The old SV650 was a good bike and to be honest Suzuki didn�t have to do much to make it a great bike once more. But they have gone one better and given us an excellent bike. Obvious improved looks but the real beauty it�s under the skin, the lovely fuelled, smooth, punchy, little V-Twin. As an added extra bonus it�s easy to ride, yet still fun at the same time.
Suzuki has made the new engine 10% more efficient and it�s instantly noticeable. It�s smoother, revs quicker as friction has been reduced, which give the Gladius more midrange. The fuelling very similar to the GSX-R range with a ten hole fuel injector and twin butterflies is near perfect.
The new Suzuki Gladius carries on the traits of the old SV650, which means it�s still easy to ride for new riders as an entry level bike, but still fun enough for more experienced riders. There�re no shocks are surprises, it�s very forgiving. Even with the pegs scraping it�s still compliant. Brakes are relatively budget but have excellent feel and only lack when ridden hard two up.
As the price tag suggests it�s straightforward, no slipper clutch or multi adjustable suspension. However, casting a critical eye of the level of finish it�s hard to see where Suzuki have cut costs as it feel and look quality. Its been designed and sculpted to take the more pricier Ducati 696 head on, which it does but at �1000 less.
The new Gladius offers real value for money and for �4500 it�s a real bargain bike for 2009. It appeals to huge audience from new riders to experienced riders who may actually want to race in the popular Mini Twin race series. It certainly doesn�t feel nor look like a �4500 budget commuter bike, and is almost on par with the much pricier Ducati 696 but without the flash labels. But for value for money makes much more sense.
Specifications
| Top speed | 135mph |
|---|---|
| 1/4-mile acceleration | secs |
| Power | 75.9bhp |
| Torque | 49.5ftlb |
| Weight | 202kg |
| Seat height | 785mm |
| Fuel capacity | 14.5 litres |
| Average fuel consumption | 40mpg |
| Tank range | 130 miles |
| Insurance group | 10 |
| Engine size | 645cc |
|---|---|
| Engine specification | 8v four stroke V-Twin, 6 gears |
| Frame | Steel trellis |
| Front suspension adjustment | 41mm conventional forks preload only |
| Rear suspension adjustment | Single shock, preload only |
| Front brakes | 2x 290mm twin piston caliper |
| Rear brake | 240mm disc single piston |
| Front tyre size | 120/70x17 |
| Rear tyre size | 160/60x17 |
0 Comment:
Post a Comment