2001 Suzuki Sport Bike reviews

It is May, 2016. I just picked up a used Bandit 1200S. 7K miles for $2,900 at a Yamaha dealer. Completely gone through and stock but for a slip-on. I'm loving it. Real presence. Big, light and powerful. I'm just getting back to metrics from Harleys. Why spend more? Show less

I have been riding since I was a kid and have owned too many bikes over the years and I have to say that Suzuki is a quality product. I recently purchased this bike and instantly fell in love with it. I was looking for a dual sport that would favor dirt riding more than street but be able to get to the trails without a problem. The DR-Z400E fits the bill. The previous owner outfitted this machine with everything that I could ever want which makes it an amazing desert bike but at a low cost. I will keep this one for a long time. Show less

I'm a first time rider and bought this bike back in April. I can't explain the way this bike acts and feels. It's light weight, has good looks and power. Granted, it's not a wheelie machine but it will hold its own with style. The bike is also very forgiving as long as the mistake isn't monumental. I would recommend this bike to anyone who is looking for a starter bike or a good ride. Show less

I bought this bike used on Friday the 13th of July '07. It's my first bike and I couldn't ask for better. Great handling, awesome comfort, and it's awesome for carrying passengers. It's plenty if you're trying to show off, and it gets plenty of looks from the women. I've laid this bike over due to gravel on a curve. When I stood it up, it cranked up like nothing ever happened. I couldn't be happier, and I plan on fixing her up as soon as I save up. If you're a first timer, this bike has outstanding power, so take it easy until you get used to it. Ride hard and ride safe folks. Show less

I BOUGHT THE BIKE OUT OF CRATE NEW IN 2002 AS A LEFT OVER. IT WAS CHEAP, FAST, AND FUN. THE SPEEDING TICKETS HOWEVER WEREN'T. I GOT HIT DOING 95 IN A 45, 72 IN A 45, AND 68 IN A 20 ON THIS DAMN THING!!! THEY ARE JUST SO FUN, THAT YOU FORGET TO PAY ATTENTION TO SPEED SIGNS. NEEDLESS TO SAY, I WAS INVOLVED IN A SITUATION WHERE I HAD TO LAY THE BIKE DOWN OR HIT A PICK UP TRUCK AT 56 MPH WITH NO HELMET. SO I DID AND TO MY SURPRISE, THE DAMAGE WAS MINIMAL!!! ONLY A BROKEN TACH, AND TURN SIGNAL, ALONG WITH A DENT AND SCRATCHED. THE BIKE WAS PICKED UP AND RODE HOME WITH NO REAL DAMAGE TO SPEAK OF. THANKS TO THE FINE ENGINEERS AT SUZUKI, THEY BUILT A BIKE THAT IS SIMILAR TO A TIMEX WATCH. TAKES A LICKIN AND KEEPS ON TICKIN! Show less

The 2001 SV650S was my very first bike. I found it extremely easy to learn on because it was easy to handle and very forgiving. For a beginning rider, the power was just enough for me to be comfortable. One of the main reasons I purchased this bike was the low price. The price can not be beat. The only down sides to the bike for me were the fact that there was no lower fairing which is not a look I prefer. Lowers can be purchased but they are very hard to find and expensive. My wrists and hands began to hurt after riding for about 30 minutes and the seat is also not the most comfortable if your are riding more than short distances. Definitely not a long distance bike comfort wise. I outgrew this bike quickly, but would definitely recommend it to someone riding for the first time. Show less

I've owned the TL for 1 riding season and I can't see myself getting rid of it anytime soon. I previously owned an 89' CBR and this bike is in a different galaxy. Endless speed, clutchless wheelies, fun and CHARACTER!!! These bike are not a dime a dozen like your typical sportbikes that are around and the TL has that sound! Only negative is the handling on the bike can sometime be a little nervous but all in all it does what you want it too. The bike is bullet proof reliable too. If you can get your hands on a late model TL DO NOT pass it up and forget the negative reviews. Show less

I have had my SV for about 2 years now. I bought it from my brother for a steal with 6000 miles on it. I ride it year round, except when it is raining or snowing. I have had the spark short on the front cylinder before, but after some research, found that the drain hole usually is plugged, which allows the spark plug well to drain (it is on the right side of the front cylinder). After clearing it out, the problem hasn't returned. I commute about 60-70 miles a day on my SV to and from school and all of the little errands I run throughout the day. I put some Nelson-Rigg saddlebags on it about a year ago, and they really help with cargo carrying. The only (minor) complaints I have are a lack of power above 95MPH (only used when passing multiple vehicles) and how my wrists carry most of the weight (they get sore after about an hour of riding), however, some convertibars should fix this. Lastly, since it is a CA bike, it runs extremely lean, resulting in some bucking at inopportune times. This will be fixed soon with a rejet. Overall, one of the best bikes out there, especially when you factor in the price. Show less

After moving 35 miles away from where I work, I thought about buying a motorcycle. The last bike I owned was a Suzuki RM370, a dirt bike which I sold 18 years ago, so it's been a long time. I was definitely nervous about riding on the street. I took the DMV safety course first and got my License. Good Idea. I did a lot of research on different bikes and ended undecided on two, Sv650s and the Yamaha fz6. I was ready to buy a new bike but found a 2001 SV650s for 3500 less. The bike is incredible! My commute is all highway, it just purrs at 70-80 mph only 6000rpm in 5th gear it is really easy to ride, I do find my hand gets buzzy after 35 minutes but the reliability and performance at this price is unmatched. I now commute with a smile on my face the whole way and don't want to stop. Bottom line is: if you're not sure which bike to get and the SV650s is one of your choices - just do it! Show less

Bought My 2001 600s with 600 miles on it.Despite the handlebar buzz, I really like this bike. Between 8000-12000 rpm it really hits warp speed. I was originally looking for a Suzuki SV650s, but after riding both bikes, I feel they have about the same performance despite the Bandit's weight disadvantage. I live in the smokey mtns and I've had it going 120mph up a 5% grade still gaining speed. My guess is about 135mph tops on level roads. Very quick too. Show less