weaknesses: Finish - the paint is too thin and all to easy to scratch.

Had this bike for 3 months now and its fun every time I take it out. The engine has more than enough power to put a grin on your face at the weekend but enough low down pulling power to make the daily commute a pleasure. My fun riding, round the somerset lanes, realy shows the bikes handling to its full and the extra 56cc gives enough power through out the rev range to make town / city riding less of a pain. Strengths: Good power through out the rev range. Taller than the average bike of its type, ideal if you are 6 foot. Good looking and easy to clean. Weaknesses: Build quality not as good as some. Not easy to change the headlight bulb.

I use my bandit to commute to work on, every day 12 mths of the year. I've owned a few bikes over the years from bmw to Honda's and this is the first bike I have not wanted to sell within 6 mths of having it. after a week of doing a 50 mile round trip to work it still come up tops for a blast on a Sunday morning. Strengths: Engine, it has the extra grunt compare to the old bandit for easier overtaking. Weaknesses: Finish, bit and bobs are starting to look a bit naff even after careful cleaning.

My review is slightly biased because this is my first bike since passing my test. I think the bandit is a great 1st bike, especially the 650...not too small and not too big...that said, it looks and sounds big. Great styling and comfort. The 656cc engine can easily deliver its full potential when you feel the need. Get your head down to the windscreen and it's stunning. Strengths: Ease of handling, great looks (especially in silver!). Weaknesses: Clutch is not the easiest. Finding neutral is an effort sometimes unless it's just me!

The press has an in-built bias against this type of bike. I need a bike that I can ride EVERY day, that can take some luggage, and is easy to maintain, while still being able to smoke any car that costs less than £100,000. This can! It easily lives with Fazers and Hornets unless they are piloted by nutters. Don't get me wrong, if I could afford 2 bikes I would have an R6 for the weekend, but the Bandit still puts a grin on my face every day. Strengths: More than enough power for most, bulletproof, cheap to maintain. Weaknesses: Could do with losing 20kg.