Suzuki SV1000 (2003-current)

I bought my silver SV1000 in April 05, it was pre - registered in Nov 2004 on a 54 plate and is a 2003 model with 0 miles on the clock. I've done 5500 miles on it. The only problem I've had is following a session on the Dyno when 30 mins later (Luckily @ home) it would not start. It turned out that the "Back Torque Plate" (slipper clutch of a kind)had gone, it was repaired FOC under warranty although the bike was off the road 4 weeks. I've fitted a TRE (strongly recommended) as the bike is a little lumpy at the bottom end, a set of BOS race cans (sounds awesome)and a Tail tidy - to get rid of the 4 1/2 acres of plastic there is around the rear end! Strengths: Very easy to ride (especially after fitting the TRE). As I have said it sounds fantastic and I'm sure could pull a caravan. Digital speedo nice and easy to read even at 150!
Weaknesses: Fuel range is not brilliant, I get between 90 - 100 miles on a tank if I'm on A/B roads and around 120 on motorway sticking to the speed limit. There is no fuel guage or reserve tap, just a yellow warning light when you hit 1 gallon left (I think), a little disconcerting initially but you soon get used to it.

I sold a K3 1000 and bought the SV, as I thought it was time to slow down a bit. That was not the case. Found the twin was revvy and I ended up riding it just as hard. It felt slow at first, v-twins give that impression, but after a while I realised it had some zip. Missed the top end of the gixxer. I would love one as a second bike, but as a first bike I found it wanting and got rid of it, bought a k5 1000. Strengths: Deceptively fast. Weaknesses: Knotchy transmission. Gearing needs work. Lacks, contrary to what everyone has told me, grunt at the low end. Needs to be revved. Noisy engine, knocks, rattles and bangs. Surges on part throttle at lower speeds. Needs some improvement. The seat is very umcomfortable after a short distance, too soft. Pegs seem too far back, and down.