Suzuki XF650 Freewind (1997-2002)

After passing my direct access I wanted something a bit different- I came across the Freewind by chance and really liked the look of it. Being 6' it was a nice tall bike for me and had a really confortable riding position. Lots of pull through the lower gears but not a particulary fast bike- I struggled to keep up with my partner on occasion. Very reliable always started on the button and was a great first big bike. Only Weakness for me was the very soft front suspension which made cornering a little disconcerting sometimes. Really cheap to insure and run and I could easily get 200miles to a tank. I had a lot of fun with mine and when I sold her she went on to another new rider who's hopefully enjoying her as much as I did!

After just returning after riding 25k miles on the Panamerican with my partner both on Freewinds, 99 + 02 models I thought I was atually in a position to write a review. Tough bikes that will take anything that's thrown at them and keep coming back for more. Engine is amazing and neither of ours used a drop of oil, or developed any leaks and all they received was the very minimum of maintenance. It's very usable and rewarding with fuel consumption of around 50mpg, giving a reasonable range of approximately 200 miles. On the down side considering its digital dash why on earth it was never fitted with a clock amazes me and aftermarket parts are difficult to come by, especially hard panniers, although top boxes and fittings are common. All in all a very practical bike that will inspire newer riders and still put a smile on the face of the more experienced. It's cheap to buy, cheaper to maintain and will not destroy chains or tyres making it a real alternative to the big GS's as a world beater as well as being a great commuter or winter hack. What more can I say, if you're thinking of buying one, do it, you're unlikely to regret it. Best of all there's not a lot of them going about so there's a bit of exclusivity there too!

I had one of these as my first bike, it was a good bike, sometimes it was a bit bouncey and the single cylinder did make your wrists ache after 100 miles or so with vibration, but i think it was more value than the BMW or the APRILIA which seem to be the rivals for it.The brakes are good, the engine has quite a bit of tourque,( even though the pull away needs a lot of revs). and there is a lot of room for kit and it will go forever It would certainly be a good starter bike and it is a shame suzuki didn't carry on building it for a bit longer!as long as they changed the name, "FREEWIND"!..

best bits are the value for money, the quality and reliabilty, and handling.I like the bike and would have another.If i was to find fault engine needs a bit more power,exhaust note too quiet, and after market bit and few and far between.