Hi everyone. I'm still looking at options for my first bike and I like the Susuki 650, but I'm not sure whether to go for the faired or unfaired option, so I'd be interested to hear people's views.

I understand that the faired option gives more protection from the wind on motorways etc, and it looks a bit nicer to me, but it has a more sporty riding position which could be uncomfortable on my wrists/back and maybe more difficult to control in traffic as a novice...

I'm looking for a general purpose bike that I can use both to commute and for fun at the weekend. I'll also be using it for occasional trips on motorways too, e.g. weekends away.

I'm also considering a Honda CB500 as a cheaper (?) alternative.

What do people think?

Had a CB500 a while ago. Very capable bike, and all the reviews are good.
However, i bet that you would soon want something a bit more sporty. The SV is a crakin twin, and you would be glad of that fairing. As you can get some really good deals on them at the moment, George WHITES are selling them at ridiculos prices, i would not hesitate for the SV faired version.........

I'd go for the faired version- although the riding position could be more race than the unfaired version- it isn't going to be as drastic as proper racing bikes.

and If it's really uncomfortable for you, I'm sure there's a way to change the handlebars for ones that allow for a more relaxed style.
I think MicroMouse has got an SV650 (faired version)- why not give him a PM and see what he suggests (Where is he anyway? Havn't seen him for a while)

Hey uwl,ur right, micromouse aint been in for a while. He would be worth asking tho bedazzled. I can't help you i'm afraid, sorry.

I think the question you have to ask yourself here is... are you a girl?


























I'll get me coat

I was looking at an SV unfaired 650 when I passed my test, wasnt ready for a full fairing then went and bought a vfr..........go figure.

I really liked the unfaired, as a new rider it may be better in the beginning because you can feel the wind speed which might keep you in check for a while until you get more experienced. Im not sure if it can be done, but adding a fairing at a later date might be possible.

Im sure one of the guys will know the answer to this.

Either way, gorgeous bikes

Ahh, but you would say that Gislaine,











Cos






















Your a young lass.

mally you smooth talking dawg you.




































woof woof

and there was me just half hour ago, trying to sell my house to nice young couple and one of their dads, and all we ended up talking about was bikes as the men are bikers. Dont think the girl was too impressed

Let us know what u decide on Bedazzled.

Well it could be a girly thing, but i was watching men and motors other day and a honda man through and through went for a SV.

Ps you smoothy, either that or you cant count

Thanks everyone. Well, I've bitten the bullet and ordered the SV-S (with lower fairings, rear hugger and crash protectors). I ordered a blue one but the shop has just rang up to say they have no blue ones left... (doh) so it looks like it might have to be silver (still nice).

My test is in two weeks so I hope I pass!