Motorcycle specifications SuzukiSFV 650 GLADIUS 2011 Twin & Conquer - Offensive on Bologna

when Suzuki introduced its turbulent little SV 650 roadster almost 10 years ago, the brand was marketing a real little monster, as hard-hitting as the Ducati of the same name and competitor. A scarecrow in the category, it was a resounding success... which gradually withered away, the 2nd generation SV being far less convincing than the 1st. Success could return with Hammamatsu's new twin roadster: the Gladius. A machine with very Italian styling and very Japanese features.

code name: SVF 650. Nickname: Gladius. The word sounds like a provocation. Is it more than a threat to the competition? Certainly, given that it's the Latin name of the sword used by the ancient Roman legions. An amusing coincidence: MV-Agusta named a version of its Brutale the Gladio.
So, the SVF has many Italian leanings, both in its name and in its principles. Let's take a closer look. A sculpted Brutale-style headlamp, a trellis half-frame connected to aluminum plates... ah no! it looks like it, but they're really covers... But the essential remains: a lively, peppy L-shaped twin... This is the most serious and hearty competitor to the Ducati 696 Monster. The Gladius's design isn't as lean and compact as the Italian's; it's smoother, but also more responsive. However, we would have appreciated a different pot; this one looks as if it came from a scruffy Chinese motorcycle.

once you've had a good look around, you'll be delighted to know that the Gladius is powered by the famous SV twin. A twin that's been praised ever since its creation. For the SVF, Suzuki has revised it somewhat. Aesthetically, with redesigned crankcases... and above all in the camshafts, to make the engine more flexible and available. No loss of punch, however, as the transmission has been shortened, and worse, the engine-makers had to keep most of the 74 hp. The fuel tank is less generous at just 14.5 liters - we almost don't care, as the smooth curves and two-tone hues are so pleasing. But don't worry about range: ignition is by 2 iridium spark plugs per cylinder, fuel is sprayed by 10-hole injectors, and on-board electronics are optimized.

beginners, SV fans and enthusiasts of machines in this category will be delighted to know that the SVF retains many of the SV's ideas. Its engine, of course, but also its size and technical solutions. Standard fork with 290 mm brake discs, gnawed by double-piston calipers (ABS optional), ordinary swingarm (fortunately painted black). It's a far cry from Italian gear, but for the price, it makes quite a difference. We also note the return of the traditional bulb headlight and the adoption of a new instrument panel. A cousin of the GSR's, not particularly cheerful, but very practical with its gear indicator.

the SV' s time has come and gone - has the SVF's? In any case, the machine looks cheerful in every respect. The color scheme, with frame and rims changing color according to version, the remarkable twin, a preload-adjustable fork (let's hope they've overhauled the hydraulics), a seat that's not too high, and the ease known from SVs. Clearly, we want to try it out right away. The new ER-6 N, on the other hand, is a little less funny.
What more could you want, a beautiful plumage over a very pleasant ramage? Ah yes, a fuel gauge perhaps...