Suzuki SV1000

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2004 Suzuki SV1000S

Often categorized as a sports-tourer class motorcycle, Suzuki's SV1000 and half fairing-equipped brother the SV1000S, were first launched by Suzuki in 2003. The 996cc 90-degree Suzuki V-twin motorcycles were aimed to compete directly with the Honda SuperHawk (also known as the Honda FireStorm in some markets), which was released prior to the Suzuki, and the low end Ducati 1 liter V-twin sport bikes. The SV1000 is the big brother to the hugely popular 650cc engined Suzuki SV650 motorcycle. The SV1000 owes some of its heritage to the Suzuki TL1000s (un-affectionately known as the "widow-maker") from which it inherited its engine.

Unlike the SuperHawk and it's two huge 48mm Carburetors, the 2003 and up SV1000 is fuel injected and sports the Suzuki Dual-Throttle Valve and Exhaust Powervalve technology. In 2004, the bike received revised ergonomics in the form of lower pegs and a slightly lower seat height. The 2005 and 2006 models got a slight bump in compression and a few other internal items, but mostly remains the same bike from 2003. The SV1000 and SV1000S are considered by many to be quality bikes for the money, and perform well for the majority of users - including some racers who compete in the US on both the SV650 and SV1000's models. Because of speed limits, many motorcyclists believe riders will likely never need more than the 105-115hp that the SV1000 puts to the ground.

SV owners state that their bikes are more fun to ride than their 1000cc inline-four counterparts,largely due to the manner in which the V-twin engine produces power versus an inline four. Since the V-twin engine design feels more stable and controllable in corners and on straightaways than an inline four engine, it is not uncommon to see a well ridden SV650 or SV1000 pass a faster bike on the track. This simple fact has caused MotoGP teams to look for alternatives that would give them an edge, and the result was the development of 'Big Bang' technology. This technology seemingly gives a rider the best out of both worlds; the power of an inline four engine, combined with the V-twin distribution of that power.

The original SV1000 design (K3) has gone through two updates since its original release:

The K4 model - includes a lowering of the rear-end, and a new selection of colours.

The K5 model - black frame, black wheels, shorter airbox trumpet, larger throttle bodies, and a higher compression ratio. In some markets, Suzuki caries the SZ version with full fairing and GSX-R colour scheme.

The K6 model - new selection of colours and a larger fuel tank.